By Margaret Holler
Marketing & Public Relations Director
Park Ridge Park District

There are so many special events at the Park Ridge Park District this summer! I love how summer events bring out families and friends and enhances the wonderful, community feel of Park Ridge. The following are some of my favorite events this summer:

Concerts in the Park — If it’s a Friday night, Hodges Park is the place to be. The Park District will kick off the summer concerts with SODA on June 16, then The Stingrays on June 23. All concerts are from 8-9:30 p.m., but check our website for other activities being held before the concerts. Starting on July 7, the Park Ridge Fine Arts Society takes over the concerts held on July 7, 14, 21, 28, and August 4 and 11.

Plus, if you have little ones, family concerts are held at Prospect Park on Tuesday evenings from 6-7 p.m. July 11 is Scribble Monster, and July 25 is Istvan & His Imaginary Band.

July 3 fireworks celebration — This event seems to bring out the entire city to Maine East High School. The Park District provides a DJ and an interactive dance party for the kids from 6:30-8 p.m., live music entertainment starts at 8 p.m., and then the huge fireworks show once it’s dark. You are encouraged to pack a picnic and get there early to claim a great spot. If you are worried about parking, you can purchase a preferred parking pass in advance from the Park District. The deadline to purchase a pass is June 24, while spaces last.

Sunday Yoga in the Park — Bring your workout outdoors on Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. at Hodges Park. Ages 5 and older are invited, but we ask that children ages 5-12 are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Yoga in the Park is held every Sunday, July 9-30. Oh, and did I mention, these workouts are free? This event is sponsored by Patina Wine Bar.

Movies in the Parks — This great family event is held at Prospect Park. On Thursday, July 20 it is Christmas in July! Arrive early to visit with Santa on Park Ridge’s original 1934 Fire Trick. Then enjoy a viewing of The Grinch. This event is presented in partnership with the Park Ridge Historical Society. On August 10, join us for Super Pets. Movies begin at dusk, and in the event of inclement weather, movies will be shown indoors at the O’Connor Community Building at Prospect Park.

Country Farm Fair — Did you know you could enjoy a day down on the farm, right here in Park Ridge?! Head over to the Wildwood Nature Center on Saturday, July 29 from noon-3 p.m. There’s a petting zoo featuring more than 20 animals, pony rides and hayrides, along with family events like a pie-eating contest and tug of war. Event admission is free, but some activities have a nominal fee.

For more happenings this summer, visit PRParks.org