Friday, July 24, 2026 | View in browser
Good morning,
Check out this week's news on Choose Your Parks & Rec Adventure Mission #002, Fall registration. Starlight movies, upcoming events, and more.
News
 Fall Is On the Way — Get Ready for a New Season of Fun!
This fall, Evanston Parks & Recreation is bringing back favorite programs and introducing new opportunities for all ages—from sports, fitness and arts classes to nature programs, special events, 55+ activities and more.
Mark your calendar:
-
Fall Program Guide available: August 3, 9 a.m.
-
Fall registration opens for residents: August 10, 9 a.m.
-
Fall registration opens for nonresidents: August 17, 9 a.m.
Visit cityofevanston.org/recreation beginning August 3 to browse the Fall Program Guide and start planning your favorites before registration opens.
 Adventure Awaits: Complete Mission #002 by July 29!
Discover one of Evanston's best-kept historic secrets, then help imagine its future as part of our Choose Your Parks & Recreation Adventure campaign.
This week's Choose Your Parks & Recreation Adventure mission takes you to Lighthouse Beach to discover the two historic fog houses that once helped guide ships safely through Lake Michigan's fog. Today, these unique buildings continue serving the community as home to select Evanston Parks & Recreation programs.
As you explore, help write the next chapter of their story by telling us what Parks & Recreation programs you'd love to see hosted there.
Complete Mission #002 by 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, July 29, by commenting on our Facebook or Instagram mission posts, and you'll be entered for a chance to win:
- A 1-Year Public Skating Pass, or
- 10 Free Public Skating Visits
For more information, visit our Choose Your Own Adventure page.
 Evanston Ecology Center Earns LEED Gold Certification
The Evanston Ecology Center has officially earned LEED Gold Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council! Completed in 2025, the Center’s major renovation transformed the facility into a high-performance, eco-friendly hub featuring a fully electric heating and cooling system, water-efficient restrooms, modernized classrooms and offices, structural improvements, and enhanced native habitat.
The upgrades improve energy performance by 29 percent and reduce indoor water use by 35 percent—all while supporting the City’s climate and healthy building goals.
This milestone was made possible through the collaboration of Nurture Architects and general contractor Central Rug and Carpet. Learn more about the certification.
Upcoming Events
 Disco in the Park: July 24
Join local DJ Michael Stinson as he plays your favorite 70’s disco hits. Bring your lawn chairs, friends, and beverages. All are welcome.
Event details
Date: Friday, July 24
Times: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Location: James Park Soccer Field, next to the Levy Senior Center gymnasium
Cost: Free
 Downtown Evanston Farmers' Market: July 25
Shop the Downtown Evanston Farmers’ Market on Saturday, July 25, to stock up on your favorite local farm products, discover new food vendors and artisans, and enjoy live music, kids’ activities and more each week.
Vendor Spotlight
This Saturday, stop by the City of Evanston booth to pick up coupons for our three featured vendors: Aficionadough, Good Find Foods, and Sera Dining for the orange flags at each featured booth.
We’re grateful to this week’s sponsors, MZs Spotless Cleaning and J. Blanton Plumbing for helping make these vendor coupons possible.
Live Music
Enjoy live music throughout the morning, with David Caplan Cello performing at 8 a.m., followed by Quinn Michael at 10:30 a.m.
Spud Club
Activity from the Science & Arts Academy.
Home Grown Artists and Rotating Vendors
Browse handcrafted goods from Anomaly, Anguaya, CiprianoStudio, and Karmon Family Creations. And explore a rotating lineup of part-time vendors including Chicky's, Madre Mushroom, and Nuts Over Dates.
Event details
Date: Saturday, July 25 (and every Saturday through November 21)
Time: 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: University Place at Oak Avenue
Cost: Free
Get info on the Market, vendors, activities and more.
 Starlight Movie - Superman: July 25
It's a bird! It's a plane! It's a Starlight Movie! Join us under the stars for a free screening of the new Superman (2025) as the Starlight Concert & Movie Series continues at Twiggs Park. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and your favorite movie snacks for a fun summer evening with family and friends. Food will be available for purchase from Culinary Gangster, and the City of Evanston Mobile Food Program will offer beer and wine for adults.
Event details
Date: Saturday, July 25
Location: Twiggs Park, 2146 Dewey Ave., near the Skatepark
Time: 7 p.m.
Access the full Starlight Concert & Movie Series lineup and event details.
 All That Glows - Insects of the Night: July 25
Why do some living things glow? And why are insects attracted to glowing lights? Join us during National Moth Week for a glow-in-the-dark scavenger hunt in the Ladd Arboretum, as we talk about amazing moth adaptations and firefly bioluminescence around the campfire. We will also discuss other bioluminescent creatures in nature and how insects are attracted to and use light. Children must be accompanied by an enrolled adult.
Event details
Date: Saturday, July 25
Times: 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Location: Ecology Center
Cost: $15 R/$19.52 NR
Register now online or call (847) 448-8256.
 In The Continuum: July 25 - Aug 9
In the Continuum puts a human face on the devastating impact of AIDS in Africa and America through the lives of two unforgettably courageous women. Living worlds apart, one in South Central LA and the other in Zimbabwe, each experiences a kaleidoscopic weekend of life-changing revelations in this story of parallel denials and self-discoveries. In the Continuum was a nominee for the 2006 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. "Moving, smart, spirited, and powerfully funny": The New York Times.
Event details
Date: Saturdays and Sundays, July 25 - August 9
Times: 7 p.m. on Saturdays, 3 p.m. on Sundays
Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre
Cost: $23 R/$29.93 NR
Purchase tickets
 How to Camp - Campfire Breakfast Club: July 26
Join us for a hands-on brunch edition of Campfire Cooking, participants will learn the basics of cooking over a campfire while creating a heart breakfast hash and sweet cinnamon roll-ups. Perfect for new campers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, this program covers safe fire practices, simple camp cooking techniques, and tasty recipes you can recreate on your next adventure. Come hungry and leave inspired to cook under the open sky. No experience required.
Event details
Date: Sunday, July 26
Times: 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Location: Ecology Center
Cost: $23 R/$29.93 NR
Register now online or call (847) 448-8256.
 Forest Friday - "Busy Buzzing Bugs": July 31
You and your child will explore the wonders of nature through crafts, stories, songs, outdoor play, and outdoor adventures. This open-ended experience lets your child choose their favorite activities and explore at their own pace. Arrive when you can and leave when you need to—it’s all about flexible fun! Each week features a new nature theme, making every visit a fresh adventure. Participants are invited to dress up for each theme.
Event details
Date: Friday, July 31
Times: 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Location: Harbert-Payne Park
Cost: $20 R/$26.03 NR
Register now online or call (847) 448-8256.
 Willy Wonka Jr.: July 31
Join Evanston Children’s Theatre for a free, one-night-only performance of Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka Jr. Follow Willy Wonka and his young guests through a magical chocolate factory filled with memorable characters, colorful adventures and plenty of surprises.
Event details
-
Date: Friday, July 31
-
Time: 7 p.m.
-
Location: Levy Senior Center, 300 Dodge Ave.
-
Admission: Free
 Dino-mite Starlight Movie Double Feature: August 1
Join us under the stars for a free double feature of The Land Before Time (1988) and Jurassic World Rebirth (2025) as the Starlight Concert & Movie Series continues at Lovelace Park. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and your favorite movie snacks for a fun summer evening with family and friends. Food will be available for purchase from Firehouse Grill, and the City of Evanston Mobile Food Program will offer beer and wine for adults.
Event details
Date: Saturday, August 1
Location: Lovelace Park, Gross Point Rd. & Thayer St.
Time: 5:30 pm - The Land Before Time; 7 pm - Jurassic World Rebirth
Access the full Starlight Concert & Movie Series lineup and event details.
 First Fridays: August 7
Enjoy an evening of free family fun on Friday, August 7, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Mason Park. The event features free food, music, games, bingo, raffles and an obstacle course during this free community event designed for all ages. Bring your friends, neighbors and family for a fun-filled evening to connect and celebrate together.
Event details
Date: Friday, August 7
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Location: Mason Park, Church St. and Florence Ave.
Cost: Free
On your way to First Fridays, check out the grand opening of Foster Elementary School, 1600 Simpson, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
 Summer Sunsets Painting Workshop: August 13
Reflect on your summer while painting a dramatic sunset. Learn how to use the wet on wet watercolor process to paint a colorful sunset. Then create a silhouette of your choice (beach, forest, concert or city scene) to frame the sunset. This is a good project for people new to watercolor painting and those with some experience who want to learn more.
Event details
Date: Thursday, August 13
Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Levy Senior Center, 300 Dodge Ave.
Ages: 55+
Cost: $41LM/$53.36NM
Register
 Growing Healthy Minds Gardening Workshop: August 14
An interactive workshop exploring the science behind gardening, movement, and wellness. Together, we’ll discuss how working in the garden naturally builds strength, balance, and mobility while supporting lifelong health and helping reduce the risk of falls and osteoporosis as we age. Additionally, we'll explore how gardening helps promote a positive state of mind. As an added bonus, you will also plant your own herbs to take home, leaving with practical tools to nurture both yourself and your garden.
Event details
Date: Friday, August 14
Time: 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Levy Senior Center, 300 Dodge Ave.
Ages: 55+
Cost: $20LM/$32.54NM
Register
 Free Access to Fishing: Thru August 22
This popular free program is a great way to introduce children ages 4 years and up to “catch-and-release” fishing. Equipment, bait, and fishing expertise are provided! Drop by on Saturdays from June 6 through August 22, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., at Lovelace Park. Kids under age 16 don’t need a fishing license but must be accompanied by an adult. Illinois fishing licenses can be purchased at www.illinois.gov.
Event details
Dates: Saturdays, thru August 22
Times: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Location: Lovelace Park
Cost: Free
Call the Ecology Center for more information: (847) 448-8256.
Fall Sports Leagues
 Flag Football Leagues: Grades 2-5
Registration is open for the City of Evanston’s fall flag football leagues! Boys and girls in grades 2–5 can build their skills, learn teamwork and have fun competing in a supportive environment.
Practices begin the week of September 7, with coaches selecting the day and time. Games will be played Saturdays, September 19 through October 24, at the Robert Crown Community Center fields. Register now.
 Cross Country: Grades 4-5
Registration is open for the City of Evanston’s fall cross country program! Fourth- and fifth-grade students can improve their running skills, stay active and experience the fun of competing as part of a team.
Practices begin the week of September 7, with coaches selecting the day and time. Meets will take place from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. on September 23, October 7 and October 21 at Twiggs Park. Register now.
Late Summer Camps
 Aviation & Aerospace Camp
This camp, in partnership with Global Bird Aviation introduces 6th–12th grade students to the world of aviation and aerospace through hands-on learning and immersive STEM activities. Participants will explore real industry pathways, experience flight simulations, learn the science of flight, and discover careers from engineering and piloting to drone technology and mission control. The program blends exploration, teamwork, and career-ready skills to inspire the next generation of aerospace innovators. Register now
 Free Summer Meals for Evanston Youth
Evanston's Summer Food Program provides free breakfasts and lunches to youth ages 1 to 18 at locations throughout the city. Meals are available Monday through Friday on a first-come, first-served basis, with no residency or income requirements.
Breakfast is served from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center, Robert Crown Community Center and Dawes School. Meals must be eaten on site, and parents or guardians should accompany young children. The program runs through Aug. 14.
Learn more and view menus.
 Enroll in Prieto Early Learning Center 2026-27 Program
Give your child their first independent learning experience in a warm, nurturing environment at the new Prieto Early Learning Center. Enroll in the 2026-2027 program of Explorer Two’s, 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.
Lakefront
 Beaches Are Open! Get Your Passes
Evanston's public swimming beaches are open for the 2026 season . Lifeguards will be on duty daily from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
All visitors must present a valid beach pass or daily ticket to enter any of Evanston's swimming beaches. IDs alone will not be accepted at beach entrances.
Free for Evanston Residents Residents in ZIP codes 60201 and 60202 can receive free season beach passes for their household. Proof of residency is required. Passes are available at the following community centers during regular office hours:
- Robert Crown Community Center
- Levy Senior Center
- Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center
- Chandler-Newberger Community Center
- Evanston Ecology Center
- Prieto Community Center
- Dempster St. Beach Office
Non-residents may purchase a season pass or daily ticket at beach entrances or at any of the community centers listed above.
Guest tickets: Evanston residents can also purchase discounted guest tickets ($5 each, up to 20 per household per season) for visiting friends and family.
For full details on admissions, acceptable forms of ID, and beach locations, visit cityofevanston.org/beaches or contact 311 (or call/text 847-448-4311).
 Kayak, Paddleboard and Sailboat Rentals Available
Spend your summer on the lake! Evanston’s lakefront rentals are back with hourly kayak, paddleboard and sailboat rentals at Dempster Street Beach. Whether you're looking for a relaxing paddle, a sailing adventure or a fun afternoon on the water with friends or family, there are options for residents and non-residents, plus convenient multipass packages for frequent visitors.
Rentals are available daily, weather permitting, and can be reserved online or in person at the Dempster Street Beach Office.
 Dempster Street Beach Seasonal Launch Pass Available
Summer is here! Have you purchased your Dempster Street Beach Seasonal Launch Pass yet? Seasonal launch passes are now on sale, and the beach office is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Stop by today and get your pass so you're ready to enjoy a summer on the water!
Learn more at cityofevanston.org/boatlaunch or call the Dempster St. Beach Office at 847-866-4167.
 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.
Other News
 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.
 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
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
Our many amenities are here for everyone to enjoy—and your support helps keep them beautiful. Every contribution makes a difference.
Donate now
Thanks for reading. Have a great weekend,
The City of Evanston’s Parks and Recreation Team
|
