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July-August
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  • 11
    11.July

    Mysterious Geodes

    2:00 pm-3:15 pm
    07.11.2026
    Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
    1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523

    Did you know that ordinary looking rocks can hide dazzling crystal worlds inside? Geodes are nature’s hidden treasures – spherical, hollow wonders lined with sparkling crystals! Join us as we explore the fascinating theories behind how geodes form and discover where these natural marvels are found around the world. After the presentation, you’ll get to crack open your very own geode and uncover the mystery within! Introducing our brand-new geode cracker, staff will be set up to crack your geodes! Or  you can bring your own rock hammer and an old sock to collect the pieces. Each participant gets two crack open geodes.

    Lecture/Activity – 2:00 p.m. – 75-minutes
    Ages 7 and up
    Fee: $10 per Person
    Museum Members $5
    Reservations Required
    Register here

  • 25
    25.July

    The First Cut: Soap Carving for Future Stone Artists

    2:00 pm-3:00 pm
    07.25.2026
    Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
    1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523

    Many great stone carvers begin with soap. Join Jyl Bonguro, Italian marble carver from Chicago, for this hands-on workshop. Jyl will introduce the basics of carving using soap a soft, accessible material. Learn essential techniques, practice tool control, and start developing the skills used by professional sculptors—all while creating your own mini masterpieces.

    2:00 p.m. – 75-minutes – Ages 8 and up
    Fee: $25.00 per Person – Museum Members 10% off
    Limited Capacity – Reservations Required
    Register at here

  • 06
    06.August

    Educators Night Out!

    5:30 pm-7:00 pm
    08.06.2026
    Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
    1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523

    Calling all educators! The Lizzadro Museum’s Education Department invites educators to an engaging after-hours event designed to bring the fascinating world of rocks and minerals into the classroom! Enjoy light refreshments while exploring the Museum and discovering a variety of educational resources including:

    • Classroom-ready teaching materials
    • Field trip and workshop opportunities
    • Information about the Museum’s Field Trip Assistance Grant

    The evening will also feature the unveiling of a brand-new teaching aid box: “Hidden Gems in Cellphones” an exciting new resource, sponsored by the Smithsonian Institute, connecting earth science and everyday technology! This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow educators, gather fresh ideas, and explore hands-on learning experiences for students.

    Educators must provide current employee ID from an education-focused organization.

    Open House – 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
    Free for Educators with employment verification
    Reservations Required
    Sign up at here 

  • 22
    22.August

    Volcano Day

    10:00 am-3:00 pm
    08.22.2026
    Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
    1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523

    Volcanoes in Illinois?! Not recently, but come make your own volcanic eruption, watch a trash can volcano, and see the microscopic components of what makes up volcanic ash. Museum scientists will discuss eruption types and styles, as well as the benefits and hazards associated with volcanoes.
    At 2 p.m. geologist Sara Kurth will present on the mysterious world of underwater volcanoes! Discover how these hidden wonders shape the seafloor, create new landforms, and support unique marine life.

    Drop-in Activities – 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
    Lecture – 2:00 p.m. – 45 minutes
    All Ages Welcome – $5 per child
    Adults Regular Museum Admission
    Museum Members Free
    Reservations Recommended
    Sign up at here 

  • 29
    29.August

    Eternal Palette, Ephemeral Culture

    2:00 pm-3:00 pm
    08.29.2026
    Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
    1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523

    Join us for an exploration of pietra dura’s relevance within contemporary art and visual culture. Presented by Madison Hill, designer, researcher, and established pietra dura mosaic artist with over 17 years of experience. Her work is characterized by continuous experimentation in mosaic techniques, new technologies, and materials. She will discuss her artwork on display for the “Enduring Symbols: Liberty Set in Stone” exhibit.

    Lecture – 2:00 p.m. – 60 minutes
    Students and Adults
    Regular Museum Admission
    Museum Members Free
    Reservations Recommended
    Sign up here