Women’s History Month Upcoming Community Celebrations
March is Women’s History Month, and YWCA Evanston/North Shore is here to help you celebrate! We’ve compiled a list of exciting local events where you can honor the achievements of women, connect with your community, and engage in meaningful discussions. Whether you're interested in history, music, literature, or wellness, there's something for everyone this month.
Evanston Events
International Women’s Day: A Day of Empowerment, Wellness, & Action
Saturday, March 8 | 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. | YWCA Evanston/North Shore, 1215 Church St.
Celebrate International Women’s Day with a day of empowerment, wellness, and action. Hosted by YWCA Evanston/North Shore, this event features engaging workshops, wellness sessions, and discussions on critical issues impacting women today. Highlights include:
Yoga with Gail Hutchison
Interactive discussions with State Senator Laura Fine and State Representative Robyn Gabel
A networking lunch featuring women-owned businesses
A keynote presentation by Taylor Elyse Morrison, CEO of Inner Workout and a nationally recognized self-care advocate
This event is supported by the North Shore (IL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® Delta Chi Omega Chapter. Additional information available online.
Inspiring Evanston Women Exhibit
March 5 – April 9 | Evanston Public Library, 3rd Floor
Explore the inspiring stories of remarkable women from Evanston in this exhibit curated by the Evanston History Center. Part of the Evanston Women’s History Project, this initiative has been documenting and celebrating the impactful history of local women since 2007. Visit to learn about female trailblazers who shaped the community and continue to inspire future generations.
Duo F.A.E. Concert: “Dissidents of the Golden Age”
Friday, March 21 | 7 p.m. | Evanston History Center, 225 Greenwood St.
Enjoy an intimate evening of classical music performed by GRAMMY-nominated violinist Charlene Kluegel and pianist Katherine Petersen at the historic Dawes House. This special program pays tribute to women who fought for suffrage and rights around the world, featuring sonatas by Dame Ethel Smyth (UK) and Amy Beach (US). Additionally, the concert will premiere Evanston-based composer Stacy Garrop’s new arrangement of “My Dearest Ruth,” based on a heartfelt letter from Martin Ginsburg to his wife, Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Panels and Pictures: Meet Graphic Novelist Lesley Williams
Sunday, March 9 | 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. | Evanston Public Library, Falcon Room (303)
Join local author and librarian Lesley Williams as she discusses her star-reviewed graphic novel biography It’s Her Story: Mae Jemison. Learn about her research process, how she crafted the story, and why graphic novels are a powerful medium for young readers. This event is perfect for ages 7 and up, with priority Q&A given to children. Registration required.
Graphic Novel Book Club for Kids: We Are Big Time
Saturday, March 15 | 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. | Evanston Public Library, Barbara Friedberg Storytelling Room (104)
Young readers can join a discussion on We Are Big Time, Hena Khan’s empowering basketball-themed graphic novel. Copies are available at the children's desk for those interested. Participants must be Evanston residents or attend school in District 65. Registration required.
Wilmette Events
Illinois Libraries Present: Exploring Space with Coralie Adam
Tuesday, March 4 | 7-8 p.m. | Virtual | Teens & Adults
Join Coralie Adam in a fascinating virtual discussion on space exploration. This event is perfect for those interested in astronomy and scientific discoveries.
Classics & Contemporary Book Discussion: The Vaster Wilds by Lauren Groff
Tuesday, March 11 | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Auditorium | Adults
Engage in a thought-provoking discussion of Lauren Groff’s novel The Vaster Wilds. This book club event welcomes all book lovers to explore its themes and narrative.
Thanks to Her: Finding Power and Inspiration in Your Family Photos
Wednesday, March 12 | 7-8 p.m. | Virtual | Adults
Discover how family photos can inspire personal reflection and empowerment in this engaging virtual event.
Illinois Libraries Present: 9to5: The Story of a Movement
Available to stream Friday, March 21 starting at 2 p.m. through Sunday, March 23 | Virtual | Adults
Watch 9to5: The Story of a Movement, a documentary exploring the women’s labor movement, available for streaming over the weekend.
Skokie Events
Women’s History Walk
Sunday, March 30 | 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Skokie Heritage Museum, 8031 Floral Avenue
Take a guided walk through downtown Skokie and explore the pivotal moments and influential women in the fight for equality. This walk highlights the contributions of Skokie’s first resident doctor and the development of the first commercial contraceptive. For more information, call (847) 929-8001.
More Ways to Celebrate
Stay connected with your community and explore additional Women’s History Month events happening throughout Evanston, Wilmette, Skokie and the entire north shore region. Whether you attend an exhibit, a concert, a book discussion, or a wellness event, take this opportunity to honor the contributions of women past and present.
Happy Women’s History Month from YWCA Evanston/North Shore!