So long, summer, see ya next year! It’s time for the temps to drop, the leaves to change, and to get out (or in) to enjoy the “cool” programs offered by the Fox Valley Park District. For a full lineup of fall adventures, visit our calendar pages. For starters, consider these 10 events when filling in your calendar.

Cubs vs. Cardinals at Wrigley Field

Experience a Cubs game against the rivals from the south – and leave the driving to us! Dropoff and pickup is right outside the ballpark. Covered seats are in Terrace Reserved section 226 on the first-base side. Game time is 1:20 p.m. and cost includes ticket and FVPD bus transportation.

When: Friday, September 20 – 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Where: Prisco Community Center – 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora
Ages: 10Y & up
Register online

Pizza with Prince Charming & Cinderella

Come join the fun and indulge in games, a bounce house, crafts and personal pizzas with a special Prince Charming and Cinderella!

When: Saturday, September 21 – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Prisco Community Center – 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora
Ages: 2Y & up + grandparent
Register online

Jurassic Fest

Join us for a Dino-packed afternoon of Jurassic-inspired activities! Participants can look forward to games, crafts, snacks, inflatables, and more! Staff from Red Oak Nature Center will be providing a hands-on learning experience for young paleontologists. Register early for a discounted rate!

When: Saturday, September 21 – 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: Vaughan Athletic Center – 2121 W. Indian Trail, Aurora
Ages: 3Y to 7Y
Register online

Pumpkin Weekends

Enjoy family-friendly fall festivities at Blackberry Farm! Admission includes all rides and attractions. Pumpkins can be purchased additionally for $3 upon arrival. Check our Facebook page for a detailed schedule of events. All ticket sales are final.

When: Weekends in October & Columbus Day (Monday, Oct. 14) – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Blackberry Farm – 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora
Ages: Open to everyone
Purchase tickets

Halloween Hayride

Dress up in your favorite Halloween costume and join us! Take a scenic hayride around Lake Gregory, enjoy family activities, and make s’mores at the campfire. This is a great program for families to enjoy together. Each person attending must be registered. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

When: Saturday, October 12 – 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Blackberry Farm – 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora
Ages: 2Y & up
Register online

Spooktacular

Grab your flashlights and party at Blackberry Farm! Enjoy the train and carousel, bonfire with s’mores and spooky stories followed by a flashlight skeleton hunt. Dinner is included with admission. Pre-registration is required.

When: Friday, October 25 – 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Blackberry Farm – 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora
Ages: 9Y-13Y
Register online

Halloween Nerf Night

Start with an hour of Nerf battles, followed by pizza and a viewing of the classic favorite Halloween Town. Bring your own Nerf gun, or borrow one of ours.

When: Friday, October 25 – 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Prisco Community Center – 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora
Age: 8Y-14Y
Register online

Spooky Soiree

Bring grandma and grandpa for some spooky fun! Everyone will get to decorate a sugar cookie, paint a pumpkin, play fun games, make a craft and check out our kid-friendly “haunted house”. Everyone must register to attend at least 1 week prior to day of event. No day-of registrations allowed.

When: Saturday, October 26 – 10 a.m. to Noon
Where: Prisco Community Center – 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora
Ages: 2Y & up
Register online

Forest of Fright & Delight

Explore our woods at night on a self-led, haunted cave hike. Sit by the campfire and listen to ghostly tales. Inside, enjoy activities, music and games. Flashlights recommended.

When: Saturday, October 26 – 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Red Oak Nature Center — 2343 S. River Street (Rte. 25), Batavia
Ages: 7Y & up
Purchase tickets

Family Turkey Bowl

Grab your family and friends and rent an unlined field for your yearly Turkey Bowl game. Stuart Sports Complex is home to some of the best fields in town. Secure your field today for this event.

When: Thursday, November 21 – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Stuart Sports Complex – Montgomery
Ages: Your discretion but, hey, it’s football.
Secure your spot by emailing Kara Reid at kreid@fvpd.net.