Feeling the urge to get out and play in the park? Lean into that spirit as July is Park and Recreation Month, a national effort to promote building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of these cherished public resources.
For Hinsdaleans that comes in the form of 122 acres of dedicated parkland at 18 sites and the Hinsdale Community Pool. The Hinsdale Parks & Recreation department is highlighting how parks and recreation programs enhance quality of life, promote healthy lifestyles, and foster community connections.
From outdoor adventures to community events, parks and recreation services offer something for everyone to enjoy and benefit from (check out the Out & About listing starting on Page 16 for details)
Don’t miss Lunch on the Lawn with Jeanie B! and the Jelly Beans from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. Wednesday, July 17, in Burlington Park. This free interactive show promises to be jam packed with dancing, sing-a-longs and plenty of silliness as Jeanie B! draws on her vast catalogue of original music.
Get in on the sports craze sweeping the nation by taking up pickleball. The village has responded to the growing need in recent years by creating six dedicated courts at Brook Park and adding pickleball striping to the two tennis courts at Robbins Park. Learn the basics in a beginner lesson from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesdays, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Thursdays or 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays. Experienced players can acquire advanced techniques from noon to 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Each lesson is $50 and has a five-student limit.
There’s no shortage of camps offered by the parks & rec department. Soccer Made in America Training Camp for ages 4-14 is offered in two sessions, July 22-26 and Aug. 5-9, in Robbins Park. Baseball/Softball Camp welcomes ages 7-12 from 1 to 3 p.m. July 29-Aug. 2 in Veeck Park. And there has to be pickleball, right? Archery & Pickleball Camp for ages 7-12 is from 1 to 3 p.m. July 15-19 split between Brook Park and KLM.
At the pool, take advantage of $5 admission all day tomorrow, July 12, for residents and nonresidents.
On Friday, July 19, the pool will host its Christmas in July Flick N’ Float with a screening of “Elf” and a special visit from Santa & Mrs. Claus.
Grandparents are invited to bring their grandkids to the pool on Monday, July, 22 for Grandparents’ Day and get free admission with a paying child.
The National Parks and Recreation Association has themed this year’s celebration “Where You Belong” to underscore the many ways park and recreation professionals across the country foster a sense of belonging in their community by providing welcoming and inclusive programs, essential services for all ages and abilities, and safe, accessible spaces to build meaningful connections.
We commend those helping cultivate that sense of belonging both on the Hinsdale Parks & Recreation staff and serving as volunteers on the village’s park and recreation commission.
Stroll over to your local park or sign up for recreation program this month. It’s where you belong.
