Gurnee Park District Welcomes NEW Youth Program Supervisor, Megan Baird!
Gurnee Park District is excited to announce and welcome Youth Program Supervisor, Megan Baird, CPRP.
Megan Baird, New Youth Program Supervisor
Megan joins Gurnee Park District with a wealth of experience in the field of parks and recreation. In 2015, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Recreation Administration from Eastern Illinois University. From there, she worked as a Recreation Coordinator at Round Lake Park District before entering her most recent role as the Recreation Supervisor for Buffalo Grove Park District. As a Recreation Supervisor, Megan oversaw a variety of recreation programs, including fitness, camp, athletics, and various in-house programs.
Deeply committed to her profession, Megan is a member of the National Parks and Recreation Association (NRPA), as well as the Illinois Parks and Recreation Association (IPRA). In September 2022, she continued her professional growth by becoming a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP).
Having been a proud Gurnee resident for many years, Megan is excited to bring her passion for recreation to Gurnee Park District. In her new role as Youth Program Supervisor, Megan hopes to further foster community engagement, create inclusive environments, as well as aid in the continued success of our youth programs.
Gurnee Park District looks forward to having Megan join the team. “We are thrilled to welcome Megan on board,” shared Sabrina Hinkens, Youth Program Manager. “Her contributions will play an integral role in our continued growth and ability to provide exceptional services to our community.”
March 26, 2024
Gurnee Park District Newsletter – April 2024
Welcome to April! Spring is officially underway, and what a beautiful time of year it is here at Gurnee Park District! As you enter our facilities, you will now notice the emergence of colorful blooms greeting you around every turn – that’s right, flowers such as daffodils, hyacinths, and tulips are ready to make their mark this season! Take time to get outside and enjoy these welcoming signs of FUN to come!
POOL PASSES ON SALE!
Make sure you and the family are ready for some fun in the sun – purchase your Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center 2024 season pass at reduced rates now – 5/31!
Gather your squad and get ready for an action-packed night of adrenaline-pumping Nerf battles and activities for the whole family to enjoy! Fuel up with a dinner of pizza, salad, and dessert before taking on the Nerf arena. All Nerf supplies, such as blasters, foam darts, and goggles will be provided (please leave your supplies at home).
Spring is in full swing so come join us for an evening playing games to win prizes at our indoor pool carnival! There’s fun for everyone with food and drinks, cannonball contests, ring toss, cornhole, and more. Swim right up and fling your way to a pool prize! ***Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by someone ages 16+ and everyone attending must be registered for the event (even if they don’t want to swim). Children under 3 are free.
Friday, April 19 6:00-7:30pm FitNation Indoor Pool
We’ve made it easier to receive program updates! Text alerts are now available to Gurnee Park District program participants. Ready to sign up? It’s easy!
Click on one of the links below to update your account settings to begin receiving text messages. Note: Participants will only receive texts relevant to active memberships, classes, events, and/or programs.
Ravinia Park is ready for you and your family to make the most of the spring season!
Located off of Ravinia Drive in Gurnee, Ravinia Park offers plenty of ways to stay active. Aside from an amazing mud-free playground with plenty of shade for those warm, sunny days, sports courts, and fields, Ravinia also offers a paved walking path.
The paved walking path, which covers approximately .5 miles, navigates around the nearby wetlands, bringing you up close and personal to the serene backdrop of the park. As you make your way towards this area, keep an eye out for some of the park’s residents, including the return of redwing blackbirds, Sandhill cranes, herons, and more.
Did you know? To combat flooding that may occur each year from the adjacent wetlands, our Parks Team installed a boardwalk in 2016. The sections of the boardwalk offer the ability to traverse the path safely no matter what the weather brings each season.
DEI CORNER BLOG
The month of April celebrates a variety of cultures, causes, and initiatives all month long. We are proud to highlight several significant observances that we feel help to spread the importance of inclusion, awareness, and giving back to our society.
Get ready for a sizzling night of delicious food, refreshing brews, and cozy vibes at our “Bonfire and Brews: Food Truck Frenzy” event, exclusively for adults 21+! Savor the delicious flavors of local food trucks, beverages courtesy of Gurnee Exchange Club, live music from Matt Nanke, Axe Throwing from Axe Legends, giant games, and more!
Food and drinks will be available for purchase.
$10 per person (adults 21+ only) / Register online or at the door!
When: Saturday, May 4 Time: 7:00-11:00pm Location: Viking Park
Join us to help beautify your community parks! We will be planting flowers, mulching, and picking up branches/trash at four park locations. Please plan to dress in layers based on the weather – long pants, old sneakers/shoes, gardening gloves, etc. Additional tools and supplies will be provided. All ages welcome!
Park locations include:
Hunt Club Park O’Plaine Park Ravinia Park Viking Park
It’s time to put on your walking shoes and get on over to Viking Park for an afternoon of fun and walking. Participants will get a free “GO GURNEE” t-shirt and other GO Gurnee swag (while supplies last), learn about the many parks and walking paths Gurnee has to offer, and meet others in the community who want to better their health or even create a walking group. Fuel up on a FREE hot dog and chips (while supplies last)!
Have a furry friend that likes to walk too? Bring them along to meet with other dog lovers and even enjoy some pet-friendly GO Gurnee giveaways. If you don’t own a puppy, don’t worry as volunteers from “Reach Rescue“, a non-profit animal rescue group located out of Mundelein, IL, will be on hand with a few of their available rescues. Let’s get GO-ing this spring!When: Sunday, May 19 Time: 1:00-3:00pm Location: Viking Park
Looking for MORE fun? Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to stay up-to-date with daily park happenings, news, and more!
Have a great month! We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!
March 18, 2024
Spring Forward with Gurnee Park District
Spring has finally arrived, and what a wonderful time of year it is here at Gurnee Park District. Soon, colorful flowers, such as the tulips our Parks Team planted last fall, will emerge, brightening our parks and facilities for all who visit. These welcoming signs of spring, along with the return of sunshine and warmer days, bring a sense of energy and excitement all around. With that said, I am excited to share with you ways you can “spring” forward into an all-new season of FUN!
Alongside the natural beauty within our parks, this spring you can count on a lineup of familiar and new events for all ages. Get ready to meet everyone’s favorite spring Bunny at Viking Park during our annual “Bunny Bash” on Saturday, March 23rd. Enjoy breakfast, crafts, egg hunts, and countless photo opportunities during this egg-citing morning. In April, our “Family Nerf Wars” event returns, offering competitive and playful families the chance to take aim and engage in various fun games and Nerf battles. With the arrival of May, we welcome a NEW event for adults – “Bonfire and Brews: Food Truck Frenzy”. Join us for a memorable night out full of live music, games, delicious local flavors, and refreshing beverages under the stars.
As the days begin to lengthen and the temperatures rise, you may find yourself eager to embrace a more active routine. Take this time to try something new! Join our motivating group exercise instructors as they lead a variety of fitness classes at our fitness facility, FitNation. Or, perhaps you are looking for some friendly competition. Try a game of pickleball! We offer indoor play at our FitNation and Hunt Club locations or grab a friend and head down to our outdoor courts at O’Plaine, Betty Russell, and Hunt Club Parks. If you prefer to get outside to explore the sights and sounds of spring, our GO Gurnee Walking Club hosts weekly walks in and around the Gurnee area. If you haven’t experienced the benefits of the GO Gurnee movement, save the date for our GO Gurnee Kickoff Event at Viking Park on Sunday, May 19!
With warmer weather on the horizon, and the end of the school year close within reach, it is the perfect time to start planning your summer adventures! What would summer be without the excitement of summer camp and relaxing pool days? We offer a variety of summer camps that meet every family’s needs and interests. Summer camp is a great way to stay active, meet new friends, as well as make lasting memories. And when the summer heat sets in, our affordable pool prices make sure you can cool off and savor those sunny days by the pool!
This spring season promises to be packed full of excitement, and I can’t wait to see you all enjoying everything Gurnee Park District has to offer. Whether you are immersing yourself in the beauty of the season, making cherished memories at one of our community events, discovering new ways to stay active, or gearing up for a summer of fun in the sun, I encourage you to spring forward and enjoy all that our park district has in store for you!
Susie Kuruvilla, CPA, CPRP
Gurnee Park District Executive Director
February 27, 2024
Gurnee Park District March 2024 Newsletter
Spring is right around the corner, and with that comes the start of an amazing transformation here at Gurnee Park District. From the vibrant colors that will soon take over the landscape to the welcome of longer, sun-filled days, springtime offers a beauty that does not compare – you just have to make time to see it!
With that said, we are excited to share some of the ways you can take in the excitement of the season!
BUNNY BASH – 3/23
Families are sure to have an egg-cellent time at this year’s Bunny Bash! The event includes an egg hunt (indoors or outdoors, weather dependent), craft, continental breakfast, and pictures with the Egg Hunt Bunny!
Parents and children must preregister for this event and an adult 18+ must attend with their child/ren. Parents and children 10 years & up attending the event MUST register for the *breakfast-only option (*Includes breakfast ONLY).
Register for your preferred session: 8:30 – 9:30am 9:15 – 10:15am 10:00-11:00am
Only a few more weeks left to SAVE! Make sure you and the family are ready for some fun in the sun – purchase your 2024 Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center season pass today!
Spring soccer leagues run from April – June and are available to those ages 4 years old – 5th grade. Soccer leagues include one weeknight practice (determined upon registration) and one game per week (played on Saturdays).
Join us for a personalized tour of Growing Tree Preschool!
Tours will provide parents the opportunity to learn about our program philosophy and curriculum, visit the classrooms, meet the teachers, and more! Parents can also enroll their children in the upcoming school year with a discounted registration fee.
Tours will take approximately 30 minutes and must be scheduled via our sign-up link.
As you drive down Almond Road in Gurnee, IL, you can catch a glimpse of Timberwoods Park. Timberwoods has been a part of the Gurnee Park District park system for several decades, and in the fall of 2021, received a few upgrades to its playground features.
Walking up to the playground, regardless of age, brings a feeling of wonder and excitement. Surrounding three blue slides are an array of intricately woven steps, climbing ropes, monkey bars, and ladders that guests of all ages could spend countless hours playing games like “Lava Tag” or “Woodchips” on. Sticking out tall and proud in the middle of it all is the main focal point of the park – a giant, twisty-turny tube slide. To get to the top of the slide, you have to climb a rope ladder that is encased in a giant, half-moon shaped apparatus. What kid, or even adult, wouldn’t want to try THAT out?!
In addition to a top-notch playground, Timberwoods Park also offers a basketball court as well as baseball/softball and soccer fields, perfect for any means of friendly competition!
Did you know? Timberwoods Park is often referred to as the “Blue Park” for its iconic blue playground features. When construction for playground equipment updates began in 2021, our Parks Team kept this sentiment in mind making sure all new equipment kept with the blue color scheme!
DEI CORNER – WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
The month of March celebrates Women’s History Month. We are honored to showcase some of the important female figures who have helped to make Gurnee Park District what it is today, as well as those who were an inspiration to the field of Parks and Recreation.
We will be open with limited hours on Easter Sunday, March 31. Please see below for our facility hours:
Hunt Club Park Community Center: CLOSED FitNation on Nations Drive: OPEN 7:00am – 12:00pm Viking Park Community Center: CLOSED
Have a “hoppy” day!
UPCOMING APRIL EVENTS:
FAMILY NERF WARS – 4/12
Gather your squad and get ready for an action-packed night of adrenaline-pumping Nerf battles and activities for the whole family to enjoy! Fuel up with a dinner of pizza, salad, and dessert before taking on the Nerf arena. All Nerf supplies, such as blasters, foam darts, and goggles will be provided (please leave your supplies at home).
Register for Family Nerf Wars beginning Tuesday, March 5 at 7:00am!
Looking for a FUN and REWARDING job? We’re hiring! Available positions include:
Aquatics (current and summer positions – PT) Customer Service Representatives (PT) Facility Maintenance I (FT, PT, & Seasonal) FitNation Childcare (PT) FitNation Member Services (PT) Fitness Attendant (PT) Fitness Group Exercise Instructor (PT) Grounds Maintenance I (Seasonal) Personal Trainer (PT) And MORE!
Have a great month! We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!
February 21, 2024
IAPD/IPRA Community Service Award Recipient – Barb Hooker
Gurnee Park District programs and events would not be possible without the help and support of our community volunteers. This year, we are proud to share that along with the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) and Illinois Parks and Recreation Association (IPRA), we recognize long-time volunteer Barbara “Barb” Hooker as recipient of the 2023 IAPD/IPRA Community Service Award!
For the past 23+ years, Barb, a long-time Gurnee resident, has been a steadfast presence here at Gurnee Park District. After retiring in 1999, Barb wanted to fill her time with something meaningful and decided to reach out to Gurnee Park District for any available volunteer opportunities. Our Volunteer Coordinator at the time saw the perfect fit and invited Barb to join our monthly “Senior Mixers.”
Every month, these luncheons bring together 85-135 local seniors who enjoy a catered lunch, dessert, entertainment, and heartwarming camaraderie. Our dedicated Senior Mixer volunteers, like Barb, go above and beyond, helping set up decorations, greet guests, serve, and clean up. Our Senior Mixer volunteers not only make it possible for Gurnee Park District to run events such as these, but also act as ambassadors for other senior programs in the Gurnee community.
On behalf of all of us at Gurnee Park District, we would like to extend our gratitude and recognition to Barb for her 23 years of selfless service to the Senior Mixer program, the older adult community, and the Gurnee Park District. Thank you, Barb, for making a difference and brightening the lives of so many here in Gurnee!
January 30, 2024
February 2024 Newsletter – Gurnee Park District
FEBRUARY 2024 GURNEE PARK DISTRICT NEWSLETTER
February is here and we are filled with all the feels as we look forward to another great month at Gurnee Park District! The arrival of February signals the excitement and anticipation that spring is close within reach (45 days away, to be exact). As this short month passes, remember to take a pause and enjoy the changes taking place – longer days, the weather turning slightly warmer (we hope), and the sounds of nature returning to fill the air once again. What a beautiful month we have in store!
With that said, make sure to get out and enjoy all that Gurnee Park District has to offer this month, such as events, walking trails, parks, programs, and so much more!
SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION – OPENS 2/6!
We are gearing up for another amazing summer, complete with a variety of camps, activities, special events, field trips, cookouts, and MORE!
Visit our 2024 Summer Camp Guide to view all of our offerings, and then, save your spot by registering TOMORROW! That’s right, camp registration opens Tuesday, February 6 at 7:00am!
The arrival of spring is just a few short weeks away, which means summer will be here before we know it! Make sure you and the family are ready for some fun in the sun – purchase your Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center 2024 season pass today!
We’ve got an all NEW theme this month for our February Monthly Mixer – “For the Love of Toys”! Are you ready to relive your childhood with some of those nostalgic memories of playing with your favorite toys? Well, we’re going to do just that! Join presenter Dean Milano for a demonstration that is sure to bring you back to your younger self!
Lunch will include lasagna, salad, and bread catered from Tina’s Italian Café in Gurnee.
Special thank you to our sponsor, Advocate Aurora Health, for making this event possible!
Registration is now being accepted for the 2024/2025 school year at Growing Tree Preschool! Did you know? We offer flexible options to fit every families needs, an engaging curriculum, amazing staff, and so much more! Click on our Preschool Preview Guide below to view our upcoming 2024/2025 offerings.
Lights! Camera! Action! Continue to build your acting skills learned in Introduction to Drama in our NEW Theater Performance Class! This class will focus on gearing up for a small play where our rising stars will perform for family and friends!
Saturdays – 9:00-10:30am Hunt Club Park Community Center March 9 – May 18 Performance will take place on May 18
One of our larger parks in the district, O’Plaine Park has it all! No matter the season, visitors to the park can immerse themselves in all the fun this park has to offer.
For those who enjoy staying active, O’Plaine Park offers a variety of athletic courts and fields for all interests. Gather your friends and get ready for some friendly competition on the basketball court, or use our open sports fields for batting, fielding, or kicking practice. In addition, players can also practice their pickleball skills amongst not just one, but eight available fenced in pickleball courts.
If you prefer to quietly take in the sights of nature at your own pace, walk on over to our large trail system/walking path. This paved path, which provides nearly 2 miles of exploration and adventure, showcases the beauty of the park as it weaves through groves of mature trees as well as the parks featured amenities.
Other featured amenities include a large, mud-free playground, picnic shelter, and indoor restrooms.
Did you know? O’Plaine Park is also home to our “Garden Plots.” Garden plots are available for rent beginning March 1 – May 1, with growing season taking place May 1 – November 15. If you are interested in showcasing your “green thumb,” make sure to save the date to reserve your plot!
Here at the Park District, as we deepened our understanding of Black History Month, we began by looking at its origins. We first recognized Dr. Carter G. Woodson who was the driving force behind this important commemoration. Dr. Woodson was an American historian, author, journalist, and the founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. He earned his PhD in History from Harvard University making him the second Black American (only following Dr. W.E.B Dubois) to graduate from Harvard. Dr. Woodson’s work and words continuously emphasized the significance of recognizing and preserving cultural achievements, as he stated, “Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history.”
Hop into spring at our Bunny Bash egg-stravaganza! Join us for a continental breakfast with all the fixings, an exhilarating egg hunt, creative crafts, and, of course, commemorative pictures with everyone’s favorite Bunny! There are three sessions to choose from:
We’re hiring for summer 2024! Get ready to gain experience while having plenty of FUN along the way! Available summer positions include:
Aquatics Lifeguard / Swim Instructor
Day Camp Counselor / Site Director
Marketing and Communications Intern
Recreation Intern
Click here for more information and to view ALL of our current job listings!
Have a great month! We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!
January 5, 2024
DEI CORNER – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Almost two years ago, we formed the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee at Gurnee Park District, a dedicated team of staff members who meet monthly to thoughtfully explore DEI related initiatives, goals, and community impacts. As we begin the new year, our committee is excited to share awareness on topics that we hope will inspire you to learn more about the significance and history each month celebrates.
For the month of January, we would like to recognize Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who dedicated his life to advocating for racial justice, nonviolent resistance, and the realization of the American dream for all citizens. His iconic leadership during the American Civil Rights Movement, particularly through the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the March on Washington, and his powerful speeches like “I Have a Dream,” played a critical role in dismantling racial segregation and inspiring positive societal change.
As we honor Martin Luther King Jr. in January, let us reflect on his legacy and the progress that has been made, while acknowledging that there is still work to be done in the pursuit of true equality and justice. King’s vision extends beyond his time, encouraging us to actively engage in conversations, challenge biases, and promote inclusivity in our community and beyond. Through our DEI initiatives, we aspire to emulate the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. by fostering an environment that values diversity, promotes equity, and celebrates the richness that comes from embracing different perspectives. Together, let us continue the journey towards a more inclusive and harmonious society, inspired by the principles laid down by this remarkable leader.
To learn more about the origins of this important holiday, the transformative work and achievements of King Jr., as well as view an inspiring virtual tour of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, please click on the following links:
Thank you for your time and we look forward to sharing more information next month!
January 3, 2024
January 2024 Gurnee Park District Newsletter
Happy New Year! It’s hard to believe another year has passed, but, as the saying goes, time sure does fly when you’re having fun!
Speaking of fun, we’ve already begun 2024 with a great start! This past Saturday, January 6th, we held our annual Frosty Fest event. Viking Park looked like a winter wonderland, complete with sleigh rides, ice sculpture games, and “snow” much more! Thank you to all who came to enjoy and support another fantastic event, including our sponsors from Advocate Aurora Health, BCU, and Honey Orthodontics!
And now, onto some more excitement this coming month!
POOL PASSES – ON SALE NOW!
It may only be the start of the winter season, but summer will be here before we know it! Make sure you and the family are ready for some fun in the sun – purchase your Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center 2024 season pass today!
Calling all park and recreation enthusiasts! Help predict the “Future of FUN” at Gurnee Park District, where anything is possible!
Is there a new program you would like to see offered, or maybe new play equipment you would like added to your favorite park? The possibilities are ENDLESS!
Share your ideas, BIG or small, by taking a short survey:
Have you ever wanted to be an ACTOR? Would you like to learn acting games and get comfortable speaking and being in front of an audience? Come join Acting UP where you will be trained in many acting techniques and learn the skills you need to be in the spotlight! You will also get the chance to give a performance in front of an audience of your family and friends!
This all NEW class begins 1/13-2/17!
Saturdays at Hunt Club Park Community Center 9:00-10:00am Ages 9-12
See how we learn and grow at Growing Tree Preschool! Whether your child currently attends or you are considering enrolling in the upcoming school year, our Open Houses provide parents the opportunity to learn about our program philosophy and curriculum. Each class room will have fun and engaging preschool activities for your child while parents learn more about the program from the teachers and administrative staff. Parents can also enroll their children in the upcoming school year with a discounted registration fee.
Open Houses will take place from 6:30-7:30pm on:
Wednesday, January 17 at Hunt Club Park Community Center Thursday, January 18 at Viking Park Community Center
*Registration for the 2024-2025 school year opens January 17th at 6:30pm!
WINTER BEACH BASH – 1/19
Those winter blues starting to make you feel down? Shake off the snow and join us for a night of beach-themed activities, prizes, and splashing good times at our 87-degree indoor pool at FitNation! Light snacks and drinks will be provided for all. Don’t forget your favorite beach attire!
Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by someone age 16+. Everyone attending must be registered for the event (even if they don’t want to swim). Children under 3 are free.
Almost two years ago, we formed the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee at Gurnee Park District, a dedicated team of staff members who meet monthly to thoughtfully explore DEI related initiatives, goals, and community impacts. As we begin the new year, our committee is excited to share awareness on topics that we hope will inspire you to learn more about the significance and history each month celebrates.
For the month of January, we would like to recognize Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who dedicated his life to advocating for racial justice, nonviolent resistance, and the realization of the American dream for all citizens.
Betty Russell Community Park is one of our most treasured parks here in Gurnee! Nestled in the Pembrook neighborhood, Betty Russell Park provides plenty of FUN for families all year round.
No matter the season, parkgoers can enjoy a variety of amenities including a large and imaginative playground, multiple outdoor sporting courts and fields, scenic nature trails, an outdoor ice hockey rink (winter season – weather permitting), and an enclosed shelter.
Fun Fact: Did you know, the park is named after Betty Russell, who served as Gurnee Park District Executive Director from 1977 – 1996.
UPCOMING FEBRUARY EVENTS:
MONTHLY MIXER – 2/13
Our Monthly Mixers return in February 2024 with an all NEW theme -“For the Love of Toys”! Are you ready to relive your childhood with some of those nostalgic memories of playing with your favorite toys? Well, we’re going to do just that! Join presenter Dean Milano for a demonstration that is sure to bring you back to your younger self!
Lunch will include lasagna, salad, and bread catered from Tina’s Italian Café in Gurnee.
Thank you to our sponsor, Advocate Aurora Health, for helping to make this event possible!
Looking for a FUN and REWARDING job this summer? We’re hiring for summer 2024!
Available positions include:
Aquatics:
Lifeguards
Pool Attendants
Swim Instructors
Customer Care
Day Camp:
Day Camp Counselor
Day Camp Leader in Training
Day Camp Site Director
Click here for more information and to view ALL of our current job listings!
Have a great month! We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!
December 15, 2023
Winter Wonder at Gurnee Park District
There is something truly magical about the winter season here at Gurnee Park District. As we watch the snowflakes begin to float delicately to the ground, and we shake off the morning frost, we’re reminded of the beauty and joy that awaits around every corner. Whether it be connecting with nature, creating lasting memories, or finding new ways to stay active, we are truly excited to share this season of wonder, adventure, and togetherness with all of you.
At Gurnee Park District, we believe in the power of nature, which is why we strive to protect and showcase the natural beauty of our parks. The winter season is no exception. When the snow begins to fall, our parks begin their transformation into beautiful winter wonderlands, ready to be explored by all. Whether you prefer sledding down the snowy hill at Christine Thompson Park, ice skating with friends at our outdoor ice rinks located at Betty Russell Park and Viking Park, or hiking through one of our glistening trails, we invite you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of our parks.
Looking for a little adventure this winter? Bundle up for a walk with our GO Gurnee Walking Club! Our walking club members meet every Saturday morning to traverse the scenic trails of not only Gurnee but those throughout Lake County. For members, it’s not only about exercise, but also creating new friendships with those who share similar interests, as well as engaging in warm conversations along the way. The sense of community our walking club embodies is contagious and we hope you can be a part of it this season and beyond.
As a park district, we strive to impart a feeling of connection and community in all that we do. This is especially true in this upcoming season of togetherness. Gather your friends, family, and neighbors for a lineup of special events that will make this winter season truly unforgettable. Delight in the joy of one of our favorite winter traditions – “Frosty Fest,” where you will find a variety of exciting activities for all ages to enjoy. No matter the season, we offer plenty of ways to keep the whole family involved and having fun.
After the holidays, we begin anew with a fresh start into a new year. Let FitNation help make 2024 your best year yet! Whether it’s a stimulating spin class, or a refreshing yoga session, our dedicated instructors will guide you towards achieving your fitness goals and keep you on track all season long!
Winter is a time for reflection and gratitude. With that said, we are honored to continue our commitment to providing memorable experiences that bring you closer to nature, foster a sense of community, and promote overall well-being. As we navigate the coming months, we thank you for being a part of the magic that is Gurnee Park District.
With warmest wishes and heartfelt appreciation,
Susie Kuruvilla, CPA, CPRP Executive Director
November 28, 2023
DECEMBER 2023 GURNEE PARK DISTRICT NEWSLETTER
As we head into the busy month of December, we wanted to wish you and yours a very happy holiday season! We thank you for your continued support throughout the year and we look forward to providing more FUN this month and in the months ahead!
December will be filled with plenty of opportunities for you and your family to get out and celebrate the season. Please see below for what’s to come!
2023-2024 WINTER PROGRAM AND EVENTS – REGISTER TODAY!
Registration is NOW OPEN for our upcoming 2023-2024 winter programs and events!
2024 HUNT CLUB PARK AQUATIC CENTER SEASON PASSES – ON SALE NOW!
Give the gift of summer fun this holiday season! Purchase your 2024 Aquatic Center season passes at the lowest rates of the season from now until 12/31!
Join us to kick-off the holidays with the 3rd annual “Holiday Lights” event at Welton Plaza (Old Grand Avenue)! We’ll have firepits and s’mores to keep you warm, food trucks to keep you full, craft stations to keep you busy, and much more!
Want to help those in need this holiday season? Staff will be collecting non-perishable food items for theWarren Township Food Pantry during the event. Please bring your donations to help make a difference in our community!
Celebrate the holidays with a lunch of roast beef, mashed potatoes, corn, and dessert. Following lunch, we will play “Singo,” a song Bingo game using holiday carols.
Feel free to bring a $6.00 or less wrapped gift for the gift exchange game!
11:30am – 1:00pm Viking Park | 4374 Old Grand Avenue Ages: 55+ Fee: $10
Winter Break is coming! Keep the kids busy with our Days Off School Programs! We have a variety of FUN activities planned for each day. Sign up today; spaces are limited!
This month’s Park Highlight is all about Viking Park (pictured above)! This expansive park, located off Old Grand Avenue, features not one, but TWO engaging playgrounds, paved and gravel walking paths, multiple sport courts, a challenging skate park, indoor and outdoor rental spaces, and plenty of picturesque backdrops for every season!
As we head into the month of December, prepare for Viking Park to be transformed into a magical winter wonderland, complete with holiday lights and an outdoor ice skating rink (weather dependent). NEW this year is a welcoming light tunnel brightening up a portion of our brick pathway. Feel free to take a stroll, and maybe a quick photo session, too!
UPCOMING JANUARY EVENTS:
FROSTY FEST – 1/6
Enjoy an unforgettable day of FREE outdoor family fun at Viking Park! Sleigh rides, ice skating (weather dependent), and other festive winter games and crafts will be available. Warm up with hot cocoa in the Dance Hall or s’mores by the fire!
See how we learn and grow at Growing Tree Preschool! Whether your child currently attends or you are considering enrolling in the upcoming school year, our Open Houses provide parents the opportunity to learn about our program philosophy and curriculum. Parents can also enroll their children in the upcoming school year with a discounted registration fee.
Open Houses will take place from 6:30-7:30pm on:
Wednesday, January 17 at Hunt Club Park Community Center (gymnasium) Thursday, January 18 at Viking Park Community Center (Dance Hall)
NOTE: Registration for the 2024/2025 school year will open on 1/17/24 at 6:30pm; those who register during an Open House will receive a discounted registration fee.
NEW! WINTER BEACH BASH – 1/19
Those winter blues starting to make you feel down? Shake off the snow and join us for a night of beach-themed activities, prizes, and splashing good times at our 87-degree indoor pool at FitNation! Light snacks and drinks will be provided for all. Don’t forget your favorite beach attire!
Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by someone age 16+. Everyone attending must be registered for the event (even if they don’t want to swim). Children under 3 are free.
900 N Hunt Club Rd
