Friday, Dec. 5, 2025 | View in browser
Good morning,
Check out this week's news on letters to Santa, sledding, winter break camps, events, and more.
 Time to Send Your Letters to Santa!
Evanston Parks & Recreation is teaming up with the North Pole again this year to make sure every child’s letter makes it to Santa. Drop off your letters thru December 14 at the North Pole mailbox at the Chandler-Newberger Community Center.
Want a letter back? Just place your note in a stamped, self-addressed envelope before dropping it off!
Drop-off location:
Chandler-Newberger Community Center
1028 Central St., Evanston
 Slide Into Winter Fun — Safely!
Before you hit the hill at James Park, a quick reminder to help everyone stay safe and have fun: Sledding is allowed on the smaller hills — but not the big center hill. No skiing, snowboarding, or toboggans on the hills.
Grown-ups, please keep an eye on your little snow adventurers. The hill isn’t staffed, so enjoy responsibly and check conditions before you slide. Let’s make this a winter full of safe, happy runs down the hill!
 Dog Beach Temporarily Closed for Winter Safety
The Parks and Recreation Department has made the tough decision to close the Dog Beach due to safety concerns caused by inclement weather. The snow accumulation is currently too high for safe access, making it difficult for people to navigate the area. The Parks and Recreation Department will reopen the Dog Beach once it is deemed safe. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work to ensure everyone's safety.
 Winter Sound Meditation: December 11
Join sound meditation facilitator, Jay Taylor, at the Ecology Center each month this winter for an hour-long immersive experience. Lie back and relax as the singing bowls enter the sonic landscape. Our session will start with a brief introduction to meditation followed by some light guided breathing, easing you into a meditative state. No prior experience, skills or beliefs are required to participate. Please bring your own yoga mat, blanket, and pillow to make yourself comfortable.
Event details
Date: Thursday, December 11
Hours: 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Meeting Location: Ecology Center
Cost: $30 R/$39.04 NR
Register
 Nutcracker on Ice: December 12-14
Attend the 50th anniversary of Evanston’s Nutcracker on Ice. This landmark event will feature stars from the present and celebrate past performers.
Event details
Dates and times: Friday, December 12, 7 p.m.; Saturday, December 13, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, December 14, 2 p.m.
Meeting Location: Robert Crown Community Center
Cost: $12
Tickets
 Indoor Market: December 13
The Indoor Farmers’ Market at the Evanston Ecology Center continues on select Saturdays thru April. Shop local vendors and enjoy your favorite farm-fresh finds all winter long.
Event details
Date: Saturday, December 13
Time: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Location: Ecology Center
Cost: Free
View the indoor market schedule.
 Prieto Early Learning Center Open House: December 13
Opening in January 2026, Prieto Early Learning Center will offer a trusted, nurturing, and stimulating environment for young children. The center will serve ages 2–3 years with DCFS-licensed, AM or full-time childcare options beginning January 5, 2026.
Families attending the open house can meet the staff, tour the new classrooms, and learn more about the engaging programs designed to support early learning and development.
Event details
Date: Saturday, December 13
Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Prieto Community Center
Cost: Free
 Cozy Winter Reading: December 13
Attend a free event featuring a warm and joyful winter celebration of reading.
Bring the whole family for:
- Story times for little ones
- A special reading with local children’s author Karla Valenti
- Winter-themed crafts
- Cookie decorating
- Hot cocoa and cookies
- A pop-up bookstore with free books
Event details
Date: Saturday, December 13
Hours: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Meeting Location: Prieto Community Center
Cost: Free
 The Great Elf Hunt: December 20-January 4
The elves are on the loose in Evanston — and they’re causing all kinds of holiday mischief! We need sharp-eyed elf hunters to help track them down and send them back to the North Pole.
From December 20 to January 4, visit participating Evanston Parks & Recreation locations, find each hidden elf, and snap a photo with them.
How to Enter:
- Each elf photo = one raffle entry
- Include your name and phone number with each submission
- Send your photos to kgrundin@cityofevanston.org and you’ll be entered into a raffle to win gift cards to local Evanston businesses! One lucky winner will take home four North Goal tickets to see the Chicago Stars at Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium!
- Limit one photo per location per person/family
- Photos may be used for marketing unless otherwise requested
Where to Find the Elves:
- Chandler-Newberger
- Ecology Center
- Eiden Park
- Fleetwood-Jourdain
- Independence Park
- Lee Street Beach
- Levy Senior Center
- Noyes Cultural Arts Center
- Oldberg Park
- Prieto Community Center
- Robert Crown Community Center
Event details
Date: December 20 - January 4
Cost: Free
A Youthful Kwanzaa Celebration: December 26
Join us for a vibrant and family-friendly Kwanzaa celebration.
This joyful evening will include:
- A Community African drum circle
- A dance performance by the Chofit Dancers
- Lighting of the first Kwanzaa candle, presented by a young community member
- An introduction to Kwanzaa’s seven principles, symbols, and traditions
This free event is open to all—no registration required. Come celebrate culture, community, and togetherness!
Event details
Date: Friday, December 26
Hours: 6 p.m.
Meeting Location: Robert Crown Community Center
Cost: Free
 Noon Year's Eve: December 31
Looking for a family-friendly way to celebrate the New Year without staying up late? Join us for Noon Year’s Eve at the Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center.
Families will enjoy:
- Open play in the Let’s Play space
- Active games
- Fun crafts
- A festive balloon drop at noon sharp
Event details
Date: Wednesday, December 31
Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Meeting Location: Prieto Community Center
Cost: $12 R/ $15.62 NR per person
Register
Registration for our Winter programs is now open! Fill your winter with fun by exploring classes, events, and activities for all ages in our Winter Program Guide or on our new registration platform—both available at www.cityofevanston.org/recreation.
Check out a few of the classes we're offering this winter below and then discover hundreds of other Parks and Rec programs.
 Adapted Pickleball
This beginner, adapted program will teach you the skills and basic rules of the sport that is ever-growing in popularity. Adapted equipment will be provided and we'll get our friendly competition on in an environment that focuses on fun, socialization, and increasing our physical activity. Register now.
 1st-5th Grade Basketball League
Registration is now open for Evanston’s 1st–5th Grade Basketball Leagues, running Saturdays from January 24 to February 28 at District 65 schools. The season includes six games, coached by volunteers from each participating school. Game times vary weekly between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., with possible bye weeks depending on team count. All participants must be registered by Jan. 8
Register:
 Cheer Academy
Cheerleaders will spend 8 sessions learning cheers/routines from the experts at Chicago Loves Dance. Cheerleaders will then cheer at the 10 a.m. basketball games each Saturday, Jan. 24-Feb. 28, for the 4th and 5th grade basketball league. Uniform shirt included. All participants must be registered by Jan. 8. Register now.
 Bead-Dazzle at Levy Center
Participants will learn three jewelry-making techniques: basic beading with wire, crimps, and head pins; wire wrapping; and micro macrame using fine nylon cord. This class is ideal for beginners as well as more experienced artists. Students will create bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. Register now.
 Boxing Classes at Fleetwood
The Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center hosts high-energy boxing classes that build strength, endurance, and confidence
through boxing technique, conditioning, and bag work. Great exercise for all ages. Learn more and register:
 Keep the Fun Going All Winter Break!
School may be out, but the adventure is just getting started! Evanston Parks & Recreation is offering a full lineup of Winter Break Camps to keep kids active, creative, and engaged while school is closed. From science and art to outdoor exploration, themed activities, field trips, and plenty of playtime, there's something for every age and interest.
Early closures on December 23 and 31. No camp December 24, 25, and January 1.
Winter Wonder Camp
Location: Robert Crown Community Center
Ages: 5-12
Dates: December 29–January 2, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Enjoy snow art, dance, field trips, ice skating and gym games as we celebrate winter vacation. Dress for outdoor play as well; we may even make a snowman or two. Register
Let it Snow Winter Break Camp
Location: Robert Crown Community Center
Ages: 2-5
Dates: December 29–January 2, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Whether it snows or not, we’ll celebrate the winter vacation with activities for our littlest campers. We’ll learn about snow and ice during science time, or paint with snow during outdoor art. Register
Blizzard Break Camp
Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center
Ages: 5-12
Session 1: December 22-December 26, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Session 2: December 29-January 2 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Our camp offers a safe and engaging environment to learn, play, and make new friends. Each day is packed with themed events, hands-on workshops, and plenty of winter cheer to keep the holiday spirit alive.Register
Ecology Winter Break Camp
Location: Ecology Center
Ages: 5-11
Session 1: December 22-December 26, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Session 2: December 29-January 2, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Explore nature’s wintry world by learning how animals, plants, and people survive the cold. Each week includes live animal visits, crafts, outdoor exploration, a field trip, and ice skating. If there is snow, we will also go snowshoeing and sledding. Register
Winter Break Slime Camp
Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center
Ages: 5-8
Dates: December 29-December 31, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Create a new gooey, sparkly, stretchy slime each day, from glitter galaxy to bubblegum scented. Plus, enjoy a little painting and sculpting on the side. Register
Winter Break Sports Camps
Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center
Ages: 7-11
Single day camps: December 22, 23, 29, 30, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Our camp introduces participants to a variety of sports and games in a supportive, recreational environment. Each day includes skill-building activities, team challenges, and plenty of opportunities for play. Register
North Shore Basketball Academy Winter Break Mini Camp
Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center
Ages: 5-14
Dates: December 22-January 2, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Fast paced skills and drills training, speed and agility training, shooting drills and so much more! This early morning camp guarantees results.
Register
 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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Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Blue Room: Games, puzzles, books, blocks, and more.
Register
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.
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.
Purchase Admission Online
Pricing:
$10 per child, $7 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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