Pumpkinpalooza
Bunker Hill • Niles, IL 60714Family-friendly activities including pumpkin painting and bowling, ring toss, leaf rubbings, fall-themed obstacle course, and more. In partnership with Jerome […]
Family-friendly activities including pumpkin painting and bowling, ring toss, leaf rubbings, fall-themed obstacle course, and more. In partnership with Jerome […]
Enjoy a guided walk to view and photograph seasonal nature. For all levels and camera types. Ages 13 & up.
Mark the end of the paddling season with the Forest Preserves and enjoy one last trip on the water! All […]
Enjoy some spooky storytelling around the campfire. Ages 8 & up.
In partnership with Saint Kateri Center of Chicago, listen to storytelling, take a night hike, make a s’more, view stars, […]
Ride Illinois will lead a safety talk before we take off for a fun, casual, family-friendly bike. Loaner bikes available.
Join us for a workshop covering basic camping skills. All ages.
Awaken your senses and renew your bond with the nature and the Preserves. Certified Forest Therapy guide. Ages 18 & […]
Learn how local nature adjusts to the changing seasons and prepare for winter.
Walk & Talk Hikes are for the curious mind who want to know more about the Forest Preserves and natural […]
Learn about the different attributes that make owls unique and fascinating.
Learn some basic winter bird feeding tips including which birds will visit your feeders this winter.
Repurpose the common European buckthorn into something new. Equipment provided. Ages 10 & up.
Celebrate the start of the winter season with a giant bonfire under the night sky. Enjoy winter craft and star […]
Drop in to learn the basics about winter bird feeding and pick up a do-it-yourself pinecone bird feeder craft.
Enjoy an afternoon in the Preserves and learn the basics of photography using a smartphone.
Learn fire-building skills and stick around for a story and s’mores around the fire.
A guided walk on our trails to search for local owls. Ages 8 & up.
Join us and a special guest for a talk about owls.
Get to know the Forest Preserves! Learn about the Forest Preserves while taking a slow hike.
Calling all creatives! Join us for our themed sessions as we explore printmaking.
Explore the beauty of nature through watercolor painting. Drop-in is available for additional watercolor activities.
Join us for a guided walk in the dark woods and learn about nocturnal animals.
Search our trails for the mighty snow flea and learn about other winter insects.
Learn about the amazing world of Ice Age Illinois through a series of family-oriented games and activities. Ages 5 & […]
Couples and friends are invited to enjoy the nature center grounds at their leisure. Walk our candlelit trails, relax around […]
Learn the story behind this peculiar holiday.
Join us for our themed sessions as we explore knitting. Ages 13 & up.
Help us celebrate owls and learn what makes them so unique!
Repurpose the common European buckthorn into something new. Equipment provided. Ages 10 & up.
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.