Sand Ridge Heritage Day
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Celebrate the rich heritage of the Calumet region. On this day, we will collaborate with various partner organizations that host […]
Celebrate the rich heritage of the Calumet region. On this day, we will collaborate with various partner organizations that host […]
Rustle through the fallen leaves on a guided 1-mile fitness walk.
Experience the health benefits that nature provides on a crisp winter walk. Ages 13 & up. 3.4 miles.
Visit our pioneer cabins as we celebrate winter holiday traditions. Play with handmade toys, make a craft, and see what’s […]
Walk the trails with a candle lantern as you discover signs of nighttime forest activity.
Fitness Hikes are for those looking to get some exercise outdoors. Fitness hikes will be faster-paced with little to no […]
Join us as we celebrate the beginning of winter with a large bonfire, artmaking, nature walks and more.
Celebrate the shortest day of the year with a potluck and s’mores by the campfire.
Join us for an up-close look at the brave birds staying local during winter at our feeders. Hot chocolate provided.
In this instructor-led course, create a painting inspired by nature. All materials provided. Ages 15 and up.
Seven days of music and nature-based activities following the seven principles: Day 1: Dec 26 - Umoja (Unity) Day 2: […]
Get creative and learn some new skills. Projects will include woodburning, painting and fiber arts. Ages 9-13 & families.
Take steps towards your health goals during this light, 1-mile nature walk.
Bring the whole family and enjoy winter in the Preserves with snowshoeing, nature hikes, art, campfires and more!
Hang out by the fire with friends and enjoy a sweet treat. S’mores supplies provided.
Explore the Preserves via snowshoe! If conditions are not favorable for snowshoeing (4” or more of packed snow), hikes and […]
Stop by the nature center to participate in a self-led litter pick-up. Garbage bags and disposable gloves available.
Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a day of service. Join us for an afternoon of litter clean-up, crafts […]
Learn what it takes to keep our forest healthy and participate in a day of service. S’mores provided.
For curious minds who want to know more about the Forest Preserves, these hikes will be led at a slower […]
Fitness Hikes are for those looking to get some exercise outdoors. Fitness hikes will be faster-paced with little to no […]
Help staff remove invasive plants through a brush pile burn and treat yourself to s’mores. Ages 10 & up.
Be inspired by the winter landscape and create pieces of art using woodburning or pyrography techniques and watercolor paints. BYOB. […]
Start your morning with birds and bagels! Enjoy a treat while observing local birds at our feeders. Bagels, light refreshments […]
Explore the Preserves via snowshoe! If conditions are not favorable for snowshoeing (4” or more of packed snow), hikes and […]
Shift your focus from daily hassles during an outdoor wellness and journaling session.
Enjoy a brief introduction to owls and their amazing adaptations and skills followed by a short walk on our trails […]
Plant lovers unite! Native plant presentation followed by seed and plant sharing. All are welcome. Bring a mug; warm beverage […]
For curious minds who want to know more about the Forest Preserves, these hikes will be led at a slower […]
Activities to educate and celebrate the Lunar New Year–Year of the Dragon.
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.