News

“Parks for Pollinators” BioBlitz set for Sept. 12-20 in DuPage parks The preservation and expansion of pollinator habitats remain a high priority at the Fox Valley Park District, for the butterflies, bats and bees comprise a vital component of our ecosystem and an essential link to the world’s food supply. So, naturally, we’ll raise a… Read More

Press Release – September 3, 2020 Blackberry Farm’s popular, holiday-themed events sidelined by pandemic AURORA – Due to the significant restrictions placed on Blackberry Farm, which is unique in that it carries both museum and theme-park status, the Fox Valley Park District has opted to cancel two of the living history museum’s signature, holiday-themed events.… Read More

It’s the age-old question posed by every parent, one that far predates the invention of disposable diapers and dollhouses. What are we gonna do with the kids? Jaime Ijams, director of recreation at the Fox Valley Park District, asked the same of her husband last month, when many local school districts were still deciding between… Read More

Ever been pedaling, stroller-pushing, jogging or walking along a trail, only to quite literally come to the end of the road – an occurrence that requires a dismount or detour? Sometimes more than an inconvenient hassle, right? That’s why the Fox Valley Park District remains committed to what we call “trail connectivity,” enabling uninterrupted traffic… Read More

If you’re the parent of a ballplayer or kiddos who like to operate the diggers at one of our playgrounds, perhaps you’ve come across the Sand Wasp (Bembix) – one of more than 1,200 sand wasp species in North America. Not to worry. They’re all buzz, no sting. With a gestation period of about six… Read More

Good to see you, July, and Happy National Park and Recreation Month! Sure, things may look and feel a bit different this year, but there’s every reason to celebrate this special month, for we as a country – not just an agency – have officially observed Park and Recreation Month since 1985. Though the COVID-19… Read More

Responsible conservation and sustainability practices remain a top priority for the Fox Valley Park District, and directly support a pillar in our mission to “enrich the community … through environmentally and fiscally responsible actions.” That’s one reason why Illinois Pollinator Week – June 22-28, this year – always, well, creates a buzz around the District.… Read More

Bernard Cigrand moved to the Fox Valley in 1913. He was 47 at the time, a prominent dentist who relocated his successful practice to Aurora in 1920. Dr. Cigrand died in 1932, before figuratively returning to the area 70 years later – the Fox Valley Park District’s Blackberry Farm, to be exact – where he… Read More

Press Release – June 4, 2020 Programs begin June 8 at Vaughan, Prisco and Eola centers AURORA – In accordance with Governor J.B. Pritzker’s Restore Illinois approach to safely reopen the state, the Fox Valley Park District is set to begin offering in-person Fox Fitness programs, albeit with a new look and feel. Beginning Monday,… Read More

Jim Oberweis stood on the new, 2,000-square-foot plaza outside of The Barn at Blackberry Farm and surveyed the new amenities. The Illinois 25th District Senator, who sponsored the $50,000 grant awarded to the Fox Valley Park District through the state’s Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunities (DCEO), echoed the sentiments of many. “I think it’s… Read More