Friday, April 25, 2025  |  View in browser

Good morning, 

Check out this week's Parks & Recreation e-news featuring information on Summer program registration, beach passes, Starlight concerts and movies, Earth Day, upcoming events, and more.

Top Stories

Evanston Summer Registration Open

Looking for fun and engaging activities this summer? Registration for Summer classes and activities is open for Evanston residents and non-residents.

We offer everything from arts and athletics to outdoor adventures and family-friendly events—perfect for making the most of the summer season.

For more information and to view the guide when it becomes available, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation.

2025 Free Starlight Concert and Movie Series Announced

Evanston's 2025 Starlight Concert & Movie Series will feature six outdoor concerts and four outdoor movies at park locations throughout the summer. 

Starlight concerts will kick off on June 10, and take place on specified Tuesdays, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Starlight Movies return on Friday, June 27, with a special screening of Wicked (2024, PG) and the annual Food Truck Fest. 

Community members are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks. 

For more information visit cityofevanston.org/starlight or call/text 847-448-4311. For convenience, residents may simply dial 311 in Evanston.

Volunteers Build 50 Sensory Tool Drive Kits

A huge thank  to everyone who donated sensory items during our Sensory Tool Drive! On April 23, we welcomed students and staff from ETHS Transition House along with representatives from the Police Department and CARE team to sort and organize donated items, creating 50 Sensory Toolkits. These Toolkits will be provided to the Police Department and CARE team to support Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals during emergency situations.

Church Street Boat Launch Dredging Begins
April 28

The City of Evanston will begin dredging the Church Street Boat Launch (1647 Sheridan Road) starting Monday, April 28, with work expected to wrap up by Friday, May 9, weather permitting. The annual dredging removes sand buildup to ensure safe access for boaters, emergency water rescues, aquatic camps, and sailing programs.

What to Expect:

• Minor disruptions near Centennial Park and Dog Beach

• Construction equipment onsite—please use caution

• Overnight equipment parking in the boat launch lot (no Sheridan Road parking impacts)

Questions? Contact Tim Carter, Lakefront & Athletics Division Manager, at 311 or 847-448-4311.

New Roof for Prieto Community Center

Prieto Community Center is getting a new roof! Construction work is expected to be completed before May 1. Various parts of the building may be closed off during the mornings throughout construction, and extra noise is expected. The work will have minimal impact on programming, but updates will be provided regularly. Please contact facility manager Lauren Ruiz at lruiz@cityofevanston.org with any questions or concerns.

Upcoming Events

Family Campfire: April 25

Join the Ecology Center as we celebrate Earth Week with a fun-filled campfire with family nature activities. The event includes stories, nature activities, and the ever-popular s’mores.

Event details
Date: Friday, April 25
Time: 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Location: Lighthouse Beach Fire Circle
Cost: $10 R/$13 NR
Register

Artist Talk: April 25

Join us for an inspiring evening as the Noyes Upstairs Gallery presents an Artist Talk featuring Leslie J. Riley.

Riley, a multidisciplinary artist, will share insights into how she integrates her roles as citizen, artist, teacher, daughter, wife, mother, and friend into her creative practice. Her talk will explore the complexities that shape her art and the empowerment it brings in the face of adversity.

Event details
Date: Friday, April 25
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Noyes Cultural Arts Center, Upstairs Gallery 
Cost: Free

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. to 3 p.m.
Location: Ladd Arboretum
Cost: Free

For accessibility accommodations, call 847-866-2919 or email disabilityservices@cityofevanston.org.

WOW (We're Out Walking): April 26

Step Into Spring at Evanston’s WOW Kickoff Event! Get ready to move, groove and celebrate community wellness at Evanston’s 14th annual We’re Out Walking (WOW) kickoff event. This free event kicks off the 16-week WOW program, which includes group walks, health, nutrition and fitness classes, t-shirts, and more! 

This free, family-friendly event is packed with fun — enjoy a live DJ, delicious eats from the Soul & Smoke food truck, a bounce house for the kids, local fitness vendors, inspiring speakers, exciting raffles, prizes and live fitness demonstrations.

Whether you’re looking to kickstart a healthier lifestyle or just have a great time with neighbors, the WOW kickoff has something for everyone.

Event details
Date: Saturday, April 26
Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: ETHS, Willie May Fieldhouse
Cost: Free

To register for the 16-week WOW program, visit cityofevanston.org/WOW.

Aging Well Film Night: May 1

The Aging Well Film Night, part of our celebration of Older Americans Month, will feature Hard Truths.

Hard Truths (2024) is a British-Spanish comedy-drama about Pansy Deacon, a woman in North London struggling with depression and grief after her mother’s death. As Mother's Day nears, she confronts strained family relationships and her own emotional turmoil.

Event details
Date: Thursday, May 1
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Levy Senior Center, Bobby’s Room
Cost: Free

Spring Forest Therapy: May 1

Celebrate May Day with Spring Forest Therapy! Forest Therapy is the practice of connecting with nature in a manner that promotes healing and wellness. A certified Forest Therapy Guide will help you slow down, quiet your mind, and tune into the nature around you and inside you. Benefits of time in nature can include reduced stress, a nurtured nervous system, and reconnection with the natural world.

Event details
Date: Thursday, May 1
Time: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Lighthouse Beach Fog Houses
Cost: $20 R/$26 NR
Register

My City, Your City, Our City First Friday: May 2

Head to Mason Park Evanston's “My City, Your City, Our City” First Friday event of the Summer. This free, family-friendly community-building event hosted by the Evanston the C.A.R.E. team, will feature food, music, outdoor games, BINGO, basketball, an obstacle course, raffle prizes and more.

Event details
Date: Friday, May 2
Time: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Mason Park
Cost: Free

Nature Play Date: May 2

Explore spring with a Nature Play Date at Lighthouse Beach! You and your child will explore the spring season through nature play, stories, crafts, and a hike adventure through Lighthouse Beach habitats. This freestyle play date allows your child to discover which activities they like best and go at their own pace. Come late or leave early.

Event details
Date: Friday, May 2
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Location: Lighthouse Beach Fog Houses
Cost: $20 R/$26 NR per child
Register

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.)
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

Downtown Evanston Farmers Market Opens
May 3

The Downtown Evanston Farmers’ Market returns for its 50th season on Saturday, May 3, welcoming the community to shop local, eat fresh, and celebrate half a century of Evanston tradition.

Named "Best Farmers Market - Suburbs" by Better Chicago, the Market will take place every Saturday, May 3 through November 1, from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at University Place and Oak Avenue, behind the Hilton Garden Inn. Seniors and shoppers with disabilities are invited to shop early, from 7 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.

This season promises to be the biggest yet, with around 70 vendors offering a vibrant selection of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, flowers, prepared foods, and more. Visitors are encouraged to come hungry, as there will be plenty to eat on-site.

Evanston Rides: May 6, May 31

Downtown Evanston is teaming up with Evanston Transit Alliance and Chicago Family Biking/Evanston Kidical Mass to bring a full season of community bike rides from May through October 2025.

The Evanston Rides series features two monthly ride options designed for all ages and experience levels:

• Adult rides led by Evanston Transit Alliance

• Family rides led by Chicago Family Biking and Evanston Kidical Mass

Each ride will start, end or pass through Downtown Evanston. All rides are free, but participants are asked to register in advance to help organizers prepare. Helmets are required.

First Rides of the Season:

• Adult Social Ride, Tuesday, May 6, 5:30 p.m.
• Family Ride, Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m.

Explore ride schedule and register.

STEMM Day: May 10

Explore Science and Creativity at Fleetwood STEMM Day. The Evanston STEM Expo—a free, hands-on celebration of science, technology, engineering, math and music.​

Hosted by the Digital Youth Network in partnership with Northwestern University, local schools and community organizations, the event offers interactive exhibits, creative activities and opportunities to connect with mentors shaping Evanston’s STEM future.​.​

Families participating in the eLEAP program are encouraged to attend a special eLEAP 101 session to learn about scholarship funds and available opportunities.

Event details
Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Fleetwood Community Center 

This is a FREE event, but registration is encouraged. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows.​

Community Sing-Along: May 7

Chandler Newberger is excited to present a Community Sing-Along — a fun and festive afternoon filled with music, movement, and community spirit!

All ages are welcome to join in singing with D65 students. Come tap your feet, sway with the beat, and enjoy a lively afternoon of music and togetherness.

Event details
Date: Wednesday, May 7, 2025
Time: 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Location: Chandler Newberger North Gym 

This is a FREE event, but registration is required. Call 847-448-8252 to register.

Aging Well Expo: May 9

Evanston’s 24th annual Aging Well Expo offers a free, half-day event designed for older adults and their care partners.

Hosted as part of Older Americans Month, the event will connect attendees with valuable community resources in areas such as health and wellness, safety, nutrition, technology, legal matters, financial planning, and the arts. Participants can also attend a free Dementia-Friendly informational session or enjoy wellness classes, including yoga, strength and balance, and groove.

Event details
Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Location: Levy Senior Center 
Transportation: Free transportation for Evanston residents available through the Levy Senior Center (847-448-8250)
Registration: This is a FREE event, but registration is required. Register online or call 847-866-2919.

Become a Vendor
The City’s Senior Services Division is inviting vendors to participate in the 2025 Aging Well Expo. Each $250 vendor registration includes:

• One six-foot table and two chairs in the gymnasium

• Weekly promotion on the City’s Aging Well website

• Weekly promotion in the Levy Senior Center e-newsletter

• Company information listed in the program

• Access to contact information for attendees who opt to share

• Requirement to provide a door prize valued at $25 or more

Register online. For questions, contact aging@cityofevanston.org or call 847-866-2919.

Mother’s Day House Walk: May 11

Celebrate five decades of history and community at the Evanston History Center’s 50th annual Mother’s Day House Walk. This beloved tradition invites attendees to step inside some of Evanston’s most stunning and historically significant homes, each offering a unique story.

The selected homes showcase architectural significance, rich histories and beautifully preserved interiors.

The event will also feature a trolley service, snacks at the Arrington Lagoon Café, a plein air paint-out with Evanston Made on the Dawes House grounds, commemorative totes, live music and more.

Event details
Date: Sunday, May 11 (Mother’s Day)
Time: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: Various historic homes throughout Evanston
Cost: $45 - $65
Buy tickets

Flea Market: May 17

Dive into a world of treasures—whether you're on the hunt for vintage fashion, handmade crafts, antiques, books, tech gadgets, or quirky collectibles, this market has something for everyone. It's the perfect opportunity to support local vendors and find one-of-a-kind items at great prices.

Event details
Date: Saturday, May 17
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Robert Crown tennis courts (street parking on Lee Street or Robert Crown Parking Lot
Cost: Free

Honeypot: May 17 – June 1

Presented by the Wirtz Center at Northwestern University and Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre, Honeypot is a powerful and poetic stage adaptation of E. Patrick Johnson’s groundbreaking book, adapted by D. Soyini Madison and co-directed by Madison and Tim Rhoze.

Blending oral history with magical realism, Honeypot gives voice to the real-life stories of Black Southern women who love women. Through vivid storytelling, original music, and choreography, these women’s experiences—ranging from coming out and love to faith, family, and activism—unfold in a deeply moving exploration of identity, resilience, and joy.

Performance schedule: 
Saturday, May 17, 7 p.m. – Preview
Sunday, May 18, 3 p.m. – Opening
Saturday, May 24, 7 p.m.
Sunday, May 25, 3 p.m.
Saturday, May 31, 7 p.m.
Sunday, June 1, 3 p.m.
Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre
Cost: Students - $10; general admission - $30
Get tickets

Cardio Drumming: May 22, June 12

Looking for a fun and energizing way to stay active? Join us for Cardio Drumming at the Levy Senior Center. This upbeat class combines drumming with cardio exercises to improve coordination, boost heart health, and reduce stress—all while having a blast. No experience is needed, and all equipment is provided.

Event details
Date: Thursday, May 22 and June 12
Time: 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Levy Senior Center
Cost: $22 Levy members / $30 non-members
Register

Lakefront News and Activities

Get Ready for Summer: Beach Passes Available 

Evanston’s public swimming beaches will officially open for the season on Saturday, May 24—and beach passes are now available.

To ensure all community members have access to our beautiful lakefront, the City of Evanston is offering free season beach passes to Evanston residents (ZIP codes 60201 & 60202). Residents can pick up passes for their household by providing proof of residency.

Passes will be available during regular business hours at the following locations:

• Robert Crown Community Center

• Levy Senior Center

• Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center

• Chandler-Newberger Community Center

• Prieto Community Center

New for 2025: Families who live outside of Evanston but have students enrolled in School District 65 or ETHS are now also eligible to receive free season beach passes.

Non-Evanston residents who are not eligible for free passes must purchase a season pass or daily beach ticket to enjoy Evanston’s swimming beaches.

For more information on beach hours, rules, and pricing, visit our online beach resources.

Accepting Applications for Church Street
Boat Launch

Get ready for boating season! Submit your application  to secure your spot at the Church Street Boat Launch. Complete an online application and a City of Evanston Recreation staff member will reach out to you for payment. Permits can be pick-up from the Chandler-Newberger Community Center May 1 - May 9, and available at the Dempster Street Beach Office May 10 -Labor Day. Learn more.

New Hours for the Arrington Lagoon Café

Grab a bite by the beach! Evanston’s Arrington Lagoon Café, 1631 Sheridan Road, is now open Tuesday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stop by for your morning coffee, a sweet treat, or a lakeside lunch while soaking in those beautiful Evanston views!

After School and Days Off Programs

Registration for 2025-2026 Afterschool Programs Now Open!

Registration is now open for afterschool programs for the 2025-2026 school year. We offer two outstanding programs: Kid Zone at Fleetwood-Jourdain and Afterschool Adventure at Robert Crown. To register, contact Robert Crown at 847-866-5949 or Fleetwood at 847-449-8254.

Summer Camp Spotlight

Early Childhood Arts Camp at Noyes Cultural Arts Center

Give your little ones a summer of creativity and fun! The Noyes Cultural Arts Center is offering its Early Childhood Arts Camp, specially designed for children ages 3.5 to 5.5 years.

This four-week camp is packed with imaginative experiences, including themed stories, painting, crafts, water play, and time in a big maker space. It offers all the artistic exploration of the Immersion in the Arts Camp, but tailored for younger campers. Register now.

Camp Kaleidoscope

Give your child a summer full of creativity, exploration and fun at Camp Kaleidoscope, held at the Chandler-Newberger Community Center. Designed for children ages 3.5 to 5.5, the camp encourages young participants to express themselves, build independence and ease into the structure of a camp setting. Register now.

Beginning Gymnastics Camp 

Get ready to roll, jump, and flip into summer with Beginning Gymnastics Camp at the Chandler-Newberger Community Center! This fun and engaging camp is designed for children ages 5–12 and welcomes all skill levels—including those with no prior experience.

Campers will learn and perfect basic gymnastics skills on bars, beam, floor, and vault through age-appropriate drills and activities. This camp is ideal for students in Beginning I, Beginning II, or Tumbling I. Register now.

Preschool Gymnastics Camp Returns to Chandler 

Help your little ones build confidence, coordination, and skills this summer at the Preschool Gymnastics Camp, hosted by the Chandler-Newberger Community Center.

Designed for children ages 3.5 to 5.5 years, this engaging camp focuses on improving balance, flexibility, and general motor skills in a fun and safe environment. Campers will be introduced to basic skills on bars, beam, floor, and vault, with instruction tailored to young learners. 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.

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

1. Visit cityofevanston.org/register
2. Log into your Online Recreation account
3. Click your name/account number in the top right
4. Select "Pay Balances" to complete your payment

Need financial assistance? Evanston offers a sliding scale fee assistance program for Summer Camps. Learn more.

Classes & Programs

Registration for our Spring programming is still open. View all our upcoming classes, workshops, school days off activities, and special events.

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.

Play Time and Drop-in Activities

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:

• Residents: $10 per child, $7 for each additional child
• 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.

Tennis/Pickleball Outdoor Court Reservations

The outdoor tennis/pickleball court nets are up, and so is our online court reservation system. Secure your spot in advance at cityofevanston.org/courts. The courts are still available for free play on a first-come, first-served basis.

Get Involved

Help Shape the Future of Evanston’s Parks and Green Spaces

The City invites community members to review and provide feedback on the Draft Parks and Green Space Strategic Plan—a forward-thinking framework that will guide the future of Evanston’s parks and recreation system for years to come.

This comprehensive plan was developed through in-depth data analysis and meaningful community engagement. It outlines key goals to ensure Evanston’s parks, green spaces, and recreational facilities continue to meet the evolving needs of our community.

Key priorities include:

• Creating recreation programming that reflects community interests

• Recommending infrastructure and investment priorities

• Identifying new amenities and park enhancements

• Improving vegetation maintenance and green space management

• Supporting capital grant applications

• Establishing a long-term capital investment strategy

• Integrating green infrastructure where appropriate

Community members are encouraged to review the draft plan and submit feedback and comments by May 9, 2025.

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

Support Evanston Parks & Recreation Your donation will help support lakefront upkeep and the Fleetwood-Jourdain Theater. Donate now

Thanks for reading. Have a great weekend,

The City of Evanston’s Parks and Recreation Team