To commemorate 100 years of service to our citizens, the Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens will form the cornerstone and centerpiece of the Centennial Celebration. Once the financial goal is met, the groundbreaking celebration will be announced!
We're also planning special events or enhancements to existing programs, including:
- "Building a Dream - A Century of the Rockford Park District," an original theatrical and musical production featuring amusing history moments while looking forward to greater things. Followed by a recognition program and celebration reception with games and activity areas. Friday, March 27, 7pm at Rockford College's Clark Arts Center. Refreshments are provided by the Rockford Park District Foundation through private donations. The production is partially supported by a grant from the Rockford Area Arts Council which receives support from the City of Rockford, the Illinois Arts Council, and its members, and is made possible by a donation for the use of the Clark Arts Center by Rockford College.
- The City's Largest Egg Hunt, with 50,000 eggs, Saturday, April 11, at 11am at Anna Page Park. For ages 0-8. Free. Rain sight is Kennedy Middle School
- Turn Back the Clock and play golf like it was made to be played, with hickory sticks and old time balls and vintage golf attire available for rent. Two shot gun starts are offered for this unique "antique" golf outing at Sinnissippi. Friday, May 1. For adults, 18 and older. Fee to be determined, limited capacity. Call 815-987-1602 for information or to make four-some reservations.
- "Camp Rockford" Spring Ice Show at Riverview Ice House celebrates 100 years with a cast of hundreds skating their way through a celebration of the Rockford Park District's park and recreation offerings. This fast-paced ice show features special guest skater two-time National Champion, World Bronze Medalist, and Olympic competitor Evan Lysacek. Performances are May 8 to May 10 (Mother's Day), 7pm Fri, 2 & 7pm Sat, 2pm Sun. Admission fee: $12-15
- This spring, look for special flower and landscape plantings throughout the community in orange and yellow, plus a special planting in the floral clock in Sinnissippi Park, and a Centennial tree program
- Grand opening of the new Typhoon Terror thrill ride at Magic Waters Saturday, May 23. On Wednesday, June 24, Magic Waters will host a special celebration for the Park District's 100th Anniversary
- Music in the Park special 100th anniversary concert Tuesday, June 23, with the Rockford Concert Band featuring musical selections from the past century with a history narrative throughout the program. Come early and bring a picnic supper! Free, presented as part of the 2009 Music in the Park series
- Fish Fest for all ages at Levings Lake, Friday, July 10, 10am-2pm. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will conduct an Urban Fishing Clinic from 10am to noon with different stations to teach safety and casting. IDNR will also stock Levings with tagged catfish for prizes (catch and release) from 12:30-2pm. Loaner gear for up to 200 people. Free, all ages.
- X-Treme Sports - youth competitions at Harlem SkateWorks Park and the new Flodin Boys & Girls Club Skate Park. Finalists compete Saturday. Exhibitions and free clinics with professional individuals and teams. Vendor booths. Music. For inline, BMX and skateboarding. August 3-8. Free to participate, waivers required. Sponsored by FatWallet.com.
- Camp Grant Day at Atwood Park. "Report to Duty" to Camp Grant, once the largest military base in the Midwest. Tour the historic sites and visit with re-enactors camped in Atwood Park. Saturday, September 12. Free admission, fees charged for some activities.
- Available now - commemorative collector's hand painted holiday tree ornament of Sinnissippi Park lagoon, on sale at the Webbs Norman Center, $22.
- History book by long time former Executive Director, Webbs Norman, $10 on sale in June.