Friday, May 8, 2026 | View in browser
Good morning,
Check out this week's news on Farmers' Market , Summer program registration, upcoming events, and more.
 Summer Registration is Open!
The Summer 2026 Evanston Parks & Recreation Program Guide is open! Evanston residents can register for events by visiting our online catalog.
Please note: discounted Evanston resident pricing is automatically applied at checkout.
Spaces still available in Summer Camps
There's still space available in Evanston Parks & Recreation Summer Camps. Spaces are filling up fast so register today.
Upcoming Events
 How to Bird: May 8
Unlock your inner citizen scientist and join us in discovering which birds are stopping by your backyard this spring. We will go on a walk through the Lighthouse Beach habitats and practice using binoculars, Cornell University’s eBird app, and NestWatch to identify the birds that we spot.
Date: Friday, May 8
Times: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Lighthouse Beach Fog Houses
Cost: $10 R/$13.01 NR
Register now online or call (847) 448-8256.
 Downtown Evanston Farmers' Market: May 9
The Downtown Evanston Farmers’ Market runs every Saturday through November 21 from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at University Place at Oak Avenue. Shop your favorite local farms, discover new food vendors and artisans, and enjoy live music, kids’ activities and more each week.
Vendor Spotlight
This Saturday, don’t miss three new vendor spotlights: An Choi, a Vietnamese-inspired bakery; Onigiri Kororin, featuring Japanese rice balls; and Frogtown Juice, offering fresh-pressed juices. Look for the red/orange flags at their booths—and be sure to grab special coupons available there and at the City of Evanston booth while supplies last.
We’re grateful to this week’s sponsors, Renewal by Anderson and J Blanton, for helping make these vendor coupons possible.
Live Music
Enjoy live music throughout the morning, with The Famous Hill-Jacques performing from 8 to 10:15 a.m., followed by alex NO.EL miller from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Master Gardener Program
Be sure to stop by the FEFM tent to connect with the Master Gardener Program.
Spud Club
This week’s Spud Club activity invites kids to paint mini planters and fill them with soil and seeds of their choice.
Home Grown Artists and Rotating Vendors
Browse handcrafted goods from Home Grown Artists such as Cipriano Studio, Bela Ponyi, Nudgers Studio, Karmon Family Creations and Anguaya. And explore a rotating lineup of part-time vendors including Red Bean & Cocoa, Greco Greens and Good Find Foods.
Event details
Date: Saturday, May 9 (and every Saturday through November 21)
Time: 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: University Place at Oak Avenue (New location for our reserved ADA parking spots. They are now on University Place off of Maple Ave.)
Cost: Free
Get info on the Market, vendors, activities and more.
 Free Gardening Workshop: May 9
Ready to dig in? Join a free, hands-on gardening workshops at Fleetwood-Jourdain led by Evanston Grows’ Master Gardeners. Discover how to design a vibrant native garden that supports bees, butterflies, and a healthier ecosystem in the Buzz & Bloom: Planting for Pollinators workshop.
Event details
Date: Saturday, May 9
Time: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center
Cost: Free but registration is required.
For information, call 847-448-8254.
 Birding By Boat: May 9
Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day and Chicago River Day with a canoe trip on the North Shore Channel! The North Shore Channel plays an important role connecting the Chicago River and the lakefront along the Mississippi flyway, which over 300 species of birds use to migrate north. We will work together to identify some of these bird species, as we paddle. Canoes, paddles, binoculars, and bird guides will be provided. Any children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Date: Saturday, May 9
Times: 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Location: Dammrich Rowing Center
Cost: $22 R/$28.63 NR
Register now online or call (847) 448-8256.
 Canoe the Canal: May 10 (Mother's Day Paddle)
Join us for our popular canal canoe trips on the North Shore Channel! Canoes, paddles, PFDs, and basic paddling instruction will be provided. Each boat will also have a river-themed scavenger hunt, as we will work together to look for signs of wildlife.
Date: Sundays, May 10 & 24; Saturday, May 23
Times: 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Location: Dammrich Rowing Center
Cost: $22 R/$28.63 NR
Register now online or call (847) 448-8256.
 The Rhythm of the Natural World Exhibit: May 11
Rooted in traditional Asian painting techniques, this exhibition reflects a deep reverence for nature's balance and simplicity. Through brush, breath and space, these works seek to create moments of calm connection.
Event details
Date: Through May 11
Time: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: Noyes Cultural Arts Center
Cost: Free
For information, call 847-448-4311.
 Community Acupuncture: May 14 & 28
Experience the healing through group acupuncture as modeled by the Lincoln Hospital Detox Program developed by Dr. Mutulu Shakr. Learn about the Lincoln Detox program, common misconceptions about acupuncture, along with any questions. If you do not want to have acupuncture, you can still benefit from the treatment by sitting with the group or having magnets placed on points as an alternative.
Event details
Date: Thursdays, May 14 and May 28
Time: 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center
Cost: $11 R/$14.31NR
Register online
For information, call 847-448-8254.
 Wild Night Out: May 15
Parents can enjoy a night off while kids have an evening of fun! Children will take part in nature-themed games, group activities, outdoor exploration, and crafts. The night will end with a cozy campfire and s’mores.
Date: Friday, May 15
Times: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Lighthouse Beach Fog Houses
Cost: $33 R/$42.94 NR
Register now online or call (847) 448-8256.
 Spring Watercolors Hike: May 16
Join us as we take a hike through the habitats of Lighthouse Beach in search for spring colors to paint and plants to identify. Participants will use cardstock view finders and watercolors to capture snapshots of nature throughout our hike. Water colors and materials will be provided.
Date: Saturday, May 16
Times: 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Location: Lighthouse Beach Fog Houses
Cost: $15 R/$19.52 NR
Register now online or call (847) 448-8256.
 Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre in Partnership with Evanston Public Library Presents "Gee's Bend": May 23 - June 7
Spanning over 60 years, Gee’s Bend tells the story of Sadie Pettway as she grows up in rural Alabama, joins the Civil Rights Movement, and becomes a celebrated quilter. It is a personal story of family, self-discovery, and artistic expression.
Date: Saturdays and Sundays, May 23 to June 7
Times: Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m.
Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre
Cost: $33
Purchase tickets
Listing of the 2026 season productions
 Down and Up - Safe Mobility Workshop for Seniors: May 28
Build confidence and move with ease in this hands-on workshop focused on everyday mobility. Practice safe techniques for getting in and out of chairs, beds, and the floor while improving balance, coordination, and core strength. Work at your own comfort level as you gain practical skills to stay active and independent.
Please wear comfortable clothing and secure, closed-toe shoes (no sandals or slippers).
Event details
Date: Thursday, May 28
Time: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Ages: 55+
Location: Levy Senior Center
Cost: $25
Register for the workshop.
For information, call 847-448-8250.
 Painting and Drawing Butterflies, Birds, and Plants: May 28
This one day workshop can add a little panache to your paintings. You will learn a new technique in our themed project. Explore both wet on wet and wet on dry painting, along with printing with plants. You will create a close up of a butterfly, or a bird amongst spring foliage.
Event details
Date: Thursday, May 28
Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Levy Senior Center
Cost: $41LM/ $53.36NM
Register for the class.
For information, call 847-448-8250.
 Ice Cream Circus: June 7
Get ready for a whimsical, one-of-a-kind performance as Lookingglass Theatre and Actors Gymnasium return to Evanston as part of the Chicago Park District’s Night Out in the Parks series. The Circus, told without spoken language, blends dance, clowning, and circus arts—making it accessible and engaging for audiences of all ages and language backgrounds. A C&W Ice Cream food truck will be on-site.
Event details
Date: Sunday, June 7
Time: 4 p.m.
Location: Tallmadge Park, 927 Noyes St. (In case of inclement weather, the performance will move indoors to the Actors Gymnasium.)
Cost: Free
Learn more about the event.
 Starlight Series Free Concerts & Movies: June 9 - August 29
Music, movies and summer nights under the stars are back.
The City of Evanston’s Starlight Series brings free outdoor concerts and movies to parks across the city all season long—perfect for gathering with friends and neighbors.
The first Starlight Concert is on June 9. Butter Chicken Brass Band will take the stage in Tallmadge Park. The band plays Jazz, Funk, and styles inspired by New Orleans.
Event details
Date: Tuesday, June 9
Time: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Location: Tallmadge Park, 927 Noyes St.
Cost: Free
View the full Starlight Series lineup.
Program and Camp Spotlight
Spring and Summer Camp program registration is now open! Browse all offerings in our online catalog, and check out a few highlighted programs below to get inspired for the season ahead.
 Spanish Summer Camp
Get ready for a summer full of movement, creativity, and language learning! Our Spanish Immersion Camp brings the language to life through games, music, storytelling, dance, and exciting field trips—making learning fun, active, and unforgettable. Register for camp.
 Summer Pickleball Workshops for Ages 50+
Carl Rosenthal returns to the Levy Senior Center to lead our popular pickleball workshops. Designed for adults 50+, these small-group sessions (max 12 participants) focus on improving skills, strategy, and confidence on the court. All workshops are held in the Levy Center gym. The 5-week sessions are held on Wednesdays. Register for intermediate and advanced workshops.
 Adult Pickleball Classes
Ready to take your pickleball game to the next level? Whether you’re new to the court or looking to refine your skills, our adult classes offer the perfect mix of instruction, strategy and play.
Enjoy personalized training, on-court practice and guidance from friendly, experienced coaches—all in a fun, supportive environment.
Class highlights:
• Personalized training sessions
• Game strategy and real play experience
• Professional, welcoming coaches
Classes available Wednesdays and Fridays. Register for pickleball classes.
Other News
 Beach Passes Available
Evanston beach passes will be available starting Monday, April 13, with the City’s public swimming beaches opening for the season on Saturday, May 23—just in time for summer fun along the lakefront.
Free passes for Evanston residents
Residents (ZIP codes 60201 & 60202) can pick up free season beach passes for their household with proof of residency during regular office hours at the following locations:
- Robert Crown Community Center
- Levy Senior Center
- Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center
- Chandler-Newberger Community Center
- Evanston Ecology Center
- Prieto Community Center
Passes also available at our seasonal Dempster and Clark beach offices when they open in May.
Please note: Beach passes are not available at Morton City Hall.
For non-residents
Non-Evanston residents must purchase a season beach pass or daily beach ticket to access swimming beaches. (Students and family members who reside outside of Evanston but attend ETHS or a District 65 school are eligible for free passes.)
Get all the details and plan your visit.
 Volunteer to Support Your Parks and Recreation Team
Looking for ways to support your Parks and Rec team? We're looking for help with events and drop-in activities. We need help with:
- Special Events
- Outdoor Stewardship
- Coaching for Youth Sports
- Program Support
- Downtown Evanston Farmers' Market
- Adopt a Park
- Scout Services
Check out all opportunities on the Parks volunteer web page or thru our volunteer calendar.
 Purchase Your Church St. Boat Launch Permits
Get ready for the season, submit your application today 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 at the Dempster St. Beach Office from May 9 through Labor Day.
 Enrollment Open for Prieto Early Learning Center
Give your child their first independent learning experience in a warm, nurturing environment at the new Prieto Early Learning Center. The center features our Explorer Two’s program, which is designed to gently ease young children from home to school while building confidence, curiosity and essential preschool skills.
Explorer Two’s provides a supportive introduction to early learning, helping your child build the skills they need for preschool and beyond.
Learn more and register: call 847-448-8167 or email kerrybauer@cityofevanston.org
 Dog Beach Passes Available
Located just south of Clark Street Beach, the Evanston Dog Beach will open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Pick up your pass: Remember, a valid dog beach pass is required for entry to the Evanston Dog Beach. Passes are available in person at City community centers on weekdays. Learn more.
Get Involved
 Vendors Needed for Juneteenth Celebration
We’re seeking multi-cultural artisan vendors to participate in the Juneteenth Celebration on Friday, June 19 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Register now for a free vendor space.
 Calling All Food Trucks & Local Eats! Showcase Your Flavor at Evanston’s Park Events
The City of Evanston is seeking food trucks and restaurants to participate in special events throughout the spring and summer. Priority will be given to Evanston-owned businesses, with additional consideration for restaurants located in different wards. Whenever possible, we aim to feature a food truck or restaurant from the same ward as the park hosting the event.
Restaurants without a food truck must be able to operate in an outdoor park setting without access to electricity. Generators are permitted, provided they do not disrupt the concert or movie. All food vendors must supply their own generators.
Questions about the application, submission policy, or process can be directed to adagostino@cityofevanston.org.
Apply now.
Accessibility for all
The City of Evanston is committed to promoting a City-wide culture of accessibility and inclusion. To request an accommodation for a program, service, activity, or to request materials in an alternative format, please make an ADA service request by calling 847-866-2919 or submitting a 311 request 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
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