Summer’s been a blast, but who’s ready to shut down the AC, take in a football game, hit the trail beneath a canopy of colors or celebrate the arrival of fall with a favorite family pastime?
From pumpkins to princesses, there’s no shortage of fun in our lineup of adventures.
Get started by checking out these upcoming 10 events, or visit our calendar pages for a full roster of activities.
Fairy Tale Wedding
You’re cordially invited to a magical evening at Blackberry Farm to celebrate the marriage of a royal couple surrounded by their closest friends. The event will begin with a short wedding ceremony performed by the Fairy Godmother at the Performance Pavilion. Following the ceremony, guests are treated to a catered dinner and DJ-led dancing with the wedding couple and their bridesmaids.
When: Friday, August 5 or Saturday, August 6 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Blackberry Farm – 100 S. Barnes Rd., Aurora
Ages: All ages
More info/register online
Adventure Camp for Active Adults
Unleash your inner kid and embark on a new adventure every day! Explore the treetops from a zipline, step off on a guided hike, paddle the Fox River in a canoe or kayak, or try your hand at axe-throwing and navigating an escape room! Pick your favorite(s) or choose all 4 and save $30!
When: August 15-18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Prisco Community Center – 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora
Ages: All
More info/register online
Bug Fest
Join us as we celebrate the wild world of bugs at our very last Bug Fest! Participate in activities involving our critter friends from Lippold Park to Red Oak Nature Center with fun stops along the way. Raffles, food, games and much more await!
When: Saturday, August 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Red Oak Nature Center – 2343 S. River St. (Rte. 25), Batavia
Ages: 3+
More info/register online
Pooch Pentathlon
Does your schnauzer have swimming skills? Can your labradoodle leap or dachshund dive? Here’s the chance for man’s best friend to show off in multiple events (or even just one) at Splash Country Water Park! Awards will be presented to the Top Dog in each event for each division.
When: Saturday, September 10 from Noon to 4 p.m.
Where: Splash Country Water Park – 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora
Ages: Dogs!
More info/register online
Fox Valley Amazing Race
As seen on TV (kind of)! Create a team of four adults and embark on an amazing race through the community. Teams are given a map and sets of clues to try and get from start to finish, completing mental and physical challenges along the way. Be sure to join us for a post-race party to celebrate your successes!
When: Saturday, September 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Various FVPD locations
Ages: 21+
Register online
Fall Special Needs Night
Families with individuals who have special needs are invited to enjoy a quiet, relaxing fall evening after regular operating hours at Blackberry Farm. Take rides on the train, carousel and wagon, play on the adventure playground and visit the museums! (Note: Tickets go on sale online Friday, Aug. 5)
When: Thursday, September 15 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Blackberry Farm, 100 S. Barnes Rd., Aurora
Ages: All
More info/purchase tickets on Aug. 5
Princess VIP
Visit with Jasmine, Tiana, Belle, Snow White & Moana (characters subject to change)! There’ll be photo opportunities galore as your little princes and princesses enjoy all of Blackberry Farm’s rides. Your advanced entry ticket includes admission to the park for the entire day (our princesses return to their kingdoms at 11 a.m.) and a souvenir for each child. (Note: Tickets go on sale online Friday, Aug. 5)
When: Sunday, September 25 – 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Where: Blackberry Farm – 195 S. Barnes Rd., Aurora
Ages: All
More info/purchase tickets on Aug. 5
Pumpkin Weekends
Each weekend in October, including Columbus Day (Monday, Oct. 10), enjoy family-friendly, pumpkin-themed festivities at Blackberry Farm, festively decorated for the fall season. Take in the fresh air and play in the Corn Crib in Farmer’s Junction, visit the Carriage Museum to purchase pumpkins, take pictures throughout the park at various photo-op locations and enjoy the park’s established attractions, such as train, carousel, hay wagon and pony rides.
When: Saturdays & Sundays in October + Columbus Day (Monday, October 10) – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Blackberry Farm – 100 S. Barnes Rd., Aurora
Ages: All
More info/purchase tickets
Forest of Fright
Explore the woods of Red Oak through a spooky self-led trail hike. Listen for the shrilling sounds that always seem to surface in the darkness. Then, sit by the campfire and listen to haunted tales. (Due to the thematic elements, children younger than 8 years old are encouraged to stay inside the nature center for crafts, music and games.)
When: Saturday, October 21 – 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Red Oak Nature Center – 2343 S. River St. (Rte. 25), Batavia
Ages: 8+
Register online
Haunted Train Ride
Beware of ghosts, witches, and goblins at mysterious points along the all-new Haunted Train Ride! Grab your flashlights and board if you dare! Join us for other spooky activities and crafts, and ride the carousel before gathering ‘round the bonfire with s’mores. (Note: Tickets go on sale online Friday, Aug. 5)
When: Friday, October 28 – 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Blackberry Farm – 100 S. Barnes Rd., Aurora
Ages: 6+
More info/purchase tickets on Aug. 5
