News

Monday, March 18, 2024 - 12:17pm

Ages 11-16, grab your flashlights! Join your friends in the frenzy as you search for prize eggs filled with candy, gift certificates and other great prizes. No registration required, free to attend.

Thursday, March 14, 2024 - 2:29pm

Join Elmhurst Park District this spring in the ultimate Elmhurst parks showdown to find out which of our parks will be crowned champion! We all have our favorites, but there can only be one winner.

Starting next week, we’ll feature two parks each weekday on our Facebook page. They’ll square off against one another, with you deciding which park moves to the next round.

Monday, March 18, 2024 - 11:28am

Kies Recreation Center is ready to play! New gym flooring was installed this winter, increasing the programming options the center can offer for adults, senior citizens, and participants of all ages. Park District staff took advantage of the updated gym space quickly and on March 4, the facility offered its first pickleball class.

Friday, March 8, 2024 - 1:21pm

Elmhurst Park District is ready to break ground at Pick Park! Park District officials will lead a ceremonial groundbreaking on Saturday, March 23 at 10 am.

Friday, March 8, 2024 - 1:21pm

Looking to improve your volleyball skills off-season? Interested in trying out the sport with fun drills and games? Check out VolleyKidz classes at Elmhurst Park District. This spring, indoor and outdoor options are available.

Wednesday, March 6, 2024 - 8:20am

Beginning Saturday, March 2, the walking path at Conrad Fischer Park will be temporarily re-routed as a gravel path during pre-construction work at Churchville Middle School. Work is estimated to be completed the week of March 11, 2024.

Monday, March 18, 2024 - 11:29am

Construction on Canine Corner, Elmhurst’s first dog park, is approaching quickly! Work is expected to begin this spring. Anticipation for the park is high, with Elmhurst residents regularly voicing their interest in a dog park.

Elmhurst Park District now has more good news to report, as it was announced that State Representative Jenn Ladisch-Douglass successfully secured a $250,000 grant from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to support the development of Canine Corner.

Monday, March 18, 2024 - 11:28am

Elmhurst Park District is always looking for ways to advance its mission of enriching the lives while having fun. Last year, the District engaged the community in Elevate Elmhurst Parks, a comprehensive and strategic planning initiative seeking to update the District’s previous plan and guide decision-making for the next 5 years. The final Elevate Elmhurst Parks plan was approved at the February 26 Park Board meeting.

Thursday, March 7, 2024 - 8:07pm

Looking for active, outdoor volunteer opportunities for your friends, family or organization? Check out Adopt-A-Park!

Ten parks are currently available for 2024: East End, Golden Meadows, Jaycee Tot Lot, Maple Trail Woods, Marjorie Davis, Pick, Pioneer, Van Voorst, Wild Meadows Trace, and York Commons. 

Thursday, March 14, 2024 - 2:58pm

Come and play with us at our Pop-Up Preschool Open Gym!

Location: Elmhurst Gymnastics Center (615 West Ave, Elmhurst)
Time: Tuesday, April 16, 1-2:30 pm

Monday, March 18, 2024 - 11:28am

Join us Saturday, March 16!

Why should kids have all the fun? This event gives new meaning to BYOB (bring your own basket)!

Thursday, March 7, 2024 - 8:07pm
Hop on over to the baseball fields at Berens Park this year for our annual egg hunt! Join in a mad dash to collect prize-filled eggs and visit with the Easter Bunny. Adults must accompany children and don’t forget to bring your basket!
Thursday, March 7, 2024 - 8:08pm

Attention all Wilder Park Conservatory visitors! We've noticed some rather "creative" uses of our beautiful plant beds lately, from impromptu picnics to mud pie making sessions to full on photography sessions. While we love seeing families and friends enjoying our space, we'd like to gently remind everyone that our plants prefer peaceful neighbors, not picnic pals.

Monday, February 26, 2024 - 9:27am

Resident registration for spring programs opens this Saturday, February 24 at 8 am. This includes registration for the March 30 Egg Hunt!

Thursday, March 7, 2024 - 8:10pm

Stop by, complete an application, taco 'bout our job opportunities and do a basic interview on the spot for our summer and part-time job openings. 

Thursday, March 7, 2024 - 8:08pm

It may only be mid-February, but it’s already been a year of memorable recognitions for Elmhurst Park District facilities and staff. 

Thursday, March 7, 2024 - 8:09pm

The redevelopment of Pioneer Park is moving along, with the Park Board approving construction of the park’s playground and safety surfacing at their February 12, 2024 board meeting.

Thursday, February 15, 2024 - 12:40pm

Courts Plus has a passion for fitness and wellness and they want to share with you! Join Courts Plus now through Wednesday, February 14 at 7 pm with a joining fee of just $14.

Monday, February 12, 2024 - 2:19pm

Registration for 2024 Summer Camp, Jr. Golf Camp and Aquatics programs featured in the Spring Brochure and Summer Camps Guide opens this Saturday, February 10 at 8 am.

Be ready to go on registration day and remember to verify your account in our new registration software, ActiveNet. Elmhurst Park District launched ActiveNet on December 1, 2023. It is used for program registration, pass memberships and facility reservations. If you did not already verify your account on ActiveNet, you will need to verify it to register for programs.

Friday, February 16, 2024 - 12:52pm

Last month, Sugar Creek Golf Course was pleased to accept a Public Works Project of the Year Award from the American Public Works Association (APWA) Chicago Metro Chapter (Suburban Branch) in the Environmental category less than $5 million.

Thursday, March 7, 2024 - 8:09pm

The Sunbeams & Rainbows Preschool program is play-based, developmentally appropriate, and respectful of social, cultural, and linguistic diversity.

Thursday, March 7, 2024 - 8:09pm
The summer season is on the horizon! Make your plans and secure your pool pass today! Take advantage of pre-season rates, available now through May 24.
Tuesday, February 20, 2024 - 1:51pm

The 2024 Spring Brochure and Summer Camps Guide is now available. Mark your calendars with our registration dates (all times are 8 am):

Thursday, February 1, 2024 - 8:13am

The summer season is on the horizon! Make your plans and secure your pool pass beginning Thursday, February 1. Take advantage of pre-season rates, available February 1-May 24, 2024.

This year, pool pass perks have expanded! Pool pass holders will receive four free guest passes per household to use at the pools (valid for entry May 25-September 2, 2024) and also receive a 10% discount on group swim lessons, deep water aerobics, private pool rentals and Smalley Pool cabana rentals through September 2, 2024. Pass holders can also enter one hour early every day before the general public.

Monday, January 22, 2024 - 8:34am

Get creative and show us your snowman building skills. Join our snowman contest!

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 - 9:43am

Update for January 16, 2024
Courts Plus will open as scheduled on Tuesday, January 16. Kids Plus and all other programming at Courts Plus will be available. Programs at Wagner Community Center, Kies Recreation Center, and D205 facilities are cancelled. All Sunbeams & Rainbows classes are cancelled for Tuesday, January 16, which includes the Courts Plus location.

Program participants will be contacted, and any additional updates will be posted to social media and epd.org. Stay warm!

Wilder Park Conservatory is also closed this week through Saturday, January 20 due to heating issues and the removal of the Holiday Flower Show.

Friday, January 19, 2024 - 1:20pm

With classes for ages 2-4, Sunbeams & Rainbows Preschool provides a safe and nurturing learning environment that embraces all children and their diverse learning styles, needs and interests. 

Monday, February 12, 2024 - 2:46pm

FREE! Get your game on and play with the whole family this winter at Family Open Gym. Select Sundays this winter. Ages 3-14 with adult. This is not a drop-off program, a guardian must remain with children at all times. 

Friday, February 16, 2024 - 3:23pm

Free to all Pool Pass Holders and Courts Plus Members!

Thursday, January 11, 2024 - 7:55pm

Do more in 2024 and take advantage of our best deal of the year! January 2 through January 15 become a member at Courts Plus with no joining fee!

Monday, January 8, 2024 - 9:10am

Stop by our Job Fair on Saturday, January, 1-3 pm to learn about open positions, including summer positions for lifeguards and camp counselors.

Wednesday, January 24, 2024 - 3:17pm

By next summer, families in the Pick Park neighborhood will have a new place to play! The Elmhurst Park District Board of Park Commissioners approved the construction bid for Pick Park’s development at its December 11 Board meeting.

Friday, December 29, 2023 - 8:44am

With construction anticipated to begin next June, staff is getting ready for the redevelopment of Pioneer Park. The final concept for the park was approved last month and now the Park Board has approved the purchase of equipment for the park.

Tuesday, January 2, 2024 - 1:45pm

Elmhurst Park District facilities will observe special hours December 18, 2023- January 1, 2024.

Tuesday, December 19, 2023 - 1:18pm

After a successful resident registration day on Saturday, December 7, Winter programs will soon be underway. The registration event was the first to take place in the Park District’s new software, ActiveNet.

Wednesday, January 3, 2024 - 8:50pm

Calling all gymnasts! The Elmhurst Gymnastics Center is open for gymnasts to explore and have fun during Winter Break. Parents/guardians must remain with children through all open gym times, this is not a drop-off activity.

Monday, January 15, 2024 - 3:20pm

This event has been canceled due to forecasted temperatures.

Friday, February 16, 2024 - 12:52pm

Have the day off school? We're headed to Berens Park for some playtime! Join us for a winter Party in the Park. Snow or not, we'll bring toys and activities for a morning of fun (not a drop-off event). We'll be set-up near the sled hill.

Wednesday, December 13, 2023 - 2:27pm

Park District users must verify their account in ActiveNet

Verify your Account

Monday, January 1, 2024 - 3:03pm
30 days for $45! Students age 18-22 - halt the holiday fitness slump with a 30-Day Holiday Membership at Courts Plus.
Friday, December 8, 2023 - 1:11pm
The 2023 State of the Park District Address is now available to view online. The address was presented on Wednesday, November 29, 2023 by Park Board President, Kevin Graf and Executive Director, Jim Rogers at Kies Recreation Center. It highlighted District projects and future plans, including progress on the Vision 2020 comprehensive plan and an update on the Elevate Elmhurst Parks project.
Monday, December 11, 2023 - 9:31am

New registration software is here! Beginning this Friday, December 1, the majority of the Park District’s registration processes will be switching to ActiveNet. This includes program registration, pass memberships and facility reservations. If you are a Park District user, make sure you have verified your account.

Wednesday, February 21, 2024 - 11:24am

Dogs will have their day in Elmhurst soon! The Elmhurst Park District Board of Park Commissioners approved the name of the future dog park to be “Canine Corner” during their Monday, November 27 meeting, marking an important step for the project. Construction of the dog park is slated to begin in the spring.

Monday, December 18, 2023 - 12:16pm

The Winter Brochure is now available online. Print editions can also be found at our facilities.

Thursday, November 30, 2023 - 2:06pm

Ask questions and learn about District projects, accomplishments and future plans at the upcoming State of the Park District Address at 6 pm on Wednesday, November 29 at Kies Recreation Center.

Friday, December 8, 2023 - 9:46am
A holiday store just for kids! Join Elmhurst Park District at Wilder Mansion for Santa's Workshop - a special place just for children where they can purchase inexpensive holiday gifts for those they love, including mom, dad, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, teacher, friends and pets! Items are kid-priced and kid-friendly. No registration required.
Wednesday, December 13, 2023 - 9:41am

Get ready to sharpen your culinary skills! The Kies Recreation Center (155 E. St. Charles Road) is getting ready for several updates at the facility in 2024, including the renovation of its 1970s era kitchen. Demo work at the facility will begin the week of December 4.

Friday, December 8, 2023 - 9:46am

Visitors might spot some new additions to their neighborhood park this week. Landscape crews recently planted 74 trees across 14 parks in the District. A variety of species were used, including canopy trees, such as Red Oak and Northern Catalpa, and smaller, understory trees, such as Sweet Bay Magnolias.

Friday, December 8, 2023 - 9:47am

A new playground and other park updates are coming to Pioneer Park! The Park Board approved the final Pioneer Park Redevelopment Concept at its Monday, November 13, 2023 Park Board Meeting.

Monday, November 27, 2023 - 11:32am

Thank-you to everyone who has provided feedback during the Elevate Elmhurst Parks Project! The District is finalizing its future goals and initiatives and has one final opportunity for you to let us know what you think.

Thursday, January 11, 2024 - 7:56pm

Have your holiday lights lost their twinkle? Instead of sending them to the landfill, drop your dead lights off in one of our containers through January 12, 2024.

Wednesday, December 13, 2023 - 2:27pm
Park District users must verify their account in ActiveNet Elmhurst Park District is getting ready to launch its new registration software, ActiveNet. It will be used for program registration, pass memberships and facility reservations starting December 1. The first registration date that will take place in the new software is December 9 at 8 am for programs featured in the Winter Brochure.
Wednesday, November 15, 2023 - 7:05pm

Help us map the Elmhurst Park District’s future by participating in the final Elevate Elmhurst Parks feedback opportunities to update the District’s comprehensive and strategic plan.

Using the feedback collected from the Elevate Elmhurst Parks website interactive map and idea wall, in person engagement opportunities, and community needs assessment survey, the District identified future parks, facility and programming needs and now asks for your essential input to prioritize them.  

Tuesday, November 14, 2023 - 1:33pm

Ages 11-14: It will be a magical night at Kies Recreation Center as we enter the Wizarding World. Bring your wands, robes and best spells to join us for games, crafts and a movie.

Friday, December 8, 2023 - 1:11pm

Stop in at one of our facilities this November and get help verifying your ActiveNet Account before Winter Program Registration opens December 9!

Friday, November 17, 2023 - 8:28am

The Elmhurst Garden Club presented a donation check of $5000 to Elmhurst Park District at the Monday, October 23 Park Board Meeting. The money was raised at the club's annual Garden Walk & Faire, which took place in July.

Wednesday, November 8, 2023 - 10:52am

Please be on the lookout the next time you drive to Ben Allison Park on West Avenue. Drivers will notice new 'No Parking' signs on the east side of the street.

Friday, November 17, 2023 - 8:28am

Youth Open Gym at Kies Recreation Center!

The KRC gym is open for play! Ages 11-16 - work on your skills, throw together a pick-up game, or just meet up with friends for some games, we’ll provide all the equipment and supervised gym time. Open gym is not to be used for one-on-one training with any outside coaches.

Monday, October 16, 2023 - 8:15am

Update: Given the forecast for the remainder of the day, the decision has been made to cancel tonight’s Movie in the Park. Mother Nature has been tough on outdoor events this year, and today is no exception. The movie will not be rescheduled. Please visit our events calendar at epd.org for a list of upcoming indoor events. We hope you stay dry and warm this weekend!

Monday, November 27, 2023 - 12:05pm

Stop in at Wagner Community Center today and get help verifying your ActiveNet Account before Winter Program Registration opens December 9!

Monday, October 23, 2023 - 8:27am
Spooktacular fun! Ages 11-14 - Wear your best costume and prepare for a frightfully fun night at the Kies Recreation Center, with a DJ, refreshments, games, crafts, dancing and more. Register early or pay at the door.
Friday, October 13, 2023 - 12:33pm

TruGreen is scheduled to begin the annual fall broadleaf weed control applications on Thursday, October 5 at Berens Park with the remaining parks beginning on Tuesday, October 10.

Monday, October 16, 2023 - 8:17am
Take our short survey and tell us how staff are doing!
Friday, March 15, 2024 - 11:52am

Get your costumes ready and bring the family to The Depot at Wild Meadows Trace for Safety Town trick-or-treating plus fall festivities! Free admission.

Monday, October 23, 2023 - 2:56pm

Ben Allison Park playground made its official debut on Saturday, September 16.

Wednesday, September 27, 2023 - 11:53am

Reconnect with nature and explore local trails while meeting new people at Elmhurst Park District’s Park Meet Ups scheduled for September and October. 

Wednesday, December 13, 2023 - 2:26pm
Elmhurst Park District is getting Active this year with the launch of its new registration software, ActiveNet. Account verification and set-up will open to Park District users on November 1. The ActiveNet site will be used for program registration, pass memberships and facility reservations.
Tuesday, September 19, 2023 - 1:57pm

Berens Park tennis court number 9 is having issues with the light. Park District staff is aware and is working on fixing it. We apologize for any inconvenience. 

Monday, September 18, 2023 - 8:17am

Update: This survey is now closed.

Your feedback matters! Complete the Community Needs Survey!

This year, the Park District is engaging with the community to update the comprehensive and strategic plan.

Friday, March 15, 2024 - 11:51am

Climb and explore a variety of vehicles at Touch a Truck in Berens Park. Free admission. Visit 9 am-Noon. The first hour will be a quiet hour designed for kids who love trucks, but not the noise.

Friday, February 9, 2024 - 12:57pm

Nationally, 66% of households own a pet, and if you take a walk through any area of town, it’s not hard to see that many four-legged, furry friends call Elmhurst home. And soon...the Elmhurst Park District will give dogs their own place to play!

In honor of National Dog Day, the District is asking for the community’s help to name the first-ever dog park!

Tuesday, September 12, 2023 - 2:00pm

Bring some variety into your workout! Courts Plus has so much to offer, including:

Wednesday, September 6, 2023 - 1:27pm

Wilder Park Conservatory will be closed Tuesday, September 5 through Thursday, September 7 for maintenance projects. We apologize for any inconvenience. 

Wednesday, January 31, 2024 - 2:24pm

Preschoolers - come and play with us

Location: Elmhurst Gymnastics Center (615 West Ave, Elmhurst)
Time: Fridays, January 12-March 22,  9-10:30 am

Monday, August 28, 2023 - 8:30am

Update: This survey is now closed

Wednesday, October 4, 2023 - 9:54am

Reconnect with nature and explore local trails while meeting new people at Elmhurst Park District’s Park Meet Ups scheduled for September and October. 

Friday, November 3, 2023 - 2:29pm

Reconnect with nature and explore local trails while meeting new people at Elmhurst Park District’s Park Meet Ups scheduled for September and October.

Each week, we’ll meet at a new park to go for a walk as part of the Take a Hike Challenge. Bring a lunch if you’re interested in sticking around after the walk. Walks are self guided and go at your own pace.

Tuesday, September 19, 2023 - 1:55pm

Come play with us as we celebrate the new playground at Ben Allison Park on Saturday, September 16 at 10 am! The park was redeveloped this summer and will be ready to make its debut. Attend our ribbon cutting and be one of the first to try out the new playground!

Tuesday, September 19, 2023 - 1:56pm

The demolition of the former Lizzadro Museum building in Wilder Park will begin this month. On Monday, August 7, fencing will go up around the building. Demolition work, beginning with the interior, will begin August 14, approximately.

Wednesday, August 9, 2023 - 1:47pm

Congratulations to Elmhurst Youth Baseball’s 12U Little League! They won the State Championship and will now play on ESPN+ in the Regional Tournament in Whitestown, Indiana on August 5 at 6 pm (CT).

Tuesday, September 19, 2023 - 1:58pm
Help us map our future by completing the Community Needs Assessment Survey. This year, the Park District is engaging with the community to update the comprehensive and strategic plan. Feedback from the public is essential to creating a Park District that evolves with the community and its changing needs. To shape its priorities, the Park District is conducting a community needs assessment survey to collect direct feedback about Park District parks, facilities, programs, and services and strengths and areas for improvement.
Wednesday, July 26, 2023 - 12:22pm

Paving and most of playground equipment installation is complete at Ben Allison Park. In the coming weeks, safety surfacing will be installed as well as the teeball backstop. 

Thursday, July 13, 2023 - 7:47am

Event Cancelled: The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for our area until 7 pm.

Wednesday, January 24, 2024 - 3:46pm

Spend the end of summer at the pools!

Ten Swim Punch Cards are now available to purchase. With punch cards, you can use them yourself or bring your friends, neighbors and guests to the pools. 

Wednesday, July 19, 2023 - 12:04pm

Stop by Pioneer Park's playground Tuesday, July 18, 5-6:30 pm to tell us changes you would like to see at the park in 2024! Plus - bring the kids and enjoy a mini Party in the Park, with classic backyard games like hula hoops and bubbles.

Wednesday, October 4, 2023 - 9:55am

NEW! Extend your preschool day with Lunch Box Club!

Tuesday, September 19, 2023 - 1:58pm
The Fall Brochure is now available to view online. Check it out for upcoming fall programs, community events and more. Registration for fall programs is open.
Friday, October 13, 2023 - 12:56pm

Looking for your next night-out activity with friends? Look no further. Elmhurst Park District is thrilled to reoffer our hit event Bags, Brew, and BBQ on July 22 from 6–9 pm on the back lawn of Wilder Mansion!

Monday, July 3, 2023 - 7:44am

6-29-23 - 6:30 am UPDATE: Outdoor facilities and programs will open as usual today in the hope that the air quality number continues to drop. Staff will monitor levels throughout the day and may adjust as needed out of caution for our participants and staff who are outside. As a reminder, you can download the rainout hotline app to receive alerts. https://www.epd.org/rainout-line-weather-cancellations

Monday, July 3, 2023 - 7:45am

The first phase of engagement for Elevate Elmhurst Parks has resulted in a tremendous amount of community feedback! Thank you to everyone who has contributed ideas on the project website.

Please note that the idea wall and interactive map will close for comments on Friday, June 30 so that we can begin reviewing the feedback provided. The next phase of the project will then include a community survey. Keep an eye out for more details on our website and social media.

Sunday, July 23, 2023 - 10:59am

Parks staff will begin spot treatments with herbicide for weed control Districtwide the week of June 26 and continue through mid-July. Treatment areas include tree rings, landscape beds, paver paths, fence lines, and parking lot areas.

Sunday, June 25, 2023 - 3:32pm

Help us Elevate Elmhurst Parks by sharing your thoughts at the Park District booth during Elmhurst Family Pride Fest on June 24.

Sunday, July 23, 2023 - 10:59am

This year, the Elmhurst Park District is mapping its future by updating its comprehensive and strategic plan. Part of this process is hearing from the whole community, including those who are not active users of its facilities and programs.

Wednesday, June 28, 2023 - 2:21pm

This month, the Elmhurst Park District was thrilled to receive news that State Senator Suzy Glowiak-Hilton secured a $250,000 grant from the State of Illinois for upgrades to the

Sunday, June 11, 2023 - 2:20pm

Due to rain, forecasted increasing winds, and unseasonably cool temperatures, the decision has been made to cancel Adventure Day.

Saturday, June 10, 2023 - 11:31am

Smalley Pool opens this Saturday, June 10 for the season. Hours this summer are 11am-6pm daily. Pool pass holders can enter an hour early at 10 am.

Monday, June 5, 2023 - 2:14pm

For the seventeenth year in a row, the Elmhurst Park District has earned the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the 2023 Budget. 

Wednesday, June 7, 2023 - 2:10pm

Stop by Eldridge Park's east playground, 9-11 am!

We're popping into the parks on select days this summer to party with you! Join us on Wednesday, June 7, 9-11 am at Eldridge Park's east playground (along Spring Road).

Friday, August 11, 2023 - 11:43am

This year, the Elmhurst Park District is mapping its future by updating its comprehensive and strategic plan. Part of this process will be hearing from the community and giving residents the opportunity to share their insights and ideas through a website, surveys and in-person events.

Wednesday, June 21, 2023 - 11:29am

Help us Elevate Elmhurst Parks by stopping by our Open House at Wagner Community Center on June 20.