Lincolnwood Parks and Recreation encourages the community to get active, connect with nature and to improve health and wellness by offering residents a wide variety of programs and services including fitness, athletics, after-school activities, senior programs and outdoor recreation.
The parks and recreation department manages over 13 parks, many nestled within neighborhoods and within short walking distance, three bike/pedestrian paths, and an extensive aquatic facility and community center. According to the National Association of Realtors, parks, trails and playgrounds are among the top five most important community amenities that new home owners are looking for, and residences near neighborhood parks account for a 20 percent increase in property values.
Living close to parks and recreation facilities is consistently related to higher physical activity levels for both adults and youth. The Institute of Medicine has stated that the walkability of neighborhoods and access to parks and recreation facilities are essential strategies for preventing childhood obesity.
The Lincolnwood Parks and Recreation Department is committed to supporting the health and wellness of the community. The district’s GO LINCOLNWOOD fitness initiative encourages residents to make a commitment to walk each day for at least 30 minutes for health and wellness. From June to October each year, the park district will host free GO LINCOLNWOOD fitness activities to help residents reach their fitness goals.
The park district’s largest community event of the year is the Lincolnwood Turkey Trot, which is now celebrating its 42nd year. This 5K/10 timed race and 5K fitness walk, which is always held the Sunday before Thanksgiving, also includes a Drumstick Dash for kids 6 and under. The Lincolnwood Turkey Trot attracts over 2,000 registered participants each year, as well as many more who come to cheer on the runners and walkers and to enjoy the festivities surrounding the event. It is a great local event that draws from many surrounding communities and is a source of local pride.
Lincolnwood Parks and Recreation also places a high value on improving the quality of life in Lincolnwood by providing events that serve the entire community. For example, each of the Thursday Night Summer Concert evenings feature free face painting and an inflatable activity for kids that elevate them into mini-festivals that attract upwards of 300 people of all ages to enjoy a relaxing evening in Proesel Park. This year, the park district will present some of the biggest performers in Chicago area, including ABBA Salute, Sushi Roll and The Student Body.
With the support of local business partnerships, Lincolnwood Parks and Recreation is proud to present its annual special event line-up. Visit recreation.lwd.org for more information, and to learn about sponsorship opportunities throughout the year.
WINTER
Lincolnwood Lights Tree Lighting Ceremony (December)
Breakfast with Santa (December)
Daddy-Daughter Dance (February)
Lincolnwood Social Club (55 years+) Valentine’s Day Tea (February)
SPRING
Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony (May)
Mother-Son Bingo at the Lincolnwood Fire Station (May)
SUMMER
Summer Concert Series in Proesel Park (June-July)
Aquatic Center Theme Nights (July-August)
Movie in the Park (August)
Summer Day Camp Family Picnic (July)
FALL
Touch-a-Truck (September)
Family Fun Fest (September)
Pumpkins in Proesel Park Halloween Event (October)
42nd Annual Lincolnwood Turkey Trot 5K/10K Race & 5K Fitness Walk (November)