Colors of the Forest – Natural Dyes
Trailside Museum of Natural History • River Forest, IL 60305Hands-on class teaching the traditional uses of plants and trees as dyes. In partnership with Trickster Gallery as part of […]
Hands-on class teaching the traditional uses of plants and trees as dyes. In partnership with Trickster Gallery as part of […]
Enjoy this “creative-reuse carnival” with themed games made from re-purposed materials! Win prizes, learn about nature, and more.
Travel and trace the butterfly’s migration route through fun activities, kid’s crafts and more. Learn how you can help monarchs […]
Children ages 3 – 6, w/adult, are invited to hear a nature story, followed by a short, mindful guided walk […]
Learn about Forest Preserves restoration efforts, goals, and ways you can get involved on this walk. Ages 12 & up.
Fitness Hikes are for those looking to get some exercise outdoors. Fitness hikes will be faster paced with little to […]
Connect to nature through fun themed activities for adults and kids. Hosted by Univ of IL Extension volunteers.
Celebrate the first day of autumn with a walk.
Join the American Indian Center of Chicago to learn about the Autumnal Equinox. Grove 2.
Celebrate National Public Lands Day with a Salsa Dance Party. Enjoy bilingual hikes and family activities. Programa ofrecido en Espanol.
Join us for a walk through the unusual dolomite prairie to see the late-blooming wildflowers. Ages 16 & up.
Walk a short trail near the Museum while reading the posted story. Afterwards, stop in the Museum lobby to pick […]
Forest therapy opens the gateway for creativity and a deepened relationship with self and the natural world. Led by certified […]
Experience a story unfold along a short, looped trail. A craft is available to take home after you complete the […]
Join our partners the River Forest Public Library and the River Forest Park District for an evening of slightly spooky […]
In partnership with the American Indian Center of Chicago, join us to celebrate Native American culture with a mini-Powwow. Make […]
Sketch and paint. For both beginners and more experienced artists. All materials provided.
Collect prairie seeds with us and learn about the story of the prairie. Ages 12 & up.
Join us (if the sun is shining) to view a partial solar eclipse! We will have special telescope set up […]
Individuals with physical disabilities and their friends and families can explore nature through adaptive cycling and rock wall climbing. In […]
Connect to nature through fun themed activities for adults and kids. Hosted by Univ of IL Extension volunteers.
Forest therapy opens the gateway for creativity and a deepened relationship with self and the natural world. Led by certified […]
Learn about local reptiles and meet some scaly Animal Ambassadors.
Take a guided walk in the woods in celebration of Polish American Heritage Month.
Join a family-friendly evening with a cozy fire, s ’mores, a “spooky” story trail, star gazing, pumpkin painting and more. […]
Walk & Talk Hikes are for the curious mind who want to know more about the Forest Preserves and natural […]
For teachers/youth educators! DHLT gives you all the tools to take groups out into the preserves for the day.
Come join the Forest Preserves of Cook County at Go Ape for an unforgettable autumn experience complete with local vendors, […]
Make a simple musical instrument or bring your own and join the jam by playing or listening.
Join us at Trailside to discuss "The Soul of an Octopus" by Sy Montgomery. For adults,
Nearly all Forest Preserves events are free; some require registration and/or a low fee. Residents may qualify for free admission opportunities at our partners: Brookfield Zoo Chicago and the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Printed copies of our quarterly Events Guide are available at our Nature Centers and General Headquarters. They may also be available at your local city hall or library. Know a location that should have our Events Guide? Contact us.
Events Guide (PDF)Get free transportation to the Forest Preserves for your group.
Learn MoreSign up for the Forest Way and receive the latest Forest Preserves news, events and volunteer opportunities each month. View past newsletters.
Sign UpThe Forest Preserves is committed to providing equal, integrated participation for individuals with disabilities. Please contact the Nature Center hosting your event or program 72 hours in advance to request reasonable accommodations or inquire about site accessibility.
Please contact Experience.Nature@cookcountyil.gov or 708-771-1573 about accommodations for specific camping and outdoor recreation activities.