St. Patrick's Day is Tuesday, March 17 but there's plenty of Irish fun with parades and parties across northern Illinois this weekend.

The original Knox Hotel opened in 1854 to provide accommodations near the new train depot because travelers on the railway needed a place to stay.

Illinois and Wisconsin boast a wealth of spa getaways, offering luxurious pampering and relaxation just a short trip away.

From the northern suburbs to the Illinois Valley, the farm-to-table movement continues to grow, with restaurants partnering with local vendors for the freshest ingredients.

Utica's St. Patrick's Parade is set for 4 p.m. Saturday, March 7.

The Beach House matches the flavors, décor, and relaxed feeling people may remember from their coastal vacations – and that’s exactly how owner John Mathias designed it to be.

Guests will enjoy a full weekend itinerary, including a Friday night welcome reception with butler-passed hors d’oeuvres, intimate educational seminars, and a multi-course wine dinner paired with standout selections from the featured wineries.

Here are the winners for the best coffee shops in the Best of the Fox, Best of the Illinois Valley, DeKalb County's Finest and Sauk Valley Favorites contest.

Check out Harbor Stories: Unplugged – Season 7 in Ottawa, as well as the lineup at the Ottawa Center for the Arts and the 122 Club in Streator.