River Park, Chicago. (Patty Wetli / WTTW News)

The fall foliage season got off to a slow start in the Chicago region but is making up for lost time. We’ve rounded up some resources to help you make the most of Mother Nature’s spectacular, but short-lived, autumnal display.

(Patty Wetli / WTTW News)

Chicagoans get to experience two seasons simultaneously this weekend: summer-like temperatures hitting the upper 70s and peak fall color.

Green trees along the North Branch of the Chicago River, Oct. 14, 2021. (Patty Wetli / WTTW News)

Sunny days and cool nights are the key to brilliant fall foliage. If the weather cooperates, expect things to take a turn for the colorful as Chicago’s trees hit their peak within the next two weeks.

Lawmakers head back to Springfield for their fall veto session. But will anything happen on the hot button issues of minimum wage, education funding, and Uber ridesharing before Governor-elect Bruce Rauner takes over?

We discuss fall veto session activity, and whether the Illinois General Assembly will tackle the nearly $100 billion shortfall in pension systems currently facing the state. Gun control and same-sex marriage are also up for debate.

The Illinois General Assembly will tackle pension reform, marriage equality and tax credits for businesses during its fall legislative session. Carol Marin takes a look at the issues with members of the General Assembly.

With the temperature dropping, it’s time to take care of your garden and do some fall planting. Chicago Botanic Garden’s Eliza Fournier has some great tips about dividing perennials, taking care of your lawn, and finding the right plants for your fall containers. Read fall gardening tips.

Eliza Fournier from the Chicago Botanic Garden joins us with tips to make your fall garden thrive.

Eliza Fournier

Autumn leaves may be coming down, but there's still time to plant and prepare for next year. Our resident gardening expert, Eliza Fournier, is here with tips for the season.

Staghorn Sumac. Image credit: The Morton Arboretum

Confluence of Conditions Creates Spectacular Chicago Autumn

Autumn colors are especially spectacular this fall. We tell you why and how long this peak season will last.