Upcoming Events

Ages 16 and up

Join Turtle Up: Conservation, Education, and Action (TUCEA) for an engaging seminar on sea turtle conservation and sustainability. During the session, presented by a TurtleUp volunteer, learn about the organization, explore the challenges of plastic pollution, and learn practical ways to take action.

Registration deadline: Thursday, January 22

All ages

Let’s learn about common winter birds that will often visit neighborhood feeders. After a small craft, we will take a walk on the paved path and search for our feathery friends. This is a Tools to Trek program.

Registration deadline: Thursday, January 29

All ages
Sunday, February 1 – Saturday, February 28

Owlexander, the Park District mascot, would love to receive a letter, drawing or card about your winter park adventures. He is a great pen pal and will be sure to write you back and let you know all about his adventures, too. Letters can be dropped off at a special mailbox throughout February. Please address your letters to Owlexander Parks (no stamp necessary).

Owlexander will make a special appearance at Headquarters on Tuesday, February 17, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. if you would like to hand deliver a letter to him! He may even have special activities and treats for you!

Ages 16 and up

Join Now and Zen DIY to design a beautiful 8″ x 8″ piece of wall art using preserved moss and other interesting natural elements. A truly unique accent for your home that you’ll enjoy for years to come!

Registration deadline: Monday, January 26

Ages 5 – 10

We will kick off the evening with animal crafts, games and preparing a salty snack. Then, we will settle in for a kid-friendly movie featuring a talent show! We might even have our own talent show during the night. Looking for something to do while your kids are out and about? Check out the Warm Hearts Couples Evening, which happens the same evening.

Registration deadline: Monday, February 2

Ages 16 and up

Warm up with your special someone during a night out in the park! Start the evening with an intentional, self-guided night hike lined with deep-dive questions to spark conversation. Then, get out of the cold and into the Smith House for a hot chocolate bar, games and crafts, or head outside to enjoy a cozy bonfire together. This is a night for couples young and old! One registration per pair.

Registration deadline: Monday, February 2

Ages 18 months – 4 years with adult companion

We will complete crafts with nature/sensory themes, read stories, play games and take short hikes in the park — all to spark a love of nature in our youngest community members! The theme for February is ‘Skunks!’. We will learn about these stinky animals, make skunk-inspired crafts, and have some pretend play. If the weather allows, we will take a short walk outside.

Registration deadline: Wednesday, February 4

Ages 6 – 9

This drop-off program is designed to give your child the opportunity to get creative! They will design a variety of projects based on a monthly theme. Outdoor activities will be included when weather permits. Sign up for one or multiple sessions.

Registration deadline: Tuesday, February 3

Ages 8 – 14

Have fun making your own Valentine’s Day-themed versions! This program is a great way to make new friends and try some new slime recipes for fun and stress relief! Due to the variety of types of slime, please be sure to note any allergies.

Registration deadline: Wednesday, February 4

Ages 9 – 13

Try new art skills during this fun, nature-themed crafting program. Each session will offer different options for participants to choose from, allowing them to work independently or get creative together!

Registration deadline: Thursday, February 5

Ages 6 – 12

Join us on your day(s) off school for a camp full of all our favorite fun camp activities, but in the winter! Campers will enjoy hikes and games outside, gather around the fire circle for s’mores, then warm up in the Smith House with games and crafts. You may also register for camp on Monday, February 16!

Registration deadline: Friday, February 6

All ages

Happy Valentine’s Day to our favorite pups! Join us for a self-guided afternoon hike through the trails of Bill Yeck Park. You and your pup will be pampered with special treats and stations along the way! Participants are welcome to come anytime during the event. The final time to start the hike is 1:30 p.m.

Registration is not required.

Ages 6 – 12

Join us on your day(s) off school for a camp full of all our favorite fun camp activities, but in the winter! Campers will enjoy hikes and games outside, gather around the fire circle for s’mores, then warm up in the Smith House with games and crafts. You may also register for camp on Friday, February 13- see posting to sign-up!

Registration deadline: Monday, February 9

Ages 3 – 5 with adult companion

Why do some animals glow in the dark and how do they do it? We will learn which animals use bioluminescence and which ones fluoresce under black light. This is a Tools to Trek program.

Registration deadline: Tuesday, February 17