Winter – it is a special time of year. From the first snow to twinkling lights that brighten long, cold nights, the winter season can be truly magical. Despite the chill in the air, winter brings a warmth of togetherness, adventure, and beauty. Whether through visiting our outdoor parks and events or taking refuge in a new program or fitness journey, we offer plenty of ways to make this season comforting and inviting for all.

Here at Gurnee Park District, we take pride in our outdoor parks, with the winter season holding no exception. As the snow begins to fall, watch as our parks suddenly emerge into winter wonderlands, ready to be explored by all. This year, our Parks Team was excited to transform our Viking and Esper Petersen Park locations with the magic of holiday light displays, the perfect backdrop for family photo sessions, or even a quiet nighttime stroll. As the season continues, we look forward to snow days at Christine Thompson Park’s sled hill, or ice skating at the Betty Russell Park ice rink. With 28 park locations, it’s easy to immerse yourself in the beauty of winter.

Staying active during the winter can be difficult, but we have some ideas to make it easier. If you like to be outside, consider joining our GO Gurnee Walking Club. Each Saturday morning, this group of walking enthusiasts bundle up to meet at various parks and preserves in Gurnee and throughout Lake County. Each walk includes miles of warm conversation, beautiful scenery, and plenty of adventure. For those who would rather stay indoors, head over to FitNation. FitNation offers all of the tools to lead an active lifestyle year-round, including a wide range of options for all fitness levels. With adult, senior, student, and teen memberships, the whole family can make staying active a priority this winter.

Looking for more ways to get the entire family involved this winter? Visit one of our special events! After the holidays pass by, gear up for one of our favorite winter traditions – Frosty Fest on Saturday, January 4. From horse-drawn carriage rides to ice sculptures, games, and crafts, Frosty Fest promises to bring fun for the whole family to enjoy.

So, whether it be getting outside to one of our parks, staying active by trying something new, or visiting one of our winter events, make sure to embrace the beauty around you this winter season.
From all of us here at Gurnee Park District, thank you as always for your continued support. We wish you and yours a joyous holiday season and we look forward to providing more fun in the new year to come.

Susie Kuruvilla, CPA, CPRP
Executive Director

Ring, ring, ring…it’s Santa calling! Gurnee Park District residents – save your child’s spot-on Santa’s call list and enjoy seeing them light up with excitement as they share their favorite holiday wishes over the phone!

To prepare, Gurnee Park District staff will email parents/guardians an information form to complete so that Santa has the most current information when on the call.
Please note: Santa may have many phone calls to make, therefore, he can only chat with children registered for the program (3-5 minutes).

*This event is for Gurnee Park District residents only

Tuesday, December 17th from 5:30-8:00pm 

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.

Thursday, January 23
6:00-7:00pm
Viking Park Community Center (Dance Hall)

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.

Wednesday, January 22
6:00-7:00pm
Hunt Club Park Community Center (preschool classrooms)

Join the GO Gurnee Walking Club at Swanson & Trigg Conservation Area Trail (3858 University Avenue, Gurnee)!

View map location here!

Directions/Walk Details: We will meet at University Park (3858 University Avenue) in Gurnee. Note: University Park has 2 parking lots. The main is on University and the other is on Ellis with overflow on the street. Partial gravel trail & partially paved paths. Part is shaded. A .8-mile trail loop plus another 1.74-mile neighborhood loop for a nice 2.5-mile walk. Pets allowed. No restrooms.

Not a Walking Club member? Join for FREE today!

Join the GO Gurnee Walking Club at Grandwood Park Park District Trails. 36630 N. Hutchins Road in Gurnee!

View map location here!

Directions/Walk Details: The parking lot is just North of their rec center. Several interconnected trails from 1.2 miles – 3.7 miles. Paved & gravel.

Not a Walking Club member? Join for FREE today!

Join the GO Gurnee Walking Club at VanPatten Woods East (15838 W. Route 173, Wadsworth)!

View map location here!

Directions/Walk Details: There are 2 trails – one is 1.7 miles and the other is 1 mile for a nice 2.5-mile walk. Crushed gravel. Protected from the wind by trees. When you enter the preserve, go to the 1st parking lot on the RIGHT. We will meet there. Note this is the EAST side and not the usual walk around the lake. Pets allowed. Outhouse by the parking lot.

Not a Walking Club member? Join for FREE today!

Join the GO Gurnee Walking Club at Captain Daniel Wright Woods (24830 N. St. Mary’s Road, Mettawa)!

View map location here!

Directions/Walk Details: There are 4 interconnected trails with loops from a half mile to 2.5 miles composed of crushed gravel and mostly flat. 90% shaded. Outhouse and playground by the parking lot. Pets welcome.

Not a Walking Club member? Join for FREE today!

Join the GO Gurnee Walking Club at McDonald Woods Forest Preserve (19611 W. Grass Lake Road, Lake Villa)!

View map location here!

Directions/Walk Details: There are 2 connecting loops of crushed gravel totaling 3.5 miles. Mostly flat but there are a few gently rolling hills. There is an additional 1-mile side loop (woodchip base) which is quite hilly and extremely beautiful for those wanting a bit more of a challenge. It goes down into a ravine and back up again. Outhouse by the parking lot. Pets allowed.

Not a Walking Club member? Join for FREE today!

Join the GO Gurnee Walking Club at Volo Bog (28478 Brandenburg Road, Ingleside)!

View map location here!

Directions/Walk Details: We’ll start on the floating half-mile trail out to the actual bog and then we’ll be taking the 2.5-mile trail that circumvents the property. Half is crushed stone and half is hard packed grass (with a very small section of floating walkway). It is quite hilly and as a matter of fact, the preserve calls this “moderately” difficult.  Both trails combined are 3.4 miles total. Pets allowed but not encouraged with an uneven floating bridge and sensitive plants in the area. Outhouse by the parking lot.

Not a Walking Club member? Join for FREE today!