Downers Grove Park District Events: TRX, Leatherworking, Hiking

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — The Downers Grove Park District has tons of events coming up, from campfire hikes to leather working, and from pottery to a TRX training course.

They're always offering lots to do. Here's the scoop on upcoming events from the Downers Grove Park District:

Jan. 18: Full Moon Campfire Hikes

6:30 p.m., Lyman Woods

Did you know that the full moons have names? Explore the seasonal changes tied to the moon on a guided night hike. End the night by observing the moon through our telescope (weather permitting) and enjoy stories and s'mores around the campfire. All ages. The fee is $6 per person.

Jan. 24: Leather Working Workshop

6 p.m., Downers Grove Museum

Have you ever wondered how leather is created into everyday items? From belts to gun holsters, leather making was an important trade during the 19th century.Join museum staff to learn about how leather is made and its historic uses while trying your hand at leather making. Age 16 and higher. Four minimum, 12 maximum people. The cost is $15 for residents, $23 for nonresidents.

Jan. 25: Tour the 1846 Blodgett House

1 p.m., Downers Grove Museum

Take a tour of the newly restored 1846 Blodgett House. We will explore the lives of Israel and Avis Blodgett, and their role on the Underground Railroad. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Ages five plus. The cost is $5 for residents, $8 for nonresidents.

Feb. 1: Daddy Daughter Candy Land Ball

6:30 p.m., Lincoln Center

Spend an unforgettable evening with your little sweetheart at our candy themed ball! Dads and their special little girls are invited to enjoy sweet treats*, music and fun activities. On the way out, strike a pose in our photo booth for a keepsake to remember this good time! "Substitute" daddies are welcome (grandpa, uncle, etc.). *Children with food allergies may be exposed to food allergens. Each additional sibling will be discounted 50%. Ages 4 to 13, with 60 minimum and 70 maximum participants. The cost is $50 for residents, $60 for nonresidents.

Feb. 15: Volunteer Workdays

9 a.m., Belmont Prairie

Join our REAP (Restore, Educate and Preserve) volunteer group at Lyman Woods and Belmont Prairie. Activities may include collecting and sowing native seed, restoring trails, planting native plants and removing invasive plants. Please contact Lyman Woods at lymanwoods@dgparks.org or 630.963.9388 for more information. Call 630.96.9388 for more information about volunteering at Lyman Woods. The Belmont Prairie is located west of the Downers Grove Golf Course at Haddow Avenue and Cross Street. Parking is available at the trail head on Cross Street. Directions

Feb. 21: Mother Son Gym Jam

6:30 p.m., Recreation Center

Moms, have a fun filled evening with your special guy(s). Enjoy snacks, games, entertainment and music with Coach Josh. Dress casual. Substitute mommies are welcome (grandma, aunt, etc.). All proceeds from the event to benefit District 99 Senior Scholarships. Sponsored by the Downers Grove Park District and the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club. Ages 4 to 12, with 30 minimum and 200 maximum participants. The cost is $26 and $13 per additional child for residents, and $36 and $18 per additional child for nonresidents.

Feb. 21: Adult Pottery Night

6:30 p.m., Lincoln Center

Curious about ceramics? Come learn about the world of pottery and hand-building, and create a one-of-a-kind project to bring home! This workshop is a great way to see first-hand what a pottery class is like, or a unique option for a fun date-night. Ages 16 plus. The cost is $25 for residents and $38 for nonresidents.

Feb. 23: TRX RIP Training Course

10 a.m., Recreation Center

Fitness instructors! Learn to progress and regress Rip Training movements for clients of all levels. Participants also learn how to use the Rip Trainer to deliver a dynamic total-body workout so they can integrate it into client training programs.

Click the link above for full information.

Upon completion of this course you will be able to:

• Correctly set up and use the Rip Trainer, in various environments
• Use the Rip Trainer to get a dynamic total body workout
• Safely and effectively instruct others on the Rip Trainer
• Clearly articulate the science and benefits behind Rip Training