Waukegan, Illinois (May 15, 2023) – The Waukegan Park District is celebrating Kids to Parks Day on Saturday, May 20, 2023 from 9am to 11am at Victory Park, located at 1325 North Avenue. Organized by the National Park Trust, the mission of Kids to Parks Day is to foster future outdoor enthusiasts and help with developing the next generation of park stewards by engaging kids in memorable outdoor experiences.
2023 marks the thirteenth anniversary of Kids to Parks Day. This year’s event will feature sports, kite flying, and a guided walk with educational presentations about the park’s history. Free popcorn and kites will be provided for participants while supplies last.
Traditionally hosted on the third Saturday of May, Kids to Parks Day is a national day of outdoor play that encourages kids and families to get outside and create their own adventure at thousands of local park events and programs. National Park Trust works with cities and towns, teachers, families, park and public land officials, as well as numerous sponsors and partners to make these events possible.
In 2022, the Waukegan Park District improved Victory Park with a new playground, fitness area, restroom, healing garden, bark park for dogs, walking path, and restoration of the baseball fields, including the Fred Reckling Field.
Jeremiah Johnson, President of the Waukegan Park District Board of Commissioners, stated, “The Waukegan Park District is excited to join the National Park Trust in celebrating Kids to Parks Day again this year. With an emphasis on park stewardship, outdoor recreation, nature, and history, Kids to Parks Day can inspire kids to discover new ways to explore the great outdoors.”
Jay Lerner, Executive Director of the Waukegan Park District, stated, “Kids to Parks Day is an opportunity to encourage kids and their families to visit their local parks and engage in outdoor play and exploration. The Waukegan Park District is proud to provide award-winning parks with various amenities in neighborhoods throughout the city.”
Preregistration is not required. More information about the Waukegan Park District’s celebration of Kids to Parks Day is available at waukeganparks.org/kidstoparksday.