Friday, March 28, 2025 | View in browser
Good morning,
Check out this week's Parks & Recreation e-news featuring information on upcoming events, registration for Summer Camp and Spring programs, and more.
 Gymnastic Classes Now at Prieto
We’re excited to announce that gymnastics classes are coming to the Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center! We’re offering several Spring classes at Prieto and Chandler Community Centers. Explore classes and register at cityofevanston.org/recreation.
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Register for Summer Camp
Evanston Parks & Rec Summer Camp is filling up FAST! Don’t let your little explorer miss out on a summer packed with fun, friends, and unforgettable memories. Spots are going fast—register today!
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 Sensory Tool Drive for Autism Acceptance Month
In honor of Autism Acceptance Month, the City of Evanston is collecting new or gently used sensory items through its Sensory Tool Drive, running from April 1 to April 18.
Donations will be used to create Sensory Toolkits for the Evanston Police Department and the Community Assistance Response and Engagement (C.A.R.E.) Team. These kits will help support autistic and neurodivergent individuals during emergency situations by promoting calm, focus and self-regulation.
Suggested donation items include noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools that spin or squish, weighted lap pads, comfort items such as small stuffed animals, and small notebooks or whiteboards.
Donations can be dropped off at any Evanston community center. For more information, contact Lauren Ruiz, manager of the Inclusion & Accessibility Division and ADA coordinator, at lruiz@cityofevanston.org or (847) 424-5496.
 Wild Night Out: April 4
Parents can enjoy a fun night out, as kids enjoy an evening together with the Ecology Center! This month's theme is "Nature Detectives", as children will solve nature mysteries, go on a lantern-guided night hike to find clues, play games, and listen to friendly campfire stories around the fire pit before enjoying s'mores.
Date: Friday, April 4
Hours: 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Location: Lighthouse Beach Fog Houses
Cost: $33 R/$43 NR
Register
 Terrarium Workshop: April 5
Join us for a hands-on Terrarium Workshop where you'll learn how to create your own miniature garden in a glass container! Whether you have a green thumb or are just getting started, this fun and creative session is perfect for plant lovers of all levels.
All materials will be provided, and you'll take home your own beautiful terrarium. Space is limited, so be sure to sign up early!
Event details:
Date: Saturday, April 5
Hours: 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Location: Levy Center
Cost: $52 R/$68 NR
Register
Science with Seniors—AI & Deepfakes: April 10
Join us for an exciting two-part series exploring Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the impact of deepfakes—fake videos that manipulate real people’s likenesses. Learn how AI works and the ethical implications of this technology.
Event details:
Date: Thursday, April 10
Hours: 1 p.m.
Location: Levy Senior Center
Cost: Free
 Dress Up Tea: April 12
Are you a fan of Bridgerton, Victoria, Downton Abbey, or any swoon-worthy period drama? Here’s your chance to don your finest attire and enjoy an elegant afternoon in the beautifully preserved 1890s Noyes Cultural Arts Center.
Sip tea, delicately nibble cookies, and bask in the charm of a bygone era. Rumor has it there may be appearances from fairies or princesses—and who knows, perhaps even a dance or two?
Admire the fashions, mingle with fellow guests, and embrace the magic of a truly timeless gathering.
Event details:
Date: Saturday, April 12
Hours: 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: Noyes Cultural Arts Center
Cost: $5
Register
 Free Financial Literacy Workshops: March and April
Take control of your finances with our engaging Financial Literacy Workshop series. Hosted at the Ecology Center, these sessions cover essential financial topics to help you reach your personal goals.
Workshop Schedule:
Sessions are offered Tuesdays from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Join one or all sessions—no prior knowledge required.
The workshops are free but registration is required.
 The Old Lady Project: April 14
Attend The Old Lady Project staged readings to view this year's three winning entries. The Old Lady Project seeks to encourage development of scripts and screenplays featuring significant roles for female identifying characters over 55, a demographic mostly unseen in mainstream media. Winners will receive a staged reading of their script by professional actors.
Event details:
Date: Monday, April 14
Hours: 7 p.m.
Location: Noyes Cultural Arts Center, Piven Theatre
Cost: $10
Buy tickets
 Arboretum Egg Hunt: April 19
Hop into Spring at the Annual Arboretum Egg Hunt! Explore Eggleston Park as you search for hidden eggs, then stick around for a variety of festive activities. Families can enjoy entertainment, games, face painting, and arts and crafts stations. All children must be registered in advance. Accompanying adults attend for free.
Event details:
Date: Saturday, April 19
Hours: 10 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Location: Eggleston Park
Cost: $12 R/$16 NR
Register
 Earth Day Fest: April 26
Join us for a fun, free, and family-friendly Earth Day Fest at the Ladd Arboretum. Discover Evanston’s vibrant eco-community through hands-on activities, inspiring resources, and nature-filled fun.
Event details:
Date: Saturday, April 26
Time: 12 p.m.–3 p.m.
Location: Ladd Arboretum
Cost: Free
For accessibility accommodations, call 847-866-2919 or email disabilityservices@cityofevanston.org.
 Lakeshore Shuffle 5k Run & Walk: May 3
Join us for the Lakeshore Shuffle 5K on May 3, 2025! Enjoy a scenic race along Evanston’s lakefront with stunning views of Lake Michigan. Whether you're running, walking, or using a stroller or mobility aid, everyone is welcome!
Event details:
Start/Finish: Arrington Lagoon (1647 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL)
Race Time: 9 a.m. start
Packet Pick-Up: April 30–May 2 (locations vary); race-day pick-up available.
Cost: $38 R/$49 NR (No refunds for cancellations due to weather.)
This timed race includes a finisher’s medal, a mental health awareness station, and a poster-making station. Strollers require an additional fee. Spectators are welcome.
Want to volunteer? Sign up here.
Questions? Email kgrundin@cityofevanston.org.
Register now
 Registration for 2025-2026 Afterschool Programs Opens April 1
Register for afterschool programs for the 2025-2026 school year beginning on April 1. We offer two outstanding programs: Kid Zone at Fleetwood-Jourdain and Afterschool Adventure at Robert Crown. Register on April 1 at cityofevanston.org/recreation.
 April Day Off School Camps
With early dismissal on April 9 and no school on April 18, join the Ecology Center for two days of exploring natural wonders through outdoor play with friends, nature games, critter visits, stories, and crafts! An afternoon snack will be provided. Register
 Youth Aquatic Camp
Give your child an unforgettable summer on the water at Youth Aquatic Camp, running June 9–27. Campers will enjoy a variety of exciting activities, including sailing, kayaking, swimming, tubing, and canoeing—all in a fun and safe environment. Parents are invited to join us on the last Thursday of camp to celebrate your camper’s experience
Register now
 Sports Camp
Are you ready for an action-packed summer filled with teamwork, adventure, and skill-building? Sports Camp is the ultimate destination where fun meets fitness!
From team sports and field trips to beach days and personal achievements, every camper gets the chance to learn, play, and grow in a supportive and exciting environment. Whether you're perfecting your jump shot, scoring goals, or just soaking up the sun with new friends, there’s something for everyone.
At Sports Camp, we believe in progress over pressure—our expert coaches combine instruction and play to boost individual skills while keeping the game fun and stress-free. Every child gets the opportunity to shine, celebrate their accomplishments, and create unforgettable summer memories.
Register now
 Learn-to-Row Camps
Experience the power of teamwork and learn the fundamentals of rowing with our expert coaches! This fun, inclusive, and safe camp will teach you how to row as a unit while building confidence and new skills on the water.
Session dates and times:
June 16–20 & June 23–27 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. & 6 p.m.–8 p.m.
July 7–11 | 6 p.m.–8 p.m.
Cost: $100 (free for students who qualify for free or reduced-price school lunch)
Who Can Join? Rising 7th and 8th graders living in Evanston.
Register now
 Wildflower Camp (Ages 3-4 yrs)
Join a two-week session of the Ecology Center for Wildflower Summer Camp. Children, ages 3-4 years, will enjoy a summer of adventures in nature. This preschool program is designed to develop small and large motor skills, creativity, and imagination while exploring science and the joys of nature. Daily activities combine outdoor exploration with play, crafts, stories, songs, critter visits with live animals, and other nature discoveries. Register now.
 Spanish Summer Camp
Spanish Summer Camp offers a fun and immersive experience where children explore Spanish through games, music, art, and interactive activities. Campers will gain confidence in speaking Spanish while enjoying a dynamic and engaging environment. Register now.
 Chicago Bulls Youth Hoops Summer Camp
Registration is open for Bulls Kid Nation Summer Camps & Clinics, which take place August 11-15. Join us at programs this summer in Evanston and across the area. Youth Hoops programs give kids of all skill levels ages 5-14 the opportunity to take their game to the next level by learning and practicing the fundamentals of basketball including shooting, dribbling, defense, and more. Register for Evanston camps:
 Pay for Camp by May 5
As we prepare for an amazing season, we want to remind you to complete your camp payment by the May 5, 2025, deadline to secure your spot.
Important: Any participant with an unpaid balance after May 5 will be removed from their camp group. If you register for a camp after this date, payment will be required in full at checkout.
How to Pay Your Balance Online
- Visit cityofevanston.org/register
- Log into your Online Recreation account
- Click your name/account number in the top right
- Select "Pay Balances" to complete your payment
Need financial assistance? Evanston offers a sliding scale fee assistance program for Summer Camps. Learn more.
Registration for our Spring programming is still open. View all our upcoming classes, workshops, school days off activities, and special events.
Saplings & Oaks: Ecology Spring Nature Class
In this activity-structured early learning class, children and caregivers will explore nature through stories, crafts, games, science discovery and imaginative play. Each week features a different spring theme. Classes are primarily outdoors, weather permitting.
Register online or by calling the Ecology Center at (847) 448-8256.
 Join Evanston’s Synchronized Skating Teams
Interested in being part of a synchronized skating team? Evanston offers exciting opportunities through our Aspire and International Judging System (IJS) level synchro skating programs.
The U.S. Figure Skating Aspire program serves as a bridge between learn-to-skate group classes and full U.S. Figure Skating membership. Designed to develop both athleticism and artistry, Aspire builds a strong foundation for success—on and off the ice. The program includes power skills, freeskate-level instruction, off-ice conditioning and parent education sessions.
Register now.
 Summer Madness 2K25 Youth Basketball Tournament
Get ready for Summer Madness 2K25, Evanston’s premier youth basketball tournament. Known for its tough, gritty play, this event brings together boys and girls for spirited competition and team-building.
Participants will battle for the gold while learning key values like sportsmanship, perseverance and teamwork. It’s a high-energy mix of fun and hard work where iron sharpens iron—and only the most unified team rises to the top.
Rookie Division (Kindergarten–2nd Grade)
Our youngest athletes will participate in a unique blend of skill development and gameplay. Each session is split between guided drills and competitive scrimmages, helping players build a strong foundation while having fun on the court.
Register now.
 Summer Madness Adult Basketball League
Looking for a competitive and fun way to kick off your week this summer? Look no further than Evanston’s Summer Madness Adult Basketball League.
Gather your crew and hit the court for a season of fast-paced games, team spirit and bragging rights. Whether you're chasing the title or just looking to stay active, this league is your shot to be crowned Royalty of the Court.
Register now.
 Drop-in Fitness at Robert Crown
Looking for a fun and flexible way to stay active? Robert Crown Community Center is now offering drop-in fitness classes—no pre-registration required!
Cardio Strength for Adults – Jump-start your day with a high-energy workout on Wednesdays from 7 to 8 a.m. Cost is $20 per class.
Active Play for Kids – Let the little ones burn off some energy with engaging activities on Saturdays from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Cost is $15 per class.
Join us for a great workout—just drop in and get moving!
 Let’s Play Drop-In
Looking for a fun and flexible activity for your kids? The Prieto Community Center offers Let’s Play Drop-In, Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
We’ve recently lowered prices to better support families.
Pricing:
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Residents: $10 per child, $7 for each additional child
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Non-residents: $13 per child, $10 for each additional child
Stop by and let your kids enjoy a day of play while you enjoy the savings. No registration required—just drop in and let the fun begin.
 Time Together Drop-In Play
Looking for fun and connection? Join Time Together at the Chandler-Newberger Community Center on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
This open-play program is for ages birth through 5 years with a parent or caregiver. Our play spaces have climbing equipment, blocks, soft mats, puzzles and a book nook.
Bring your little ones for playtime while you connect with other parents or catch up with friends. The best part? Your first visit is free! Call 847-448-8252 for more information.
 Ecology Birthday Parties
Give your kids a thrill by having their birthday party at the Prieto Community Center! We offer nature-themed experiences—and free play—for an unforgettable birthday experience. We are now booking May-July birthday parties. Call 847-448-8256 for information or f
Fill out a party request form at: Ecology Birthday Party at Prieto Community Center Request Form
 Upcoming Board & Committee Meetings
- Dementia Friendly Committee: April 8 at 3 p.m., Levy Center
- Commission on Aging & Disabilities: April 10 at 3 p.m., Evanston Public Library
- Parks & Recreation Board: April 17 at 6 p.m., Robert Crown
- ADA Committee: April 24 at 3 p.m., Evanston Public Library
Accessibility for all
The City of Evanston is committed to promoting a citywide culture of accessibility and inclusivity. To request an accommodation for a program, service, or activity, please call 847-866-2919 to make an ADA service request or complete a request form online.
Facility Locations and Phone Numbers
Chandler-Newberger Community Center: 847-448-8252
Levy Senior Center: 847-448-8250
Robert Crown Community Center: 847-448-8258
Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center: 847-448-8254
Ecology Center: 847-448-8256
Prieto Community Center: 847-859-7697
Thanks for reading. Have a great weekend,
The City of Evanston’s Parks and Recreation Team
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