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Built for Snow Days, School Runs, and Everything in Between The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid is a compact crossover SUV designed for families who commute, run errands, and deal with weather that does not cooperate. It blends a gasoline engine with electric motors to improve fuel efficiency and everyday driveability, without ever needing to be plugged in. That matters in Illinois, where winters are long, gas prices fluctuate, and traffic does not politely move out of your way. Compared to a traditional gas SUV that averages around 25 MPG, a hybrid like this can save hundreds of dollars a year at the pump. That adds up quickly when weekend trips stall in traffic near Gurnee, where the electric motor quietly handles idling instead of burning fuel. The hybrid system also delivers smoother low-speed movement, which is exactly what you want when roads are slick and patience is thin. The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid also brings something drivers here truly appreciate: a dedicated Terrain Mode with a specific Snow setting. It adjusts how the engine delivers power so your tires stay planted, helping you pull out of a snowbank on a residential street in Grayslake without drama. Illinois winters are not gentle, and this SUV is built with that reality in mind. What’s New for 2026 and Why It Feels Like a Step Up The 2026 refresh gives the Sportage Hybrid a clearer identity. Think bolder, more confident, and closer to Kia’s larger SUVs, without losing its easy-to-drive size. The updates focus on design, technology, and refinement, making this feel like a smarter daily companion rather than just a yearly refresh. 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid new updates include: A redesigned front end with more vertical, block-style LED running lights and a larger, rectangular grille that feels more rugged and premium. Standard dual 12.3-inch curved displays across trims, bringing consistency and clarity to the cabin. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now standard, no trim hopping required. A newly available 10-inch head-up display that shows turn-by-turn directions directly from your phone. Enhanced driver-assist technology, including standard Parking Distance Warning. 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid trims Worth Knowing Sportage S Hybrid: A new mid-range trim that adds blacked-out exterior accents and 18-inch wheels for a sharper look. X-Line Hybrid: Now available with the hybrid powertrain, offering raised roof rails and rugged styling. At Classic Kia, we love welcoming people who want to see these updates in person. Our new inventory includes multiple 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid trims, and our team is always happy to walk you through what’s available without pressure. Feature One: Everyday Driving Performance That Fits Family Life The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid performance is tuned for daily use, not bragging rights. It pairs a gasoline engine with electric motors through a smooth automatic transmission, delivering responsive acceleration without feeling jumpy. On Illinois roads that swing from clear to icy in a single afternoon, predictability matters more than raw speed. Around Waukegan, that balance shows up in how confidently the SUV merges, cruises, and navigates uneven pavement. The electric motor assists at low speeds, reducing hesitation in stop-and-go traffic, while the gas engine steps in seamlessly when more power is needed. Feature Two: Battery Life and Fuel Savings Without Plugging In The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid battery has a capacity of about 1.49 kWh, and it is designed to work quietly in the background. Because this is not a plug-in hybrid, you never have to think about charging cables or finding outlets. The system recharges itself through regenerative braking and everyday driving. Fuel efficiency is where this really shines. The hybrid system reduces fuel consumption during city driving and traffic-heavy routes common around Kenosha. Over the course of a year, those savings add up. Feature Three: Winter Confidence With AWD and Snow Mode Active AWD That Thinks Ahead The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid AWD system constantly monitors traction and can lock power evenly between the front and rear wheels. That responsiveness matters when pulling out of an unplowed driveway in Grayslake. Dedicated Snow Mode Every AWD Sportage Hybrid includes a Snow Mode, Mud Mode & Sand Mode on the Terrain dial. It softens throttle response and adjusts shifting to reduce wheel spin on icy roads, which are common across Illinois. Ground Clearance That Helps Locally With 8.3 inches of ground clearance, the Sportage Hybrid sits higher than many competitors. When snowplows leave ridges at the end of streets in Libertyville, that extra height can make everyday driving easier. Feature Four: Space and Comfort That Hold Up to Real Life Interior Open the door, and the tone shifts immediately. The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid interior feels intentional, not decorative. Kia calls the design approach practical futurism, and it shows in how the cabin balances clean lines with materials that are ready for daily use. It looks premium at first glance, but it is built to handle the messy reality of suburban life in Waukegan and the surrounding North Suburbs. Standout interior features that make a real difference include: Wide, supportive seats that stay comfortable during longer commutes and weekend drives A flat, open cabin layout that makes car seats, backpacks, and grocery runs easier to manage Durable interior surfaces that clean up quickly after winter boots and spilled snacks Smart storage spaces are placed where hands naturally reach, not hidden for design points A calm, uncluttered dash layout that reduces visual noise while driving Technology & Connectivity Technology inside the Sportage Hybrid is designed to disappear into daily routines rather than demand attention. Smartphone integration is seamless, pairing quickly and staying stable. Multiple USB ports mean no one is negotiating charging turns, and the infotainment system stays responsive without requiring a learning curve. Available features like a Wi-Fi hotspot help keep kids occupied on longer drives, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto reduce clutter up front. Everything works together to make daily errands smoother and family trips quieter. Feature Five: Safety That Brings Peace of Mind Illinois winters demand attention, and Kia has responded with safety systems designed for unpredictable conditions. Key safety features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. Strong safety ratings reinforce confidence for families driving throughout Lake County. Cost, Value, and a Dealership That Feels Like a Partner The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid price starts around $30,000 for the base hybrid trim and moves into the mid-to-high $30,000 range as you step up to better-equipped trims like the EX, SX Prestige, and X-Line Hybrid. Ownership costs stay reasonable thanks to strong fuel economy, lower routine maintenance compared to gas-only SUVs, and insurance-friendly safety ratings. At Classic Kia, serving Lake County, our team helps with financing, trade-ins, and long-term service. We invite you to explore the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid and see how it fits your everyday life. 2027 Kia Sportage Hybrid FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions Sportage Hybrid: Illinois Winter Performance Q: How does the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid performance handle snow and ice? A: The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid performance is built for Illinois seasons with available Active All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and a dedicated Terrain Mode. By selecting the Snow setting, the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid adjusts torque distribution and throttle response to reduce wheel spin, helping you navigate icy Waukegan streets with steady confidence. Q: Is the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid ground clearance sufficient for unplowed roads? A: Yes, the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid features 8.3 inches of ground clearance, which is higher than many compact SUVs. This extra height is particularly useful for clearing snow ridges left by plows in Libertyville or managing uneven, slushy roads across Lake County. Q: Does the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid require a plug-in to charge its battery? A: No, the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid is a full parallel hybrid system that recharges its own 1.49 kWh battery through regenerative braking. This means you never have to plug in your 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid, making it a convenient option for busy Grayslake families who want efficiency without the extra step of charging cables. Sportage Hybrid: Interior & Tech Q: What are the main 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid interior technology updates? A: The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid interior has been upgraded with standard dual 12.3-inch curved panoramic displays. These high-resolution screens include the new ccNC infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across all trims, which keeps your cabin uncluttered during commutes to Gurnee. Q: How much cargo space is available in the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid? A: The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid offers class-leading cargo room, providing 39.5 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 73.7 cubic feet with seats folded. This 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid cargo space is designed for the messy reality of suburban life, easily fitting groceries, sports gear, and winter supplies. Sportage Hybrid: Value & Safety Q: What is the starting 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid price for the various trims? A: The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid price starts around $30,290 for the LX trim. Moving up to the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid S or EX trims brings prices into the mid-$30,000 range, while the premium SX Prestige and rugged X-Line trims offer the most advanced 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid safety and comfort features.

All-New Updates for a Smarter, Stronger Telluride Life around Waukegan asks more from a vehicle than most brochures admit. Roads change character with the weather. Schedules stretch across school runs, workdays, and weekends that involve gear, people, and very little patience for inefficiency. The wildly popular three-row gets its first full redesign since its 2020 debut, and the 2027 Kia Telluride steps into that moment with intention. Not to impress in a parking lot—but to hold up under the everyday math of space, traction, and power. This model carries forward the Telluride’s reputation while sharpening the edges that matter in Illinois and Wisconsin living. The philosophy behind the update is simple: make the SUV better at the things families already rely on. More usable strength. Clearer control. Smarter systems that stay out of the way until they’re needed. That’s why the 2027 Kia Telluride feels tuned for full-size suburban life—from long grocery hauls in Libertyville to packed weekends moving between practices and plans in Gurnee. Rugged Styling That Serves a Purpose What the 2027 Kia Telluride redesign really changes The 2027 Kia Telluride redesign leans into a boxier, more upright stance, and that choice isn’t cosmetic. In places like Zion, visibility matters when snow banks narrow streets and driveways disappear overnight. A taller profile and refined AWD tuning translate directly into confidence, not commentary. This update also improves approach and departure angles, which makes winter mornings less dramatic and more predictable. Pulling out onto IL Route 131 after an overnight freeze becomes routine, not a calculated risk. The 2027 Kia Telluride performance story starts here—with control you can feel before you ever press the accelerator. The result is an SUV that looks capable because it is capable, especially for families navigating changing road conditions across IL and WL borders. Power That Moves With You Understanding the 2027 Kia Telluride performance Performance here isn’t about speed for its own sake. The 2027 Kia Telluride performance setup focuses on smooth delivery and stability under load. Power comes on cleanly, merges feel composed, and the vehicle doesn’t lose its balance when fully packed. In Grayslake, that translates into calm highway behavior even with seven passengers and cargo on board. In Antioch, it means the SUV doesn’t hesitate on uneven pavement or during sudden weather shifts. The AWD system constantly adjusts traction, so the driver doesn’t have to think about it. That’s the distinction here: performance that supports real use, not performance that demands attention. A Cabin That Lowers the Noise Floor Why the 2027 Kia Telluride interior matters The 2027 Kia Telluride interior takes a quieter approach —literally. Enhanced acoustic glass and upgraded materials reduce road and wind noise, which changes the mood inside the vehicle almost immediately. On long drives near IL Route 132, conversations don’t compete with traffic. Music sounds fuller at lower volumes. Kids in the third row don’t need to shout to be heard. This is where the Telluride separates itself: it understands that calm is a feature. Material choices are durable and thoughtful, not flashy. Surfaces hold up to daily wear, temperature changes, and real family use across Illinois suburbs. Space That Works Hard Making sense of the 2027 Kia Telluride cargo space Cargo capacity only matters when it’s usable, and the 2027 Kia Telluride cargo space is designed for flexible loading. The rear area stays square and accessible, with seats that fold cleanly and predictably. That makes weekend planning in Gurnee easier and last-minute adjustments less frustrating. Large grocery runs, sports equipment, and travel gear all fit without creative rearranging. The low lift-over height also helps when loading heavier items. For families balancing multiple schedules across Waukegan and the surrounding areas, this kind of practicality removes friction from daily routines. Towing That Feels Controlled A closer look at the 2027 Kia Telluride features for hauling Lakes and outdoor escapes define weekends in this region, and the 2027 Kia Telluride features include towing upgrades designed to support that lifestyle. Increased towing capacity pairs with dedicated Tow Mode software that stabilizes the vehicle under load. Smart camera views simplify hitching, which helps drivers who tow occasionally—not just experts. That confidence matters when planning trips from Antioch toward regional water spots in Wisconsin. This is towing that feels intuitive, steady, and well-managed, reinforcing why the 2027 Kia Telluride remains a dependable choice for active families. Technology That Reduces Steps How the 2027 Kia Telluride Technology fits into daily life The goal of the 2027 Kia Telluride Technology is to reduce the number of steps and interruptions. Digital Key 2.0 lets drivers unlock and start the vehicle using a smartphone, which comes in handy during busy errands around Libertyville. The infotainment system responds quickly and stays legible in changing light conditions, which matters during short winter days across IL. Navigation, media, and climate controls are intuitive, keeping attention where it belongs. Technology here supports momentum instead of slowing it down. Efficiency Without Compromise Real expectations for 2027 Kia Telluride MPG The 2027 Kia Telluride MPG improvements focus on consistency. Efficiency holds steady in mixed driving, even with passengers and cargo. That reliability matters during long weeks of commuting between Grayslake and nearby hubs. With its new 2.5L turbo-hybrid engine, it offers a Kia-estimated 35 MPG combined, a significant boost in fuel efficiency for the three-row SUV, paired with 329 horsepower and a 600-mile driving range, making it a powerful yet efficient option for families. Fuel usage remains predictable in colder temperatures, which helps families plan without surprises. It’s another example of how the 2027 Kia Telluride prioritizes everyday stability over headline numbers. A Message from Classic Kia At Classic Kia, we’ve served families across Waukegan and the surrounding Greater Lake and SE Wisconsin counties for years. The redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride is generating strong interest and hasn’t reached inventory yet—but we carry a wide selection of current Kia models ready in our new inventory. Our finance department is here to help you explore flexible leasing and financing options, answer questions early, and prepare you for the arrival of the 2027 Kia Telluride so you’re ready when it hits the lot. Why Does the 2027 Kia Telluride Fit the North Suburbs? The 2027 Kia Telluride aligns with how families actually live in Illinois and Wisconsin, with full schedules, unpredictable weather, and a constant need for space that adapts. From composed AWD performance to a quieter cabin and practical technology, every update serves a clear purpose. At Classic Kia, our team is here to guide you through what’s next, from questions about release timing to financing options that fit your plans. When you’re ready, we’ll help you move forward with confidence. 2027 Kia Telluride FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions Telluride: Performance & Traction Q: Does the 2027 Kia Telluride offer a hybrid powertrain? A: Yes, for the first time ever, the 2027 Kia Telluride offers a 2.5L turbo-hybrid powertrain. This system delivers a combined 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, providing a Kia-estimated 35 MPG combined and a total driving range of up to 600 miles for long treks through Illinois and Wisconsin. Q: What major updates does the 2027 Kia Telluride offer? A: The 2027 Telluride marks a total generation shift, replacing the V6 with a high-torque standard 2.5L Turbo engine and introducing a fuel-efficient Turbo-Hybrid powertrain option. Beyond performance, the 2027 model elevates luxury with a new curved panoramic display, available power-folding 2nd-row captain’s chairs, and enhanced Highway Driving Assist 2. Adventure seekers will also find upgraded capability in the X-Pro trim, which now features all-terrain tires and improved cooling for towing up to 5,000 lbs. Q: How does the 2027 Kia Telluride AWD system handle Midwest winters? A: The 2027 Kia Telluride SUV performance is enhanced by an advanced AWD system that constantly adjusts torque distribution. For residents in Zion or Antioch, the 2027 Kia Telluride SUV also offers a multi-terrain AWD mode and increased ground clearance—up to 9.1 inches on the X-Pro trim—to confidently navigate deep snow and unplowed suburban roads. Q: What is the towing capacity for the 2027 Kia Telluride? A: The 2027 Kia Telluride SUV remains a powerhouse for hauling gear to regional water spots. The gas model can tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the new 2027 Kia Telluride SUV hybrid can tow up to 4,500 pounds. Both models feature dedicated Tow Mode software and an available self-leveling rear suspension to keep your trailer steady and controlled. Telluride: Interior & Tech Q: What technology features are found in the 2027 Kia Telluride interior? A: The 2027 Kia Telluride SUV interior features a massive dual 12.3-inch panoramic display system with a built-in generative AI voice assistant. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with new Digital Key 2.0, which allows you to unlock and start your 2027 Kia Telluride SUV using only your smartphone. Q: Is the 2027 Kia Telluride interior quieter than previous models? A: Absolutely. The 2027 Kia Telluride SUV redesign includes an enhanced "Noise Vibration and Harshness" package. This includes thicker door glass, triple door seals, and more robust sound-absorbing materials to ensure a "sanctuary-like" cabin experience during long commutes on IL Route 132. Telluride: Space & Utility Q: How much cargo space is in the 2027 Kia Telluride? A: Thanks to a 2.3-inch increase in overall length, the 2027 Kia Telluride SUV cargo space is larger than ever. You’ll find 22.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to a massive 86.9 cubic feet with all rear seats folded flat—ideal for moving hockey gear or home renovation supplies in Gurnee. Q: When is the 2027 Kia Telluride release date? A: The 2027 Kia Telluride SUV is expected to arrive at dealerships like Classic Kia in the first quarter (Q1) of 2026. This full redesign ensures the 2027 Kia Telluride SUV continues to be a top choice for Lake County families looking for the latest in SUV innovation.

If you’re looking for a unique opportunity to make some memories and give the gift of the lifetime, we’ve got just the thing for you.  Today on the blog, we’re taking a trip to Michigan for one of the coolest, quite literally, festivals around!  Michigan Ice Fest rolls into town from February 11th through the 15th in 2026 in Munising.  This unique festival combines creativity, activity, and adventure for a truly unforgettable experience!  Taking advantage of the incredible views along the ice at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, this family-friendly event is the opportunity of a lifetime.  From classes to presentations to social events and more, you’ll find so many interesting things to enjoy as the festival celebrates its 35th year of fun! Book your lodgings ASAP, as local area hotels, B&Bs, and rentals will fill up quickly for this popular event.  Local spots like Pictured Rocks Inn & Suites, North Star Hotel, Roam Inn, Pictured Rocks Bed & Breakfast, etc are great places to start looking for bookings. The focus of ice festival are the exciting climbing classes and clinics.  Whether you’re a beginner or well-versed in the art of ice-climbing and ice related sports, you’ll find something worth your while!  The festival only books the best of the best of the climbing industry to educate and hone your skills.  Two local area climbs will be hustling and bustling: The Dreyer Hose and the Amphitheater, both off of Sand Point Road, but that's not all there is to do! There are numerous tracks to choose from based on your skill level and adventure seeking: The Ice Climbing Track is perfect for the novice or those looking to brush up on their skills; The Adventure Track is more backcountry style along the frozen waters of Lake Superior; the Mountaineering Track is for seasoned Midwest climbers to test and hone their skills; the Photography Track is for photographers with a grand sense of adventure who’ll do anything to capture the shot; the Youth Track is perfect to help build confidence and focus in younger enthusiasts; the Women’s Track is an all female only track led by women instructors; the Diversity Track is specifically curated to host and highlight climbers of color; the Skills Track is for brushing up on your skills and developing your perfect technique for utmost safety.  There will also be numerous Guided Climbing Opportunities from local Michigan Ice Fest Guides. This year’s festival also sees the introduction of several new activities and clinics. First, the Alpine Climbing Skills Clinic is designed to help attendees break into the Mountaineering class; learn how to climb steeper inclines, prepare for more challenging routes, and evaluate different types of alpine anchors.  The V-Thread Clinic is designed to help participants hone their skills in creating secure V-Threads in ice, and each participant will be gifted a Petzl Multihook tool as part of their experience.  The Wilderness First Aid Certification Course is geared towards climbers who enjoy lengthier outings of the full or half day variety, and aimed at folks who will also be traveling with reliable phone coverage for emergencies.  The UPCC Board Anchor Class will focus on setting up top rope anchors for ice climbing and the physics required to be successful and stable. Numerous lectures and Q&A sessions will also be taking place on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.  Learn more about current issues and topics in the sport of ice climbing and mountaineering, learn tricks and tips for a successful climb from the pros, get to know different gear and their purpose, and even a little about the history of ice climbing itself.  Come on down and enjoy a hot cup of coffee and get your jumpstart to the day before your next climb! Special Dawn and Late Night events will be available for the early risers and late sleepers.  Night Climbing is a unique experience piloted by the light of the moon and your headlamp. Night Photography also presents a new opportunity to learn your skills of long exposure and low-light nature photography.  The Dawn Patrol Clinic is a 3-to-4 hour climb before the break of day done by headlamp so you can watch the sunrise. And of course, we can’t forget about all the fun social events!  There will be gear demonstrations from professional attire and gear companies, RAB speed dating events, raffles for exclusive gear freebies and goodies, dance events with live music, book release parties, beer tastings, and much more.  You’ll also have the opportunity to meet famous climbers and mountaineers in person, and have the chance to attend a meet-and-greet or book signing from some of the industry greats! Looking forward to even more winter adventure fun in the area? We’ve got a few more suggestions for planning a memorable winter road trip holiday gift! The Winter Games in Marquette will be celebrating its 6th year highlighting the adventure and excitement of Great Lakes Sports!  Events will include sports like Snow Volleyball, Sled Hockey, Snowshoeing, Rifle and Shooting sports, Curling, Figure Skating, Judo, Luge, Bowling, Archery and more.  Events will kick off in Marquette and Grand Rapids in Early February. The Negaunee Heikki Lunta Festival offers live music and entertainment, local eateries and pubs hosting seasonal and events specials, alcohol tastings and local vendors, family-friendly activities and live music, a sledding party, and plenty of twinkling holiday lights displays! Several Dog Races are also taking place: The UP200, a 12-dog mid-distance race over 228 miles from February 12th through the 16th; The Midnight Run with 8-dog races and 82 miles of terrain; and the Jack Pine 30, a 6-dog race covering 26 miles of ground.

In the spirit of the season of giving, and the fact that it’s National Philanthropy Day, we’re going to take a moment to share some great ways you can give back right in your own backyard. You don’t have to sign up for huge events, participate in large fundraiser shindigs, or even head overseas to make a difference. By electing to get directly involved in regional and neighborhood programs, your philanthropic efforts have a direct, real world impact on your local community!  Even just one small donation or a few hours of your time volunteering can make a significant impact on someone who really needs it the most.  And of course, kindness begets kindness– when folks receive generosity and empathy, they are inclined to pay it forward. With just a few simple gestures of good will, we can work together to create a sustained, supported network of friends and neighbors who know they can depend on each other when they need it most. While the most obvious and upfront version of philanthropy is financial support and monetary donations, there are so many other great ways to help. Here at Classic, we have done quite a bit of local philanthropy in various ways. We truly believe that in order to be a part of a community, you have to get out there and get to know everyone, and what they need!  We want to live and work in a community that’s vibing and thriving for years to come, and we hope you’ll join us in the efforts.  Some of the ways we’ve supported our neighbors include collecting donations for Toys for Tots, trunk or treat family events, run fundraisers for local causes, donated to local youth sports orgs, organized food drives, hosted free holiday meals and barbecue events for veterans, and many more. Those are just a few of the ways we can show our thanks and support for our friends and neighbors who have supported us over the years, too. More Great Ways to Give Back Right Here at Home Sponsor a family for the holidays and connect with someone local. The local soup kitchens and domestic shelters will be busy this holiday season, keeping people safe and warm. Consider reaching out to ask about programs for sponsoring a family this year.  This may include helping with expenses for a holiday meal, purchasing holiday gifts for children, financial contributions towards housing security, and more.  Likewise, many local religions organizations will host giving circles where families can post their needs to local bulletin boards and you can pull a tag, purchase the item, and return it unwrapped with the gift-request tag on it to the church or temple location for distribution.  Of course, you can also take a more literal approach and lean towards inviting your neighbors or a local friend who won’t be traveling home during the holidays to join you, instead! Build an empathetic community by sharing a moment with a “stranger” through a little dose of kindness. This can look like helping someone load groceries into their car, paying for someone’s meal behind you at the drive through, paying in advance for the coffee of the person in line after you, leave an extra large tip at the next restaurant or bar you visit, call the local utility company or medical facility and pay off someone’s bill at random. Make a monetary donation to a local food bank or host a food drive in your neighborhood. Encourage your friends, neighbors and loved ones to donate non-perishables to your efforts or add to your donation bin. Remember to include shelf-stable specialty goods like allergen friendly ingredients, gluten free food, and even seasonings!  Organize a drop spot at your business or your school or office, and then bring the collective donations to a larger facility. You can also host your own pick-up event for those who need it, or leave a shelf outside your business for those who require it to take what they need. Create a Little Free Pantry for your home or local park. Stock the free pantry with shelf stable goods, toiletries, hygiene products, and refill it often.  This small act of community giving provides easy access to healthy foods and necessities without having to fill out lengthy applications for funding, stand in long lines, or other prohibitive measures.  It can also be helpful to stock these pantries with pet-friendly items, too. Volunteer your time and energy at local spaces. Donating your time  within your local community soup kitchen and/or shelter can do a world of good. Volunteer your cooking prowess at your local soup kitchen to help shop, prepare, organize, and serve meals to those who need it most.  Call your local senior center or nursing home and ask if they need volunteer visitors for game nights, bingo events, musical performances, etc.  Lend your skills on contracting, carpentry or woodworking skills to building community housing for nonprofit housing organizations. Hand out winter-weather survival packages with necessities and personal care items in your local city or town. Create bags with shelf-stable allergen-friendly foods, personal items and toiletries, etc.  and hand them around to folks who need it. Likewise, you can drop them off at the local domestic shelter or homeless shelter or you can give them out to people in need as you meet them.  During cold weather months, give out hats, mittens, scarves, thermal underwear, and thick socks to the packages. Consider also adding gift cards to local food stores or ride share services to help the folks sustain their safety and access resources. Join a local creator, musician, or other group’s Patreon subscribers. Enrolling as part of someone’s Patreon account can provide lasting and ongoing support for independent creators and artists. By becoming a patron of this person, you are allowing them to continue to support their creative endeavors, lifelong project goals, special releases, limited runs of artwork or music, and more. It allows the person a guaranteed source of income to pursue their business goals and dreams. Some tiers may offer gifts or rewards, but you can also back the projects at a no-reward level or amount of your choosing above their ascribed tiers. It’s a great way to support local artists and ensure a thriving community of vibrant creative people and beautify the areas! These local organizations in and around the Lake County area could use your support this holiday season and beyond! Consider making a donation or setting up recurring increments year round to help support these important community groups.  Even just a few dollars can make a big difference!  Don’t have the means to financially support? Reach out and ask about volunteering your time or services to the orgs in whatever way works for you. 🤝  African American Museum in Waukegan 🤝  COOL Ministries in Waukegan 🤝  Keeping Families Covered in Waukegan 🤝  YWCA Metropolitan Chicago in Waukegan 🤝  Greentown Grows Inc in Waukegan 🤝  UMMA-Urban Muslim Minority Alliance in Waukegan 🤝  Three Brothers Theatre in Waukegan 🤝  Heart of the City in Waukegan 🤝  Plant Based Nutrition Movement in Waukegan 🤝  Habitat for Humanity in Waukegan 🤝  Our Shining Stars Foundation in Gurnee 🤝  Blue Crescent Outreach Foundation in Gurnee 🤝  Veterans Assistance Commission in Gurnee 🤝  Mano a Mano Family Resource Center in Round Lake Park 🤝  LAMBS Farm in Libertyville 🤝  CYN Counseling Center in Grayslake 🤝  Cornerstone Educational Foundation in Long Grove 🤝  Haven Youth and Family Services in Lake Bluff This list is by no means exhaustive, and we encourage you to continue to get curious about non-profits in the area and find even more to support! What are some things that you and your family do to give back to your communities and help fight hunger and homelessness, and provide stability to those in need?  Feel free to contribute to the conversation by pitching in your own community-centric, neighborly suggestions in the comments on our social media.

We’re back with another holiday gift guide! The holidays are here! If you’re wondering what to get the car enthusiast on your list this year, let us help guide you through.  We’ve got some great budget friendly options for gifting or stocking stuffers that are sure to please any gearhead. You’ll find everything from tech to gadgets to decor, and we’ve made sure to include options at multiple price points to help fit most budgets.  Got a suggestion we’ve left off this list this round? Let us know in the comments! The Garmin Dash Cam 57 is a pocket-sized camera that’s big on security and reliability. This compact size holds up to 1440p HD video with a wide field of view, live view, parking guard, and more. It’s a great value and durability for the price!  Available on Amazon at the time of publication for $210. T he Battery Tender 800-Amp, 12-Volt Portable battery jump starter with digital display is a top notch emergency supply for the road warrior!  Available at Lowes for $150 at time of publication. The Chemical Guys 16 piece Arsenal Builder Car Wash Kit is perfect for the car lover who has everything and anything. It’s useful, practical, and efficient and will keep their ride squeaky clean.  Available on Amazon on sale for $145 at the time of publication. The Pro-Lift C-2036D Grey 36” Creeper Seat is a great option for the home mechanic. It’s convenient, portable, comfortable, and reliable.  Available on Amazon at the time of publication for $62. This portable battery booster is a convenient, pocket sized portable jump start kit. It’s an indispensable part of any driver’s emergency car kit. Having this quick jumpstart tool can remove the headaches and hassles of a secondary vehicle to get you back on the road.  Not only can they recharge your vehicle battery, but they can also charge and power your mobile devices or tools as well, making them great for travel and commuting! Options like the NOCO Genius1 clock in at just $30-$40, too! This ratcheting Screwdriver by the Megapro Store on Amazon offers a 13-in-1 Multi-Bit Screwdriver for taking on heavy jobs in a conveniently small, portable package.  Available on Amazon at the time of publication for $40 on sale.  Makes a great stocking stuffer. Got a heavy-commuter friend or a road trip enthusiast on your list? You can’t go wrong with the VanMass 2025 Military Grade Car Phone Holder with a stronger suction cup and clip holder.  It’s durable, reliable, and convenient and fits most vehicles and most modern phones from Android or iPhone.  Available on Amazon on sale at the time of publication for $26. You can never go wrong with some stocking stuffers and white elephant gifts featuring car safety gear!  Being equipped for any emergency situation can give you and your loved ones peace of mind. The Resqme Keychain car escape tool is a pocket sized glass-breaking, seatbelt cutting tool that can help you escape from the vehicle in case of emergency. As an added bonus, it comes in fun colors like red, blue, green and orange so you can choose the best option for your gift recipient. The Magnetic Pickup Tool with Flashlight from Dr. Liliang Store on Amazon is a great pocket-sized gift for the person who has everything.  With three LED bulbs and a flexible gooseneck, the home mechanic will be delighted to be able to illuminate the smallest, most cramped of spaces.  With an extendable 22” reach and long lasting batteries, it’ll be a go to for sure! The Cobra Smart Dash Cam with Full HD 1080p resolution is jam packed full of safety and security features such a built-in wifi & GPS, live police alerts, safety and incident reports, and an integrated proprietary app to identify threats, incidents, speed, and more. Coming in at under $150, it’s a real steal! Available here on Amazon with included 8GB SD card memory.

If you’re shopping on a budget this year, or simply being more intentional about how you spend your holiday funds, we’ve got just the blog for you! Instead of giving your money to a corporation and purchasing “things” to fill up cabinets and closets, consider giving your pals and family an experience this year.  From wine and brew tasting experiences to pizza and culinary tours to crafting and hands-on art classes and even an exhilarating experience like racing or flying, you’ll find something fun for everyone!  Best of all, these are local area businesses and organizations offering special packages and opportunities, so your dollars are having direct real-world impact in our local economy.  What’s not to love about this perfect combo of community and memory making! First up on our list is Extreme Flight Simulations, located in Gurnee. You’ll get to have the virtual experience of being an official pilot, and rack up the frequent flyer miles in the airplane simulator!  Participants can take off, coast, land, and soar without ever needing an official pilot’s license.  It’s a one-of-a-kind memorable gift experience! Enjoy a night out on the town at one of the local Lake County performing arts centers and concert venues.  From comedians to musical artists to live bands and more, there are lots of large and small venues to choose from. We recommend: Genessee Theater right here in Waukegan Citadel Theater in Lake Forest Gorton Community Center in Lake Forest Improv Playhouse in Libertyville James Lumber Center in Grayslake Marriott Theater in Lincolnshire PM&L Theater in Antioch Ravnia Festival in Highland Park family, winter holidays and celebration concept - happy mother, father and little daughter with takeaway drinks at christmas market on town hall square in tallinn, estonia Continuing our exploration of the arts we’re also including some live pottery classes, paint and sips, crafting courses and more, offered at these fine local studios and art workshops: Dandelion Gallery & Studio in Waukegan Perkowitz Art Studio in Grayslake Ceramics for You in Gurnee Rae’s Atelier de Vie in Libertyville Creative Romance Date Night Art Class in Chicago via Class Pop Pottery for Date Night in Chicago Lake View East via Class Pop Discover Artistic Spinning Paint Classes in Chicago via Class Pop Board & Brush Creative Studio in Libertyville The Art Room in Mundelein The Art Center Highland Park Adler Arts Center in Libertyville Schedule a friend-date with your besties and check out the Lake County Libation Trail or any of the local breweries!  Get a taste of the local wineries, breweries and distilleries in the area and try out handcrafted specialty cocktails, vodka, whisky, gin and other special craft brews. ZumBier in Waukegan Prairie Krafts Brewing Company in Buffalo Grove 28 Mile Vodka and Distillery in Highwood North Shore Distillery in Green Oaks Copper Fiddle Distillery in Lake Zurich Seven Daughters Wines in Lake Bluff Terlato Family Vineyards in Lake Bluff Lake Bluff Brewing Company in Lake Bluff Tighthead Brewing Company in Mundelein Half Day Brewing Company in Lincolnshire Lynfred Winery in Wheeling Glunz Family Winery and Cellars in Grayslake Ravinia Brewing Company in Ravinia Bring out the competitive spirit or a collaborative one by working together to solve the puzzle at a local escape room! From themed rooms to themed buildings, private sessions or group excursions with strangers, you can’t go wrong with a high-energy, highly entertaining escape experience. Edge of Escape Rooms and Axe Throwing in Zion Troubled Puzzles Escapes in Grayslake 60 to Escape at Gurnees Mills in Gurnee Game Theory Escapes in Crystal Lake Twisted Limits Escape Room in McHenry Racetime Sim Racing and VR Escape Rooms in Volo Break bread with friends and cheers to the new year together at a local cooking class. Give the gift of cooking lessons, a foodie tour, a culinary experience, or even consider ordering some premade baked goods and desserts as a present.  Here are some great options: The Joyful Gourmet in Libertyville Cook, Cork, & Fork in Palatine Taste Buds Kitchen in Bannockburn Chicago Culinary Kitchen in Palatine Yaya’s Sweet Treats in Kenosha The Chopping Block in Ravenswood Chicago Pizza Tours Bikes, Bites and Brews: Chicago’s Signature Dishes River North Food Walking Tour (Chicago) Let us know your favorite places to bring your family and friends for a day out or a night on the town!  They may make a future blog update for another local gift guide.

The 91st Annual Thanksgiving Parade in Chicago is just around the corner, and we’re here to help you find the best ways to view the parade up close and personal. Today we’re covering some details on this year’s performances, when to arrive for both VIP and free access, and how to secure the best spots for viewing. This year’s live broadcast will be co-hosted by iHeartRadio Rock 95.5’s Maria Palmer and Maris!  This year’s special guests include 2025 Miss Illinois, Nitsaniyah Fitch, Miss Illinois’ Teen Lillie Brown, and Rick Aspen along with Santa himself.  The procession will be making its way North up state street from Ida B. Well Drive to Randolph Street from 8AM through 11AM (CT). Featured performances and special ensemble entertainment this year include live performances by ArtEast Studio, Ballet Folklorico Sones MExicanos, Black Ensemble Theaters’ Holiday Extravaganza, Chicago Huaxin Group, Chicago Korean Dance Company, Dong Fang Chinese Performing Arts Association, and many, many more.  Marching bands from around the country and around the globe including Back of the Yards College Preparatory, Lake Zurich High SChool, Oak Grove High School, Urban Renewal Marching Band and more will be participating in special rhythmic and color guard performances.  The parade will also feature numerous festive floats from local organizations and cultural groups and specialty performance units and equestrian units will make appearances. This year, the parade will be aired live on Pluto TV, Paramount’s free streaming service, for families who wish to spectate from home this holiday. VIP tickets are available for a close-up look at the fun for just $80 per person. Each individual VIP Sponsorship allows entry to the VIP area. VIPs will have private portable restrooms and general admission bleacher seats for maximum comfort;  VIP opens at 7AM, and it’s recommended to arrive no later than 7:30!  There will be food and drinks for purchase; outside food and beverage is prohibited. Kids 2 and under are allowed as a lap-child with each parent admission. Otherwise, the parade is free to attend, but it should be noted that it may not be the most accessible for disabled attendees due to high crowds, lots of walking and standing for three hours or more  in order to view.  People begin lining the streets starting around 6AM, and many bring folding chairs and blankets to keep warm (it’s not called the Windy City for nothing, after all!)  Dress in layers, wearing plenty of warm winter weather attire,and consider wearing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent your face and lips from becoming chapped in the cold!  Expect long lines for exiting at 11AM, and plan your afternoon accordingly. Public transit and local area hotels/restaurants will be very busy! Veteran parade viewers recommend sending out a few adult representatives from your group to go on up ahead and save space so younger family members can take a little extra time to walk and meet them.  After the parade, you can stop over to the annual Christkindl Holiday Market to do a little holiday shopping and extend your festive excitement! Looking for a direct live stream of the Chicago parade to watch at home from your laptop or tablet? You can check out the Official Live Stream of the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade on PlutoTV app and on-demand streaming services!

The holiday season is finally here! A time for gathering with loved ones and enjoying all that Lake County Illinois has to offer. Here at Classic in Waukegan, we love to get together with our friends and family, and enjoy all the community events happening in November.  It’s a great time of year to give the gift of a little quality time with your favorite people, and maybe even try a little something new. In the spirit of the holidays and our love for community support, we also encourage you to shop local during this holiday season!  Now more than ever, it’s important to put our dollars directly back into our local economies and help fellow friends and neighbors have a happy holiday season.   There are lots of wonderful main street stores to shop in your neighborhood, as well as plentiful holiday markets offering handmade and artisanal goods. So without further ado, here’s the local community calendar of events and things to do in Lake County for November/December. The Volo Museum will be offering free admission for Veterans on Veterans Day, November 11th.  Platinum passes will be available in person for all active and inactive military (with valid ID). It’s Trivia Tuesday on November 11th and 18th at 6:30PM at the Beer Bazaar in Grayslake!  It’s free to win and prizes will be handed out for first place. Those who play 6 rounds will get 10% off their draft pours during trivia night. Highland Park will be hosting a special Veterans Day Observance at 11AM at The Moraine with a live performance by the Highland Park High School Brass Quintet with guest singers. Enjoy a Free Tasting event at the Beer Bazaar from the local Driftless Glen Distillery on Friday November 14th from 3:30-5:30PM. Pick up a bottle for holiday gift giving! It’s Holiday Ladies Night at Reclaimed Artisans Inc in Libertyville on Friday November 14th from 5PM to 8:30PM. The Miracle on South Division Street will be running from November 14th through December 14th at the Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest. Small Business Saturday is in full swing at Hawthorn in Vernon Hills celebrating local small businesses and local entrepreneurs and kickstarting the holiday festivities on November 15th and 22nd Santa arrives at the Deer Park Town Center with quite the warm welcome on Saturday November 15th complete with festive fireworks and a tree lighting. Families can enjoy the Glow Zone as well as photographs and meet and greets with Santa himself. Artwauk in Waukegan is back downtown and at the Belvidere Mall featuring art exhibits, live music and performances, and special vendors. Come on out and support the arts and grab a delicious meal. Long Grove is kicking off the holidays with “Vintage Holidays” on Friday November 21st at 5PM, and at 7:30PM you can join the fun for the annual tree and bridge lighting!  Merchants will be open late for local holiday shopping. Wicked: For Good Movie Release Day Party will be happening at Hawthorn in Vernon Hills starting at 12PM Noon!  Come dressed in your Wicked themed costumes or pink and green clothing to celebrate! Pet Photos with Santa will be available at Gurnee Mills on Sunday November 23rd from 7:30PM to 8:30PM. Reserve your spot online now! Enjoy a free Thanksgiving Dinner at Lakefront Park in Fox Lake from 5PM to 7PM and meet your community members while enjoying a nice warm meal for the holidays. The Turkey Trots are back for the season on Thursday, November 27th: Village of Wauconda; Downtown Highland Park North Shore Turkey Trot; 31st Annual Jon Callaghan Turkey Trot in Gurnee; Long Grove Turkey Trot in Historic Long Grove; Small Business Saturday rolls into town on November 29th on Mainstreet in Libertyville from 10AM to 10PM. It’s a Holiday Market and Entertainment Weekend at Gurnee Mills from November 28th and 29th from 6AM to 9PM on Friday and 10AM to 8PM on Saturday. Enjoy a Christmas Parade and local Tree Lighting Ceremony in Downtown Antioch on November 28th from 6:30PM. The Libertyville Tree Lighting and Downtown Holiday Walk will be taking place from 6:30PM to 8PM at Cook Park and downtown. Shop local on Black Friday November 28th in front of Lucky Stop Round Lake from 12PM to 4PM for a special Black Friday Market: Vintage and Makers Market event. The Chain o Lakes Chambers Mistletoe and Martinis Festive Christmas Market Event will take place from 12PM to 5PM on Friday November 28th at Countryside Banquets in Lakemoor. Enjoy the Festival of Lights and Holiday Market in Grayslake at Historic Downtown Grayslake from 2Pm to 6PM. The Chris Kringle Market is coming to the Volo Museum from 1PM to 6Pm on Saturday November 29th with over 30 vendors and a station for kids arts and crafts. The Go Waukegan Winter Hot Chocolate Walk is coming to the Jack Benny Center in Downtown Waukegan on November 29th. The Festival of Arts and Crafts provides another fine opportunity to shop local from November 28th, 29th, and 30th at the Lake County Fairgrounds and Events Center. Miracle on Main Street brings the community together in Downtown Lake Zurich at Rotary Park on December 6th. Mundelein is hosting their holiday tree lighting Ceremony on December 6th. Enjoy Breakfast with the Grinch with BBQD Productions at Third Lake BBQ on December 7th.

No matter what you celebrate, it’s always good fun and cheer to share gift exchanges with your friends, family, and loved ones, and of course, there’s the annual company party with coworkers.  If you’re looking for a little guidance to get the perfect gift this holiday season, we’ve got you covered with some great gifts for car enthusiasts and serious gearheads. If you’re looking for something for your fellow gearheads or to gift to your car enthusiast family member, these items will be a surefire hit!  We’ve scouted out some different price point options for each item, too, so we can help you find something to suit every holiday gifting budget.  We’ve organized them from most affordable to most expensive to make shopping a real breeze! The APPS2Car Universal Car Cup Phone Holder has two options– the regular version and wireless charging option.  Holds 4”-7” smartphones for optimal viewing and no-shake design adds stability and convenience. Easily mounts into the cupholder with the touch of a single button, and fits up to a Pixel8 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max with ease. At the time of publication, it’s available on Amazon for $25 or $37 respectively. We really love the Govee system of RGBIC lighting, and we thought it would be fantastic to include the Govee Car Lights Smart RGBIC Interior Car Lights on our gift guide this year.  This kit comes with 72 LED lights controlled by your phone app and 12V charger.  Looks great under the seats and front dashboards.  Great for the car show and racing enthusiast on your gifting list! At the time of publishing this blog, the lights were available on Amazon for $37. The Carhartt Universal Nylon Duck Seat Back Organizer comes in 3 different colors and is 100% convenient for that giftee who is always on the road.  It features tension mount cords and adjustable buckles and hooks for easy installation.  The rugged and durable fabric stands up to even the toughest of messes and is easy to wash. Perfect for parents who are on the go during the week, but maybe love a little offroading on the weekend. The MOLLE straps will keep your gear safe and secure and hold everything from water bottles to tools to phones and more. At the time of publication of this blog, this item was available for $50 on sale at Amazon. The Thrive Car Emergency Roadside Car Kit is the gift for anyone who is on the go. From heavy commuters to students who travel home for the holidays to the avid road tripper, this is a must-have safety kit.  The bag is durable 600D nylon canvas, to stand the test of time and any conditions, and features a versatile selection of tools for just about every vehicle emergency.  You’ll find basic repair tools, a reflective vest, gloves, basic first aid supplies, an ice scraper, a tire pressure gauge, flashlight, and more – 104 pieces in total. At the time of writing this, the kit was available on Amazon for $50. T he K600 4K Dash Cam with front and rear cameras and a large screen with 2160P quality and Night Vision and wide angle camera mode. Offers built-in 5G wifi with app access. Available on sale at Amazon at the time of publication for $70. The Atlas of Car Design: World’s Most Iconic Cars has been hailed as a definitive volume on automotive design.  Featuring more than 650 of the world’s most talked about models of vehicle from more than 30 countries and 190 manufacturers, this book is chock full of gorgeous vehicles that any gearhead would love (or love to hate!)  Makes a great coffee table book.  This is great for the car enthusiast who has everything and is hard to shop for. At the time of publishing this blog, the book is on sale for $107 on Amazon The Black+Decker HHVI325JR33 Cordless Dustbuster is the perfect gift for the neat freak on your list. Easily portable and lightweight, this rechargeable cordless vacuum makes clean-up and tidying a breeze. If you’ve got a friend or family member who is constantly obsessed with the cleanliness of their car, they’ll really appreciate this one. At the time of writing this, the item is available for $112 on Amazon. Everyone loves the convenience of the Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC325 Jump Starter. Rated for 8-liter gas and 6-liter diesel engines, this heavy-duty battery is capable of fast recharging of everything from cars to RVs to Trucks and more.  Whether the battery is totally dead to 0.0 volts or just weak charge, the heavy-duty full-size clamps will easily attach to the contacts and restart your vehicle.  These stow easily in a backpack, messenger bag, or even your vehicle’s trunk for convenience and safety. Perfect for the road tripper in your midst. At the time of publication, these were available on Amazon for $180.

We’re closing out our Halloween Celebrations with an homage to some of the most haunted road trip destinations in the US!  Our list includes places you can tour and even stay overnight, if you dare!  Extend your Halloween season beyond October and book a ghost hunting package, take a self-guided tour, and more at any of these spine-tingling locations!  Well, what are you waiting for? Let’s make like Scooby Doo and the Mystery Machine Crew – hop in your new car from Classic and let’s hit the road to thrills and chills! Biltmore in North Carolina is a sprawling, majestic estate in Asheville built by the prominent Vanderbilt family in the 1800s, completed in 1895.  With an overwhelming 250 rooms in total, its quite easy to see how spirits can get lost here for all of eternity!  The most famous ghost sighting from visitors is the notorious woman in pink, seen whisking away down the corridors and flitting through the halls, or if you’re lucky she may be spotted sitting in one of the rooms; it’s rumored she may even be the ghost of George Vanderbilt’s mistress.  Other sightings include a charming young boy playing in and around the gardens, spectral beings moving up and down the stairs, noticing strange aromas in the halls, walking through cold spots, and the sound of disembodied footsteps echoing when no one is around you. LaLaurie Mansion in Louisiana is haunted by the ghosts of American history and decades of cruelty and violence towards the slaves who were captured here, leaving it teeming with ghostly figures, tormented souls, and aggressive apparitions.  Locals claim the historic mansion is cursed, having been home to the intimidating and unflinchingly violent Madame Delphine LaLaurie.  There are significant reports of moans and wails coming from the room where LaLaurie imprisoned her slaves. Visitors report hearing echoes of footsteps down empty hallways, guides and visitors being physically tapped, poked, and grabbed by unseen spirits, lamp lights flickering on and off, and decades of other paranormal activities.  Even passersby report an overwhelming feeling of negative energy and extreme sadness and pain when standing or walking too close to the building. Winchester Mystery House in California is perhaps the most famous entry on our list, with dozens of ghosts and supernatural occurrences being reported over the years, and rumored to have been built by Sarah Pardee Winchester at the behest of the spirits from beyond! One of the most prevalent spirits spotted by tourists is the “wheelbarrow ghost” who carts a wheelbarrow of coal around the basement and Clyde, the spectral figure of a former worker in the home.The list of sightings is numerous, with strange disappearing shadows in the windows and mirrors, flickering lights, strange footsteps, unnerving sounds, phantom cooking smells, etc, all of which are unusual for a house that no one has lived in since the 90s. The Stanley Hotel in Colorado is affectionately known by paranormal enthusiasts as “The Disneyworld of Ghosts”, with sightings and reports too numerous to count.  If you’re a fan of “The Shining”, you’ll be delighted to know that author Stephen King once stayed at this hotel with his wife, and the nightmares which plagued him during the day were the inspiration for the story!  Everyone from staff to ghost hunters to visitors staying the night have all reported a variety of sightings including disembodied laughter, flickering lights, items moving on their own accord, shadowy figures lurking, doors opening and closing on their own, and more.  In particular, it’s said that the fourth floor is the most haunted, but you’ll certainly find no shortage of spirits here on any floor. Lizzie Borden House in Massachusetts is the former home of Lizzie Borden and her family, all involved in the infamous 1892 unsolved murder of Lizzie’s father and stepmother and sensational trial. It’s rife with paranormal activity, and has now become one of the most popular haunted houses and spooky Bed and Breakfasts in all of America!  You can book a tour of the 6 bedroom home, or opt for an overnight stay in one of the rooms, including the notorious “murder room” if you dare. As an added bonus, you can book a special ghost hunting experience and search for spectral inhabitants with your friends! It’s been reported to be one of the creepiest places visitors have ever come across, much less stayed the night in!  Rumors of sightings include the ghost of the Bordens, disembodied and strange eerie laughter echoing throughout the halls, spectral children skipping from room to room, and then some… Other Notorious haunts you may want to look into: Hill House in Texas Sallie House in Kansas Franklin CAstle in Ohio Hotel Chelsea in New York CAptain Tony’s Saloon in Florida El Campo Santo Cemetery in California The Omni Parker House in Massachusetts

With the global debut of the upcoming all-new 2027 Kia Telluride only weeks away, Kia America today is revealing more of the brand’s flagship SUV. Cleverly disguised in a unique full-body wrap, the custom pre-production model is seen being put through a grueling off-road trek, illustrating the SUV’s capabilities while coyly hiding its production sheet metal, which will be unveiled November 20 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The new images and video of the camouflage Telluride follow the dramatic studio-based teaser images that were released October 22. KIA AMERICA REVEALS CUSTOM 2027 CAMOUFLAGE TELLURIDE “Designing a wrap for Telluride is far different than designing the vehicle beneath the vinyl,” said Tom Kearns, Vice President and Senior Chief Designer, KDCA. “We looked at the many different patterns used by carmakers to obscure the shape of vehicles in development and decided to approach the project from a different angle. We determined that hiding the all-new Telluride in plain sight could be done in a way that is both eye-catching and thought-provoking.” Leaning into the hundreds of sketches that precluded the final form, the wrap’s design uses intersecting outlines of the vehicle from different angles to obscure the profile, curves and angles beneath it. Close inspection reveals the many approaches the team examined before finally landing on what will be shown (uncamouflaged) at the Los Angeles Auto show in November. “This wrap also ties the beginning and end of the design process together, which is Opposites United in itself,” Kearns continued. The Opposites United design philosophy takes inspiration from the contrasts found in nature and humanity and was introduced by Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design, Kia Corporation in 2021. At the center of the design philosophy is a visual identity evoking positive forces and natural energy, with contrasting combinations of sharp stylistic elements and sculptural shapes. ‘Opposites United’ is based on five key design principles: ‘Bold for Nature’, ‘Joy for Reason’, ‘Power to Progress’, ‘Technology for Life’, and ‘Tension for Serenity’. “Stylistically, inspiration for the wrap was derived from Keith Haring and Mr. Doodle (Sam Cox). Both artists create complex patterns expressed via simple lines,” said Kearns. “We worked on reducing the Telluride’s design sketches to simple lines, overlapping sketches and silhouettes to create what ultimately became the defining motif for the wrap.” KIA AMERICA REVEALS CUSTOM 2027 CAMOUFLAGE TELLURIDE Aside from the lines, color also played an important role in the camouflage design. “We tried many color combinations and gradations before landing on what you see today,” said Kearns. “Ultimately, warm-to-cool color shifts starting with orange at the front and ending with purple at the rear.” Orange worked well with the amber DRLs up front and its opposing color – purple – was used to contrast at the rear. Subtle map coordinates along the lower edges of the front doors are an Easter egg. 37.9375 ° N, 107.8123° W place the camouflage Telluride in the SUV’s namesake Colorado town. The high-action video, shot on location in the rugged Alabama Hills in the high desert of central California, presented a stunning backdrop for the boldly wrapped 2027 Kia Telluride. With the jagged peaks of the Sierra Nevada looming in the distance, the Alabama Hills are a formation of rounded rocks and eroded hills shaped by geologic uplifting that took place 100 million years ago. “Pictures of camouflaged development vehicles are commonplace, especially for automotive enthusiasts. And they typically depict the vehicle parked or driving on the highway,” said Russell Wager, Vice President, Marketing, Kia America. “But we wanted to do something special with this pre-production Telluride. Placing it in an environment that really pushed the boundaries gave us the opportunity to show just how capable the all-new Telluride is.” The camouflage Telluride was put through its paces in the action-packed video montage tackling formidable obstacles as it journeys down the road less traveled. Steep inclines, sandy washes, water crossings, and rocky outcroppings present an extreme overlanding adventure highlighting Telluride’s off-road capabilities.

Looking for something fun to do in Southern Wisconsin near Kenosha and Northern Illinois around the Lake County area for Halloween weekend? We’ve got you covered! Today’s blog is dedicated to fun activities all weekend long for family and friends to enjoy the season’s best holiday.  From public trick or treat events to haunted trivia to spooky movie nights and haunted houses, there’s plenty to do no matter what level of fright you’re seeking.  So grab your BOO and head out on the town for a spooky fun time.  Let’s check out Classic’s Local Community Halloween Calendar together! TUESDAY: On October 28th at Station 51 Truck Company Bar and Grill, enjoy Trick or Trivia, a family friendly halloween night out and start of a new local tradition! October 28th at Patty Turner Center, the Deerfield Park District will be hosting a Puzzling for Prizes Halloween event from 6PM to 8:30PM for visitors 21+. Admission tickets required. Halloween and Dia De Los Muertos Trivia Night is happening at Beer Bazaar starting at 6:30PM to 8:30PM in Grayslake on Tuesday, October 28th. WEDNESDAY: On October 29th with registration from 6:45PM to 7PM at Meadowview Park in Grayslake, come on out for a Skeleton Egg Hunt for a short stint of family-friendly fun!  Candy-filled eggs will be hidden throughout the park with participants searching by flashlight (BYO flashlight!) THURSDAY: It’s NO ACTOR NIGHT at Realm of Terror Haunted House in Round Lake Beach on Thursday night.  Get the full haunted house experience without the added layer of terror from interactive actor staff.  Enjoy a low pressure but still thrilling new way to explore the sights and sounds of Halloween with less anxiety.  Plus, it’s also movie night at Realm of Terror!  Meet the cast and crew of Haunt Season: The Movie and preview the new movie now streaming on Amazon Prime. Trunk or Treat Night of Highland Park is happening at Hidden Creek Aqua Park from 3:30PM to 5PM for some scare-free fun for kids aged 2 and up. This free event invites local community groups and costumed residents and guests to come on out and celebrate a less-spooky Trick or Treat event! The annual Boo Bash at Gurnee Mills is happening from 5PM to 7PM in the South Macy’s Wing Dining Pavilion. Come on out in your best costumes and grab some sweet treats, check out the spooky selfie station, listen to some live music and DJ, and other spooky seasonal fun! Legacy Dinner Theater in Wisconsin Dells is hosting it’s last two days of Monster Mash Spooktacular Dinner Theater event performances on Thursday October 30th and Friday, October 31st. FRIDAY: Day of the Dead Celebration in Round Lake Beach will be hosted at the Cultural Civic Center of Round Lake Beach Starting at 6PM. The Puerto Rican Society of Waukegan will be hosting a Trunk or Treat event starting at 6PM til 9PM on Sheridan Road on Halloween Night, October 31st. On October 31st, Halloween Night, enjoy a Deerfield Townwide Trick or Treat from 3:30PM to 7PM. The Trail of Treats and Festival at Shihloh Park in Zion will take place from 4PM to 6PM  with a drive through trunk or treat event with participants encouraged to dress up in costumes. Families can drive through the lot to grab candy and stop at multiple trick-or-treat stations hosted by local businesses and the parks district. On October 31st, Halloween Night, Village of Fox Lake has designated townwide Trick or Treat Hours from 4PM to 7PM. The City of Kenosha will be hosting a townwide Trick or Treat on October 31st from 4-7PM. Genoa City will be hosting Halloween townwide Trick or Treating from 4PM to 7PM on October 31st, Halloween. The City of Highland Park will be hosting townwide trick or treat hours from 3:30PM to 7PM on October 31st. Grayslake Trick or Treat Townwide hours will happen from 4Pm to 7Pm on October 31st. The Mainstreet of Libertyville’s Town Trick or Treat event will take place on Friday October 31st from 11AM to 2PM in each of the stores downtown.  Participating stores have an orange pumpkin in the windows! Hawthorn in Vernon Hills is hosting Trick or Treating from 11AM to 1PM on Friday, October 31st. Buffalo Creek Brewing is hosting “Another Glorious Evening” Halloween Party from 7PM to 10PM in Long Grove Enjoy the last weekend of Haunts at the Kenosha County Fairgrounds “Terror at the Fair” event on October 31st, November 1st, and November 2nd. Tickets are $25-$50 per person depending on your options (GenAd, Fast Pass, Instant Terror).