Summer’s swoon steps aside for September when it’s time to treat yourself to some fun escapes after busy weeks of school or work. From an afternoon tea with the grandkids to a 5K through nature’s canopy in the woods, here are five activities to consider this month, but be sure to check out the Events Calendar for a full lineup of September fun!

Touch A Truck (Free!)

Climb, pose, and play in a variety of vehicles in the back parking lot of Blackberry Farm. Vehicles may include police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, bulldozers, tractors, and more! The park will not be open during the free event, which is geared toward preschoolers filled with wonder when they see different machinery than mom or dad drives. Stop by to get an up-close look and touch! Event is held in the Blackberry Farm parking lot; the park is closed.

When: Thursday, September 7, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Blackberry Farm (parking lot), 100 S. Barnes Rd., Aurora
Ages: Preschool
More info

Afternoon Tea with Grandma & Me

Settle in for a cozy, social afternoon with your grandkids! Sip “tea” (or punch) and enjoy mini desserts with the little ones as they make special crafts for Grandma and Grandpa. Be sure to stop by our decorative fall backdrop to snap a nice family picture! (Note: Please register each person age 3+ attending by Sept. 5.)

When: Saturday, September 9, from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Where: Prisco Community Center, 150 W. Illinois Ave.
Ages: 3+
More info

Wine & Canvas at the Farm

Add a personal piece to your cooler-weather home or office décor with “Fall Leaves,” as an on-site instructor guides you through your own custom canvas creation. Bring a bottle of your favorite wine, snacks, and a few friends, and enjoy a lively, social, and creative night out. Paintings are posted monthly on Blackberry Farm’s Facebook page. Like and follow us today! (Note: You must be 21+ to consume alcohol).

When: Wednesday, September 13 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Blackberry Farm, 100 S. Barnes, Rd., Aurora
Ages: 18+ (21+ to consume alcohol)
More info

Kickball at the Park

Round up your friends and register to compete in one of everybody’s favorite playground games! With two age groups, we’ll split into teams and play different versions of the classic outdoor game at Harmony Pointe Park, located at the north end of the Vaughan Athletic Center. (Note: The activity will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.)

When: Friday, September 15 and 22, from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m.
Where: Harmony Pointe Park (behind Vaughan Athletic Center)
Ages: 6-8Y and 9-11Y
More info

Bigfoot Trail Run 5K

Race around the Red Oak Nature Center and trail paths, along with areas of off-trail terrain and elevation, to experience a true jaunt through the woods in our inaugural fall 5K! Features include a T-shirt and race medal (if registered by Sept. 14!), chip-timed results, and prizes for overall male and female winners. The race begins and ends at The Wilds at Red Oak … be sure to stay and enjoy the post-race gathering with food and activities at our newest facility!

When: Saturday, September 30, at 9 a.m.
Where: The Wilds at Red Oak, 1400 N. River Rd. (Rte. 25), North Aurora
Ages: 5+
More info