Get ready to ring in fall with Marengo Settlers’ Day!

September 30, 2025

Marengo Settlers’ Days officially kicks off fall fun

Forget about the autumn equinox – it’s not officially fall in McHenry County until Marengo Settlers’ Days takes place.

Settlers’ Days, held every Columbus Day weekend, is three full days of fall fun. Listing all of the events from Oct. 9-12 would fill this entire edition of McH Thrive – festivities include a weekend carnival, cookie decorating, an arts and crafts fair, car show, pet parade, live music, street performers and more. The grand finale comes Sunday, Oct. 12 with the huge Settlers’ Days Parade, followed as always by the marching band field show competition at Marengo Community High School.

Visit www.settlersdays.com for a complete list of events and times, and follow Settlers’ Days on Facebook for updates.

Are you a young entrepreneur? Join the Emerging Leaders Peer Group!

Are you a young entrepreneur building a business, or preparing to lead one? Leadership doesn’t need to be a solo journey.

The Emerging Leaders Peer Group connects ambitious professionals with like-minded peers and experienced mentors in a trusted, growth-driven environment. Created by the McHenry County Economic Development Corp., the group meets once a month, bringing together rising stars looking to develop their professional and leadership skills and connect with others to grow their professional network.

Visit the MCEDC’s website to learn more and to apply.

McHenry High School once again hosting manufacturing career expo

If you’re a high school student considering pursuing a career in manufacturing, the trades, industry or health care, mark your calendar for Wednesday, Oct. 8.

McHenry Community High School’s MTI Career Expo takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. at the McHenry High School Upper Campus, 4724 W. Crystal Lake Road.

Students and families will have the opportunity to talk about career opportunities with representatives from local businesses and educational institutions. The expo gives young people and their parents a chance to meet local industry representatives and learn about career paths, and educational opportunities, for those who are interested in pursuing those high-demand vocations.

The event is open to all area high school students and their parents. Admission is free, and no pre-registration is necessary. Just bring an open mind and questions!

The MCC Job and Internship Fair is tomorrow!

Looking for a job? This is your last reminder – don’t miss the McHenry County College Job and Internship Fair tomorrow!

The fair takes place from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the college, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake; it is being held in the Building A gym.

Attendees can connect with local employers seeking full-time and part-time employees, as well as interns and temporary workers. The event is free and open to everyone – not just students and alumni. Whether you’re seeking full-time or part-time work, or an internship, dress to impress and bring copies of your resume.

While there is no pre-registration required, organizers are encouraging attendees to create a free account on the MCC Hire a Scot job website.

McHenry County Government is hiring!

If you’re attending the MCC Job Fair tomorrow, be sure to visit our table!

McHenry County government is hiring, and is always on the lookout for hard-working and talented people to join our workforce.

And don’t worry if you miss us – you can apply for a job with us year-round!

You can search and apply for open jobs through our online employment portal. Visit regularly, as we’re always posting open positions.

Crystal Lake Community Expo offers family fun, community connections

Are you looking for a fun and free way to spend the day with family and friends and learn more about the Crystal Lake community?

The Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Community Expo from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Crystal Lake Holiday Inn, 800 S. Route 31. Come and meet local businesses, nonprofits and community groups, all under one roof. There’s going to be plenty of kids’ activities, raffles and free giveaways.

If you’re a local business or agency and would like to register to set up a table, there are still some openings left – register today before they’re gone!

If you like what you see, you can help us reach more McHenry County residents and businesses by sharing it!

Staying connected and informed is more important now than ever! Follow McHenry County on social media to make sure you don’t miss a thing!

McH Thrive is a collaborative initiative being implemented by McHenry County and the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) in partnership with the McHenry County community, including cities and villages, businesses and residents.