Spring is right around the corner, and with that comes the start of an amazing transformation here at Gurnee Park District. From the vibrant colors that will soon take over the landscape to the welcome of longer, sun-filled days, springtime offers a beauty that does not compare – you just have to make time to see it!
With that said, we are excited to share some of the ways you can take in the excitement of the season!
BUNNY BASH – 3/23
Families are sure to have an egg-cellent time at this year’s Bunny Bash! The event includes an egg hunt (indoors or outdoors, weather dependent), craft, continental breakfast, and pictures with the Egg Hunt Bunny!
Parents and children must preregister for this event and an adult 18+ must attend with their child/ren. Parents and children 10 years & up attending the event MUST register for the *breakfast-only option (*Includes breakfast ONLY).
Register for your preferred session: 8:30 – 9:30am 9:15 – 10:15am 10:00-11:00am
Only a few more weeks left to SAVE! Make sure you and the family are ready for some fun in the sun – purchase your 2024 Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center season pass today!
Spring soccer leagues run from April – June and are available to those ages 4 years old – 5th grade. Soccer leagues include one weeknight practice (determined upon registration) and one game per week (played on Saturdays).
Join us for a personalized tour of Growing Tree Preschool!
Tours will provide parents the opportunity to learn about our program philosophy and curriculum, visit the classrooms, meet the teachers, and more! Parents can also enroll their children in the upcoming school year with a discounted registration fee.
Tours will take approximately 30 minutes and must be scheduled via our sign-up link.
As you drive down Almond Road in Gurnee, IL, you can catch a glimpse of Timberwoods Park. Timberwoods has been a part of the Gurnee Park District park system for several decades, and in the fall of 2021, received a few upgrades to its playground features.
Walking up to the playground, regardless of age, brings a feeling of wonder and excitement. Surrounding three blue slides are an array of intricately woven steps, climbing ropes, monkey bars, and ladders that guests of all ages could spend countless hours playing games like “Lava Tag” or “Woodchips” on. Sticking out tall and proud in the middle of it all is the main focal point of the park – a giant, twisty-turny tube slide. To get to the top of the slide, you have to climb a rope ladder that is encased in a giant, half-moon shaped apparatus. What kid, or even adult, wouldn’t want to try THAT out?!
In addition to a top-notch playground, Timberwoods Park also offers a basketball court as well as baseball/softball and soccer fields, perfect for any means of friendly competition!
Did you know? Timberwoods Park is often referred to as the “Blue Park” for its iconic blue playground features. When construction for playground equipment updates began in 2021, our Parks Team kept this sentiment in mind making sure all new equipment kept with the blue color scheme!
DEI CORNER – WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
The month of March celebrates Women’s History Month. We are honored to showcase some of the important female figures who have helped to make Gurnee Park District what it is today, as well as those who were an inspiration to the field of Parks and Recreation.
We will be open with limited hours on Easter Sunday, March 31. Please see below for our facility hours:
Hunt Club Park Community Center: CLOSED FitNation on Nations Drive: OPEN 7:00am – 12:00pm Viking Park Community Center: CLOSED
Have a “hoppy” day!
UPCOMING APRIL EVENTS:
FAMILY NERF WARS – 4/12
Gather your squad and get ready for an action-packed night of adrenaline-pumping Nerf battles and activities for the whole family to enjoy! Fuel up with a dinner of pizza, salad, and dessert before taking on the Nerf arena. All Nerf supplies, such as blasters, foam darts, and goggles will be provided (please leave your supplies at home).
Register for Family Nerf Wars beginning Tuesday, March 5 at 7:00am!
Looking for a FUN and REWARDING job? We’re hiring! Available positions include:
Aquatics (current and summer positions – PT) Customer Service Representatives (PT) Facility Maintenance I (FT, PT, & Seasonal) FitNation Childcare (PT) FitNation Member Services (PT) Fitness Attendant (PT) Fitness Group Exercise Instructor (PT) Grounds Maintenance I (Seasonal) Personal Trainer (PT) And MORE!
Have a great month! We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!
February 21, 2024
IAPD/IPRA Community Service Award Recipient – Barb Hooker
Gurnee Park District programs and events would not be possible without the help and support of our community volunteers. This year, we are proud to share that along with the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) and Illinois Parks and Recreation Association (IPRA), we recognize long-time volunteer Barbara “Barb” Hooker as recipient of the 2023 IAPD/IPRA Community Service Award!
For the past 23+ years, Barb, a long-time Gurnee resident, has been a steadfast presence here at Gurnee Park District. After retiring in 1999, Barb wanted to fill her time with something meaningful and decided to reach out to Gurnee Park District for any available volunteer opportunities. Our Volunteer Coordinator at the time saw the perfect fit and invited Barb to join our monthly “Senior Mixers.”
Every month, these luncheons bring together 85-135 local seniors who enjoy a catered lunch, dessert, entertainment, and heartwarming camaraderie. Our dedicated Senior Mixer volunteers, like Barb, go above and beyond, helping set up decorations, greet guests, serve, and clean up. Our Senior Mixer volunteers not only make it possible for Gurnee Park District to run events such as these, but also act as ambassadors for other senior programs in the Gurnee community.
On behalf of all of us at Gurnee Park District, we would like to extend our gratitude and recognition to Barb for her 23 years of selfless service to the Senior Mixer program, the older adult community, and the Gurnee Park District. Thank you, Barb, for making a difference and brightening the lives of so many here in Gurnee!
January 30, 2024
February 2024 Newsletter – Gurnee Park District
FEBRUARY 2024 GURNEE PARK DISTRICT NEWSLETTER
February is here and we are filled with all the feels as we look forward to another great month at Gurnee Park District! The arrival of February signals the excitement and anticipation that spring is close within reach (45 days away, to be exact). As this short month passes, remember to take a pause and enjoy the changes taking place – longer days, the weather turning slightly warmer (we hope), and the sounds of nature returning to fill the air once again. What a beautiful month we have in store!
With that said, make sure to get out and enjoy all that Gurnee Park District has to offer this month, such as events, walking trails, parks, programs, and so much more!
SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION – OPENS 2/6!
We are gearing up for another amazing summer, complete with a variety of camps, activities, special events, field trips, cookouts, and MORE!
Visit our 2024 Summer Camp Guide to view all of our offerings, and then, save your spot by registering TOMORROW! That’s right, camp registration opens Tuesday, February 6 at 7:00am!
The arrival of spring is just a few short weeks away, which means summer will be here before we know it! Make sure you and the family are ready for some fun in the sun – purchase your Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center 2024 season pass today!
We’ve got an all NEW theme this month for our February Monthly Mixer – “For the Love of Toys”! Are you ready to relive your childhood with some of those nostalgic memories of playing with your favorite toys? Well, we’re going to do just that! Join presenter Dean Milano for a demonstration that is sure to bring you back to your younger self!
Lunch will include lasagna, salad, and bread catered from Tina’s Italian Café in Gurnee.
Special thank you to our sponsor, Advocate Aurora Health, for making this event possible!
Registration is now being accepted for the 2024/2025 school year at Growing Tree Preschool! Did you know? We offer flexible options to fit every families needs, an engaging curriculum, amazing staff, and so much more! Click on our Preschool Preview Guide below to view our upcoming 2024/2025 offerings.
Lights! Camera! Action! Continue to build your acting skills learned in Introduction to Drama in our NEW Theater Performance Class! This class will focus on gearing up for a small play where our rising stars will perform for family and friends!
Saturdays – 9:00-10:30am Hunt Club Park Community Center March 9 – May 18 Performance will take place on May 18
One of our larger parks in the district, O’Plaine Park has it all! No matter the season, visitors to the park can immerse themselves in all the fun this park has to offer.
For those who enjoy staying active, O’Plaine Park offers a variety of athletic courts and fields for all interests. Gather your friends and get ready for some friendly competition on the basketball court, or use our open sports fields for batting, fielding, or kicking practice. In addition, players can also practice their pickleball skills amongst not just one, but eight available fenced in pickleball courts.
If you prefer to quietly take in the sights of nature at your own pace, walk on over to our large trail system/walking path. This paved path, which provides nearly 2 miles of exploration and adventure, showcases the beauty of the park as it weaves through groves of mature trees as well as the parks featured amenities.
Other featured amenities include a large, mud-free playground, picnic shelter, and indoor restrooms.
Did you know? O’Plaine Park is also home to our “Garden Plots.” Garden plots are available for rent beginning March 1 – May 1, with growing season taking place May 1 – November 15. If you are interested in showcasing your “green thumb,” make sure to save the date to reserve your plot!
Here at the Park District, as we deepened our understanding of Black History Month, we began by looking at its origins. We first recognized Dr. Carter G. Woodson who was the driving force behind this important commemoration. Dr. Woodson was an American historian, author, journalist, and the founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. He earned his PhD in History from Harvard University making him the second Black American (only following Dr. W.E.B Dubois) to graduate from Harvard. Dr. Woodson’s work and words continuously emphasized the significance of recognizing and preserving cultural achievements, as he stated, “Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history.”
Hop into spring at our Bunny Bash egg-stravaganza! Join us for a continental breakfast with all the fixings, an exhilarating egg hunt, creative crafts, and, of course, commemorative pictures with everyone’s favorite Bunny! There are three sessions to choose from:
We’re hiring for summer 2024! Get ready to gain experience while having plenty of FUN along the way! Available summer positions include:
Aquatics Lifeguard / Swim Instructor
Day Camp Counselor / Site Director
Marketing and Communications Intern
Recreation Intern
Click here for more information and to view ALL of our current job listings!
Have a great month! We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!
January 5, 2024
DEI CORNER – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Almost two years ago, we formed the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee at Gurnee Park District, a dedicated team of staff members who meet monthly to thoughtfully explore DEI related initiatives, goals, and community impacts. As we begin the new year, our committee is excited to share awareness on topics that we hope will inspire you to learn more about the significance and history each month celebrates.
For the month of January, we would like to recognize Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who dedicated his life to advocating for racial justice, nonviolent resistance, and the realization of the American dream for all citizens. His iconic leadership during the American Civil Rights Movement, particularly through the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the March on Washington, and his powerful speeches like “I Have a Dream,” played a critical role in dismantling racial segregation and inspiring positive societal change.
As we honor Martin Luther King Jr. in January, let us reflect on his legacy and the progress that has been made, while acknowledging that there is still work to be done in the pursuit of true equality and justice. King’s vision extends beyond his time, encouraging us to actively engage in conversations, challenge biases, and promote inclusivity in our community and beyond. Through our DEI initiatives, we aspire to emulate the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. by fostering an environment that values diversity, promotes equity, and celebrates the richness that comes from embracing different perspectives. Together, let us continue the journey towards a more inclusive and harmonious society, inspired by the principles laid down by this remarkable leader.
To learn more about the origins of this important holiday, the transformative work and achievements of King Jr., as well as view an inspiring virtual tour of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, please click on the following links:
Thank you for your time and we look forward to sharing more information next month!
January 3, 2024
January 2024 Gurnee Park District Newsletter
Happy New Year! It’s hard to believe another year has passed, but, as the saying goes, time sure does fly when you’re having fun!
Speaking of fun, we’ve already begun 2024 with a great start! This past Saturday, January 6th, we held our annual Frosty Fest event. Viking Park looked like a winter wonderland, complete with sleigh rides, ice sculpture games, and “snow” much more! Thank you to all who came to enjoy and support another fantastic event, including our sponsors from Advocate Aurora Health, BCU, and Honey Orthodontics!
And now, onto some more excitement this coming month!
POOL PASSES – ON SALE NOW!
It may only be the start of the winter season, but summer will be here before we know it! Make sure you and the family are ready for some fun in the sun – purchase your Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center 2024 season pass today!
Calling all park and recreation enthusiasts! Help predict the “Future of FUN” at Gurnee Park District, where anything is possible!
Is there a new program you would like to see offered, or maybe new play equipment you would like added to your favorite park? The possibilities are ENDLESS!
Share your ideas, BIG or small, by taking a short survey:
Have you ever wanted to be an ACTOR? Would you like to learn acting games and get comfortable speaking and being in front of an audience? Come join Acting UP where you will be trained in many acting techniques and learn the skills you need to be in the spotlight! You will also get the chance to give a performance in front of an audience of your family and friends!
This all NEW class begins 1/13-2/17!
Saturdays at Hunt Club Park Community Center 9:00-10:00am Ages 9-12
See how we learn and grow at Growing Tree Preschool! Whether your child currently attends or you are considering enrolling in the upcoming school year, our Open Houses provide parents the opportunity to learn about our program philosophy and curriculum. Each class room will have fun and engaging preschool activities for your child while parents learn more about the program from the teachers and administrative staff. Parents can also enroll their children in the upcoming school year with a discounted registration fee.
Open Houses will take place from 6:30-7:30pm on:
Wednesday, January 17 at Hunt Club Park Community Center Thursday, January 18 at Viking Park Community Center
*Registration for the 2024-2025 school year opens January 17th at 6:30pm!
WINTER BEACH BASH – 1/19
Those winter blues starting to make you feel down? Shake off the snow and join us for a night of beach-themed activities, prizes, and splashing good times at our 87-degree indoor pool at FitNation! Light snacks and drinks will be provided for all. Don’t forget your favorite beach attire!
Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by someone age 16+. Everyone attending must be registered for the event (even if they don’t want to swim). Children under 3 are free.
Almost two years ago, we formed the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee at Gurnee Park District, a dedicated team of staff members who meet monthly to thoughtfully explore DEI related initiatives, goals, and community impacts. As we begin the new year, our committee is excited to share awareness on topics that we hope will inspire you to learn more about the significance and history each month celebrates.
For the month of January, we would like to recognize Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who dedicated his life to advocating for racial justice, nonviolent resistance, and the realization of the American dream for all citizens.
Betty Russell Community Park is one of our most treasured parks here in Gurnee! Nestled in the Pembrook neighborhood, Betty Russell Park provides plenty of FUN for families all year round.
No matter the season, parkgoers can enjoy a variety of amenities including a large and imaginative playground, multiple outdoor sporting courts and fields, scenic nature trails, an outdoor ice hockey rink (winter season – weather permitting), and an enclosed shelter.
Fun Fact: Did you know, the park is named after Betty Russell, who served as Gurnee Park District Executive Director from 1977 – 1996.
UPCOMING FEBRUARY EVENTS:
MONTHLY MIXER – 2/13
Our Monthly Mixers return in February 2024 with an all NEW theme -“For the Love of Toys”! Are you ready to relive your childhood with some of those nostalgic memories of playing with your favorite toys? Well, we’re going to do just that! Join presenter Dean Milano for a demonstration that is sure to bring you back to your younger self!
Lunch will include lasagna, salad, and bread catered from Tina’s Italian Café in Gurnee.
Thank you to our sponsor, Advocate Aurora Health, for helping to make this event possible!
Looking for a FUN and REWARDING job this summer? We’re hiring for summer 2024!
Available positions include:
Aquatics:
Lifeguards
Pool Attendants
Swim Instructors
Customer Care
Day Camp:
Day Camp Counselor
Day Camp Leader in Training
Day Camp Site Director
Click here for more information and to view ALL of our current job listings!
Have a great month! We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!
December 15, 2023
Winter Wonder at Gurnee Park District
There is something truly magical about the winter season here at Gurnee Park District. As we watch the snowflakes begin to float delicately to the ground, and we shake off the morning frost, we’re reminded of the beauty and joy that awaits around every corner. Whether it be connecting with nature, creating lasting memories, or finding new ways to stay active, we are truly excited to share this season of wonder, adventure, and togetherness with all of you.
At Gurnee Park District, we believe in the power of nature, which is why we strive to protect and showcase the natural beauty of our parks. The winter season is no exception. When the snow begins to fall, our parks begin their transformation into beautiful winter wonderlands, ready to be explored by all. Whether you prefer sledding down the snowy hill at Christine Thompson Park, ice skating with friends at our outdoor ice rinks located at Betty Russell Park and Viking Park, or hiking through one of our glistening trails, we invite you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of our parks.
Looking for a little adventure this winter? Bundle up for a walk with our GO Gurnee Walking Club! Our walking club members meet every Saturday morning to traverse the scenic trails of not only Gurnee but those throughout Lake County. For members, it’s not only about exercise, but also creating new friendships with those who share similar interests, as well as engaging in warm conversations along the way. The sense of community our walking club embodies is contagious and we hope you can be a part of it this season and beyond.
As a park district, we strive to impart a feeling of connection and community in all that we do. This is especially true in this upcoming season of togetherness. Gather your friends, family, and neighbors for a lineup of special events that will make this winter season truly unforgettable. Delight in the joy of one of our favorite winter traditions – “Frosty Fest,” where you will find a variety of exciting activities for all ages to enjoy. No matter the season, we offer plenty of ways to keep the whole family involved and having fun.
After the holidays, we begin anew with a fresh start into a new year. Let FitNation help make 2024 your best year yet! Whether it’s a stimulating spin class, or a refreshing yoga session, our dedicated instructors will guide you towards achieving your fitness goals and keep you on track all season long!
Winter is a time for reflection and gratitude. With that said, we are honored to continue our commitment to providing memorable experiences that bring you closer to nature, foster a sense of community, and promote overall well-being. As we navigate the coming months, we thank you for being a part of the magic that is Gurnee Park District.
With warmest wishes and heartfelt appreciation,
Susie Kuruvilla, CPA, CPRP Executive Director
November 28, 2023
DECEMBER 2023 GURNEE PARK DISTRICT NEWSLETTER
As we head into the busy month of December, we wanted to wish you and yours a very happy holiday season! We thank you for your continued support throughout the year and we look forward to providing more FUN this month and in the months ahead!
December will be filled with plenty of opportunities for you and your family to get out and celebrate the season. Please see below for what’s to come!
2023-2024 WINTER PROGRAM AND EVENTS – REGISTER TODAY!
Registration is NOW OPEN for our upcoming 2023-2024 winter programs and events!
2024 HUNT CLUB PARK AQUATIC CENTER SEASON PASSES – ON SALE NOW!
Give the gift of summer fun this holiday season! Purchase your 2024 Aquatic Center season passes at the lowest rates of the season from now until 12/31!
Join us to kick-off the holidays with the 3rd annual “Holiday Lights” event at Welton Plaza (Old Grand Avenue)! We’ll have firepits and s’mores to keep you warm, food trucks to keep you full, craft stations to keep you busy, and much more!
Want to help those in need this holiday season? Staff will be collecting non-perishable food items for theWarren Township Food Pantry during the event. Please bring your donations to help make a difference in our community!
Celebrate the holidays with a lunch of roast beef, mashed potatoes, corn, and dessert. Following lunch, we will play “Singo,” a song Bingo game using holiday carols.
Feel free to bring a $6.00 or less wrapped gift for the gift exchange game!
11:30am – 1:00pm Viking Park | 4374 Old Grand Avenue Ages: 55+ Fee: $10
Winter Break is coming! Keep the kids busy with our Days Off School Programs! We have a variety of FUN activities planned for each day. Sign up today; spaces are limited!
This month’s Park Highlight is all about Viking Park (pictured above)! This expansive park, located off Old Grand Avenue, features not one, but TWO engaging playgrounds, paved and gravel walking paths, multiple sport courts, a challenging skate park, indoor and outdoor rental spaces, and plenty of picturesque backdrops for every season!
As we head into the month of December, prepare for Viking Park to be transformed into a magical winter wonderland, complete with holiday lights and an outdoor ice skating rink (weather dependent). NEW this year is a welcoming light tunnel brightening up a portion of our brick pathway. Feel free to take a stroll, and maybe a quick photo session, too!
UPCOMING JANUARY EVENTS:
FROSTY FEST – 1/6
Enjoy an unforgettable day of FREE outdoor family fun at Viking Park! Sleigh rides, ice skating (weather dependent), and other festive winter games and crafts will be available. Warm up with hot cocoa in the Dance Hall or s’mores by the fire!
See how we learn and grow at Growing Tree Preschool! Whether your child currently attends or you are considering enrolling in the upcoming school year, our Open Houses provide parents the opportunity to learn about our program philosophy and curriculum. Parents can also enroll their children in the upcoming school year with a discounted registration fee.
Open Houses will take place from 6:30-7:30pm on:
Wednesday, January 17 at Hunt Club Park Community Center (gymnasium) Thursday, January 18 at Viking Park Community Center (Dance Hall)
NOTE: Registration for the 2024/2025 school year will open on 1/17/24 at 6:30pm; those who register during an Open House will receive a discounted registration fee.
NEW! WINTER BEACH BASH – 1/19
Those winter blues starting to make you feel down? Shake off the snow and join us for a night of beach-themed activities, prizes, and splashing good times at our 87-degree indoor pool at FitNation! Light snacks and drinks will be provided for all. Don’t forget your favorite beach attire!
Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by someone age 16+. Everyone attending must be registered for the event (even if they don’t want to swim). Children under 3 are free.
Have a great month! We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!
October 30, 2023
November 2023 Gurnee Park District Newsletter
NOVEMBER 2023 GURNEE PARK DISTRICT NEWSLETTER
What a beautiful fall we’ve been having here in Gurnee! Between the changing colors on the trees and the mostly mild weather, this fall has us feeling all the feels!
As we head into November, we are excited to share what we have in store here at Gurnee Park District. From programming, to upcoming special events, to gearing up for the holidays, we have plenty for the whole family to take part in! Take a look below!
NOVEMBER HAPPENINGS
FAMILY ART NIGHT – 11/10
Explore the world of art at Gurnee Park District’s Family Art Night! Whether it’s painting, drawing, or learning something new, the entire family will have an opportunity to participate together and express their creativity!
A dinner of pizza, salad, and cookies will be provided during the event, along with all art supplies and materials.
Friday, November 10th Hunt Club Community Center 5:00-7:00pm *Registration deadline is 11/06/23.
YOUTH BASKETBALL LEAGUES (3rd-8th GRADES) BEGIN 11/27!
Looking for ways to keep the kiddos active this winter? Register for our Youth Basketball Leagues! Our leagues focus on the fundamentals of the game, sportsmanship, and, of course, having fun!
As a reminder, we will be operating with limited hours for the Thanksgiving Holiday on Thursday, November 23rd:
Hunt Club Park Community Center – CLOSED
Viking Park Community Center – CLOSED
FitNation on Nations Drive – 7:00am – 12:00pm
We hope everyone has an amazing holiday with family and friends!
PARK HIGHLIGHT – HUNT CLUB PARK
This month’s Park Highlight is all about Hunt Club Park (pictured above)!
Hunt Club Park, located off of Hunt Club Road, offers plenty of ways to stay busy all year long! Take a stroll down the paved trail system, which covers more than a mile of twists and turns around the park’s most stunning views. Or, play the day away at the mud-free playground! During the warmer months, you can also pass time reeling in a large bass or bluegill at the fishing pond.
No matter the season, Hunt Club Park is a great place to be!
SANTA! We know him! Enjoy a delicious breakfast followed by a meet and greet with Santa! Make sure to bring your cameras to capture these unforgettable memories for years to come!
3 seating times are available: 8:00-9:15am 9:30- 10:45am 11:00am-12:15pm
Mark your calendars for the 3rd annual “Holiday Lights” event at Welton Plaza (Old Grand Avenue)! We’ll have firepits and s’mores to keep you warm, food trucks to keep you full, craft stations to keep you busy, and much more!
Special guests include Gurnee Park District Above the Barre Dance Team, Gurnee Mayor, Tom Hood, WSRA Choirs, and the BIG Guy himself, Santa Claus!
Want to help those in need this holiday season? Staff will be collecting non-perishable food items for the Warren Township Food Pantry during the event. Please bring your donations to help make a difference in our community!
Thursday, December 7 5:30 – 7:30pm Welton Plaza on Old Grand Avenue (next to Gurnee Community Church)
ARCTIC EXPRESS – SOLD OUT
All aboard as we travel to the “North Pole” to visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus! The ride will be filled with music, stories, and surprises! *Note: this event is currently SOLD OUT
Give the gift of summer FUN this upcoming holiday season! Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center season passes will be on sale this December at our lowest prices of the season! Stay tuned for more information!
Have a great month! We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!
October 5, 2023
LOCATION CHANGE – Halloween Fall Fest 2023
On Saturday, October 14th, Gurnee Park District in partnership with the Village of Gurnee will host a Halloween favorite, with a NEW twist. Due to inclement weather in the forecast, Halloween Fall Fest will be held indoors at Hunt Club Park Community Center (920 Hunt Club Rd., Gurnee, IL).
Halloween Fall Fest will still include visits with favorite characters, and of course … CANDY! The cost is per child ($10 Gurnee residents / $13 nonresidents), adults are free. Guests of Halloween Fall Fest can register online or pay at the door.
Other reminders/tips for the event:
LOCATION HAS BEEN CHANGED TO HUNT CLUB PARK COMMUNITY CENTER
Dress to impress. Costumes are encouraged.
Bring your camera to take pictures! There will be plenty of photo ops.
Bring a bag/bucket for candy and other goodies.
Halloween Fall Fest will be held on Saturday, October 14th at Hunt Club Park Community Center (920 Hunt Club Rd., Gurnee, IL) beginning at 1:00 pm. For any questions, please contact Mary Lester at 847-599-3745, or visit gurneeparkdistrict.com/events.
Families are invited to visit January 18 and January 19
Gurnee, Illinois – January 18 – 19:Visit tonight and tomorrow to see how we learn and grow at Growing Tree Preschool! Whether your child currently attends or you are considering enrolling in the upcoming school year, our Open Houses provide parents the opportunity to learn about our program philosophy and curriculum.
Parents can also enroll their children in the upcoming school year with a discounted registration fee.
Both locations will host open houses from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm.
Visit the classrooms where your child(ren) will engage in a variety of fun activities! Parents will meet the staff and learn more about Growing Tree Preschool.
The first days of preschool are exciting! Sue McDougle, Gurnee Park District’s Preschool Manager shares a few things for parents to keep in mind when sending their children back to school. Parents can be worried or anxious too, it’s common. By controlling emotions, and creating a routine, families can easily transition and get their child(ren) ready to start school.
Preschool is a new experience for parents too. Here are a few ways to help with the transition.
Know that a child’s ability to be independent in a classroom setting enhances the parent/child bond.
Ask children about what their learning and new experiences.
Avoid showing emotion in front of your child. Some children become upset when they see this.
Preschool is an opportunity for parents to meet other parents and form lasting friendships.
Leading up to school starting as well as when school starts, establishing a routine and new habits can help!
Having children stay with a trusted adult before school begins can reduce separation anxiety.
Healthy bedtime routines prepare children to be well rested each school day.
Just like bedtime, the morning should have a routine and include breakfast.
Make school an important family priority!
Empty your child’s backpack and home/school folder together.
Ask about their art projects.
Compliment efforts and practice writing at home.
Sing with them. They’re always learning new songs at school!
Be proud and be sure to tell your preschooler.
Facility Hours
Click on a facility for more information about special & holiday hours for that particular facility
900 N Hunt Club Rd
