Friday, Oct. 24, 2025 | View in browser
Good morning,
Check out this week's news on Halloween happenings, Winter registration dates, new registration platform, recreation programs, and more.
 Exciting News: A New Registration Platform is Coming!
Evanston Parks & Recreation is launching a brand-new, improved registration platform this October. The new system will make it easier than ever to:
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Manage your household account
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Find and register for programs
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Explore events and activities
The platform will go live just in time for Winter program registration in November. You’ll access the new platform at the same address: cityofevanston.org/recreation.
We'll send out invitations via email soon to current users of our registration system to activate your account on the new platform.
Stay tuned—more details and step-by-step guidance will be shared soon to help you get started with ease.
 Winter Registration Opens Soon!
Get ready to fill your winter with fun! The Winter Program Guide will be released on November 3, featuring classes, events, and activities for all ages — from arts and fitness to family adventures and seasonal favorites.
Key dates:
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Program guide released: November 3
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Evanston resident registration opens: November 10
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Non-resident registration opens: November 17
Looking for late Fall programs? We still have availability for some fall classes. Register for current programs and then return for Winter registration at www.cityofevanston.org/recreation.
 Evanston Survived a Zombie Attack!
Nearly 1,000 brave souls took on the 10th Annual Zombie Scramble at Ladd Arboretum — and lived to tell the tale! From shrieking runners to sneaky zombies, it was a frightfully fun evening celebrating a decade of the undead.
Huge thanks to everyone who joined the chaos — runners, zombies, volunteers, and our Presenting Sponsor, Anchorfish Printing, for making this milestone year one to remember.
Check out the highlight reel to relive the screams, the sprints, and the survivors who made it through the night!
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Zombie Scramble Tees: Don’t Be Caught Dead Without One
Celebrate 10 years of Zombie Scramble with a custom tee from Anchorfish Printing—a killer way to show your undead style before they’re gone for good! Get yours today.
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 Winning Medals and Making Memories
Last weekend, our Special Olympics Unified Volleyball team traveled to Rockford to compete at Fall Games. Athletes played hard, supported each other, and, most importantly, had fun! The team brought home bronze medals after playing several close matches. Thank you, Special Olympics, for hosting such an amazing weekend! Learn more about our Special Olympics and accessible recreation activities.
 Farmers’ Market Halloween Harvest: October 25
Celebrate the spooky season at the Downtown Evanston Farmers’ Market! In addition to your favorite fall produce and artisan foods, enjoy special Halloween festivities for all ages.
Kids’ Halloween Activities at The Spud Club
Little shoppers can grab a Halloween bag filled with a trick, a treat and a map of vendors handing out candy. Come in costume and pick up a prize!
Adult Costume Contest
Show off your Halloween spirit! Stop by the City tent to get your picture taken and posted on Instagram. The photo with the most “likes” wins a basket full of goodies from across the market!
Come for the pumpkins—stay for the fun!
Date: Saturday, October 25
Time: 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (early shopping for seniors & those with disabilities starts at 7 a.m.)
Location: University Place & Oak Ave., behind the Hilton Garden Inn
Cost: Free
Live music by Market Jam and Eileen Doan
 Bug-A-Boo - "Magic of Nature": October 25
Join us for our annual family-friendly Halloween event celebrating the amazing creatures found in nature! Meet live animals and costumed characters along the nature trail and learn fun facts as you explore the Ladd Arboretum. After your outdoor adventure, enjoy s’mores around the campfire and take part in Halloween-themed games and crafts. Please enroll all participants.
Event details
Date: Saturday, October 25
Time: 4:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
Location: Ecology Center
Cost: $11 R/$15 NR
Register
 Cardboard Costume Creators: October 26
In this fun, hands-on session, kids will design and build their own unique costumes using cardboard, tape, tools, imagination—and a little Halloween magic. Whether it’s a spooky monster, a futuristic robot, or something totally out of the box, participants will learn how to turn simple materials into fun wearable art.
Event details
Date: Sunday, October 26
Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Location: Ecology Center
Cost: $20 R/$26 NR
Register online or call (847) 448-8256.
 Grand Reopening of the Evanston Ecology Center: October 29
Join us for the grand reopening of the Evanston Ecology Center on Wednesday, Oct. 29, at 3 p.m. at 2024 McCormick Blvd. The event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tours of the renovated facility, and previews of upcoming programs—including the Indoor Farmers Market, a Wild Weekends animal presentation, Thanksgiving Break Camp, and more.
The City of Evanston began major renovations of the Ecology Center in 2024, the 50th anniversary of its founding. The much-needed updates modernize the building and prepare it to serve the community for the next 50 years.
Highlights of the renovation include:
- A new reception desk and waiting area
- Renovated classroom
- Updated restrooms
- Refreshed office spaces
- LEED Gold certification
- All-electric mechanical systems, making the facility zero on-site carbon emissions
Help celebrate this milestone and explore the new ways the Ecology Center will connect the community to nature.
Event details
Date: Wednesday, October 29
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Ecology Center
 Trunk or Treat: October 31
Firetrucks, police cars, construction vehicles, and other unique rides will be on display at this year’s Trunk or Treat! Held in the Robert Crown Community Center Parking Lot off Main Street, young trick-or-treaters can collect candy while enjoying how vehicles “dress up” for Halloween. This safe and festive event is the perfect way to celebrate the season.
Event details
Date: Friday, Oct. 31
Time: 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Location: Robert Crown Community Center Parking Lot (off Main Street)
Cost: Free
Calling all vehicles! We’re looking for cars, trucks, and unique rides to be part of the fun. Fill out this form to join the fun.
Thank you to Goldfish Swim School of Evanston for supporting this free community event!
 Nightmare on Foster Street: October 31
Dare to enter? The Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center will transform into a haunted hot spot filled with eerie decorations, live entertainment, and spooky surprises around every corner! Bring your friends and brave the fright—if you dare!
Event details
Date: Friday, October 31
Hours: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center
Ages: 6 years and above
Cost: $5
Register or pay at the door.
Concessions available on site.
 Fireside Storytime: October 31
Let your imagination come to life this Halloween morning, as you cozy up by the fireplace with nature books, puppet friends, and hot cocoa. We will meet read a friendly Halloween book, meet live animals that inspire Halloween stories, make a craft, and go outside for a morning Halloween adventure! We’ll wrap up the hour with a warm cup of cocoa.
Event details
Date: Friday, October 31
Time: 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Location: Ecology Center
Cost: $20 R/$26 NR
Register
 Halloween DJ Public Skate: October 31
Get ready to glide, groove, and show off your spook-tacular costume on ice! Join us for a special Halloween DJ Public Skate featuring great music, festive lights, and plenty of Halloween spirit. Come in costume and skate the night away.
Event details
Date: Friday, October 31
Time: 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Location: Robert Crown Community Center
Skaters who wear a costume cost: $7 (skate rentals included)
Skaters not in a costume cost: $10 (skate rentals not included)
Skate rental: $4
 Wild Weekends: November 1
Join a live animal presentation and discover the fascinating world of owls! We’re partnering with a raptor education and conservation organization to introduce you to these incredible birds. Join us early between 6 and 7 p.m. for an introductory activity. The owl presentation starts at 7 p.m. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Event details
Date: Saturday, November 1
Time: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Location: Ecology Center
Cost: $15 R/$20 NR
Register
 Arboretum Fall Leaves Walk: November 2
Join us at the Ladd Arboretum for a scavenger hunt-style leaf walk and explore the beauty of fall foliage. Participants will learn to identify different leaves by their shape, discover the science behind why leaves change color, and find out what makes fall colors so special.
Event details
Date: Sunday, November 2
Time: 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Location: Ecology Center
Cost: $12 R/$16 NR
Register
 Senior Power Personal Safety Skills: November 2
Take charge of your safety and well-being with this empowering workshop designed for older adults. Learn practical strategies to stay calm, set boundaries, and spot trouble before it starts.
Event details
Date: Sunday, November 2
Time: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Levy Senior Center
Ages: 50 years and older
Cost: $35 R/$46 NR
Register
 Coffee with CARE: November 4
Join Evanston’s CARE team for coffee, conversation, and community connection! Drop in anytime between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Tuesday, November 4 at Curt’s Café to meet members of the CARE team, share your thoughts, and learn about local resources.
This monthly event—held the first Tuesday of every month—offers residents a relaxed space to discuss community issues, ask questions, and build relationships with the people who serve and support Evanston. Let’s make a difference—one cup at a time.
Location: Curt’s Café
Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, November 4
Cost: Free
More info see the CARE website.
 D.A.S.H. & G.O. (Disabled Adult Social Hour & Gaming Opportunity): November 5 & 18
Looking for a fun, welcoming way to connect with others in the community? Join D.A.S.H. & G.O. (Disabled Adult Social Hour & Gaming Opportunity) — a free, peer-run gathering for adults (18 and up) who identify as disabled. Bring your favorite game and any adapted equipment you may need, and enjoy an afternoon of connection, laughter, and play.
Event details
Dates: Wednesday, November 5; Tuesday, November 18
Hours: 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Meeting Location: Prieto Community Center
Cost: Free
Note: Staff supervision will not be provided.
This program is presented in collaboration with the Inclusion & Accessibility Division of Evanston Parks & Recreation. No registration required. For more information, email lruiz@cityofevanston.org or call 847-708-7300.
 Unrestricted Open Stage: November 5
Looking for a space to share your creativity? The Noyes Upstairs Gallery invites you to Unrestricted: An Open Stage, a free evening of performances where anything goes. Sing, play, read, dance—or just come and enjoy the talent of your community.
Event details
Date: Wednesday, November 5
Hours: 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Meeting Location: Noyes Cultural Arts Center
Cost: Free
 Fleetwood-Jourdain Open House: November 15
Discover what’s coming this winter at Fleetwood-Jourdain! Stop by for a fun, free afternoon featuring winter program previews, arts and reading activities, and more family-friendly surprises. Meet staff, explore upcoming classes, and see what makes this community hub a place for everyone.
Event details
Date: Saturday, November 15
Hours: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Meeting Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center
Cost: Free
 Teenpower Safety & Self Defense for Girls: November 16
Empower your teen with skills to stay safe, confident, and in control. In this hands-on workshop, girls ages 11–18 will learn how to protect themselves from harassment, assault, and other harm through practical, age-appropriate strategies.
Event details
Date: Sunday, November 16
Time: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Levy Senior Center
Cost: $35 R/$46 NR
Register
 Are you ready to SEE RED at the United Center?
Join the City of Evanston Parks & Recreation for legendary outings with the Chicago Bulls! Share the excitement of Bulls basketball and the NBA's leading entertainment experience.
Proceeds from each ticket purchased will be donated to the City of Evanston Parks & Recreation Department. Get your tickets now through the links below!
 School’s Out? Cool Out!
Make the most of your day off from school at the Robert Crown Community Center! Kids ages 5–12 can enjoy a full day of fun, including field trips, arts and crafts, ice skating, and games.
Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Robert Crown Community Center
Register in person at Robert Crown
More information: aeberhardt@cityofevanston.org
 Kid Zone After-School Program
The Kid Zone after-school/school days out is packed with enriching activities that blend learning and fun. From homework help and educational games to sports, arts and creative workshops, there's something for every child's interest. We emphasize teamwork, creativity and positive social interactions. Plus we've got you covered on school holidays as well. Available for kids ages 5-12.
Time: 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Days: Monday - Friday
Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center
Register by calling 847-448-8254
 After School Adventure at Robert Crown
Blast off into an afternoon of fun and learning with After School Adventure at the Robert Crown Community Center! Students will enjoy a variety of enrichment activities that keep them active, engaged, and inspired, including homework help, arts and science activities, snacks and cooking classes, ice skating, and more.
Who We Serve
Students in District 65
Ages 5–12
Hours
3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Monday–Friday
11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on School Improvement Days
Location: Robert Crown Community Center
Register: in person at Robert Crown
More information: aeerbhardt@cityofevanston.org
 Time Together: Open Play for Little Ones
Looking for a fun and social way to spend time with your little ones? Time Together is the perfect open-play program for children ages birth through 5 years with a parent or caregiver.
Our welcoming spaces are filled with climbing equipment, blocks, soft mats, puzzles, and a cozy book nook. It’s an ideal spot for morning playdates, no-school days, or simply giving your preschooler a place to explore while older siblings are in school. Best of all, Time Together offers opportunities for both kids and adults to make new friends while enjoying safe, active play indoors during the colder months.
Weekly schedule at Chandler Newberger Center:
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Mondays, 4–6 p.m.
Blue Room: Games, puzzles, books, blocks, and more.
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Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
South Gym (Gymnastics): Open gym play with mats, balls, and floor equipment. (Note: Not all gymnastics equipment will be available.)
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Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
North Gym: Indoor playground fun with slides, playhouses, bikes, balls, and books.
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Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Blue Room: Games, puzzles, books, blocks, and more.
Get a drop-in play punch pass.
Planning a Party, Meeting, or Special Event? We’ve Got the Perfect Space
Whether you're hosting a birthday bash, baby shower, community meeting, or family celebration, Evanston’s Parks & Recreation rental facilities offer flexible, affordable spaces to fit your needs.
Choose from a variety of rooms, community centers, and party packages across the city — perfect for both small gatherings and big milestones.
Looking to celebrate a child’s birthday? Check out our birthday party packages featuring fun themes and activities at select locations.
Spaces book up fast — plan ahead and secure your ideal date today.
Explore rental options and book online
For more info, call 847-448-4311 or email recreation@cityofevanston.org.
 Tennis/Pickleball Outdoor Court Reservations
Tennis and Pickleball courts can be reserved online by community members. If a court is reserved, the person or group with the reservation has priority at that time — even if the court is in use. When no reservation is scheduled, courts are open to everyone on a first-come, first-served basis. Standard “rack-up” rules apply. Secure your spot in advance at cityofevanston.org/courts.
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 Friday, 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Saturday through Sunday, 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
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
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Support Evanston Parks & Recreation
Your donation will help support lakefront upkeep and the Fleetwood-Jourdain Theater.
Donate now
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Thanks for reading. Have a great weekend,
The City of Evanston’s Parks and Recreation Team
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