When the trees start to burst like autumn-tinged fireworks, the air becomes crisp ‘n fresh, and apple cider doughnuts headline the assortment of homemade goodies at local farm stands, well … yes, Fox Valley, we’re about to enter sweater weather.
Welcome to fall.
And with its return comes a new, outdoor activity presented by the Fox Valley Park District – Fall Family Neighborhood Art, a roving, interactive opportunity that touches five different parks throughout the District.
“You’re seeing the beauty and glory of summer as it transitions into the fall,” said Rachel Ossyra, the FVPD’s business development strategist. “Just that artistic feeling of being outside with your family, and having a project to work on, we see this as a really great occasion to bring families together and give the kids a chance to be creative.”
Typically held in early summer, Neighborhood Art was canceled this year, as the District adhered to state and local guidelines, resulting from the pandemic. In one of many pivots as we entered Phase 4, the FVPD’s Marketing team created Fall Family Neighborhood Art. The program is free, and families will be issued individually-packed art supply kits at the start of each session. FVPD site leaders will oversee each event, masks will be required, hand sanitizer provided and responsible social distancing will occur.
Pick a date and location that works for you:
Wednesday, Sept. 30: Tanner Trails Park (Bauer & Meade, North Aurora), 4-5 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 1: Waubonsie Lake Park (Montgomery & Kautz), 5-6 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 7: MLK Jr. Park (Farnsworth & Grand), 4-5 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 8: Austin Memorial Park (Montgomery & Route 25), 4-5 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 14: Blackhawk Park (Galena & Blackhawk), 4-5 p.m.
Activities, which are best suited for children ages 4 to 8 who must be accompanied by a participating adult, will include beading, using sidewalk chalk (on paper), and making frames and airplanes, to name a few. Participation is limited to 50 people at a time on a first-come, first-served basis. Please bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy some social-distanced fun.
“We’re happy to offer this shortened community service in the spirit of recreation,” said Dan Leahy, the FVPD’s director of marketing and communications. “It’s an opportunity to bring neighborhoods and families together in a safe environment and under the canopy of color provided by one of our parks.”
