Local pet events: Dec. 23 through Dec. 30

Dec. 23

• Lake Renwick Heron Rookery – Open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset through Feb. 28. Hiking, running, bird viewing programs. Visit bit.ly/renwickreopens.

Dec. 24

• Live Nativity Service – 4 p.m., St. Edward's and Christ Church's Christ Campus, 2800 Grove Road, Joliet, five miles south east of Yorkville. Theme: "He Was Born in A Manger; Come Worship Him in A Barn". Candlelit service with live creche featuring congregation members and live farm animals including sheep, goats, and a donkey. Come early, bring folding chairs. For information, call 815-725-6800.

Dec. 27

• Holiday Owl Hike – 4 to 6 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m., Dec. 27, and 4 to 6 p.m., Dec. 28, Plum Creek Nature Center. Join naturalists on a 1.5-mile hike as they search for the elusive winged predator, the owl. Enjoy an outdoor fire, hot cocoa and marshmallows. Bring your favorite mug and camping chair to sit by the fire. The 4 p.m. hikes are for all ages; the 7 p.m. hike is for ages 16 or older. Be prepared to walk 1.5 miles. Registration is required; call 708.946.2216.

Dec. 30

• Volunteer orientation – 5:30 to 7 p.m., Hopeful Tails Animal Rescue, 2303 Oak Leaf St., Joliet. Come dressed to volunteer for a short training. Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes you don't mind getting dirty. RSVP at 779-206-2132. For information, visit hopefultailsanimalrescue.org.