Downers Grove Park District to mark 75th anniversary with Big Bash

DOWNERS GROVE – Free festivities will salute a milestone for the Downers Grove Park District, with The Big Bash: 75th Anniversary Celebration taking place from noon to 7 p.m. May 14 at McCollum Park.

Since 1946, the park district has enriched the community through natural area preservation and recreation, parks and facilities that inspire memorable experiences, a news release stated.

The community is invited to celebrate with activities, live music, contests and giveaways in McCollum Park at 6801 S. Main St.

From noon to 4:30 p.m., guests can stroll by park district and sponsor booths to enjoy hands-on crafts, sports, games and more. The district will host a free-throw contest on the basketball courts, a bags tournament and water balloon toss competition. On the ball fields, visitors can race on a 90-foot obstacle course or roll away on a Zorb ball track. Younger children can visit the Tiny Toes Music pavilion for music and movement activities.

Families can enjoy giant yard games, a scavenger hunt and free miniature golf at Miner Mike’s Adventure Golf throughout the event. Outdoor fitness classes will be offered by instructors from 4500 Fitness, and Chicago DJs will provide a dance beat.

Entertainment will include Liz and Hala, an acoustic duo playing from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Miss Jamie’s Farm will perform children’s music with dancing from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. The Big Bash’s Birthday Parade steps off at 4:30 p.m. along the perimeter path at McCollum Park. Prizes will be awarded for the best-dressed family, pet, and trike or wagon. The celebration will conclude with live music and a birthday blowout from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The Feel Good Party Band will take the stage at 5 p.m. to play party jam hits from the 1960s to today.

Food trucks including Dope Sandwich, Burger Buzz and Grumpy Gaucho will have treats available for purchase, along with Wells Street Popcorn and Carney Brothers funnel cakes and Italian ice. Adult beverages including beer and wine will be available to visitors ages 21 and older for $6 a ticket (ID required), and water will be offered for $2 a bottle.

Downers Grove Park District still seeks volunteers and sponsors for the event. Businesses or organizations interested in participating in The Big Bash can email events@dgparks.org for information.

A schedule of the activities planned for The Big Bash is available at dgparks.org/75thanniversary.