Good morning, Naperville.

After over two decades, the Rotary Club canceled the 2026 Holiday Parade of Lights because high production costs made it unsustainable.

The club’s funding request was reduced (from $26,773 to $22,300) and the SECA funds will be returned while Downtown Naperville Alliance said they remain hopeful for the holiday season.

Kendall Hall will host a post Mardi Gras Masquerade on Thursday, Feb.

26 with festive food and live music to benefit Naperville Responds for Veterans (free parking is available at the Judd Kendall VFW on 908 W. Jackson Ave.), while a Chili Dinner on Saturday, Feb. 28 adds to the local celebrations.

North Central College offers fine and performing arts events in late Feb and March at its Arts Center at 171 E.

Chicago Avenue — a lineup featuring a free 'Chords for Kids' concert on Feb. 28, dance productions, and music shows with tickets from free to $65.

Indian Prairie School District 204 will trim $2 million from next year's budget to offset rising costs and increased reliance on residential property taxes.

Budget officials said the changes, set to be finalized with the tentative 2026—27 budget in May, aim to balance expenses while protecting school-based positions.

More than 100 high school students from Naperville and nearby schools have been named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists based on PSAT/NMSQT scores — less than 1% of seniors nationwide earn this honor, and finalists will be announced from April through July.

Naperville Police Chief Jason Arres will host a Chat with the Chief at Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea on Fri., March 6 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in downtown Naperville, where residents can drop by anytime to talk with police + share their questions.

Benet Academy senior forward Emma Briggs scored a career-high 36 points, including 17 straight points, as the Redwings won 58-50 over Oswego East on Feb.

24. The regional championship win followed a semifinal victory last week.

Early Relational Health Summit

8 a.m.–4 p.m. — NIU Naperville Meeting and Conference Center — Registration fee required — Explore nurturing relationships that support child development and family wellbeing.

The Windy City Amateur Pickleball Open

2 AM - 5 AM — Sure Shot Pickleball — Check entry fees — Compete in a fun and vibrant pickleball tournament in the heart of Naperville.

Author Event with Valerie Bertinelli: Getting Naked

7-9 p.m. — Pfeiffer Hall at North Central College — Pre-registration required — Celebrate the release of Valerie Bertinelli's latest book with a Q&A and photo opportunity.

Naperville St. Patrick's Day Parade

10 a.m. — Downtown Naperville Alliance — Free entry — Celebrate Irish culture with vibrant performances and lively parades in downtown Naperville.

Lyfe Jennings Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Matrix Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience the emotional acoustic sounds of Lyfe Jennings and his poignant storytelling.