Calendar

Upcoming Events

There’s always a good reason to go to the park.

View All Special Events

Discover a rich calendar of outdoor experiences at Great Parks. From guided hikes, wildlife encounters and exhilarating adventures to hands-on classes, garden clubs and family storytime, there’s something for every age and interest. Filter by location, activity type or visitor group to easily plan a visit across scenic parks, lakes, gardens and conservation areas. Many programs are free or reduced-cost, offering accessible ways to build confidence, wellness, creativity and connection. Perfect for families, nature enthusiasts and community explorers seeking enriching, active time outdoors.

refresh
FILTER BY:

October 2026

icon Special Event
Sat 31
8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
calendar_add_on

Birding 101

calendar_today Saturday, October 31

watch 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM

group Teens and Adults

Age(s): 14+
Location: Winton Woods | Fitness Trailhead

What to know

Clock out and head out to various Great Parks destinations in this series of guided hikes that make Mondays something to look forward to!   

Cost: Free
Recurring: Date Oct. 17, Oct. 31, Nov. 14| Multiple locations
Register
Sat 31
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
calendar_add_on

Public Trail Ride

calendar_today Saturday, October 31

watch 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

group All Ages

Age(s): 7+
Location: Winton Woods Farm & Equestrian Center | Farm Riding Center

What to know

Trail rides are offered to the Public on Saturdays and Sundays from Memorial Day weekend through October. The program begins at 5:00 p.m. with a brief riding overview before heading out on the trail. In the event of inclement weather, an indoor lesson will be provided instead. Trail rides must be reserved at least one week in advance.

Cost: $50

Height Min: 48in

Weight Max: 200lbs
Register
Sun 1
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
calendar_add_on

Natural Dyeing

calendar_today Sunday, November 1

watch 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM

group All Ages

Age(s): All Ages
Location: Sharon Woods | Sharon Center

What to know

Learn about which plants in the park can be used to make natural dyes, then try your hand at dyeing bandanas.
Cost: $10
Register
Sun 1
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
calendar_add_on

Framing Nature Photo Walk

calendar_today Sunday, November 1

watch 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM

group Adults

Age(s): 18+
Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve | Ellenwood Nature Barn

What to know

Join photojournalist Malinda Hartong for a relaxing walk on the Pin Oak Trail to hone your macro skills and capture winter textures in stunning, artistic ways. Explore the park's history and pick up expert tips for photographing wildlife and landscapes. All skill levels and camera types (smartphone, DSLR or mirrorless) are welcome!
Sun 1
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
calendar_add_on

Explore Your Environmental Foodprint

calendar_today Sunday, November 1

watch 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM

group Teens and Adults

Age(s): 10+
Location: Nature Center at The Summit

What to know

Thanksgiving is approaching! With feasts on the brain, it’s a great time to explore how our diets impact the land, water, climate and wildlife around us. Discover the effects of industrial agriculture, learn how regenerative farming restores ecosystems and find simple ways to make a positive difference.
VIEW MORE EVENTS arrow_downward Top arrow_upward