News

Monday, May 13, 2024 - 8:15am

Taking care of athletic fields is a crucial part of meeting the needs and expectations of the community, sports groups and Park District partners. With this in mind, the Park Board was pleased to approve several upgrades to Butterfield Park Field #1 at its Monday, April 22 Park Board Meeting.

Friday, June 28, 2024 - 12:03pm

The Elmhurst Park District is launching a voter survey aimed at assessing the interest in a potential referendum for a new Wagner Community Center and new outdoor amenities, including a bandshell in Wilder Park, year-round heated restroom buildings at four locations, and converting a grass field to artificial turf at Berens Park. The Park Board unanimously approved moving forward with the survey at their meeting on Monday, April 22, which will be administered to a random sample of registered voters by aQity Research. This initiative stems from the feedback received during the development of the Elevate Elmhurst Parks strategic and comprehensive planning process in 2023.

Thursday, May 2, 2024 - 6:43pm

Come see proposed projects that will take your Park District experience to new heights! Stop by an upcoming Open House.

Friday, June 28, 2024 - 12:02pm

Introducing the Elmhurst Park District App! Use the app to check-in at the pools, access punch passes for The Hub Spray Ground and Gymnastics Open Gym, view your upcoming schedules and more!

Don't miss out – find us on your app store under "Elmhurst Park District".

Monday, May 6, 2024 - 9:35am

The 2024 Summer Brochure is now available online. Resident registration for all programs opens Saturday, May 4 at 8 am. Non-resident registration is Tuesday, May 7. Summer Camp and Aquatics are already open for registration and can be viewed in the Spring Brochure.

Friday, October 4, 2024 - 10:14am

In March, the Park Board approved restoration of the metal roof covering the tennis courts at Courts Plus Fitness Center. The metal roof is 33 years old and exhibiting signs of oxidation. Restoration work will maintain the roof’s structural integrity and extend its lifespan.

Following restoration, the Park District will use a financing mechanism known as a power purchase agreement (PPA), which calls for the installation of an array of solar panels on all of Courts Plus’ roof surfaces.

Monday, April 22, 2024 - 1:31pm

April 22, 2024 Update: This event has been cancelled. Adults ages 21 and up are invited to join in a friendly competition at a recreational bags tournament fundraiser to benefit the Elmhurst Parks Foundation! Don’t want to compete? Bring your friends to play games like giant Jenga, Uno, and Connect Four while enjoying complimentary food and a cash bar. Proceeds help fund program scholarships and special projects. Deadline to register is Friday, April 19.

Friday, May 10, 2024 - 1:49pm

A single blood donation can save up to 3 lives. Please donate and support the lives of the community during the Courts Plus Blood Drive on Thursday, May 9, 2:30-6:30 pm.

Thursday, April 11, 2024 - 10:03am

Join Elmhurst Public Library for a party in Wilder Park to watch the solar eclipse from 1-2:30 pm on April 8. Observe the sky as the sun is slowly blocked from view, learn about what eclipses are and why they happen, and take advantage of fun activities, games, and snacks. Eclipse glasses will be available while supplies last. Presented with the Elmhurst Park District.

Tuesday, April 9, 2024 - 1:49pm

The upcoming eclipse will only last for a moment! Take advantage of the Courts Plus Fitness Center eclipse deal and enjoy health benefits all year long! Now through April 8, get 50% off your joining fee when signing up for a new Courts Plus membership.

Monday, April 15, 2024 - 12:02pm

Elmhurst, IL – After a 36-year run, Senior Site Supervisor Zen Przybylek has officially hung up his hat and started a new chapter of his life as grandpa.

Monday, April 22, 2024 - 1:32pm

April 22 Update: This event has been cancelled

Tuesday, March 19, 2024 - 2:53pm

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.

Saturday, March 23, 2024 - 9:00am

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.

Thursday, January 9, 2025 - 4:36pm

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. 

Wednesday, April 24, 2024 - 11:35am

Come and play with us at our Pop-Up Preschool Open Gym on Tuesday, April 16, 1-2:30 pm.

For ages up to 6 with an adult. Our gymnastics facility is open for our youngest gymnasts to explore and have fun. Staff will be on hand to ensure safety and proper usage of the facility and equipment. .

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!

Wednesday, April 10, 2024 - 5:34pm

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, June 27, 2024 - 1:47pm

Enjoy a crafty day at Smalley Pool with Wacky Wednesday Holiday Crafts, 1-4 pm! Explore your creativity while you create crafts from all different holidays.

Monday, December 30, 2024 - 12:45pm

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

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):

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.

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, 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.

Wednesday, December 13, 2023 - 2:27pm

Park District users must verify their account in ActiveNet

Verify your Account

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.

Wednesday, May 1, 2024 - 9:11am

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.

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, May 1, 2024 - 2:10pm

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.  

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.

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!

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!
Monday, October 23, 2023 - 2:56pm

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

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. 

Wednesday, May 1, 2024 - 2:09pm

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, 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!

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

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).

Wednesday, May 1, 2024 - 2:09pm
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, 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.

Monday, December 16, 2024 - 4:25pm

NEW! Extend your preschool day with Lunch Box Club!

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

Wednesday, May 1, 2024 - 2:11pm

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.

Wednesday, November 6, 2024 - 9:47am

You're invited to RGL Marketing for the Arts' 13th Holiday Market at Wilder Mansion on November 1 & 2. One of a kind artisan & seasonal gifts. Over 55 artisans and gourmet food vendors including including kid’s clothing, pottery, stationery, fiber, jewelry, mixed media, painting, and gourmet food.

Wednesday, May 1, 2024 - 2:09pm

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

Wednesday, May 1, 2024 - 2:08pm

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, May 1, 2024 - 2:10pm

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.

Wednesday, May 1, 2024 - 2:08pm

Help us Elevate Elmhurst Parks by sharing your thoughts during Movies in the Park on Friday, June 16.

Wednesday, May 31, 2023 - 9:22pm

This year, the Park District is mapping its future by updating its comprehensive and strategic plan. Part of this process is hearing from the community and giving residents the opportunity to share their insights and ideas. Join us to learn about the planning process and share your feedback. Look for the Elevate Elmhurst Parks booth.

Date and Time: Saturday, June 3, 10:30 am-12:30 pm
Location: Berens Park by The Hub and baseball fields (493 N Oaklawn Ave)

Wednesday, December 6, 2023 - 2:43pm

Help us Elevate Elmhurst Parks. 

This year, the Park District is mapping its future by updating its comprehensive and strategic plan.

Monday, August 7, 2023 - 12:01pm

The Park District's Adult Center, KRC, is 1 year old and you're invited to join us at a Birthday Bash celebration!

Sunday, June 11, 2023 - 12:55pm

Wilder Park’s Horticulture Complex is a vital part of the Park District. Many residents are familiar with the Conservatory, which hosts flower shows throughout the year.

Wednesday, November 29, 2023 - 11:49am

With an eye toward the future, the Park Board and District staff continue to work toward the opening of a dog park next year.

Sunday, June 11, 2023 - 12:55pm

Park Board members, Park District staff and the communities of Elmhurst and Villa Park came together last Saturday at Sugar Creek Golf Course to celebrate the restoration of Sugar Creek, which included a creek shoreline restoration and pond renova

Sunday, June 11, 2023 - 12:56pm

At the Monday, May 8 Annual Board Meeting, incumbent Tim Sheehan was sworn in along with newly elected Commissioner, Susan Smentek. 

Board Elections were held for the year during the meeting, with Commissioner Kevin Graf elected Board President and Commissioner Sheehan elected Board Vice President.

Wednesday, May 31, 2023 - 7:28am

The Hub opens this Saturday, May 20! Your go-to spot for summer fun, including mini golf, spray ground, batting cages and concessions! Full schedule is available on The Hub page.

Thursday, May 25, 2023 - 9:22pm
Thirty years is a long time, but according to retiring Elmhurst Park Board Commissioner, Mary Kies, “It went so fast!” Perhaps that is because Kies always brought a sense of joy and enthusiasm to her role as Commissioner, a position she was first elected to in April 1993.
Wednesday, January 24, 2024 - 3:47pm

Celebrate your next special occasion at the pool! The Park District is now booking 2023 Pool Rentals. Both East End and Smalley are available after hours for private rentals to meet all your party needs. 

Wednesday, January 24, 2024 - 3:47pm

Join the Park District team this summer and work at the pools! Elmhurst Park District is currently hiring lifeguards and swim instructors for our pool facilities. Ages 15 and up may apply.

Wednesday, April 26, 2023 - 12:20pm

Make your visit to the spray ground a breeze with a punch card!