Issuu

Table of Contents 4-6 8-17

Special Events

Athletics Parent and Toddler Sports 18-19 Basketball 19-20 Boxing 20-21 Cheer 21 Fencing 21 Field Hockey 21 Fitness & Personal Training 22-23 Frisbee 23 Gymnastics 24-27 Hockey 28-29 Ice Skating 30-35 Martial Arts 36-38 Pickleball 39 Youth Sports Leagues 40-41 Skateboarding 41 Softball 42 Soccer 42 Tennis 42-43 Volleyball 43-44 Yoga & Wellness 44-45

46-49

Nature & Adventure Early Childhood 46 Families & Communities 47-48 Youth Programs 48 Adult Programs 48-49 Scout Programs 49 Volunteer Opportunities 49

2 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Accessible Recreation Adapted Sports 50 Special Olympics 50-51 After School 51 Trips & Events 52

Arts & Enrichment Preschool Programs 8 Performing Arts 9 Arts and Visual Programs 9-12 Music and Dance 12-15 Language Arts 16 Young Child Enrichment 16 STEM and Skills Training 17

18-45

50-52

Preschool

After-School Programs

55-56

School Days Off

56-57

School Break Programs

58-68

55+ Services & Activities Services 58 Art and Music 59-60 Fitness 61-62 Zumba 62-63 Tai Chi 63 Yoga 63 Dance 64-65 Silver Sneakers 65-66 Trips 66-67 Clubs 68

Rentals

General Info & Registration

Inclusion

Facilities and Contact Information Facilities

Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center 1655 Foster St. 847-448-8254 cityofevanston.org/fleetwood

Call 311 for Facility hours Chandler-Newberger Community Center 1028 Central St. 847-448-8252 cityofevanston.org/chandler

Clark St. Beach Office Clark St. at the lake (seasonal)

Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre 927 Noyes St. 847-866-5915 cityofevanston.org/fjt

Evanston Ecology Center 2024 McCormick Blvd. 847-448-8256 cityofevanston.org/ecology

Levy Senior Center 300 Dodge Ave. 847-448-8250 cityofevanston.org/levy

Dempster St. Beach Office Dempster St. at the lake (seasonal) 847-866-4167 cityofevanston.org/beaches

Noyes Cultural Arts Center 927 Noyes St. 847-448-4311 cityofevanston.org/noyes

Robert Crown Community Center Gibbs-Morrison Cultural Center 1801 Main St. 1823 Church St. 847-448-8258 847-448-8254 cityofevanston.org/crown cityofevanston.org/gibbs Prieto Community Center

Parks and Recreation Department Staff Director: Audrey Thompson

Enrichment and Specialty Programs Division Manager: Victoria Revere

Deputy Director: Michael Callahan

Community and Arts Division Manager: Karen Perkins

Deputy Director: Matt Poole

Conservation and Outdoors Division Manager: Margaret Isaacson

Deputy Director: Jeron Doresy

Mason Park Fieldhouse Church St. at Florence Ave. 847-448-8254

Lakefront and Athletics Division Manager: Tim Carter Senior Services Division Manager: Amy Kellogg Inclusion & Accessibility Division Manager: Lauren Ruiz

430 Asbury Ave. 847-859-7697 cityofevanston.org/prieto

Contact Information City of Evanston Parks and Recreation and Community Services Department 909 Davis Street Evanston, IL 60201 311: call/text 847-448-4311 cityofevanston.org/recreation recreation@cityofevanston.org Stay Connected: facebook.com/ EvanstonParksandRecreation instagram@parkrecevanston

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 3

Special Events

Harvest Fest Come celebrate the joys of fall! Tour the Farmette, Bee Apiary, and Food Forest, and enjoy fall-themed games, a pumpkin patch, a scarecrow-making contest, crafts, and more! Location: Ecology Center Ages: All

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sept 26

Free

12-4pm

Pumpkin Playdate Join us for a cozy, creative, fun-filled evening at our Pumpkin Playdate — a special event just for families! Get into the fall spirit as we paint and decorate pumpkins together, with all supplies provided and plenty of room for imagination. Whether you’re crafting a spooky face or a sparkly masterpiece, this is the perfect seasonal activity for kids and parents alike. The evening also includes time to play in our Let’s Play space, and light snacks and refreshments will be served. Registration is per person and can be completed online or in person at your nearest community center. Location: Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center Ages: All

Unleash your inner artist and join us for a relaxing and fun evening! Follow along with our instructor as they guide you through a creative project while enjoying a tasty drink. Small bites and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided, and your first drink is included with registration. Additional alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. Location: Tallmadge Park Ages: All

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sept 18

$40R/$50.86NR

Midnight Circus An intimate, high-energy performing arts experience featuring world-class acrobatics, aerial acts, and tightrope walking under an accessible Big Top tent. Location: Tallmadge Park Ages: All For tickets, visit www.midnightcircus.net

Dates Sept 18-20

Days Time Fr-Su

7 p.m. (F); 2 p.m. & 5 p.m. (Sa); 2 p.m. & 5 p.m. (Su)

4 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Days Time

Fee

Oct 9

$15R/$19.07NR

5:30-7:30pm

Evanston Children’s Theatre (ECT) Auditions

Sip, Swirl, and Paint

6-8pm

Dates

Fee $28

Evanston Children’s Theatre, open to kids ages 8 through 8th grade, is holding audition workshops for the fall musical Finding Nemo, Jr. Everyone who registers gets a part! There is a Tuesday cast and a Thursday cast. Please register before audition week to ensure you receive all the information in advance. For more information, visit the Evanston Children’s Theatre page on the City of Evanston website. (See page 8 for program info.) Location: Auditions are at the Levy Senior Center (rehearsals are at Levy Tuesdays or Thursdays and Noyes Cultural Arts Center on Saturdays) Ages: 8 years thru 8th grade

Dates Days Time

Location

Fee

Aug 25

4-6pm

Noyes Center

$375R/$488.02NR

Aug 27

4-6pm

Levy Center

$375R/$488.02NR

Word Buffet Open Mic Bring your words, sign in and speak them for up to 7 minutes Location: Noyes Cultural Arts Center, Studio 225 Ages: All

Dates

Days Time

Sep 9, Oct 7, Nov 11 W

7pm

Fee Free

Special Events Ultimate Nerf Showdown

Get ready to dodge, duck, and dominate at the Ultimate Nerf Showdown — the most action-packed event of the season! Whether you’re a sharpshooter or just in it for fun, this is your chance to unleash foam fury in an epic indoor battlefield filled with obstacles, team challenges, and individual battles. Challenges will be completed in age groups: ages 6–7, 8–9, and 10–12. Parents are welcome to join in too! All equipment is provided, including darts, safety goggles, and Nerf items — just bring yourself! Location: Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center Ages: 6-12 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Sep 11

6-7pm

$13R/$16.53NR

Nov 13

6-7pm

$13R/$16.53NR

Costume Swap Bring in your costumes and check out what the ECT costume shop is letting go in the swap. Location: Noyes Cultural Arts Center, Studio 225 Ages: All

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 3

Free

2-4pm

Art Swap Bring new energy into your homes and studios by swapping art. Bring any artwork small enough to carry (you can bring up to 4 pieces) and display it on one of our tables with your contact information (name and email or phone) attached. Leftover art is donated to Evanston Made. Location: Noyes Cultural Arts Center, Upstairs Gallery Ages: All

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 3

Free

1-2pm

Apple Cider Tasting Contest Taste ciders from Downtown Evanston Farmers’ Market vendors and vote for your favorite. Location: Downtown Evanston Farmers’ Market, University Avenue at Oak Street Ages: All

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 10

Free

9-12pm

Zombie Scramble This thrilling event challenges you to make it through a zombie-infested course with your “lives” — represented by flags on a flag football belt — still intact. As you navigate the haunted trail, zombies will try to snatch your flags. Location: Ladd Arboretum Ages: 8 yrs and up

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 17

$36R/$45.55NR

Varies

Bug-A-Boo Our annual Halloween event highlights the creatures that call the North Shore Channel home. Learn fun facts and the amazing adaptations of animals that live right here in Evanston. You’ll meet these characters (costumed volunteers) outside as you travel around the Ladd Arboretum. After your adventure, we’ll send you on your way with a fun craft to do at home. Location: Ladd Arboretum Ages: 2 yrs and up

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 24

$11R/$14.32NR

Varies

Trunk or Treat Get ready for a frightfully fun afternoon at the City of Evanston Parks and Recreation Trunk or Treat event! Bring your little ghouls and goblins for a safe and exciting Halloween experience filled with decorated trunks, delicious treats, and festive fun. All ages are welcome to attend, though the recommended age is birth - 5 years old. Registration is not required. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Parking Lot Ages: 0-5 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 30

Free

1:30-3:30pm

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 5

Special Events

Uncorked and Curated

Nightmare on Foster Street Enter if you dare! The Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center Haunted House is back with a terrifyingly fun, spooky walk-through experience filled with dark corridors, creepy surprises, eerie characters, and heart-pounding scares around every corner. Gather your friends and family for a night of thrills, chills, and unforgettable Halloween fun. Costumes are welcome, but beware… you never know what may be lurking in the shadows! Please note that refunds are not provided. Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center Ages: Suggested age for Haunted House- 8 yrs; all other activities are open to all ages

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 30

6:30-9pm

Zoe, a Black student at a liberal arts college, is called into her white professor’s office to discuss her paper about slavery’s effect on the American Revolution. What begins as a polite clash in perspectives explodes into an urgent debate about race, history and power. Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center Ages: Adults

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Oct 31-Nov 15

Sa, Su

7pm(Sa), 3pm(Su)

$33

Old Lady Project Submissions Begin

Submit your script or screenplay with terrific roles for older women to https://filmfreeway.com/OldLadyProject. Ages: All

Fee

Nov 2-Dec 15

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Nov 14

6-8:30pm

$65R/$84.59NR

Holiday Farmers’ Market

The Niceties by Eleanor Burgess

Dates

Join us for an elegant evening of curated wines and artisanal charcuterie, where every sip and bite is designed to delight the senses. From rich reds to crisp whites, each pour is paired with delicious cheeses and cured meats. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just looking for a sophisticated night out, this is the perfect chance to unwind. Location: Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Centerr Ages: 21 yrs and older

Evanston Children’s Theatre Presents: Finding Nemo JR. The Evanston Children’s Theatre presents its fall musical, Finding Nemo Jr. Location: Levy Senior Center Ages: All

Celebrate the season at the Holiday Farmers Market featuring local farmers, artisan vendors, handmade gifts, fresh foods, and festive community charm. Shop small and discover unique seasonal favorites all in one cozy market experience. Location: University Place at Oak Street (behind Hilton Garden Inn) Ages: All

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Nov 21

7:30am-1pm

Free

Stuff the Trailer At Holiday Farmers’ Market

Support the Mayor’s Holiday Food and Toy Drive by helping us fill the Let’s Play Trailer with non-perishable food and new, unwrapped toys. As a thank you for your generosity, donors will receive a coupon for Flapjacks & Flannels on December 5. Location: University Place at Oak Street (behind Hilton Garden Ages: All

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Nov 21

7:30am-1pm

Free

Flapjacks & Flannels

Pull on your coziest flannel and join us for a heartwarming winter morning at Flapjacks and Flannel! Families will enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast, festive winter crafts, and a chance to meet Santa himself. Be sure to stop by our themed photo booth to capture the memories! This event is perfect for kids and grown-ups alike—come hungry and ready for some holiday cheer. Pre-registration is required. Space is limited. Location: Levy Senior Center Ages: All

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Nov 20

7pm

$15

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Nov 21

3pm

$15

Dec 5

9am

Nov 21

7pm

$15

Youth: $10R/$13NR Adult: $15R/$20NR

Nov 22

3pm

$15

6 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 7

Arts and Enrichment

PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS Bitty Ballet

Learn the basic positions of ballet and have fun dancing and singing along in this beginning-level class run by Chicago Loves Dance. Location: Chandler Newberger Community Center Ages: 3-5 yrs No class: Oct. 12

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Sep 14-Nov 9

4-4:45 pm

8 sess: $120R/$156.17NR

Sep 20-Nov 8

9-9:45 am

8 sess: $120R/$156.17NR

Toddler & Preschool Yoga

A joyful introduction to yoga, focusing on play-based learning to build foundational physical and emotional skills. Location: Chandler Newberger Community Center Ages: 3-5 yrs No class: Oct. 12

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Sep 14-Nov 9 M

10:30-11:15am

8 sess: $120R/$156.17NR

Sep 18-Nov 6 F

1:30-2:25 pm

8 sess: $120R/$156.17NR

Creative Movement

Clase bilingüe / Bilingual class. Movement fundamentals through dance, stretching, music, and imagination-based activities. Helps little ones build coordination, gross motor function, and spatial awareness. Clothing should be comfortable and non-obstructive. Footwear: clean-soled shoes. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 2.5-5 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Sep 19-Oct 17

10-10:45am

5 sess: $60R/$78.08NR

Oct 24-Nov 21

10-10:45am

5 sess: $60R/$78.08NR

Little Movers Dance & Yoga

Clase bilingüe / Bilingual class. Children’s class for building body and spatial awareness and social skills while engaging our imaginations through movement. Clothing should be comfortable and non-obstructive. Footwear: socks or clean-soled sneakers. No yoga mat needed. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 2.5-5 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Sep 9-Oct 7

5:30-6:15pm

5 sess: $60R/$78.08NR

Oct 14-Nov 18 W

5:30-6:15pm

6 sess: $70R/$91.10NR

Jamberry Music

Family Yoga

Develop your body, mind, and spirit as you combine yoga postures with deep breathing and awareness and experience increased energy, flexibility, and peace. Registration fee includes one adult and one child, and $40R/$52.06NR for each additional child. Location: Chandler Newberger Community Center Ages: 4 and up

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Sep 19-Nov 7

9-10am

8 sess: $176R/$229.05NR

Caregiver and Tot Arts

A full contact exploratory arts class led by artist/ early childhood educators. Caregiver and child explore the visual arts with weekly themes. Location: Noyes Cultural Arts Center Studio 225 Ages: 1.5 to 3 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Sep 3-Oct 8

10-11am

6 sess: $85R/$110.63NR

Oct 15-Nov 19 Th

10-11am

6 sess: $85R/$110.63NR

8 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Bond with your child through nursery rhymes, circle songs, movement, puppets, and instrument exploration. Activities will introduce musical concepts, self-regulation, and motor skills. Child must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older. Location: Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center Ages: 6 mos-5 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 14-Oct 26

9:30-10:15am 7 sess: $161R/$204.73NR

Sep 16-Oct 28

10-10:45am

7 sess: $161R/$204.73NR

Sep 16-Oct 28

11-11:45am

7 sess: $161R/$204.73NR

Nov 2-Dec 14

9:30-10:15am 7 sess: $161R/$204.73NR

Nov 4-Dec 16

10-10:45am

7 sess: $161R/$204.73NR

Arts and Enrichment PERFORMING ARTS

Evanston Children’s Theatre Fall Musical: Finding Nemo Jr

The Evanston Children’s Theatre for kids 8 years old through 8th grade is having audition workshops for the fall musical Finding Nemo, Jr. Everyone who registers gets a part. There is a Tuesday cast and a Thursday Cast. Please register for the Evanston Children’s Theatre before audition week so you will get all the information before the audition. Location: Chandler Newberger Community Center Ages: 8 yrs thru 8th grade

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Aug 25-Nov 22 Tu,Sa

Tu: 4-6pm Sa: 9-11am

$375R/$488.02NR

Aug 25-Nov 22 Th,Sa

Th: 4-6pm Sa: 11:15am-1pm

$375R/$488.02NR

ECT Jr. (Theater for Littles)

Too young for Evanston Children’s Theatre?The Jr version is designed for the youngest actors. Kids will explore staging, character development, props, costumes and performance basics, devising their own mini performance to present before the ECT fall musical production. Location: Noyes Cultural Arts Center, Studio 225 Ages: 5-7 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Sep 19-Nov 21 Sa

10-11am

Fee 10 sess: $185R/$240.76NR

ART AND VISUAL PROGRAMS Family Pottery

A child and guardian work as a team to create pieces that they’ll always treasure in this 1 hour per week class. Registration will be under the child’s name; enrollment is limited to 6 registrants to ensure individualization. Fee includes materials & firings. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 5 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 6-Oct 11

3:15-4:15 pm

6 sess: $78R/$101.51NR

Sep 14-Oct 12

6-7pm

5 sess: $65R/84.59NR

Sep 2-Oct 14

6-7pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Youth Pottery

Get creative with clay in this fun, hands-on pottery class designed for young artists! Participants will learn basic hand-building techniques while creating unique projects they can use or display at home. Classes encourage imagination, creativity, and confidence while introducing foundational pottery skills in a supportive and engaging studio environment. All materials and firing included. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 5-17 yrs No class: Sep 18, Oct 9

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sept 4-Oct 16

5 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

4:45-5:45pm

Tater Tot Theatre Co. Presents: A Tricky Treat - “Click, Clack, BOO!” Little thespians ages 5–7 will rehearse and perform in a real theater — the historic Piven Theatre — complete with costumes, set pieces, and props. The play, Click, Clack, BOO!, is adapted from the book by Doreen Cronin. Following the performance, young performers will celebrate with a Halloween costume party featuring pizza, lemonade, and cupcakes. Each participant will also receive a Tater Tot Theatre Company t-shirt and a special award. This program includes 6 sessions total, culminating in the final performance. Location: Noyes Cultural Arts Center, Studio 103 Ages: 5-7 yrs Performance: Oct. 12, 12 p.m.; tickets are $10 for those over 12 years.

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 12-Oct 17

$275R/$349NR

11:30am-1pm

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 9

Arts and Enrichment

Clay Creations 101: Youth Pottery

Learn hand-building and wheel basics each week such as coil pots, pinch bowls, slab projects, small sculptures, & simple bowls on the wheel, then glazing in this 1 hour per week class. Fee includes materials and firings. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 5-12 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 14-Oct 12

4:45-5:45pm

5 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Sep 2-Oct 14

4:45-5:45pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Drop-In Pottery

Participants can work on their pottery skills during this 2-hour drop-in time. Instruction is not provided. Clay, glaze, and tool usage are included with the fee. Pay at the front desk & show proof of payment to studio staff. Projects are fired with the regular firing schedule. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 7 yrs and older No class: Sep 20

Spin it! Youth Wheel Pottery Learn the basics of the pottery wheel or fine-tune your skills if you have wheel experience! There will be a lot of practice time to get the hang of it. Materials and firings are included, so all you need to bring is your creativity! Now with a smaller class size, so you have more time on the wheel! Location: Robert Crown Community Center

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 1-Oct 13

7 sess: $140R/$182.20NR

4:30-6pm

Homeschool Pottery

Now 1.5 hours a week! Homeschool students can hone their pottery skills in this weekly class. New skills are taught each week, but students can also explore their own ideas. All materials and firings included. Registration is for one child. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 5-17 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

7 sess: $137R/$178.29NR

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 3-Oct 15

Sep 12-Oct 4

$19 per session

Toddler & Preschool Pottery

1-3pm

Adult Beginner Pottery

Learn the basics of pottery! Make fun and functional items by hand-building and using the wheel. Make delightful gifts or create something for yourself. Fee includes materials & firings. Each class is two hours per week. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 6-Oct 11

4:30-6:30pm

6 sess: $156R/$203.02NR

Sep 14-Oct 12

7:15-9:15pm

5 sess: $130R/169.18NR

Sep 2-Oct 14

7:15-9:15pm

7 sess: $182R/$236.86NR

Beyond the Basics: Adult Intermediate Pottery

This class for intermediate potters offers 3 hours of weekly studio time giving you the chance to experiment, practice, & expand your pottery journey! You’ll learn advanced techniques and bring your projects to life with specialty clays, glazes, & tools not available in beginner classes. Materials and firings included. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 8-Oct 13

6 sess: $234R/$304.53NR

6:15-9:15pm

10 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

1:30-3pm

Younger pottery students play with air-dry clay! This class will focus on the tactile experience, and kids can more detailed pieces if they choose. We use washable markers or acrylic paint to decorate our pieces. You may bring a smock for your little one if you wish. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 2-5 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 3 & 10

2 sess: $20R/$26.03NR

11-11:45am

Painting with Monet’s Touch

Step into the world of Monet and explore the beauty of Impressionist art. You’ll learn to capture light, color, and movement on canvas while creating your own masterpiece. Perfect for beginners. Relax, have fun, and let your creativity flow. All supplies included. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 12 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sept 27

1 sess: $30R/$39.04NR

11am-1pm

Arts and Enrichment

Watercolor Basics

Explore the beauty of watercolor through simple beginner-friendly techniques. Create landscapes, seascapes, still life and abstract art while learning to play with color and flow. No experience needed. All materials included, just bring your creativity. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older No class: Nov. 8

Beginning Painting in Acrylics Discover the world of acrylic painting in this fun and creative art class for young artists! Participants will learn basic painting techniques, color mixing, brush control, and canvas composition while creating unique masterpieces. Students will build confidence, explore their imagination, and develop artistic skills in a supportive and engaging environment. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 8-12 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Nov 1-22

3 sess: $90R/$117.13NR

Oct 18, 25

2 sess: $60R/$78.08NR

11am-1pm

Pet Portraits in Acrylics

Create a custom portrait of your favorite pet in this fun acrylic painting workshop! Participants will learn basic painting techniques, color mixing, and canvas composition while bringing their pet’s personality to life. Instructors provide step-by-step guidance throughout the class. Please bring a printed photo of your pet for reference. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Nov 29

1 sess: $30R/$39.04NR

11am-1pm

Brushes & Beverages

Unwind with an evening of creativity, painting, and social fun! Participants will create a guided acrylic painting while enjoying their favorite beverages in a relaxed atmosphere. Instructors provide step-by-step instruction suitable for all skill levels. Gather friends, explore your artistic side, and leave with a finished canvas masterpiece to display at home. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 21 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 23

1 sess: $48R/$62.47NR

6:30-8:30pm

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 11

Arts and Enrichment

Jack-O’-Lantern Workshop

Make a Jack-O-Lantern out of clay that you can use inside & outside year after year! The first week you will design and create your Jack-O-Lantern, the second week you will decorate it. This workshop includes all materials, including battery-operated light. Your new friend will be ready for pick-up before Halloween! Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 5 yrs and older No class: Sept. 18

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 11-25

2 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

6:15-8:15pm

Luminary Workshop

Create a custom clay luminary to decorate your home year-round or celebrate your favorite holiday or season! During the first week, participants will design and build their luminary, and during the second week, they will paint and decorate it. Themes can include winter, Halloween, fall, Valentine’s Day, spring, or other seasonal inspirations. Workshop includes all materials and one battery-operated light. Finished projects will be ready for pick-up mid-October. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 5 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Sep 24-Oct 1 Th

Fee

6-7:30pm

2 sess: $39R/$50.75NR

Make a beautiful windchime to hang outside your home! We will have several sample ideas on hand, but you can bring your own idea as well! Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 5 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 3-10

2 sess: $39R/$50.75NR

Pottery Date Nights

Come on select Saturday evenings with your favorite human and make a ceramic project together! You will be notified when your project is ready to be picked up. Fee is for two people. Classes limited to 5 couples. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Theme

Fee

Oct 3

Sgraffito

1 sess: $60R/$78.08NR

6-8pm

12 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Thriller Dance Workshop

Learn the legendary choreography from Michael Jackson’s iconic “Thriller” music video in this fun and energetic 6-week dance course! Open to all experience levels, participants will build confidence, learn classic moves, and enjoy an exciting introduction to one of the world’s most recognizable dance routines. . Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 12 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Sep 19-Oct 24 Sa

2-3pm

Fee 6 sess: $90R/$117.13NR

Salsa

¡Bailemos! Learn salsa dance in the Cuban style (“On 1”), beginning to intermediate level (prior experience not required). Focuses on fundamentals, shines, and partnering. Solo dancers welcome; signing up with a partner recommended. Footwear: non-marking shoes. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 8-Oct 6

6:30-7:40pm 5 sess: $75R/$97.61NR

Oct 13-Nov 17

6:30-7:40pm 6 sess: $90R/$117.13NR

Salsa Open-Floor Social

Windchime Workshop

6-7:30pm

MUSIC & DANCE

Salsa dance open-floor social for all levels. A loosely structured, instructor-supported evening of open practice: come and go as you like. Includes optional brief “on-1” style lesson off to the side at the start. Bring a partner or sign up solo. LGBTQ+ affirming. Leader/follower roles not gendered. Complements our Tues. salsa class (optional). Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 18-Oct 16

6:30-8:30pm 5 sess: $75R/$97.61NR

Oct 23-Nov 20 F

6:30-8:30pm 5 sess: $75R/$97.61NR

Breakdance

Students will learn choreography and poses, and show off their creativity in free-style sessions. Students will host a short performance to show off their new talents on the final day. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 6-9 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 18-Nov 6

8 sess: $132R/$171.79NR

5-6pm

Arts and Enrichment

Hip-Hop & Breakdance I

A fun dance class emphasizing hip hop and breakdance technique, rhythm, and coordination for beginning to intermediate dancers. Clothing should be comfortable and non-obstructive. Footwear: non-marking sneakers. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 6-10 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 12-Oct 10

12-1pm

5 sess: $75R/$97.61NR

Oct 17-Nov 21

12-1pm

6 sess: $90R/$117.13NR

K-Pop & Hip-Hop

This dance class blends energetic choreography, pop culture, and foundational dance skills, teaching coordination, rhythm, and confidence. Led by Chicago Loves Dance. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 6-9 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Sep 18-Nov 6

Fee

5:30-6:30pm 8 sess: $132R/$171.79NR

‘90s Hip-Hop

The freshest dance class in Evanston focused on 90s hip hop. For hip-hop lovers of all experience levels, dancers and non-dancers alike. Learn from a former professional dancer in a fun, welcoming environment. Footwear: clean-soled sneakers. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 17 yrs and up

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 13-Oct 11

12:30-1:30pm

5 sess: $75R/$97.61NR

Oct 18-Nov 22 Su

12:30-1:30pm

6 sess: $90R/$117.13NR

Freestyle & Dancecraft

A beginning/intermediate-level dance class focusing on fostering originality and student-created movement. Trains students in hip hop fundamentals followed by freestyle practice. Class ends with students creating and practicing their own original choreography. Clothing: comfortable and non-obstructive. Footwear: non-marking sneakers. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 9-14 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 12-Oct 10

1-2pm

5 sess: $75R/$97.61NR

Oct 17-Nov 21

1-2pm

6 sess: $90R/$117.13NR

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 13

Arts and Enrichment

Ballet, Tap & Hip-Hop

Clase bilingüe / Bilingual class. A fun, supportive introduction to dance technique in ballet, tap, and hip hop for children. Taught by a former professional dancer with over a decade of dance teaching experience. Clothing should be comfortable and non-obstructive. Footwear requirement: tap shoes. Ballet slippers optional. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 4-7 yrs

Tap I

Where dancers learn to be their own musician! Beginning level tap introduces young dancers to tap fundamentals with a focus on rhythm, coordination, and musicality. Provides foundational technical training that supports a wide range of other pursuits, including jazz, hip hop, and music. Footwear: tap shoes. Clase bilingüe / Bilingual class. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 6-10 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Dates

Days Time

Sep 12-Oct 10

11am-12pm

5 sess: $75R/$97.61NR

Sep 13-Oct 11

11:30am-12:20pm 5 sess: $60R/$78.08NR

Oct 17-Nov 21

11am-12pm

6 sess: $90R/$117.13NR

Oct 18-Nov 22 Su

11:30am-12:20pm 6 sess: $75R/$97.61NRR

Ballet I/II

A friendly, supportive ballet technique class for beginning to intermediate dancers. Includes barre warm-up, center floor exercises, and an end-ofclass combination. Emphasizes individually appropriate learning goals. Ballet shoes required. Clase bilingüe: inglés/español. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 7-14 yrs

Fee

Dance to EvOLvE: Magical Munchkins Tap & Ballet Our dynamic sessions seamlessly blend tap, ballet, and engaging dance games, creating an energetic and expressive atmosphere where every child can shine. Classes guide your dancer toward an on-stage performance. A parent or caregiver must accompany their child. Location: Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center Ages: 2-3 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Sep 13-Oct 11

10:30-11:30am 5 sess: $75R/$97.61NR

Dates

Oct 18-Nov 22 Su

10:30-11:30am 6 sess: $90R/$117.13NR

Sep 19-Oct 24 Sa

9:15-9:55am

6 sess: $132R/$171.79NR

Oct 31-Dec 19

9:15-9:55am

7 sess: $154R/$200.42NR

Adult Ballet

A friendly, welcoming class for beginners, those interested in cross-training, and former dancers looking to return to their ballet practice. Includes barre warm-up, across-the-floor exercises, and a movement routine. Taught by a former professional dancer. Ballet slippers recommended. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 17 yrs and up

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 9-Oct 7

6:30-7:45pm

5 sess: $80R/$104.11NR

Oct 14-Nov 26 W

6:30-7:45pm

6 sess: $95R/$123.63NR

14 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Days Time Sa

Fee

Dance to EvOLvE: Petite Stars Tap & Ballet Our tap and ballet combination class is designed to keep young dancers moving, learning, and having a blast. Our classes gently guide your child towards mastering dance techniques while fostering creativity and self-expression. They’ll showcase their skills in a performance. Location: Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center Ages: 3-6 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 19-Oct 24 Sa

10-10:55am

6 sess: $132R/$171.79NR

Oct 31-Dec 19

10-10:55am

7 sess: $154R/$200.42NR

Arts and Enrichment

Dance to EvOLvE: Beat Busters Hip Hop Designed for boys and girls ready to unleash their inner dance superstar, our dynamic class is all about having fun while honing creativity, coordination, musicality, and listening skills. From hip hop grooves to exhilarating dance games, every moment is packed with non-stop action that will have you movin’ to the beats! Rest assured, all music and moves are age-appropriate, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. As dancers groove and grow, they’re encouraged to join us on an exciting journey towards our annual Spring showcase, where they’ll have the chance to shine on stage and showcase their newfound skills to the world. Location: Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center Ages: 4-7 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

MUSIC

Frets Away: Sing & Play Music Ensemble A creative, folk-style ensemble for all portable instruments and continuing students with experience playing in basic keys, strumming or fingerpicking, and open chords. Class band explores transposition, arranging, inversions, chord chemistry, learning vocal harmony by ear, and utilizing online Spotify/PtheBard Playlists. Enhance your musical vocabulary to communicate, jam, and share ideas. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and over

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 19-Oct 24 Sa

11-11:55am

6 sess: $132R/$171.79NR

Sep 2-Oct 21

7-8:30pm

7 sess: $210R/$273.30NR

Oct 31-Dec 19

11-11:55am

7 sess: $154R/$200.42NR

Sep 3-Oct 22

12-1:30pm

7 sess: $210R/$273.30NR

Oct 28-Dec 9

7-8:30pm

6 sess: $180R/$234.25NR

Oct 29-Dec 10 Th

12-1:30pm

6 sess: $180R/$234.25NR

Dance to EvOLvE: K-Pop Hunter Dance Adventure Pop-Up Get ready for a high-energy adventure at our one-day K-Pop Hunter Dance Adventure event created just for little stars ages 3-8! Inspired by th bold music, colorful characters, and exciting dance moves of K-Pop Demon Hunters, this event brings big imagination to little dancers. Participants will learn fun, age-appropriate L-{p[-Style choreography, play movement games, and create their very own “hero” character through crafts and storytelling. Families are invited to watch a special end-of-day performance where our little hunters take the stage! Pizza will be served. Please make sure to wear sneakers or dance shoes and wear comfortable clothes to move around in! Location: Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center Ages: 3-8 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 3

1 sess: $79R/$102.81NR

3-7pm

Frets Away: Guitar & Ukulele Skills This hands-on, group class is designed for Returning Guitar and Ukulele players and those rusty after time away. Review basic chords and strumming patterns, refresh skills, update your playbook, rebuild confidence, and expand your playing abilities. Participants will strengthen chord transitions, rhythm techniques, simple fingerpicking, and learn to play and sing a variety of songs in a fun and welcoming class. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and over No class: Sept. 7

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 31-Oct 19

10-11:30am

6 sess: $180R/$234.25NR

Aug 31-Oct 19

7-8:30 PM

6 sess: $180R/$234.25NR

Oct 26-Dec 7

10-11:30am

7 sess: $210R/$273.39NR

Oct 26-Dec 7

7-8:30 PM

7 sess: $210R/$273.39NR

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 15

Arts and Enrichment

LANGUAGE ARTS & INSTRUCTION Spanish for Little Learners

In this course, the little ones will explore the Spanish language through games, music, stories, and dance. We use the Total Physical Response (TPR) method, which combines language and physical activity to encourage natural and enjoyable language acquisition. Location: Prieto Community Center Ages: 3-6 yrs

Dates Sep 12Dec 12

Days Time Sa

Fee

13 sess: 9:30am-12:30pm $496R/$645.50NR

Spanish for Kids LSP 1

Our fun and interactive online Spanish class helps children ages 7–11 learn Spanish through games, songs, stories, and simple conversations. Students build vocabulary, practice speaking, and gain confidence in a supportive, engaging environment—all from the comfort of home. Perfect for beginners and young learners who want to explore a new language while having fun. Location: Prieto Community Center Ages: 7-11 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 1-24

Tu,Th

5-6:15pm

8 sess: $234R/$305NR

Sep 29-Oct 22 Tu,Th

5-6:15pm

8 sess: $234R/$305NR

Oct 27-Nov 19

5-6:15pm

8 sess: $234R/$305NR

Tu,Th

YOUNG CHILD ENRICHMENT Infant Expressions

This program focuses on developing your baby’s first gestures, signs, and vocalizations. Led by a certified speech-language pathologist, little ones engage in small-group book reading, music, sensory and motor play, while caregivers learn strategies to enhance language at home. Hosted by Little Giggles Speech Therapy. Location: Chandler Newberger Community Center Ages: 0-15 months

Dates

Days Time

Oct 21-Nov 18 W

11-11:45am

16 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Fee 5sess: $90R/$117.13NR

Toddler Expressions

This program focuses on developing your toddlers’s first words & expressions. Led by a certified speech-language pathologist, little ones engage in small-group book reading, music, sensory and motor play, while caregivers learn strategies to enhance language at home. Hosted by Little Giggles Speech Therapy. Location: Chandler Newberger Community Center Ages: 1-4 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Oct 21-Nov 18 W

Fee

10-10:45am 5 sess: $140R/$182.20NR

Time Together Open Gym

This open-play program is perfect for ages birth through 5 years with a parent or caregiver. This program offers a fun space to play and gives both adults and children the opportunity to make new friends and play indoors. And it’s a great place to make morning playdates! Location: Chandler Newberger Community Center Ages: 9 mos-4.5 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Begins Sep 21

10 visit multipass: 10:30am-12:30(M) $70R/$91NR; M,Tu,W,Th 9:30-12pm(Tu,W,Th) Drop-in: $10 one child, $17 for two children

Little Book Club

The Little Book Club is a pre-literacy class for our youngest students. Among introducing literacy skills, the club aims to cultivate a lifelong love for reading and provide social interaction opportunities for children to develop valuable interpersonal skills. Each class includes a read-aloud, craft, sensory bin, and more. Location: Chandler Newberger Community Center Ages: 9 months-4.5 years

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 18-Nov 6

8 sess: $176R/$229.05NR

9:45-10:30am

Arts and Enrichment

STEM AND SKILLS TRAINING Let’s Code It!

Your child will have a blast in this exciting STEM program. Our innovative approach to coding is sure to spark your child’s interest in computer science, using a simple, relatable, block-based programming system called Scratch, developed by the MIT Media Lab. The fun-filled curriculum stresses critical thinking, creativity, confidence, teamwork, and problem solving skills to prepare them for the 21st century and beyond. Class topics include video game design, loops, control structure, conditional expressions, control statements, object oriented design concepts, data structures and variables, and mathematical expressions. Students must bring a laptop/ tablet to participate. Headphones, keyboard, and mouse recommended. Location: Chandler Newberger Community Center Ages: 8-13 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 12-Oct 17

6 sess: $155R/$201.72NR

10-11am

Cooking Club

Cooking Club from Afterschool Enrichment Solutions offers children the exciting and delicious opportunity to explore the world of culinary arts in a safe and educational environment! As they chop, stir, measure, grill and cook their own after school snacks and treats, students will learn essential cooking skills, nutrition fundamentals, and the importance of kitchen safety. This enriching program aims to inspire a lifelong love of cooking, promote creativity in the kitchen, and instill valuable life skills that students can carry with them into adulthood! All food allergy info needed before class. Location: Chandler Newberger Community Center Ages: 5-10 yrs No class: Nov. 28

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Nov 7-Dec 19

6 sess: $206R/$268.09NR

10-11am

Introduction to Drones Take flight into the exciting world of drones! Participants will explore how drones work by learning about their basic parts, flight controls, coding and troubleshooting through fun, hands-on activities. Along the way, they’ll discover career opportunities in the growing drone industry, from drone pilot and mechanic to engineer. The program wraps up with friendly drone challenges that allow participants to put their new skills to the test while building confidence, teamwork and problem-solving abilities. Location: Gibbs-Morrison Cultural Center Ages: 10–16 yrs

Non-Reusable Drones This session would involve identifying parts of a drone, building, coding and piloting within a business format, with piloting drills for an obstacle challenge.

Dates

Days Time

Sep 12-Oct 17

Fee

11am-12::30pm 6 sess: $280R/$364.39NR

Reusable Drones This session would involve identifying parts of a drone, assembling, coding, engineering for flight, and piloting drills for an obstacle challenge.

Dates

Days Time

Sep 12-Oct 17

Fee

11am-12::30pm 6 sess: $240R/$312.34NR

Young Barbers Academy

Discover the art and skill of barbering in this hands-on five-week program! Participants will learn the fundamentals of haircutting, clipper and trimmer safety, sanitation, customer service and basic barbering techniques while practicing on mannequin heads. Along the way, they’ll explore career opportunities in barbering and entrepreneurship while building creativity, confidence, discipline and professional skills. Whether you’re interested in a future career or simply want to learn a new skill, this program provides a fun and supportive introduction to the world of barbering. Location: Gibbs-Morrison Cultural Center Ages: 10-14 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 6-Oct 4

5 sess: $200R/$260.28NR

11am-1pm

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 17

Athletics

PARENT AND TODDLER SPORTS Beginner Basketball

Players will be challenged to step-up their game to prepare for playing on a team. Players will refine essential techniques learned in intro to basketball, and build on these skills starting to learn crossovers, jump-stops, and triple-threat positioning. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 6-7 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Sep 15-Oct 20

Fee

5:30-6:30pm 6 sess: $168R/$218.64

Parent/Tot Basketball

Welcome to the most fun and interactive way for kids to learn basketball fundamentals, with a parent by their side. Participants will develop basic skills like dribbling, passing, and catching while bonding on the court with family and friends. It’s the perfect introduction to the game! Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 2-4 yrs No class: Nov. 28

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 12-Oct 31

9-9:45am

8 sess: $108/$140.55

Nov 7-Dec 19

9-9:45am

6 sess: $81/$105.41

Parent/Tot: Leap & Fun

Toddlers and their grown-ups leap, balance, and play together through energetic activities that build coordination and confidence. This joyful class blends guided movement with interactive games to support early physical development and bonding. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 2-4 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Sep 12-Oct 31

9:45-10:30am 8 sess: $108/$140.55

Nov 7-Dec 19

9:45-10:30am 6 sess: $81/$105.41

18 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Fee

Parent/Tot: Sports & Games

Parents and toddlers explore the basics of sports through playful, age-appropriate games that build coordination, listening skills, and teamwork. This class introduces simple sport concepts in a fun and interactive setting that encourages movement and bonding. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 2-4 yrs No class: Nov. 28, 29

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 12-Oct 31

10:30-11:15am 8 sess: $108/$140.55

Nov 7-Dec 19

10:30-11:15am 6 sess: $81/$105.41

Parent/Tot Soccer

In this energetic class, toddlers and their parents learn basic soccer skills like dribbling, kicking, and running through fun, guided play. The focus is on building coordination, following directions, and sharing the joy of movement together. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 2-4 yrs No class: Nov. 29

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 12-Oct 31

11:15am-12pm

8 sess: $108/$140.55

Nov 7-Dec 19

11:15am-12pm

6 sess: $81/$105.41

Athletics

Soccer School with Team Evanston

Through creative and engaging games, Team Evanston coaching staff help young players grow in confidence, improve their abilities and learn how to score goals while playing alongside their peers. Soccer School also serves as a feeder for the Team Evanston Pre-Travel player pathway. Ages: 4-6 yrs No class: Oct. 12

Dates

Days Time

Location

Fee

Sep 13Oct 18

11am12pm

Leahy Park

6 sess: $125R/$162.68NR

Sep 9Oct 21

4:30Robert Crown 5:30pm

7 sess: $150R/$195.21NR

Sep 8Oct 20

4:30Leahy Park 5:30pm

7 sess: $150R/$195.21NR

Soccer Tots with Team Evanston

Kickstart your little one’s soccer journey with Soccer Tots! In partnership with our local youth soccer club Team Evanston, players and parents will explore the world of soccer through imaginative, coach-led games designed to develop fine motor skills and foster the joy of having the soccer ball at their feet! Location: Leahy Park Ages: 2-3 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 13-Oct 18

6 sess: $90R/$117.13NR

12-12:45pm

BASKETBALL Intro to Basketball

Our youngest hoopers will learn the fundamentals of the game: dribbling, passing, and shooting. Players will be playing on lower hoops heights, with smaller balls. The emphasis will be on learning the basics and having fun to build a foundational love of the game. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 5-6 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Sep 15-Oct 20

Fee

4:30-5:30pm 6 sess: $168R/$218.64

Jr. Basketball Skills & Drills

This class offers a fun and immersive experience for children who have already mastered our beginner basketball class or have adequate skills and general knowledge of the game. Players will be challenged to master ball skills and take shooting and passing to the next level to prepare for team play. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 7-8 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Sep 15-Oct 20

Fee

6:30-7:30pm 6 sess: $168R/$218.64NR

BTSA Basketball – Fall Madness 2K26 (K–1st Grade League) Introduce your young athlete to the game of basketball in a fun, supportive and active environment! Players will develop fundamental skills, including shooting, passing, dribbling and defense, through engaging practices and age-appropriate game play. Coaches emphasize teamwork, communication, sportsmanship and confidence while helping participants build basketball knowledge and a love for the game. Every session keeps kids moving, learning and having fun on the court. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 4-7 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 19-Nov 21

10 sess: $175R/$227.25

9-11am

BTSA Basketball – Fall Madness 2K26 (2nd-3rd Grade League) Take your game to the next level in this fun and competitive basketball league! Players will build on fundamental skills, including ball handling, shooting, passing, defense and footwork, through high-energy practices and game play. Participants will also develop basketball IQ while learning the value of teamwork, communication, discipline and resilience. This league provides a supportive environment where players can learn, compete and have fun. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 7-9 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Sep 21-Nov 23

Fee

5:30-7:30pm 10 sess: $175R/$227.25

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 19

Athletics

Multi Sport Discovery Program

Youth Boxing: Ages 10-16

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Our Youth Boxing class introduces kids to the fundamentals of boxing in a safe, structured, and fun environment. Participants learn basic boxing techniques, footwork, coordination, and conditioning while building confidence, discipline, and respect. Classes focus on fitness, skill development, and positive teamwork—no contact sparring is required. Perfect for beginners and experienced youth looking to stay active, focused, and motivated. Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center Ages: 10-16 yrs

Sep 13-Oct 18

6 sess: $168R/$218.64

This is a great starter program to get kids comfortable on the field and learning about different sports so they can find what gets them most excited. This program will cover Soccer, Flag Football, and Baseball. Participants grouped by age. Location: Leahy Park Ages: 4-6 yrs

9-10am

Basketball Over 40

Unlike typical open gyms, we build basketball community through competition, courtesy, and camaraderie. Players compete aggressively in a respectful environment. We provide jerseys, track scores/time, and host post-game gatherings. Location: Levy Senior Center Ages: 40 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Ongoing

$10 per session

6:30-9pm

Looking for a Softball Team? Looking to join an adult softball team? Register as a free agent to be added to our player interest list for upcoming Men’s and Women’s leagues this fall and beyond. Coaches seeking additional players will receive your information directly. Placement on a team is not guaranteed, but this is a great way to connect. Register here: https://www.cityofevanston.org/departments/prcs/facilities/robert_crown_center/softball_leagues.php Location: Men’s Leauge at Robert Crown Fields and Women’s League at James Park Fields Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Aug-Nov

Su,W

6-11pm

No fee to sign up

BOXING

Youth Boxing: Ages 5-9 Our Youth Boxing class introduces kids to the fundamentals of boxing in a safe, structured, and fun environment. Participants learn basic boxing techniques, footwork, coordination, and conditioning while building confidence, discipline, and respect. Classes focus on fitness, skill development, and positive teamwork—no contact sparring is required. Perfect for beginners and experienced youth looking to stay active, focused, and motivated. Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center Ages: 5-9 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 5-Nov 7

10 sess: $90R/$117.12NR

10:30-11:30am

20 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 2-Nov 4

10 sess: $90R/$117.12NR

5:30-6:30pm

Young Ladies Boxing: Ages 10-16 Our Youth Boxing class introduces kids to the fundamentals of boxing in a safe, structured, and fun environment. Participants learn basic boxing techniques, footwork, coordination, and conditioning while building confidence, discipline, and respect. Classes focus on fitness, skill development, and positive teamwork—no contact sparring is required. Perfect for beginners and experienced youth looking to stay active, focused, and motivated. Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center Ages: 10-16 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 11-Nov 20

10 sess: $90R/$117.12NR

5-6pm

Adult Boxing Get fit, build confidence, and learn real boxing fundamentals in our Adult Boxing Class. This high-energy workout combines boxing technique, strength training, and cardio to improve endurance, coordination, and overall fitness. Open to all skill levels—from beginners to experienced boxers—this class offers a challenging yet supportive environment led by certified instructor, Mark. Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center Ages: 18 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 1- Nov 3

6:30-7:30pm

10 sess: $95R/$123.63NR 20 sess: $175R/$227.75NR

Sep 3- Nov 5

6:30-7:30pm

10 sess: $95R/$123.63NR 20 sess: $175R/$227.75NR

Athletics

Senior Boxing

Fencing

A low-impact, non-contact boxing class designed for older adults. Improve balance, strength, coordination, and cardio health through light punches, footwork, and bag work. All exercises are adaptable for every fitness level. No experience required. Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center Ages: 50 yrs and older

Fencing combines balance, mobility, and mental agility, often described as “aerobic chess.” Weapons, jackets, and masks are provided. Requirements: Each participant is expected to purchase an underarm protector and glove, as well as register for a $34 membership with USFA. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 4- Oct 23

8 sess: $65R/$84.60NR

11am-12pm

CHEER

Cheer/Poms Under the direction of Chicago Loves Dance instructor, students will learn cheers as well as poms choreography weekly in this upbeat class. Location: Levy Center

Dates

Days Time

9:1510:15am

Beg

1014yrs

5 sess: $118R/$153.57NR

Sep 13Su Oct 11

10:1511:30am

Int

1014yrs

5 sess: $169R/$219.94NR

Sep 13Su Oct 11

11:30amAdv 1pm

12+ yrs

5 sess: $219R/$285.01NR

Oct 18Nov 15

9:1510:15am

Beg

1014yrs

5 sess: $118R/$153.57NR

Oct 18Nov 15

10:1511:30am

Int

1014yrs

5 sess: $169R/$219.94NR

Oct 18Nov 15

11:30amAdv 1pm

12+ yrs

5 sess: $219R/$285.01NR

6-9yrs

8 sess: $132R/ $171.79NR

Sep 16-Nov 4 W

5:45-6:45pm 9-14yrs

8 sess: $132R/ $171.79NR

FIELD HOCKEY

RISE Field Hockey Program

BTSA Competitive Cheer Take your cheerleading skills to the next level in this dynamic competitive cheer program! Athletes will refine their motions, jumps, tumbling, stunting, choreography and performance techniques while preparing for local performances and competitions. Through challenging practices, participants will build strength, flexibility, endurance and confidence while developing leadership, teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship. Ages: K-8th grade Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center

Aug 25-Nov 15 Tu,W,Th

Sep 13Su Oct 11

Fee

5:15-6:15pm

Days

Level Ages

Ages

Sep 16-Nov 4 W

Dates

Dates Days Time

Time

Fee

6:30-8:30pm(Tu) 5:30-7:30pm(W,Th)

$375R/$487.90NR

RISE field hockey coaches will teach the skills and rules of the game of field hockey in a fun and competitive skills and drills session. The program is for beginners and advanced players. All athletes will need shin guards, mouth guards and an outdoor field hockey stick to participate. Email riseevanston@gmail.com with any questions. Location: Robert Crown Turf Field #1

Dates

Days Time

Ages

Fee

Sep 8-Oct 13

5-6pm

6-11yrs

6 sess: $165R/$214.73NR

Sep 8-Oct 13

6-7:30pm 11-14yrs

6 sess: $185R/$240.76NR

FENCING

Private Fencing Lessons Private lessons are available on Saturdays, Sundays, and select weeknights throughout the fall. Spend one-on-one time with Coach Unger to learn the basics of fencing or refine your skills for competition. For more information, call 847-448-8252. Fees: Trial lesson $45 (45 minutes, one per household); $240 package of four 45-minute lessons

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 21

Athletics

FITNESS

Essentrics: Release, Rebalance, and Restore

Body Core A moderate-intensity fitness class for strength-building in the core muscle groups, focusing on the back and abdominals. Includes balance and flexibility training for a well-rounded workout in a friendly, judgment-free environment. Built to support modifications for diverse bodies and individual fitness goals. Yoga mat recommended. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 17 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 13-Oct 11

9:30-10:30am

5 sess: $75R/$97.61NR

Oct 18-Nov 22

9:30-10:30am

6 sess: $90R/$117.13NR

Rhythm Core Dance Cardio A dance fitness class celebrating the fun of rhythm and movement. Includes moderate-intensity cardio, stretching exercises, and balance and coordination training. We start with simple, repeated movement patterns to build short, easy-to-remember dance sequences. No dance experience needed. Bring a water bottle. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 17 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 12-Oct 10

9-10am

5 sess: $75R/$78.08NR

Oct 17-Nov 21

9-10am

6 sess: $90R/$117.13NR

22 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Essentrics uses gentle yet effective movements inspired by the long lines of ballet, the fluidity of tai chi, and the healing benefits of physiotherapy. This class incorporates a combination of standing, floor, and chair exercises set to motivating music, strategically targeting every muscle and joint in the body. All fitness levels are welcome. Ideal for those easing back into exercise after a sedentary period or managing pain or mobility issues. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Cynthia Rosario Ages: 18 yrs and older No class: Oct 11

Dates

Days Time

Sep 13-Nov 29 Su

9-10am

Fee 11 sess: $143LM/$186.10

Fitness Foundations Build strength, increase endurance, and boost your energy in this dynamic full body workout designed for all fitness levels. This class targets major muscle groups through a combination of strength training, cardio intervals, and core conditioning to deliver a balanced, results-driven session. Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Sep 14-Nov. 3

M,Tu

6:30-7:30pm(M) 4:30-5:30pm(Tu)

Fee 16 sess: $150R/$195.21NR

Athletics FITNESS CENTERS & PERSONAL TRAINING

FRISBEE

Boost your strength, stamina, and balance in our bright and welcoming Fitness Room. Enjoy top-quality cardio and strength training equipment. Dates times for 55 yrs and older: M-F, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Dates times for 18 yrs and older: M-F, 5-8 p..m., Sa-Su, 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Fee for Levy members: Included with an annual Levy Membership. Fee for non-members: $300/year or $26/month for residents; $350/ year or $32/month for non-residents; $10 daily fee

The fall Ultimate Disc league is open to youth ages 9-14. Ultimate frisbee is a fun, fast growing, non-contact sport that emphasizes teamwork and player leadership through self officiating. It is also an excellent crossover sport for athletes who play soccer, basketball, football, or lacrosse by helping develop conditioning, agility, cutting, field awareness, and hand eye coordination. Each league night, mixed gender teams will participate in a short practic focused on skill development through activities like throwing accuracy games, partner catching, Randy Moss drills, footwork games, and pulling contests, followed by league play. Great for multi-sport athletes looking to stay active and competitive during the fall season. Location: Robert Crown Fields Ages: 9-14 yrs

Levy Senior Center

Personal Training at Levy Center (Ages 18+)

The Levy Center offers personalized fitness support through two training packages and a one-time Fitness Assessment. Choose between 30-minute or 60-minute one-on-one training sessions tailored to your individual goals. The 45-minute Fitness Assessment includes a series of exercises to evaluate your overall health and physical condition. This assessment serves as the foundation for developing a safe, effective workout plan and provides your trainer with insights to help set clear and achievable fitness goals. Ages: 18 yrs and up Registration: Levy Center’s office, 847-448-8250 (To receive the discount, you must pre-purchase a package and must use the same trainer for all sessions) Fee for 30-minute sessions: (1 session) $50; (5-session package) $225; (10-session package) $420 Fee for 60-minute sessions: (1 session) $70; (5-session package) $325; (10-session package) $620 Fee for 45-minute fitness assessment: $55

Youth Ultimate Frisbee League

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 10-Oct 15

6 sess: $60R/$78.08NR

5-7pm

Chicago Union Ultimate Frisbee Academy The Union Academy is a competitive travel ultimate frisbee program designed for players looking to further develop their skills and compete at a higher level. Players will practice weekly and participate in tournaments against other club and academy programs from across the state. Tournament registration fees are included in the program cost. The Academy is recommended for players with prior ultimate frisbee experience or those seeking a more advanced and competitive environment. Location: Robert Crown Fields Ages: 9-14 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 8-Oct 27

8 sess: $350R/$455.49NR

5-7pm

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 23

Athletics Gymnastics with a Grownup With a parent/guardian and our instructors’ assistance, your Tot will enjoy free play on the gymnastics equipment, explore new obstacle courses, and be introduced to various age appropriate gymnastics skills each week. This class is a great way for your little one to climb and play with supervision. Parents/guardians must attend with their child. No class: Nov. 23-29 Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center

Gymnastics with a Grownup - Ages 18-27 Months Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Sep 26-Nov 7

9:30-10:05am

7 sess: $70R/$91.09NR

Nov 14-Dec 12

9:30-10:05am

4 sess: $40R/ $52.06NR

Sep 27-Nov 8

9:30-10:05am

7 sess: $70R/$91.09NR

Nov 15-Dec 13

9:30-10:05am

4 sess: $40R/ $52.06NR

Gymnastics with a Grownup - Ages 2.25-3.5 yrs

24 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Dates

Days Time

Location Fee

Sep 25-Nov 6

9:3010:15am

Chandler

7 sess: $77R/$100.21NR

Nov 13-Dec 11

9:3010:15am

Chandler

4 sess: $44R/$57.27NR

Sep 27-Nov 8

10:3011:15am

Chandler

7 sess: $77R/$100.21NR

Nov 15-Dec 13

10:3011:15am

Chandler

4 sess: $44R/$57.27NR

Athletics Preschool Gymnastics

Preschool Gymnastics (Chandler-Newberger - con’t)

Our instructors work with your child to improve their coordination, balance, flexibility and general motor skills in a fun, safe environment. Gymnasts will explore a wide variety of new movements and activities at their own pace and will be gently introduced to the more structured schedule and rules of a school-age gymnastics class. Ages: 3.5-5.5 yrs No class: Nov. 23-29

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 26-Nov 7

10:15-11am

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Nov 14-Dec 12 Sa

10:15-11am

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Sep 26-Nov 7

11:15am-12pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Preschool Gymnastics (Chandler-Newberger)

Nov 14-Dec 12 Sa

11:15am-12pm

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 27-Nov 8

11:30am-12:15pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Sep 28-Nov 9

3-3:45pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Nov 15-Dec 13 Su

11:30am-12:15pm

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Nov 16-Dec 14

3-3:45pm

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Sep 27-Nov 8

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Sep 28-Nov 9

4-4:45pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

12:301:15pm

Nov 16-Dec 14

4-4:45pm

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Nov 15-Dec 13 Su

12:301:15pm

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Sep 29-Nov 10 Tu

2-2:45pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Nov 17-Dec 15

2-2:45pm

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Sep 29-Nov 10 Tu

3-3:45pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Nov 17-Dec 15

3-3:45pm

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Sep 29-Nov 10 Tu

4-4:45pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Nov 17-Dec 15

4-4:45pm

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Sep 23-Nov 4

4-4:45pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Nov 11-Dec 9

4-4:45pm

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Sep 24-Nov 5

3-3:45pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Nov 12-Dec 10

3-3:45pm

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Sep 25-Nov 6

11:30am-12:15pm 7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Nov 13-Dec 11

11:30am-12:15pm 4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Sep 25-Nov 6

2-2:45pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Nov 13-Dec 11

2-2:45pm

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Sep 25-Nov 6

3-3:45pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Nov 13-Dec 11

3-3:45pm

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Sep 25-Nov 6

4-4:45pm

7 sess: $91R/$118.43NR

Nov 13-Dec 11

4-4:45pm

4 sess: $52R/$67.67NR

Coed Beginning I Gymnastics

No experience necessary. Beginning I Gymnastics introduces skills and drills that are fun, safe, and understandable for gymnasts of varying backgrounds, while providing the structure needed to start training and perfecting basic skills on bars, beam, floor, and vault. No class: Nov. 23-29

Coed Beginning I Gymnastics - 5-6.5 yrs (Chandler) Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 28-Nov 9

4-4:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 16-Dec 14 M

4-4:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Sep 28-Nov 9

5-5:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 16-Dec 14 M

5-5:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Sep 23-Nov 4

4-4:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 11-Dec 9

4-4:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Sep 25-Nov 6

5-5:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 13-Dec 11

5-5:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Sep 26-Nov 7

12-12:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 14-Dec 12 Sa

12-12:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Sep 27-Nov 8

11:30am-12:25pm 7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 15-Dec 13 Su

11:30am-12:25pm 4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 25

Athletics

Coed Beginning I Gymnastics -6-8 yrs (Chandler)

Coed Beginning I Gymnastics -9-13 yrs (Chandler)

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 28-Nov 9

4-4:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Sep 28-Nov 9

6-6:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 16-Dec 14

4-4:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Nov 16-Dec 14 M

6-6:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Sep 28-Nov 9

5-5:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Sep 23-Nov 4

6-6:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 16-Dec 14

5-5:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Nov 12-Dec 10 Th

6-6:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Sep 28-Nov 9

6-6:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Sep 24-Nov 5

6-6:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 16-Dec 14

6-6:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Nov 12-Dec 10 Th

6-6:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Sep 23-Nov 4

5-5:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 11-Dec 9

5-5:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Sep 23-Nov 4

6-6:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 11-Dec 9

6-6:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Sep 24-Nov 5

4-4:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 12-Dec 10

4-4:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Sep 24-Nov 5

5-5:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 12-Dec 10

5-5:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Dates

Days Time

Location Fee

Sep 24-Nov 5

6-6:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

5-5:55pm

Chandler

Nov 12-Dec 10

6-6:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Sep 28Nov 9

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Sep 25-Nov 6

6-6:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 16Dec 14

5-5:55pm

Chandler

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Nov 13-Dec 11

6-6:55pm

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

5-5:55pm

Chandler

Sep 26-Nov 7

12-12:55pm

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

5-5:55pm

Chandler

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Nov 14-Dec 12

12-12:55pm

Sep 27-Nov 8

12:30-1:25pm 7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 15-Dec 13

12:30-1:25pm 4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

26 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Coed Beginning II Gymnastics - 7-14 yrs

Beginning II students are required to have taken at least 1 year of consecutive Beginning Gymnastics and have a coaches’ written recommendation. They should be able to do a vertical handstand, cartwheel, and roundoff, handstand bridge kickover off a mat, a dive roll vault, and a pullover on bars with a light spot or mat against the wall. They should have experience working on handstands, cartwheels, and dismounts on beam but do not need to be able to do them unassisted. Ages: 7-14 yrs No class: Nov. 23-29

Sep 23Nov 4

Nov 11Dec 9

Sep 24Nov 5

5-5:55pm

Chandler

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 12Dec 10

5-5:55pm

Chandler

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Sep 25Nov 6

4-4:55pm

Chandler

7 sess: $119R/$154.87NR

Nov 13Dec 11

4-4:55pm

Chandler

4 sess: $68R/$88.50NR

Athletics

Girls Advanced Beginning Gymnastics

Adult Gymnastics

Only students who have received a written recommendation from their coach may progress to Advanced Beginning. Advanced Beginning refines many of the skills learned in beginning gymnastics and introduces the more difficult progressions we are ready to learn after mastering the basics. In this advanced class, gymnasts prepare to perform handsprings on floor, jump to high bar, handstands and cartwheel on beam, and front handsprings over the vault table independently. Students enrolled in Advanced Beginning should have the focus, consistency, and desire to begin learning advanced skills and techniques. New students should contact gymnastics@ cityofevanston.org to schedule an evaluation. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 7-15 yrs No class: Nov. 23-29

No experience necessary. The class will warm up together, then students will be grouped by ability to work on different tumbling skills each week, ranging from cartwheels and handstands to handsprings and saltos. Class will end with conditioning on bars and/or beam. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 16 yrs and older No class: Nov. 23-29

Dates

Days Time

Sep 28-Nov 9

Nov 16-Dec 14 M

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 28-Nov 9

7-8:30pm

7 sess: $105R/$136.65NR

Nov 16-Dec 14 M

7-8:30pm

4 sess: $60R/$78NR

Fee

Sep 24-Nov 5

7-8:30pm

7 sess: $105R/$136.65NR

7-8:30pm

7 sess: $175R/$227.75NR

Nov 12-Dec 10 Th

7-8:30pm

4 sess: $60R/$78NR

7-8:30pm

4 sess: $100R/$130.14NR

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 27

Athletics

HOCKEY

Jr. Wildkits Hockey: 10U Full Time Goalie

RC Edge Learn to Skate Hockey This program is designed for new participants to learn the fundamentals of hockey, focusing on both skating and stick/puck skills. Following the USA Hockey and Learn to Skate USA curriculum, skaters will develop the essential techniques needed to progress to the next level. Skaters must bring their own helmets, sticks and knee/elbow pads. We do not supply equipment. All participants are encouraged to take at least one session of Learn to Skate prior to enrolling in hockey. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 3-6 yrs and 7-10 yrs No class: Sept. 7

Dates

Days Time

Age Fee

Aug 24Oct 12

5:25-6:10pm

3-6

7 sess: $116R/$150.96NR

Aug 24Oct 12

5:25-6:10pm

7-10

7 sess: $116R/$150.96NR

Adult Beginner Hockey This is an introduction class to skating and stick/puck handling. Participants should have some basic skating skills before the first class starts. A helmet, stick, elbow and knee pads are required. Equipment is not available to borrow at the rink. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older No class: Sept. 13

Days Time

Fee

Aug 30-Oct 18

7 sess: $168R/$218.64NR

Jr. Wildkits Hockey: 10U Skater Offers a competitive, fun, and supportive environment for players. As a Tier 3 program, there are no cuts—every player has a place to play and improve. Teams will meet at least twice a week, the season will begin mid-September and continue through March. Games will primarily be held on weekends. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 7-10 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Sep 10-Mar 10

4-5pm (Tu) Tu,Sa,Su 9:20-10:20am (Sa) 4:10-5:10 pm (Su)

28 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Dates

Days

Time

Sep 10-Mar 10

4-5pm (Tu) Tu,Sa,Su 9:20-10:20am (Sa) 4:10-5:10 pm (Su)

Fee $406R/$528.37NR

Jr. Wildkits Hockey: 12U Skater Offers a competitive, fun, and supportive environment for players. As a Tier 3 program, there are no cuts—every player has a place to play and improve. Teams will meet at least twice a week, the season will begin mid-September and continue through March. Games will primarily be held on weekends. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 10-12 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Sep 10-Mar 10

4-5pm (Tu) Tu,Sa,Su 10:30-11:30am (Sa) 4:10-5:10 pm (Su)

Fee $975R/$1,268.87NR

Jr. Wildkits Hockey: 12U Full Time Goalie

Dates

8:40-9:40pm

Offers a competitive, fun, and supportive environment for players. As a Tier 3 program, there are no cuts—every player has a place to play and improve. Teams will meet at least twice a week, the season will begin mid-September and continue through March. Games will primarily be held on weekends. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 7-10 yrs

Fee $812R/$1056.74NR

Dates

Days

Time

Sep 10-Mar 10

4-5 (Tu) Tu,Sa,Su 10:30-11:30am (Sa) 4:10-5:10 pm (Su)

Fee $488R/$635.09NR

Athletics

Jr. Wildkits Mites

Little Kits: Learn to Skate & Play Hockey

Designed for skaters who have completed 2 sessions of Little Kits or are able to skate unassisted. This program emphasizes age-appropriate skill development, teamwork, and lots of puck touches. We meet twice a week, with one practice dedicated to skills and another dedicated to small area games. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 2-8 yrs No class: Sept 12, 13; Nov 7-8, 27-29; Dec 12-13

Geared toward skaters who are new to the ice. Participants will learn skating fundamentals and explore the sport of hockey in a fun environment. Our goal is to gain confidence on the ice and to get up after falls. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 2-8 yrs No class: Sept 13; Nov 8; Nov. 29, Dec 13

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Aug 23-Oct 4

8:10-9:10am

6 sess: $58R/$75.48NR

Aug 22-Oct 4

Sa,Su

7:10-8:10am (Sa) 8:10-9:10am (Su)

15 sess: $125R/$162.68NR

Oct 11-Dec 20 Su

8:10-9:10am

8 sess: $78R/$101.51NR

Oct 11-Dec 20

Sa,Su

7:10-8:10am(Sa) 8:10-9:10am (Su)

16 sess: $163R/$212.13NR

Jr Wildkits Fall Hockey Evanston Youth Hockey offers a fun, inclusive Tier 3 hockey experience. Our community-driven approach encourages camaraderie and connection through team events, off-ice activities, and opportunities for players of all ages and experience levels to thrive. *New to Skating?* Little Kits (7 & under) Tailored for very young skaters, Little Kits meets once a week to help kids develop their skating and hockey skills in a fun setting. *Still Learning Hockey?* Jr. Wildkits ADM (6U-8U) After Learn to Skate, players can move on to our American Development Model, (ADM) which is USA Hockey's recommended standard for 8U skill development. We meet twice a week: ski MLlls focus on Saturday, games on Sunday *Already Love the Sport?* Jr. Wildkits Tier 3 (10U & 12U) Our Tier 3 Jr. Wildkits teams, for ages 10U and 12U, provide a competitive, supportive environment with no cuts. Every player is welcome to develop and enjoy the game.

USA Hockey membership is required for participation in Jr Wildkits programming. Please refer to USA Hockey website: https://membership.usahockey.com/ Equipment Needed: For Little Kits and Learn to Skate: Skaters will need skates (which can be rented at the rental desk), gloves, and a helmet. For ADM and Tier 3: Skaters are required to have a complete set of protective equipment, including shin pads, elbow pads, shoulder pads, a helmet, and a neck guard.

For more info and resources to help you get started, please visit our website

eyha.evanstonhockey.com

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 29

Athletics

30 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Athletics

Parent-Tot Intro to Skating Designed for true beginners with no prior experience, this class offers a gentle introduction to the world of figure skating or hockey. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 3-5 yrs No class: Sept 11, 13

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 28-Oct 16

4-4:30pm

7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

Aug 30-Oct 18

5-5:30pm

7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

LEARN TO SKATE (TODDLERS) Snowplow Sam

Children with no prior skating experience will build confidence and develop agility, balance, coordination, speed, and basic skating skills. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 3-5 yrs No class: Sept 11, 13

Snowplow Sam 1 Skating Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 26-Oct 14

5:15-5:45pm 8 sess: $108R/$140.55NR

Aug 28-Oct 16

4-4:30pm

7 sess: $95R/$123.63NR

Aug 30-Oct 18

5-5:30pm

7 sess: $95R/$123.63NR

Snowplow Sam 2 Skating Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 26-Oct 14

5:15-5:45pm 8 sess: $108R/$140.55NR

Aug 28-Oct 16

4-4:30pm

7 sess: $95R/$123.63NR

Aug 30-Oct 18

5-5:30pm

7 sess: $95R/$123.63NR

Snowplow Sam 3 Skating Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 26-Oct 14 W

5:15-5:45pm 8 sess: $108R/$140.55NR

Aug 28-Oct 16 F

4-4:30pm

7 sess: $95R/$123.63NR

Snowplow Sam 4 Skating Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 26-Oct 14

5:15-5:45pm 8 sess: $108R/$140.55NR

Aug 28-Oct 16

4-4:30pm

7 sess: $95R/$123.63NR

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 31

Athletics

LEARN TO SKATE (YOUTH)

Basic 5

Basic 1-6 Ice Skating Classes

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 25-Oct 13

4:50-5:35pm

8 sess: $166R/$150.96NR

Aug 27-Oct 15

5-5:45pm

7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

Aug 29-Oct 17

9:45-10:30am

7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

The Learn to Skate Basic Skills program teaches the fundamentals and foundational knowledge of skating. The six progressive levels introduce essential moves, including forward and backward skating, stops, edges, crossovers, turns, and mohawks. Skaters progress at their own pace. Basic 1 is designed for children with no prior skating experience. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 5-13 yrs No class: Sept. 10, 12, 13

Basic 6

Basic 1

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 25-Oct 13

4:50-5:35pm

8 sess: $166R/$150.96NR

Aug 27-Oct 15

5-5:45pm

7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

Aug 29-Oct 17

9:45-10:30am

7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 25-Oct 13

4:50-5:35pm

8 sess: $166R/$150.96NR

Aug 27-Oct 15

5-5:45pm

7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

Aug 30-Oct 18

5-5:45pm

7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

FREE SKATE LEVELS Figure Skating 1-6

Basic 2 Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 25-Oct 13

4:50-5:35pm

8 sess: $166R/$150.96NR

Aug 27-Oct 15

5-5:45pm

7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

Aug 30-Oct 18

5-5:45pm

7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

Each progressive skill level consists of various transitions, spins and jumps, building on the previous skill and providing a strong foundation for advanced skating skills. All of the Basic Level classes must be completed to be passed into the Free Skate Levels. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 6-17 yrs No class: Sept. 12

Pre-Free Skate

Basic 3 Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 25-Oct 13

4:50-5:35pm

8 sess: $166R/$150.96NR

Aug 27-Oct 15

5-5:45pm

7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

Aug 29-Oct 17

9:45-10:30am 7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 25-Oct 13 Tu

5:35-6:20pm 8 sess: $124R/$161.37NR

Aug 27-Oct 15

5-5:45am

7 sess: $109R/$141.83NR

9-9:45am

7 sess: $109R/$141.83NR

Aug 29-Oct 17 Sa

Free Skate 1

Basic 4 Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 25-Oct 13

4:50-5:35pm

8 sess: $166R/$150.96NR

Aug 27-Oct 15

5-5:45pm

7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

Aug 29-Oct 17

9:45-10:30am

7 sess: $102R/$132.74NR

32 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 25-Oct 13 Tu

5:35-6:20pm 8 sess: $124R/$161.37NR

Aug 29-Oct 17 Sa

9-9:45am

7 sess: $109R/$141.83NR

Athletics

Adult Free Skate

Free Skate 2 Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 25-Oct 13

5:35-6:20pm

8 sess: $124R/$161.37NR

Aug 29-Oct 17

9-9:45am

7 sess: $109R/$141.83NR

Free Skate 3 Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 25-Oct 13

5:35-6:20pm

8 sess: $124R/$161.37NR

Aug 29-Oct 17

9-9:45am

7 sess: $109R/$141.83NR

Each Free Skate class is divided into four sections: skating skills, spins, dance/footwork sequences, and jumps. These levels are designed to provide skaters with a strong foundation to build upon. At this stage, skaters can choose to pursue either a recreational or competitive path in figure skating. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 17 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 30-Oct 18

7 sess: $144R/$187.40NR

6:30-7:30pm

Free Skate 4 Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 25-Oct 13 Tu

5:35-6:20pm 8 sess: $124R/$161.37NR

Aug 29-Oct 17 Sa

9-9:45am

7 sess: $109R/$141.83NR

Free Skate 5 Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 25-Oct 13

5:35-6:20pm

8 sess: $124R/$161.37NR

Aug 29-Oct 17

9-9:45am

7 sess: $109R/$141.83NR

Free Skate 6 Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 25-Oct 13

5:35-6:20pm

8 sess: $124R/$161.37NR

Aug 29-Oct 17

9-9:45am

7 sess: $109R/$141.83NR

Teen Introduction to Ice Skating This class class is designed specifically for ages 12–16 who are new to skating or have very limited experience on the ice. This beginner-friendly program provides a supportive and age-appropriate environment where teens can build skills, confidence, and coordination while learning the fundamentals of skating. No experience necessary. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 12-16 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Aug 29-Oct 17 Sa

Fee

10:45-11:30am 7 sess: $109R/$141.85NR

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 33

Athletics LEARN TO SKATE (TEENS & ADULTS)

Adult 5

This program includes six class levels, with skaters progressing at their own pace. Based on prior skating experience, adults may choose the level that best matches their skill set. Adult 1 is for skaters with no prior Experience. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 17 yrs and up No class: Sept 10, 12, 13

Aug 27-Oct 15 Th

5:45-6:30pm

7 sess: $109R/$141.85NR

Aug 29-Oct 17 Sa

10:45-11:30am

7 sess: $109R/$141.85NR

Adult 1-6

Adult 1 Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 27-Oct 15 Th

5:45-6:30pm

7 sess: $109R/$141.85NR

Aug 29-Oct 17 Sa

10:45-11:30am

7 sess: $109R/$141.85NR

Adult 2 Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 27-Oct 15 Th

5:45-6:30pm

7 sess: $109R/$141.85NR

Aug 29-Oct 17 Sa

10:45-11:30am

7 sess: $109R/$141.85NR

Adult 3 Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 27-Oct 15 Th

5:45-6:30pm

7 sess: $109R/$141.85NR

Aug 29-Oct 17 Sa

10:45-11:30am

7 sess: $109R/$141.85NR

Days Time

Fee

Adult 6 Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 27-Oct 15 Th

5:45-6:30pm

7 sess: $109R/$141.85NR

Aug 29-Oct 17 Sa

10:45-11:30am

7 sess: $109R/$141.85NR

SPECIALIZED AND ADVANCED SKATING Ice Dance

Beginner is an introduction to ice dancing. Lessons include stroking, steps, turns and musical interpretation. It’s an ideal class for those in synchronized skating. Advanced is for skaters that have already completed the Beginner class and will focus on actual dances. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 7 yrs and older No class: Sept. 12

Dates

Days Time

Level

Fee

Aug 29Oct 17

11:30am12:15pm

Beg

7 sess: $123R/ $160.07NR

Aug 29Oct 17

11:30am12:15pm

Adv

7 sess: $123R/ $160.07NR

Advanced Jump & Spin

Adult 4 Dates

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 27-Oct 15 Th

5:45-6:30pm

7 sess: $109R/$141.85NR

Aug 29-Oct 17 Sa

10:45-11:30am

7 sess: $109R/$141.85NR

This class focuses on developing and properly executing the axel jump, double and triple-rotation jumps, as well as advanced spins and spin combinations. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 6 yrs and older No class: Sept. 12

Dates

Days Time

Aug 29-Oct 17 Sa

34 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

11:50am-12:20pm

Fee 7 sess: $105R/$136.65NR

Athletics

ICE SKATING - OFF-ICE CLASSES

Power and Edge Class For skaters that have passed the Free Skate 6 level and are looking to improve their power, speed and endurance on the ice. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 7 yrs and older No class: Sept. 12

Dates

Days Time

Aug 29-Oct 17 Sa

Fee

7:30-8:15am 7 sess: $116R/$150.96NR

High Freestyle Training Program For skaters that want the full package, this program offers a comprehensive training experience. The on-ice portion of the class, 2:10-4pm, consists of power & edge, jumps & spins, edge/footwork classes. Off-ice portion running 4:10-4:50pm works on jump technique and cool down time. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 7 yrs and older No class: Sept. 13

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Ballet for Skaters

This class teaches ballet fundamentals tailored for figure skaters, with a focus on building strength and improving flexibility. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 7 yrs and older No class: Sept. 7

Dates

Days Time Level

Fee

Aug 24-Oct 12 M

6-7pm Beg

7 sess: $108R/$140.55NR

Aug 25-Oct 13 Tu

5-6pm Adv

8 sess: $124R/$161.37NR

Yoga/Stretch for Skaters This class focuses on functional flexibility, stretching, and breathing techniques tailored for figure skaters. It offers an opportunity to fine-tune and advance your flexibility training. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 7 yrs and older No class: Sept. 10

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Axel Class

Aug 27-Oct 15

8 sess: $105R/$136.65NR

The axel is a difficult jump to master. This class will focus on proper take offs, in-air position and strong check out techniques for both single and double versions of this particular jump. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 6 yrs and older

Off-Ice Jump Class

Aug 30-Oct 18 Su

Dates

2:10-4:50pm 7 sess: $224R/$291.51NR

Days Time

Aug 26- Oct 14 W

Fee

5:15-5:45pm 8 sess: $120R/R156.17NR

This off-ice class focuses on proper jump technique for higher-level skaters including takeoffs, landings and rotation. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 7 yrs and older No class: Sept. 7

Dates

Days Time

Aug 24-Oct 12 M

Aspire Program

7-7:45pm

Fee

5-5:45pm

7 sess: $108R/$140.55NR

The U.S. Figure Skating Aspire Program bridges the gap between Learn to Skate group classes and advanced-level figure skating. Through the development of athleticism and artistry, skaters build a strong foundation for success both on and off the ice. The program includes power skills, freestyle classes, off-ice conditioning, and parent education sessions (upon request). Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 6 yrs and older No class: Sept. 12

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 29-Oct 17

7 sess: $182R/$236.86NR

8:15-10:45am

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 35

Athletics

MARTIAL ARTS

Advanced Teens & Adults

Taekwondo

Grandmaster Connelly is Evanston’s most experienced Taekwondo martial arts professional. His classes are fun, safe, age-appropriate, and rewarding on many levels. For more than 25 years, his programs have helped motivate students to grow stronger in body, mind, and spirit—and to become Black Belt Leaders. Classes are available for beginning, intermediate, and advanced students. Instructor: Grandmaster Connelly Program information (not registration): 847-568-0912 or connellysacademy.com.

Tiger Cubs Designed to be engaging and fun, this class brings out the best in your child. Students develop focus, agility, and strength in a safe, noncompetitive, and noncombative environment. Traditional martial arts values are combined with modern, age-appropriate games and activities. Location: Levy Senior Center Ages: 4-6 yrs No class: Sept. 7, Nov. 25

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 31-Dec 14

5:15pm-6pm 15 sess: $225R/$292.82NR

Sep 2-Dec 16

5:15pm-6pm 15 sess: $225R/$292.82NR

Young Tigers This noncompetitive class helps children progress in martial arts while developing leadership skills and striving to be their personal best. By building competence and confidence, students grow stronger in mind, body, and spirit. Location: Levy Senior Center Ages: 7-12 yrs No class: Sept. 7, Nov 25

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 31-Dec 14 M

6-7pm

15 sess: $225R/$292.82NR

Sep 2-Dec 16

6-7pm

15 sess: $225R/$292.82NR

36 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

This class challenges teens and adults ranked Red Stripe and above to take their training to the next level. With an emphasis on rank-appropriate patterns, techniques, and leadership, students will be prepared for advancement both physically and mentally. Location: Levy Senior Center Ages: 13 yrs and older No class: Sept. 7

Dates

Days Time

Aug 31-Dec 14 M

Fee

7-8:30pm 15 sess: $270R/$351.38NR

Advanced Youth Red Stripe & Higher This class offers a challenging training experience for youth ranked Red Stripe or higher, with a focus on advancing skills and techniques. Location: Levy Senior Center Ages: 4-18 yrs No class: Nov. 25

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 2-Dec 16

15 sess: $225R/$292.82NR

7-8pm

High School Teens and Adults This class offers a safe, non-competitive environment for a full-body workout, self-defense training, and stress relief. The program includes non-contact sparring. Location: Levy Senior Center Ages: 14 yrs and older No class: Nov. 25

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 2-Dec 16

15 sess: $225R/$292.82NR

7-8pm

Advanced Teens and Adults: Red Stripe or Higher This class provides a challenging Taekwondo training experience for students ranked Red Stripe or higher. Location: Levy Senior Center Ages: 14 yrs and older No class: Dec. 5

Dates

Days Time

Sep 5-Dec 19

Fee

8:30-10am 14 sess: $252R/$327.95

Athletics

All Belt Levels

Introductory Martial Arts for Women

From beginners to senior belts, this class welcomes students of all ages to train with Grandmaster Connelly and his experienced instructor team. This engaging class offers opportunities to grow in body, mind, and spirit. Location: Levy Senior Center Ages: 4 yrs and older No class: Dec. 5

This class is for women ages 12 and up who are interested in beginning Taekwondo. The noncompetitive program places a strong emphasis on self-defense and is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. Location: Levy Senior Center Ages: 12 yrs and older No class: Sept. 7

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 5-Dec 19

14 sess: $210R/$273.30NR

10-11am

Martial Arts by Connelly’s Academy Build confidence, discipline and respect while learning the fundamentals of martial arts in a fun and supportive environment. Led by experienced instructors, participants will develop age-appropriate martial arts skills while improving balance, coordination, focus and self-control. Classes emphasize goal setting, perseverance, leadership and mutual respect, helping students build confidence both on and off the mat. Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center Ages: 1st-5th grade No class: Oct. 9, Nov. 27

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 18-Dec 4

10 sess: $150R/$195.21NR

4-5pm

Introductory Martial Arts for Girls Intro martial arts class for girls over age 7. Location: Levy Senior Center Ages: 7 yrs and older No class: Sept. 7

Dates

Days Time

Aug 31-Dec 14 M

5-6pm

Fee 15 sess: $225R/$292.82NR

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 31-Dec 14

15 sess: $225R/$292.82NR

6-6:55pm

Hapkido Korean Hapkido is a comprehensive, self-defense system encompassing a wide range of techniques to redirect and use an aggressor’s energy to overcome their attack. The system includes strikes, kicks, joint locks, pressure points, grappling, ground defenses and weapon disarming techniques. Harness your internal energy to develop strength, endurance and spirit. This class is taught by expert, experienced instructors with a passion for sharing the art. No prior martial arts experience necessary. Location: Prieto Community Center Ages: 13 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 1-Dec 15

15 sess: $240R/$312.34NR

7:30-9pm

Qigong QiGong is a moving meditation practice that helps build energy and vitality—reducing feelings of sluggishness, listlessness and stress. Through gentle, mindful movement, you’ll learn to release tension and increase overall well-being. This class teaches you to find your center and align body, mind, and breath, retraining your body to move without tension. Location: Levy Senior Center Ages: 18 yrs and older Instructor: Yesica Barrera

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 2-Nov 18

12 sess: $132R/$171.79NR

6-7pm

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 37

PICKLEBALL

Athletics

Jr. Ninja Warriors

NINJA WARRIORS Mini Ninja Warriors Join Hot Shot Sports as we leap, hop, skip, and run our way through obstacles and put our ninja skills to the test. This fun movement based class will challenge your Ninja to maneuver over and under objects. Location: Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center Ages: 3-5 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 9-Oct 21

4:15-5pm

7 sess: $128R/$166.58NR

Sep 10-Oct 22

4:15-5pm

7 sess: $128R/$166.58NR

Oct 28-Dec 16

4:15-5pm

6 sess: $112R/$145.76NR

Oct 29-Dec 17

4:15-5pm

6 sess: $112R/$145.76NR

38 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Take everything that you learned from Mini Ninja Warriors and test your ninja skills with even more difficult obstacles to leap, hop, skip and run your way through. This is a fun movement based class to develop and put your ninja skills to the test. This class is taught through Hot Shot Sports. Location: Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center Ages: 6-8 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 10-Oct 22

5-6pm

7 sess: $128R/$166.58NR

Oct 29-Dec 17

5-6pm

6 sess: $112R/$145.76NR

Adult & Tot Ninja Warriors Leap, hop, skip, run your way through obstacles and put your Ninja skills to the test. Parents and Tots have fun in this movement based class will challenge your Ninja to maneuver over and under objects. We will also play many large group games to further challenge their Ninja skills. Parents or caregiver participation is required. Location: Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center Ages: 2-3 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 9-Oct 21

5-5:45pm

7 sess: $119R/$151.32NR

Oct 28-Dec 16 W

5-5:45pm

6 sess: $119R/$151.32NR

Athletics PICKLEBALL

Pickleball Drills Intermediate

Pickleball 101 Learn the fast-growing game of pickleball in this beginner-friendly class designed for adults! Participants will develop fundamental skills including serving, scoring, volleys, positioning, and game strategy through guided instruction and practice play. This class is perfect for new players looking to build confidence, improve coordination, and enjoy a fun social activity. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 16-Oct 21

6:30-7:30pm

6 sess: $84R/$109.39NR

Oct 28-Dec 2

6:30-7:30pm

6 sess: $84R/$109.39NR

The emphasis of this class will be on accuracy, consistency, and technique in a variety of shot selections. With a focus on strategy, and specific technique, it will improve your game with a more focused sense of footwork and ball placement with point and match play. Location: James Park Pickleball Courts Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 4-25

10:30-11:30am

4 sess: $146/$190.01

Oct 2-23

10:30-11:30am

4 sess: $146/$190.01

Pickleball Level Up Take your pickleball game to the next level in this intermediate class focused on skill development and game strategy. Participants will refine dinking, volleys, serves, and court positioning through drills and match play. Designed for players with basic experience, this class builds consistency, confidence, and competitive play ability. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older No class: Nov. 27

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 17-Oct 22

6:30-7:30pm

6 sess: $84R/$109.39NR

Oct 29-Dec 3

6:30-7:30pm

5 sess: $70R/$89.29NR

Pickleball Drills: Beginner/Advanced Beginner Whether you’re a novice or have some formal instruction hoping to improve, our knowledgeable instructors will lead you through drills, strategies, and tactics to help you improve. Get better in footwork, strokes, and match play in a fun and encouraging setting. Location: James Park Pickleball Courts Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 4-25

9:30-10:30am

4 sess: $146/$190.01

Oct 2-23

9:30-10:30am

4 sess: $146/$190.01

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 39

PICKLEBALL

Athletics FALL SPORTS LEAGUES

Co-Ed Cross Country (Grades 4-5)

Our co-ed cross country program for 4th and 5th graders introduces young runners to the fun and fundamentals of distance running. Through engaging practices and friendly meets, students will build endurance, improve running form, and develop teamwork and perseverance. Biweekly meets will take place, with race distances ranging from 1 to 1.5 miles. Each participant will receive a team shirt to wear on race days. Volunteer coaches from each participating school will coordinate team practices. Location: Twiggs Park Ages: 9-11 yrs Meet Dates: Sept. 23, Oct. 7, and Oct. 21 from 5-6pm Registration Deadline: August 20 Expected Timeline: August 20: All participants registered August 24-28: Coaches and teams set for the season Aug. 31-Sept. 4: Coaches will reach out to participants with team practice information September 7-11: Practices start (Coaches determine practice days/ times-typically a week day after school) September 23: First meet of the season October 7: Second meet of the season October 21: Final meet of the season and season end

40 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 20-Oct 21

$75

5-6pm

Athletics

Flag Football Leagues (Grades 2-5)

This school-based league emphasizes teamwork, sportsmanship, and fun in a safe, non-contact environment. All leagues are co-ed and open to players of all skill levels. Each team will receive jerseys and play a total of six games during the season. Games are approximately one hour long and are scheduled weekly between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. (times vary on Saturdays). Doubleheaders may occur depending on the number of teams. Volunteer coaches from each participating school will coordinate team practices. League standings will be tracked, and the season will conclude with a positional playoff for top-ranked teams. Location: Robert Crown Fields Ages: 7-11yrs Registration Deadline: August 20 Expected Timeline: Expected Timeline: August 20: All participants registered August 24-28: Coaches and teams set for the season Aug. 31-Sept. 4: Coaches will reach out to players with team practice information September 7-11: Practices start and game schedule released September 19: First week of games October 24: Final week of games

SKATEBOARDING

Skateboarding Lessons Appropriate for beginning and intermediate levels. Beginners learn how to start, stop, turn, basic ramp riding, and tricks; intermediate skaters learn skills based on ability. Skaters must bring a drink and wear a helmet. Knee, elbow, and wrist guards are encouraged. No board, no problem. We can lend you one for class, just email sk8lessonschicago@gmail.com. Location: Twiggs Skate Park No class: Oct. 31

Ages

Fee

9:3010:30am

5-7yrs

4 sess: $143R/$189.10NR

10:30am12pm

8-13yrs

4 sess: $214R/$278.50NR

Oct 10Nov 7

9:3010:30am

5-7yrs

4 sess: $143R/$189.10NR

2nd and 3rd Grade Co-Ed Flag Football League

Oct 10Nov 7

10:30am12pm

8-13yrs

4 sess: $214R/$278.50NR

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Intro to Skateboarding

Aug 20-Oct 24

$75

5th Grade Co-Ed Flag Football League

Young skaters will be introduced to the very basics of skateboarding in a safe and supportive environment. Lessons focus on balance, standing on the board, pushing, and the first simple tricks every skater learns. With handson guidance, kids will also get help riding down small ramps as they build comfort and confidence. Skaters must bring a drink and wear a helmet. Knee, elbow, and wrist guards are encouraged. Skateboards are provided for this class. Questions please email us at sk8lessonschicago@gmail.com Location: Twiggs Skate Park Ages: 3-5 yrs *Note: Wear your Halloween costume on Oct 29!

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 20-Oct 24

$75

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 1-22

9:45-10:30am

4 sess: $109R/141.86NR

Sep 2-24

9:45-10:30am

4 sess: $109R/141.86NR

Sep 29-Oct 20 Th

9:45-10:30am

4 sess: $109R/141.86NR

Oct 8-29*

9:45-10:30am

4 sess: $109R/141.86NR

9am-3pm

4th Grade Co-Ed Flag Football League Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug 20-Oct 24

$75

9am-3pm

Dates

Days Time

Sep 12Oct 3

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 41

Athletics

SOFTBALL

Mens Adult Softball League Step up to the plate in this recreational men’s 12-inch softball league! Teams will compete in a 9-game regular season followed by a single-elimination playoff tournament. Gather your squad for competitive games, friendly rivalry, and a fun way to stay active throughout the season. Limited to 8 teams, so register early. Coach will register team under their account. Location: Robert Crown Fields Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug-Nov

$655R/$852.42NR

6:45-11pm

Women’s Adult Softball League Step up to the plate in this recreational women’s 16-inch softball league! Teams will compete in a 8-game regular season followed by a single-elimination playoff tournament. Gather your squad for competitive games, friendly rivalry, and a fun way to stay active throughout the season. Limited to 8 teams, so register early. Coach will register team under their account. Location: James Park Fields Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Aug-Nov

$655R/$852.42NR

6-9pm

SOCCER

Soccer Shots at Prieto Soccer Shot sessions focus on the basic soccer skills including dribbling, passing, and shooting. We also highlight a positive characteristic trait each session such as respect, teamwork, and appreciation to help build a well-rounded athlete and child. Location: Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center Ages: 3-5 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 2-Nov 4

4:30-5:15pm

8 sess: $200R/$260.28NR

Nov 4-Dec 16

4:30-5:15pm

7 sess: $180R/$234.25NR

TENNIS

Pee Wee Tennis Tennis For kids just learning to play! Lesson plans will focus on basic ball skills, movement, age-appropriate technique, and making sure your child has fun and loves tennis. This is the perfect opportunity for your child to learn the fundamentals of the sport. Location: Lovelace Park Tennis Courts Ages: 4-5 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Looking for a Softball Team?

Sep 2-23

4:15-5pm

4 sess: $135/$175.69

Looking to join an adult softball team? Register as a free agent to be added to our player interest list for upcoming Men’s and Women’s leagues this fall and beyond. Coaches seeking additional players will receive your information directly. Placement on a team is not guaranteed, but this is a great way to connect. Register here: https://www.cityofevanston.org/departments/prcs/facilities/robert_crown_center/softball_leagues.php Location: Men’s Leauge at Robert Crown Fields and Women’s League at James Park Fields Ages: 18 yrs and older

Sep 5-26

1-1:45pm

4 sess: $135/$175.69

Sep 30-Oct 21

4:15-5pm

4 sess: $135/$175.69

Oct 3-24

1-1:45pm

4 sess: $135/$175.69

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Aug-Nov

Su,W

6-11pm

No fee to sign up

42 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Youth Beginner Tennis

For tennis players who can rally from the baseline. Live-ball drills and point play help develop shot selection and movement while players continue stroke development. Players have proven skills in mechanics, control, consistency and movement. Location: Lovelace Park Tennis Courts Ages: 6-10 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 2-23

5-6pm

4 sess: $146/$190.01

Sep 5-26

12-1pm

4 sess: $146/$190.01

Sep 30-Oct 21

5-6pm

4 sess: $146/$190.01

Oct 3-24

12-1pm

4 sess: $146/$190.01

Athletics

Youth Intermediate Tennis

Adult Intermediate/Advanced Tennis

Dates

Days Time

Fee

This player has had some formal instruction, is able to perform basic strokes and executes serve with proper motion. Consistency will be emphasized along with a more focused sense of footwork and ball placement. Both feeding drills and point play will be used. This class is geared toward players who hit with medium power . If needed, the classes will be separated into levels. Location: Lovelace Park Tennis Courts Ages: 18 yrs and older

Sep 5-26

12-1pm

4 sess: $146/$190.01

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 3-24

12-1pm

4 sess: $146/$190.01

Sep 5-26

10:30am-12pm

4 sess: $170/$221.24

Oct 3-24

10:30am-12pm

4 sess: $170/$221.24

High School Intermediate Tennis For tennis players who can rally from the baseline. Live-ball drills and point play help develop shot selection and movement while players continue stroke development. Players have proven skills in mechanics, control, consistency and movement. Location: Lovelace Park Tennis Courts Ages: 14-18 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 5-26

1-2pm

4 sess: $146/$190.01

Oct 3-24

1-2pm

4 sess: $146/$190.01

Adult Beginner/Advanced Beginner Tennis Beginner Adult Lessons are geared toward the player with no prior tennis experience, Advanced Beg are geared toward the player with some tennis experience We’ll learn basic strokes, rules and etiquette. If needed, the classes will be separated into levels. If needed, the classes will be separated into levels Location: Lovelace Park Tennis Courts Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 5-26

9:30-10:30am 4 sess: $146/$190.01

Oct 3-24

9:30-10:30am 4 sess: $146/$190.01

VOLLEYBALL Volleykidz USA Volleykidz is an introductory class. The lesson plan introduces the pass, set and spike using a very light volleyball. Volleykidz will improve each child’s hand/eye coordination and left/right coordination through the use of fun drills and games. The lesson plan also incorporates short educational drills including spelling, math & science. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 8-10 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 3-24

4-5:30pm

4 sess: $131/$170.48

Oct 1-22

4-5:30pm

4 sess: $131/$170.48

Oct 29-Nov 19 Th

4-5:30pm

4 sess: $131/$170.48

Dec 3-17

4-5:30pm

3 sess: $99/$128.84

Jr. Volleykidz USA Improve your volleyball skills with 90 minutes of drills in setting, passing, overhand serving and spiking. The lesson plan directs the use of individual training, pairing drills and game situation development that help each student reach a new level. Instructors organize short games at the end of each class. The lesson plan incorporates leadership and educational components. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 11-14 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 3-24

5:30-7pm

4 sess: $131/$170.48

Oct 1-22

5:30-7pm

4 sess: $131/$170.48

Oct 29-Nov 19 Th

5:30-7pm

4 sess: $131/$170.48

Dec 3-17

5:30-7pm

3 sess: $99/$128.84

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 43

Athletics

Jr. Volley Series Match Play (Chandler)

Interested in playing volleyball with other volleyball athletes with skills to compete against other park teams? Then our Volleyball Pro will develop a team and bring parity to the weekly instruction to prepare match-PLAY. At weekly practice the teams will learn team defense and offense positions while they improve on their fundamentals of passing, setting, spiking, and overhand serving. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 11-14 yrs

Healing Yoga This is a therapeutic yoga class. You will be stronger, more flexible, balance will improve and relaxation technics will stay with you. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing. And avoid eating for several hours before class as you will be inverted more than once. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Emily Williams-Guthrie Ages: 12 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 3-24

7-8:30pm

4 sess: $131/$170.48

Sep 14-Oct 19 M

6-7:15pm

6 sess: $72R/$93.70NR

Oct 1-22

7-8:30pm

4 sess: $131/$170.48

Nov 2-Dec 14

6-7:15pm

7 sess: $84R/$109.32NR

Oct 29-Nov 19 Th

7-8:30pm

4 sess: $131/$170.48

Dec 3-17

7-8:30pm

3 sess: $99/$128.84

Yoga for a Strong Core

Jr. Volley Series Match Play (Robert Crown)

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 14-Oct 5

7-8:30pm

4 sess: $131R/$170.48NR

Oct 12-Nov 2

7-8:30pm

4 sess: $131R/$170.48NR

Nov 9-30

7-8:30pm

4 sess: $131R/$170.48NR

YOGA AND WELLNESS

Enhance your stability, balance, and overall strength with this dynamic yoga class focused on building core strength. Suitable for all fitness levels, you’ll be guided through sequences designed to improve posture, boost balance, and reduce the risk of injury. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Amanda AuBuchon Ages: 12 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 2-Nov 18

12 sess: $132R/$171.79NR

6:30-7:30pm

Fireside Yoga Strengthen your mind, body, and spirit in one of Evanston’s most unique and relaxing yoga settings. This fall, the Ecology Center’s popular Fireside Yoga class returns to its cozy spot in front of the large fireplace. When weather permits, classes will move outdoors around the fire pit in the Ladd Arboretum. Please bring your own yoga mat and water bottle. Location: Evanston Ecology Center Ages: 18 yrs and older No class: Nov 25

Parent/Child Yoga

Dates

Days Time

Level

Fee

Sep 2-Oct 7

6-7pm

Beginner

6 sess: $84R/$109.32NR

Sep 2-Oct 7

7:156 sess: Multi-Level 8:15pm $84R/$109.32NR

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 19-Nov 7

9 sess: $176R/$229.05NR

9-10am

44 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Beginner

6 sess: $84R/$109.32NR

Oct 21-Dec 2 W

6-7pm

Oct 21-Dec 2 W

7:156 sess: Multi-Level 8:15pm $84R/$109.32NR

Athletics Candlelight Yoga

Community Acupuncture

End your Monday with a relaxing and restorative candlelight yoga class meant to bring peace and calmness to your mind and body. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 14

7:30-8:30pm 1 sess: $15R/$19.52NR

Oct 19

7:30-8:30pm 1 sess: $15R/$19.52NR

Nov 9

7:30-8:30pm 1 sess: $15R/$19.52NR

Experience the healing through group acupuncture as modeled by the Lincoln Hospital Detox Program developed by Dr. Mutulu Shakr. Learn about the Lincoln Detox program, common misconceptions about acupuncture, along with any questions. If you do not want to have acupuncture, you can still benefit from the treatment by sitting with the group or having magnets placed on points as an alternative. Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 10 and 24

6:30-7:30pm $11R/$14.32NR

Oct 8 and 22

6:30-7:30pm $11R/$14.32NR

Nov 12 and 25

6:30-7:30pm $11R/$14.32NR

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 45

Nature and Adventure

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS Toddler Garden Club

Schedule a play date with nature in the Farmette! You and your child will explore our little farm at Eggleston Park through gardening, stories, and outdoor play. Caregiver must attend with registered child. Location: Eggleston Park Ages: 1-4 yrs No class: Sept. 23

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 9-Oct 28

7 sess: $112R/$145.76NR

9:30-11am

Nature Play Date

You and your child will meet animals up close, learn about nature, enjoy storytime, make crafts, play, and explore the outdoors along the Ladd Arboretum nature trail. Each playdate features a different nature theme. Location: Evanston Ecology Center Ages: 1-4 yrs

Dates Days Time

Fee

Sep 4

9:30-11:30am

1 sess: $20R/$26.03NR

Oct 2

9:30-11:30am

1 sess: $20R/$26.03NR

Nov 6

9:30-11:30am

1 sess: $20R/$26.03NR

Saplings and Oaks

Through stories, hands-on crafts, imaginative play, and science exploration, children build a connection to the natural world and the summer-to-fall seasons. Classes are held primarily outdoors, weather permitting. Location: Lighthouse Fog Houses Ages: 1.5-5 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Sep 17-Nov 5

Fee

10-11:30am 8 sess: $136R/$176.99NR

Fireside Storytime

Let your imagination come to life as you cozy up by the fireplace with nature books, puppet friends, and hot cocoa. Each session features a different storybook, followed by themed crafts and activities. We’ll wrap up the hour with a nature walk and a warm cup of cocoa. Location: Ecology Center Ages: 1-5 yrs

46 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Dates

Days Time

Nov 20

Fee

10-11:30am 1 sess: $20R/$26.03NR

Nature and Adventure

FAMILIES & COMMUNITY PROGRAMS Community Campfire

Spend a late summer evening building community with friends, family, and neighbors around a cozy campfire by the lake. Enjoy exploring nature at night as we learn about local wildlife and roast marshmallows together. Café au Lake will be open for drinks and snacks. Location: Arrington Lagoon Ages: 2 yrs and over

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 4

Free

7-8:30pm

Canoe the Canal

Enjoy one last canoeing adventure on the North Shore Channel before fall begins. Canoes, paddles, personal flotation devices, and basic paddling instruction will be provided. Each boat will also receive a river scavenger hunt as we search for signs of wildlife. Learn basic canoeing strokes and safety before heading out for a fun and memorable trip. Location: Dammrich Rowing Center Ages: 4 yrs and over

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 19

1 sess: $22R/$28.63NR

12:30-2:30pm

Birding by Boat

Pond Lab

Blend science and recreation at Lovelace Park as we explore the aquatic web of life! Participants will use a variety of pond-dipping tools—including macroinvertebrate nets, magnifying glasses, binoculars, and fishing rods— to discover the many creatures that live in aquatic environments. Location: Lovelace Park Ages: 5 yrs and over

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 12

1 sess: $14R/$18.22NR

10-11:30am

Family Campfire

Join us for a peaceful morning paddle and enjoy a unique perspective of the North Shore Channel’s diverse bird species. Binoculars will be provided. Basic instruction and safety will be covered before heading out—no canoeing experience necessary. Location: Dammrich Rowing Center Ages: 5 yrs and over

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 19

1 sess: $22R/$28.63NR

9:30-11:30am

Astronomy in the Parks

Join the Ecology Center staff for fun fall evenings of campfire fun! Enjoy nature-themed stories, outdoor activities, and of course, the ever-popular s’mores. Each month is a different fall adventure. Location: Lighthouse Beach Fire Circle Ages: 2 yrs and over

Reconnect with the night sky as we explore summer and fall celestial wonders through the Chicago Astronomer’s telescope. Bring your questions—our guide will lead a tour of the stars and planets beyond our world. Afterward, enjoy marshmallows and other festivities around the campfire. Location: Elliot Park Ages: All ages

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 18

7-8pm

1 sess: $10R/$13.01NR

Oct 3

7-9pm

1 sess: $15R/$19.52NR

Oct 10

7-8pm

1 sess: $10R/$13.01NR

Nov 7

6:30-8:30pm

1 sess: $15R/$19.52NR

Nov 14

7-8pm

1 sess: $10R/$13.01NR

Fall Forest Night Hike

Take a fall night hike through the Ladd Arboretum as we test our nighttime senses and compare them to those of nocturnal animals. Learn why some creatures make noise at night while others remain silent, and discover the unique adaptations and important roles of often misunderstood nocturnal wildlife. After the hike, gather around the campfire and enjoy s’mores. Location: Ladd Arboretum Ages: 4 yrs and over

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 25

1 sess: $15R/$19.52NR

7-8:30pm

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 47

Nature and Adventure

Fall Colors Paddle

Join us for a serene paddling adventure through the vibrant autumn landscape of the North Shore Channel. As the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, we’ll search for migrating birds and signs of wildlife. Canoes, paddles, personal flotation devices, and basic paddling instruction will be provided. Location: Dammrich Rowing Center Ages: 4 yrs and over

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 18

1 sess: $22R/$28.63NR

12-2pm

Wild Weekends

Come to the Ecology Center for a live animal presentation! We will be partnering with a wildlife education organization to meet and learn about a variety of amazing and often misunderstood animals to better understand the importance of protecting these creatures. Join us early at 6:30pm for an introduction activity with the animal presentation starting at 7pm. Children must be accompanied by an enrolled adult. Location: Ecology Center Ages: 4 yrs and older

Wild Night Out Parents can enjoy a night off while kids have an evening of fun. Children will take part in nature-themed games, group activities, outdoor exploration, and crafts. The night will end with a cozy campfire and s’mores.. Ages: 5-11 yrs

Dates Days Time Location

Fee

Sep 11

6-9pm Lighthouse Beach

1 sess: $33R/42.95NR

Oct 2

6-9pm Lighthouse Beach

1 sess: $33R/42.95NR

Nov 13

6-9pm Ecology Center

1 sess: $33R/42.95NR

Cardboard Costume Creators

In this fun, hands-on session, kids will design and build their own unique costumes using cardboard, tape, tools, imagination—and a little Halloween magic. Whether it’s a spooky monster, a futuristic robot, or something totally out of the box, participants will learn how to turn simple materials into incredible wearable art. Materials included. Location: Evanston Ecology Center Ages: 5 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Dates Days Time

Nov 21

1 sess: $15R/$19.52NR

Oct 25

6:30-8pm

2026 Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz

The Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz is a nationwide community science campaign to track biodiversity for conservation. Join us for an exciting nature hunt, as we explore the ecosystems of the Ladd Arboretum! We will work together to identify as many species as we can using guides and the iNaturalist app. Let’s see how many species we can find this year! Location: Ladd Arboretum Ages: 4 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 5

1 sess: $10R/$13.01NR

10-11:30am

YOUTH PROGRAMS It’s fall at the Ecology Center Farmette, and that means it’s time to enjoy the fruits of the season. Join us to learn about our urban garden and celebrate the harvest as we explore and pick fresh seasonal produce together. Location: Eggleston Park Farmette Ages: 5-11 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sept 8-Oct 13

6 sess: $96R/$124.93NR

48 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

10am-12pm 1 sess: $20R/$26.03NR

ADULT PROGRAMS

Fermenting and Pickling Workshop

In this hands-on workshop, participants will explore the science and art of fermenting and pickling vegetables while testing out a variety of techniques. Each participant will take home several different fermented and pickled products. Location: Evanston Ecology Center Ages: 16 yrs and older

Dates Days Time

Fee

Nov 12

1 sess: $25R/$32.54NR

7-8pm

Fall Equinox Fireside Forest Therapy

Garden Club

5:30-6:45pm

Fee

Celebrate the fall equinox with an evening in the Ladd Arboretum. We will experience a guided sensory meditation (seated or lying down), mindful wandering, nature connection, and reflection around the campfire. Join Sarah Abu-Absi, a certified nature and forest therapy guide, for this outdoor experience that encourages participants to slow down, engage their senses, and be present in the moment. Location: Evanston Ecology Center Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates Days Time

Fee

Sep 22

1 sess: $22R/$28.63NR

6-7:30pm

Nature and Adventure

Full Moon Fireside Forest Therapy

Come to the Lighthouse Beach fire circle, as we enjoy seeing the October full moon rise during an evening of forest therapy and mindfulness designed to help us reconnect with the natural world. Join Sarah Abu-Absi, a certified nature and forest therapy guide, for this outdoor experience that encourages participants to slow down, engage their senses, and be present in the moment. Location: Lighthouse Beach Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates Days Time

Fee

Oct 25

1 sess: $22R/$28.63NR

4:30-6pm

SCOUT PROGRAMS Scout Merit Badges

We offer a variety of required and elective merit badges each season to support Scouts on their path to Eagle Scout. Supplies and instruction are provided. Each class meets on two dates, with homework assigned between sessions. The Personal Fitness merit badge has a 12-week break between classes to complete 12-week physical fitness and nutrition program. Location: Evanston Ecology Center Ages: 11-17 yrs

Dates

Days Time

Theme

Fee

Sep 14, Dec 14

4:306:30pm

Personal Fitness

2 sess: $40R/$52.02NR

Nov 9, Nov 16

4:306:30pm

Citizenship in the World

2 sess: $40R/$52.02NR

Oct 5, 26

4:306:30pm

Mammal Study

2 sess: $40R/$52.02NR

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 49

Accessible Recreation

Swim Skills & Strokes

This recreational swim program offers a flexible, participant-centered aquatic experience designed to support individual goals. Participants customize their time in the pool to focus on physical fitness, functional swim skills, stroke development, and overall confidence in the water. The program promotes independence, skills progression, and enjoyment in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. Location: YWCA Ages: 8 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 7-Nov 18

7 sess: $105R/$136.65NR

7:15-7:45pm

SPECIAL OLYMPICS

Special Olympics Powerlifting

Step into a season of strength, discipline, and personal achievement with Special Olympics Powerlifting. Athletes train in key lifts such as the squat, bench press, and deadlift. Guided by dedicated coaches, participants learn proper form, goal-setting, and safe training habits while pushing themselves to reach new milestones. You will be assigned to a specific timeframe by the Accessible Recreation Program Coordinator. Location: ETHS Ages: 15 yrs and older

ADAPTED SPORTS Adapted Boccia

Whether you’re brand new to the game or a seasoned pro, Boccia is a sport with endless benefits. Together we’ll determine which playing style and adapted equipment best enhances your athletic skills. From there we’ll learn the rules, develop confidence, and experience the camaraderie that being an athlete on Evanston’s first adapted sports team will bring. Location: Prieto Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 18-Nov 6

8 sess: $75R/$97.59NR

11:30am-1pm

Adapted Pickleball

This beginner, adapted program will teach you the skills and basic rules of the sport that is ever-increasing in popularity. Adapted equipment will be provided and we’ll get our friendly competition on in an environment that focuses on fun, socialization, and increasing our physical activity. Location: Prieto Community Center Ages: 18 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Sep 17-Nov 19

Fee

11:30am-1pm 8 sess: $75R/$97.59NR

50 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 1-Nov 19

6:30-7:30pm

8 sess: $80R/$104.16NR

Oct 1-Nov 19

7:30-8:30pm

8 sess: $80R/$104.16NR

Special Olympics Swim Team

Join us for a season where every splash brings pride and possibility. Athletes of all levels develop essential swimming skills—from strokes and breathing techniques to turns and endurance training. Whether mastering a new stroke, improving a race time, or celebrating with teammates poolside, every moment reflects determination, teamwork, and the joy of being part of something bigger. Location: YWCA Ages: 8 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Oct 7-Nov 18

Fee

7:45-8:30pm 7 sess: $105R/$136.65NR

Accessible Recreation Special Olympics Snowshoe

Experience the excitement of winter sport with our Special Olympics Snowshoeing program! Athletes will walk or run on snow using specialized snowshoes while building endurance, strength, and confidence. Practices focus on technique, fitness, and race preparation in a supportive, teambased environment. Location: James Park Ages: 8 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 24-Jan 2

11 sess: $80R/$104.11NR

3:30-4:30pm

Special Olympics Basketball

Join our Special Olympics Basketball program and be part of the action! Athletes will develop skills in dribbling, passing, shooting, and teamwork while building fitness and confidence. Practices emphasize skill development and gameplay in a fun, supportive environment, with opportunities to compete in local and state-level events. The first practice will be used to assess athlete ability and place participants on the appropriate team. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 8 yrs and older

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Nov 3-Jan 12

11 sess: $162R/$210.83NR

6:30-8:30pm

Sensory Chef

Cooking is an activity that is jam packed with sensory opportunities, from using our sense of touch by kneading the bread to smelling the baking cookies. Who can forget the best part...tasting the final product. Location: Park School Ages: 8-22 yrs No class: Sept. 21, Oct. 5, Oct. 12

Days

Sep 14-Nov 16 M

Get some quality music time after school with this engaging music class provided in cooperation with the Institute of Therapy Through the Arts. This 8-week program offers participants the opportunity to learn to play musical instruments and expand their musical skills, as well as improve motor language and social skills in a group setting. Location: Park School Ages: 8-22 yrs No class: Sept. 23, Oct. 7, Nov. 4

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 9-Nov 18

8 sess: $210R/$273.21NR

3:30-5:30pm

Creative Corner

Self-expression, developing confidence and learning to trust your ideas are just some of the countless benefits of art. We’ll explore a variety of fun seasonal activities from themed games and crafts to snack making! We will be engaging all our senses in this weekly program. Location: Park School Ages: 8-22 yrs No class: Oct. 8

Dates

Days Time

Sep 10-Nov 19 W

Fee

3:30-5:30pm

10 sess: $210R/$273.21NR

Community Crew

AFTER SCHOOL

Dates

I’ve Got Rhythm

Time

Fee

3:30-5:30pm 7 sess: $161R/$209.52NR

We’re getting out and about on Fridays this Spring at Community Crew! After meeting up at Park School, we’ll board the new Accessible Rec bus and head out to visit favorite hangouts in Evanston including the library and the Ecology Center. While engaging with the community, we’ll explore new interests and resources. A schedule of activities will be provided on the first week of program. Pick up is at Park School. Location: Park School Ages: 8-22 yrs No class: Oct. 9

Dates

Days Time

Sep 11-Nov 20 F

Fee

3:30-5:30pm

10 sess: $202R/$262.60NR

Let’s Get Movin’

Our fitness activities, sports and active games will be adapted for everyone’s unique abilities and interests, and we’ll learn new ways to keep movin’ and stay healthy. Location: Park School Ages: 8-22 yrs No class: Oct. 6, Nov. 3

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Sep 8-Nov 17

3:30-5:30pm 9 sess: $180R/$234.18NR To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 51

Accessible Recreation

TRIPS

Milwaukee Short Trip

Hot Pockets

Join us for a fun evening at Hot Pockets in Palatine! Enjoy dinner, darts, and billiards while hanging out with friends in a relaxed and social atmosphere. Great food, games, and good company make for the perfect night out! Location: Hot Pockets Ages: 21 yrs and over

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Oct 23

5-9:30pm

1 sess: $20R/$26.02NR

Hibachi Dinner

Do you enjoy chicken, steak, or shrimp?! Come try the Tsukasa Hibachi in Vernon Hills! Enjoy a delicious hibachi dinner, exciting chef entertainment, and a great evening socializing with friends. Location: Tsukasa Ages: 15 yrs and over

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Nov 13

5-8:30pm

1 sess: $35R/$45.54NR

52 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Spend an exciting overnight getaway in Milwaukee with friends! Participants will enjoy a fun-filled trip including visits to Discovery World Museum, the Milwaukee County Zoo, bowling, dining out for lunch and dinner, and an overnight stay at a hotel. This trip is a great opportunity to build independence, socialize, and experience all the fun Milwaukee has to offer in a supportive group setting. Location: Milwaukee, WI Ages: 21 yrs and over

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Sep 26-27

Sa-Su

9am (Sa)5pm (Su)

1 sess: $400R/$520.40NR

DCFS Licensed Preschools ROBERT CROWN PRESCHOOL Take Two AM & Full Day Options

Take Two is a great first independent experience for a child designed to provide children with a warm and nurturing early learning environment. Our staff introduce preschool concepts ina gentle transition from home to school, emphasizing development of children’s social, emotional, physical and cognitive skills. Preschool readiness is a also a focus as children practice taking turns, following simple directions, listening, and social skills. Children benefit from instruction during activity time and an interactive circle time, followed by art, music, movement, story-time, outdoor play and open gym time. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 2 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Aug 26-Jun 4

M-F

8am-12pm or 8am-6pm

Varies by month

Creative Play Preschool AM & Full Day Options

Our multi-age classroom offers children the opportunity to participate in a variety of age appropriate activities as they develop socially, emotionally, and cognitively through play. Classroom activities are planned to meet the needs of each child and focus on development of problem solving skills, peer relationships, making real life connections through math, literacy, science, music, movement, and art activities. Toilet Training is required for this program. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 3-5 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Aug 26-Jun 4

M-F

8am-12pm or 8am-6pm

Varies by month

PRIETO EARLY LEARNING CENTER Explorer Two AM & Full Day Options Explorer Two is a great first independent experience for a child designed to provide children with a warm and nurturing early learning environment. Our staff introduce preschool concepts in a gentle transition from home to school, emphasizing development of children’s social, emotional, physical and cognitive skills. Preschool readiness is a also a focus as children practice taking turns, following simple directions, listening, and social skills. Children benefit from instruction during activity time and an interactive circle time, followed by art, music, movement, story-time, outdoor play and open gym time. Location: Prieto Community Center Ages: 2 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Aug 26-Jun 4

M-F

8am-12pm or Varies by month 8:30am-5:30pm To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 53

After-School Programs

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Robert Crown After-School Adventure

Kid Zone is a fun and supportive after-school program for elementary school students. The program includes transportation from school, a nutritious hot meal, and a variety of engaging activities in a safe and welcoming environment. Students can enjoy homework help, arts and crafts, games, fitness, STEM activities, and opportunities to build friendships and social skills. Kid Zone helps children continue learning and growing after the school day ends while providing families with reliable after-school care. Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center Ages: 4-11 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

School service days

M-F

3-6pm Varies by month 12-6pm early dismissal

Fleetwood-Jourdain Kid Zone

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

School service days

M-F

3-6pm Varies by month 12-6pm early dismissal

Beyond the Bell: Middle School Enrichment

Our daily schedule, from 3 - 6 PM, includes time to relax and play in both structured and self directed arts and crafts, homework help, ice-skating, cooking, coordinated study time and nutritious snacks. Activities designated to build athletic and social skills take place in our gym, multi-purpose room, and outdoor space. Full day care is provided on days D65 holds non-attendance days/Institute days outside of COE holidays. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 5-12 yrs No class: City recognized holidays

Fee

The Imaginary Game

Beyond the Bell is an after-school enrichment program designed for middle school students. The program provides transportation from school, a hot meal, and activities that encourage academic success, creativity, leadership, and personal growth. Students can participate in homework support, technology and STEM projects, recreation, team-building activities, and life-skills development in a structured and positive environment. Beyond the Bell gives students a safe place to connect with peers, explore new interests, and stay engaged after school. Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center or Gibbs Morrison Ages: 11-14 yrs (6th-8th grade)

The Imaginary Game gives kids the extraordinary opportunity to build and experience their own fantasy world from the ground up in a live-action role-playing game filled with adventure, achievements, and magic of their own design. Guided by the rules of being safe, kind, and fun for all, children will learn to safely use a box cutter and craft fantasy-style weapons and armor out of cardboard and other recycled materials and learn an epic game of combat tag as they create an epic quest for themselves and their friends. The Imaginary Game builds mindfulness, awareness, creativity, and achievement within a dynamic collective. This program will spend substantial time outdoors. Location: Baker Park Ages: 8-14 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

School service days

M-F

3-6pm Varies by month 12-6pm early dismissal

Sep 4-Dec 11

4-6pm

14 sess: $560R/$728.79NR

54 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Fee

School Days Off and Fall Break Programs

SCHOOL DAYS OFF

School’s Off Open Gym

Ecology Day Off School Camp Join the Ecology Center for a day of nature exploration while school is out! Each session features a different nature theme, with related activities,including animal visits, crafts, games, and outdoor time. Pack a nut-free lunch; an afternoon snack will be provided. Ages: 5-11 yrs

No school? No problem! Participants can enjoy a supervised space to play basketball, dodgeball, soccer, volleyball, and other gym games, plus free play with sports equipment and activities. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 5-11 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Dates

Days

Time

Location Age

Fee

Sep 21

9:30am-12pm

1 sess: $18R/$23.43NR

Sep 21

9am-4pm

Lovelace Park

5-11

1 sess: $73R/$95NR

Sep 23

9:30am-12pm

1 sess: $18R/$23.43NR

Sep 23

Ecology 9am-4pm Center

5-8

1 sess: $73R/$95NR

Oct 9

9:30am-12pm

1 sess: $18R/$23.43NR

Oct 12

9:30am-12pm

1 sess: $18R/$23.43NR

Sep 23

Lighthouse 9am-4pm Beach Fog Houses

9-12

1 sess: $73R/$95NR

Nov 3

9:30am-12pm

1 sess: $18R/$23.43NR

Oct 9

9am-4pm

Ecology Center

5-11

1 sess: $73R/$95NR

Oct 12

9am-4pm

Ecology Center

5-11

1 sess: $73R/$95NR

Nov 3

9am-4pm

Lovelace Park

5-11

1 sess: $73R/$95NR

Ecology Half-Day Drop-In After school lets out early, drop in for an afternoon of outdoor play, games, critter visits, and crafts. Enjoy flexible drop-off and pick-up times. Bring a nut-free lunch; an afternoon snack will be provided. Location: Ecology Center Ages: 5-11 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Nov 4

12:30-5:30pm

1 sess: $50R/$65.07NR

School Day Off Snapology Camps Snapology’s STEAM programs make learning fun through hands-on building activities. Using LEGO® bricks, K’Nex, and technology, kids stay engaged while developing skills in science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 5-11 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Theme

Sep 21

9am-12pm Superheroes

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Sep 21

1-4pm

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Oct 9

9am-12pm Ninjas

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Oct 9

1-4pm

Monster Mania

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Oct 12

9am-12pm

Mini-Figure Mania

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Oct 12

1-4pm

Brick City

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Nov 3

9am-12pm

Imagine Your Story

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Nov 3

1-4pm

Planes, Trains & Autos

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Jedi Masters

Fee

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 55

School Days Off and Fall Break Programs School Day Off Snapology Lunch Supervision Extend your child’s day by signing up for lunch supervision. Lunch is not provided, you must send a nut-free lunch with your child. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 5-11 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Sep 21

12-1pm

1 sess: $18R/$23.43NR

Oct 9

12-1pm

1 sess: $18R/$23.43NR

Oct 12

12-1pm

1 sess: $18R/$23.43NR

Nov 3

12-1pm

1 sess: $18R/$23.43NR

Fleetwood-Jourdain School Days Out School Days Out provides students with a fun, safe, and engaging place to spend scheduled days off from school. Each day includes enriching activities designed to encourage creativity, learning, teamwork, and recreation. Participants may enjoy arts and crafts, games, STEM projects, sports, and special themed activities led by caring staff. Select days will also feature exciting field trips that give students opportunities to explore new places and experiences. A nutritious meal is provided every day to ensure students stay energized and ready for fun. School Days Out is a great way for children to stay active, social, and engaged when school is not in session. Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center Ages: 4-13 yrs

Robert Crown Day Off School Camp Each day of this program will have a different theme. Activities will include crafts, games and outside time. Please pack a nut free lunch. Appropriate shoe/outdoor clothing is required. Location: Robert Crown Community Center Ages: 5-7 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Sep 21

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Sep 23

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Oct 9

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Oct 12

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Nov 3

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Nov 23

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Nov 24

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Nov 25

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS

Thanksgiving Break Beginning Gymnastics

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Sep 21

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Sep 23

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

This camp introduces skills and drills that are fun, safe, and understandable for campers of varying backgrounds. Camp is structured to start training and perfecting basic skills on bars, beam, floor, and vault. This camp is appropriate for students in Beginning I, Beginning II, Tumbling I, or with no prior experience. Location: Chandler-Newberger Center

Oct 9

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Dates Days

Time

Age

Fee

Oct 12

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Nov 23

9am-12pm

5-7

1 sess: $47R/$61.16NR

Nov 3

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Nov 23

9am-12pm

8-11

1 sess: $47R/$61.16NR

Nov 23

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Nov 23

1-4pm

5-7

1 sess: $47R/$61.16NR

Nov 24

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Nov 23

1-4pm

8-11

1 sess: $47R/$61.16NR

Nov 25

9am-6pm

1 sess: $56R/$72.87NR

Nov 24

9am-12pm

5-7

1 sess: $47R/$61.16NR

Nov 24

9am-12pm

8-11

1 sess: $47R/$61.16NR

Nov 24

1-4pm

5-7

1 sess: $47R/$61.16NR

Nov 24

1-4pm

8-11

1 sess: $47R/$61.16NR

Nov 25

9am-12pm

5-7

1 sess: $47R/$61.16NR

Nov 25

9am-12pm

8-11

1 sess: $47R/$61.16NR

56 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

School Days Off and Fall Break Programs EVP Indoor Volleyball Thanksgiving Break

Thanksgiving Break Lunch Supervision

Come indoors for a special camp session taught and directed by EVP Academy Volleyball Pros. The 3-day camp will concentrate on the fundamentals of passing, setting, and spiking. The lesson plan directs the use of self-mastery training that helps each student reach a new level. The knowledge of the instructors will give the participants a head start on their skills in preparation for the next upcoming volleyball season. EVP Academy Volleyball Pros Certified Coaches. Location: Chandler-Newberger Center

Extend your child’s day by signing up for lunch supervision. Lunch is not provided, you must send a nut-free lunch with your child. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 5-11 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Age

Nov 23-25

M-W

8:30-11am

Nov 23-25

M-W

Nov 23-25

M-W

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Nov 23

12-1pm

1 sess: $18R/$23.43NR

Fee

Nov 24

12-1pm

1 sess: $18R/$23.43NR

8-10

3 sess: $10R9/$141.85NR

Nov 25

12-1pm

1 sess: $18R/$23.43NR

11am-1:30pm

11-14

3 sess: $10R9/$141.85NR

Ecology Thanksgiving Break Camp

1:30-4pm

11-14

3 sess: $10R9/$141.85NR

Thanksgiving Break Snapology Camps Snapology’s STEAM programs make learning fun through hands-on building activities. Using LEGO® bricks, K’Nex, and technology, kids stay engaged while developing skills in science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Location: Chandler-Newberger Community Center Ages: 5-11 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Theme

Fee

Nov 23

9am-12pm

Science of Superpowers

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Nov 23

1-4pm

Science of Slime

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Nov 24

9am-12pm Pokemania

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Nov 24

1-4pm

Animal Robotics

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Nov 25

9am-12pm

Castles & Kingdoms

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Nov 25

1-4pm

Exploring Arendelle

1 sess: $65R/$84.59NR

Join the Ecology Center for a fun-filled nature camp while school is out! Campers will explore the science of animal tracking through games, crafts, and outdoor adventures. An afternoon snack will be provided. Location: Ecology Center Ages: 5-11 yrs

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Nov 23

9am-4pm

1 sess: $73R/$95NR

Nov 24

9am-4pm

1 sess: $73R/$95NR

Nov 25

9am-4pm

1 sess: $73R/$95NR

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 57

Age 55+ Services Benefit Access Applications

What is the Benefit Access Program? Formerly known as the Circuit Breaker, this program offers fee discounts on license plate stickers and free rides on fixed-route transit for seniors 65 years of age or older and persons with disabilities. To qualify, your total gross income for the last closed tax year must be less than $33,562 for a one-person household or $44,533 for a two-person household. Need help applying or renewing your benefits? Benefits renewal is available by appointment only at the Levy Senior Center. To make an appointment, call 847-866-2919. What do I need to bring to my appointment? You will need your state ID/Driver’s License, your previous year’s 1040 tax return, or your social security statement if you did not file taxes.

Heaven Can Wait

This program is designed to honor our most experienced community members. The Levy Senior Center Foundation will underwrite the Levy Senior Center annual membership fees for program participants who are age 90+.

Dennis Newton Scholarship Fund The Dennis Newton Scholarship Fund, offered by the Levy Senior Center Foundation, provides Levy Center members the financial opportunity to attend our day trips. For more information or to apply for the scholarship, please contact Amy Kellogg at the Levy Center at 847-448-8250.

58 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Happy 100th Birthday!

The Levy Senior Center Foundation will also be honoring members in our community turning 100. Centenarians will be recognized with a birthday cake in their honor to be shared with other Levy Senior Center members at the Levy Center. 100th Birthday recognition forms are available on the Foundation table in the lobby or at the front desk. Please allow 5 days advance notice.

Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) SHIP is a free health benefits counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries. SHIPs mission is to educate, advocate, counsel and empower seniors to make informed healthcare benefit decisions. SHIP is an independent program funded by federal agencies, managed by the State of Illinois and is not affiliated with the insurance industry. Levy Senior Center staff and volunteers counsel Evanston residents by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, please contact Yazari Gutierrez at 847-448-8250.

Age 55+ Activities

ART CLASSES

Clay Hand Building & Gazing Using a variety of clay, tools, methods and imagination, learn how to hand build. Slab roller and extruder are available for use. Fee includes instruction, firing and supplies. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Vivian Visser

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 14-Nov 30

9:30am-12:30pm

12 sess: $240LM/$312.34NM

Sep 14-Nov 30

1pm-4pm

12 sess: $240LM/$312.34NM

Advanced Clay Hand Building & Gazing This class is for students with prior experience in clay hand building. Participants will work with advanced techniques and molds, continuing to explore creative clay construction and glazing methods. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Vivian Visser

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 2-Nov 25 W

9:30am-12:30pm

13 sess: $260LM/$338.37NM

Sep 2-Nov 25 W

1pm-4pm

13 sess: $260LM/$338.37NM

Acrylic & Water Crayon Join a small group setting to explore acrylic paint and aqua crayons on paper. This class is designed for both beginning and experienced painters interested in impressionism, expressionism, and abstract art. Levy Membership does not apply. Location: Noyes Cultural Center Instructor: Linda Boardman

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sept 8Oct 27

11am-12:30pm

8 sess: $175.69NR/$135R

Sept 8Oct 27

2-3:30pm

8 sess: $175.69NR/$135R

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 59

Age 55+ Activities Mosaic Using Stained Glass

Expressive Arts

Discover the art of mosaic using stained glass. Learn the basic techniques, tools, and materials involved in creating mosaic artwork. This class covers cutting, adhesives, substrates, design layout, and grouting. Experienced students may also explore glass-on-glass mosaic techniques. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Vivian Visser

This class encourages creativity using a variety of materials, including large-format paper, watercolors, dry and oil pastels, aqua crayons and pencils. Each session focuses on personal interpretation of the subject matter and concludes with an opportunity to share work and reflections in a supportive, constructive environment. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Charlotta Koppanyi

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 1-Sept 22

1pm-2:30pm

4 sess: $56LM/$72.89NM

Quilling

Oct 6-27

1pm-2:30pm

4 sess: $56LM/$72.89NM

Discover the enchanting world of quilling—create with coiled paper! This decorative art form involves rolling, shaping, and gluing colorful paper strips into beautiful designs. You’ll learn to use a special quilling tool to transform paper strips into intricate shapes and patterns, finishing with a fun project to take home. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Vivian Visser

Nov 10-24

1pm-3pm

3 sess: $56LM/$72.89NM

Sept 4-Nov 20 F

9:30-11:30am 12 sess: $252LM/$327.95NM

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sept 4-Nov 20

12 sess: $180LM/$234.25NM

12-2pm

Bead-Dazzle Participants will learn three jewelry-making techniques: basic beading with wire, crimps, and head pins; wire wrapping; and micro macrame using fine nylon cord. This class is ideal for beginners and offers techniques for more experienced artists. Students will create bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Carol Tarnoff

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 3-Oct 1

10am-12pm

5 sess: $95LM/$123.63NM

Oct 15-Nov 12 Th

10am-12pm

5 sess: $95LM/$123.63NM

MUSIC CLASSES

Folk and Classic Sing-Along This class will energize your voice, spark joy, and introduce you to new friends through the power of song. Enjoy familiar tunes, discover new favorites, and sing along in a supportive, social setting. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Kristin Lems

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 15-Oct 20

6 sess: $66LM/$85.89NM

Relevant Strummers: Ukulele Ensemble Baritones welcome! Looking for some fun people to play ukulele with? If you already know 2-3 strum patterns and 10-12 chords you will be able to have a lot of fun with this group. We play a wide variety of music from the 40’s to the 70’s and hold ukulele sing-along concerts at the Levy Center 3-4 times a year. Participation in these concerts is not required in order to be in the ensemble. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Lorraine Williams.

Watercolor Wonders: Snow on the Pines

Dates

A one-day art workshop that explores using liquid masque, and pouring watercolor paint to create a bright winter landscape. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Carol Tarnoff

Sep 3-Nov 19 Th

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Nov 19

1 sess: $42LM/$54.66NM

10am-1pm

60 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

10-10:45am

Days Time 1-2pm

Fee 12 sess: $144LM/$187.40NM

Age 55+ Activities Pilates & Sculpt

FITNESS

Cardio, Strength & Stretch This class combines low-impact cardio with strength training and stretching for a well-rounded workout. Participants will use equipment such as hand weights, resistance tubing, and exercise balls (when available) to build strength, improve endurance, and increase flexibility. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Marla Lampert

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 14-Nov 30 M

10:30-11:30am

12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

Sep 2-Nov 25

10:30-11:30am

13 sess: $143LM/$186.10NM

The Science of Strength and Stretching

Are you ready to unlock the secrets of flexibility and mobility while improving your overall well-being? This class can help you discover the fascinating world of stretching and its profound impact on your body. This class is designed to empower you with the knowledge and techniques to transform your posture, alleviate pain, enhance circulation, regain flexibility, and boost your confidence in your body’s capabilities. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Maureen Fogerty

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 14-Nov 30 M

11:45am-12:45pm

12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

Sep 2-Nov 25

12-1pm

13 sess: $143LM/$186.10NM

Sep 4-Nov 20

8:30-9:45am

12 sess: $144LM/$187.40NM

Pilates Pilates is a system of exercises focused on strengthening the core—essential for good posture, balance, strength, stability, and overall health. This practice also enhances flexibility and promotes the mind-body connection. The workout consists of mostly floor exercises. No experience necessary. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Sandy Nowarita No class: Oct. 13

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 8-Nov 17

10 sess: $110LM/$143.15NM

12:15-1pm

Pilates focuses on strengthening the core while improving flexibility, physical strength, and mental awareness. This class will lengthen, strengthen, and sculpt the entire body through a series of floor exercises, with the optional use of light hand weights. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Marla Lampert

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 1-Nov 24 Tu

9-9:45am

13 sess: $143LM/$186.10NM

Sep 4-Nov 20 F

11:30am-12:15pm

12 sessions: $132LM/$171.79NM

Pilates and Stretch This class begins with the core strengthening , balance improving and posture enhancing principles of Pilates and closes gracefully with stretches that will increase your flexibility and freedom of movement. Breath and alignment are emphasized in this mind/body class to promote confidence as well as mental and physical well being. No experience necessary. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Sandy Nowarita

Dates

Days Time

Sep 10-Nov 19 Th

Fee

11:15am-12pm 11 sess: $121LM/$157.47NM

Strength & Balance Boost This dynamic class focuses on posture, alignment, core strength, breath control, and muscle endurance. Using equipment such as weights, bands, and straps, you’ll build strength, enhance bone density, and boost your energy. Exercises can be done seated or standing in a lighthearted environment suitable for all fitness levels. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Sandy Nowarita No class: Oct 13

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 8-Nov 17

10 sess: $110LM/$143.15NM

Sep 10-Nov 19 Th

10-10:45am

10:15am-11am 11 sess: $121LM/$157.47NM

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 61

Age 55+ Activities Functional Fitness: Better Strength & Balance This class uses light weights, exercise bands, and stability balls to provide gentle yet effective movements that improve strength, flexibility, and balance. Exercises are performed while seated, with optional standing activities, making the class accessible and comfortable for adults of all fitness levels. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Sue Mendelsohn No class: Oct. 8

Dates

Days Time

Sep 3-Nov 19 Th

Fee

11:05-11:50am 9 sess: $99LM/$128.84NM

Fit for Life Based on research from Stanford University and current evidence-based fitness principles, this class is designed to support healthy aging, functional movement, balance, strength, and long-term mobility. Participants will learn the science behind effective exercise strategies and how targeted training can improve everyday movement, stability, and overall wellness. Classes incorporate strength training with weights, balance and fall-prevention exercises, mobility work, and functional movement patterns shown to support independence and quality of life as we age. Participants will also gain a better understanding of their current fitness level and track measurable progress throughout the session. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Maureen Fogerty

Gentle Meditation for Seniors

Dates

Take a pause in your week with this gentle, welcoming meditation class designed especially for older adults. The class includes simple breathing techniques, guided meditations, and quiet reflection to help reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being. No experience necessary. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Sandy Nowarita

Sep 5-Nov 28 Sa

Dates

Days Time

Sep 10-Nov 19

Fee

12:15-1pm 11 sess: $121LM/$157.47NM

Feldenkrais® Awareness Through Movement Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement® lessons use gentle, purposeful movement sequences based on principles of physics and biomechanics. These lessons help you explore and improve your movement patterns, retraining your body to move more effortlessly. Benefits include better balance, improved posture, increased range of motion, and enhanced sensory awareness. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Robin Sterling

Dates

Days Time

Sep 4-Nov 20 F

Fee

10:30-11:30am 12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

Mind & Body: Cardio, Strength & Stretch This class features mindful, energizing movement inspired by dance and martial arts for full-body conditioning. Move to great music while enhancing coordination, expression, endurance, agility, strength, mobility, balance, and flexibility. Most of the class is performed standing, with resistance and balance exercises offered using the support of a chair. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Barbara Meyer

Dates

Days Time

Sep 4-Nov 20

Fee

10:30-11:30am 12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

62 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Days Time

Fee

9-10am

13 sess: $143LM/$186.10NM

ZUMBA

Zumba Gold This class combines the fun of Zumba Gold with light hand weights to enhance muscle strength, tone, and endurance. Featuring easy-to-follow choreography with and without weights, the class focuses on improving endurance, range of motion, flexibility, coordination, and balance. No experience is necessary. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Sue Hock No class: Sept. 29, Nov. 24

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 1-Nov 17

11 sess: $121LM/$157.47NM

10:45-11:45am

Zumba (Low Impact)

Enjoy a low-impact Zumba class with all the music and moves you love— without the jumping. It’s a fun, energizing workout that feels more like a dance party than exercise. No experience is necessary. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Sue Hock No class: Oct. 1, Nov. 26

Dates

Days Time

Sep 3-Nov 19 Th

6-7pm

Fee 11 sess: $121LM/$157.47NM

Zumba Gold Toning®

Fundamental Tai Chi Chi Gong

This class combines the fun of Zumba Gold with light hand weights to enhance muscle strength, tone, and endurance. Featuring easy-to-follow choreography with and without weights, the class focuses on improving endurance, range of motion, flexibility, coordination, and balance. No experience is necessary. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Sue Hock No class: Oct. 2, Nov. 27

Learn and experience the fundamentals of Chi Gong to improve flexibility, stability, and balance in body, mind, and breath. This class emphasizes the practice of calmness through Tai Chi principles. You’ll engage in both stationary and walking exercises designed to help you feel more grounded, centered, and at ease. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Evelyn Thompson

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 4-Nov 20

11 sess: $121LM/$157.47NM

9-10am

Dates

Days Time

Sep 4-Nov 20

Fee

8:45-9:45am 12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

YOGA

TAI CHI

Weather Warriors: Tai Chi Chi Gong

Beginning Yoga for Seniors

Join us outdoors in the beautiful Levy Center Courtyard as we practice slow, intentional movements to enhance balance, flexibility, and inner calm. When weather does not permit outdoor practice, the class will be indoors. Location: Levy Senior Center Courtyard Instructor: Evelyn Thompson

Discover the benefits of yoga postures, breathing techniques, and meditation—all designed to improve flexibility of both body and mind. Participants must be able to transition from standing to sitting and lying down. No prior yoga experience is necessary. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Betsy Murphy (Tu) Shauna Babcock (Th)

Dates

Days Time

Sep 14-Nov 30 M

Fee

9-9:45am 12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

Days Time

Fee

Sep 1-Nov 24 Tu

9:30-10:30am 13 sess: $143LM/$186.10NM

Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention

Sep 3-Nov 19 Th

9-10am

Experience the benefits of Tai Chi in a program specifically developed for people with arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions. The gentle, slow movements, upright stance, and powerful healing Qi Gong exercises will help you increase mobility, improve balance, strengthen muscles, and release tension in the body without overstressing the joints. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Andrew Serlin

Continuing Yoga for Seniors

Dates

Days Time

Level

Fee

Sep 1-Nov 24 Tu

12-1pm

Beg.

13 sess: $143LM/$186.10NM

Sep 1-Nov 24 Tu

1-2pm

Int.

13 sess: $143LM/$186.10NM

Sep 3-Nov 19 Th

10-11am

Adv.

13 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

This class is intended for participants with prior yoga experience and a foundational understanding of poses and breathing techniques. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Betsy Murphy

Dates

Days Time

Sep 1-Nov 24

Fee

8:15-9:15am 13 sess: $143LM/$186.10NM

Gentle Chair Yoga This class is perfect for those who are less ambulatory or need assistance transferring between positions. No experience is necessary—all are welcome. Participants will explore mind-body practices while seated in a chair or using the chair for support during standing poses. Learn gentle yoga movements, breathing techniques, and relaxation practices to enhance flexibility of both mind and body. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Betsy Murphy

Dates

Days Time

Sep 1-Nov 24 Tu

Fee

10:45-11:45am 13 sess: $143LM/$186.10NM To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 63

Age 55+ Activities DANCE

Move & Groove Line Dance: Beginner

Beginning Line Dance Want to try line dancing but feel nervous about learning the steps? This class is perfect for complete beginners. You’ll learn the basics in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere with plenty of repetition. Steps will be combined into simple dances set to a variety of music. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Judith Grubner No class: Sept. 15, Sept. 22

Dates

Days Time

Sep 1-Nov 24 Tu

Fee

1:30-2:30pm 11 sess: $121LM/$157.47NM

Line Dance Practice If you haven’t line danced in a while and want a refresher—or if you prefer easier dances—this is the class for you. A basic understanding of steps and terminology is helpful. While beginners are welcome, please note it may take some time to get up to speed with the rest of the class. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Judith Grubner No class: Sept. 16, Sept. 23

Dates

Days Time Fee

Sep 2-Nov 25 W

1-2pm

11 sess: $121LM/$157.47NM

Continuing Line Dancing This class is designed for dancers with a solid understanding of basic line dance steps who are ready to learn more advanced steps and dances. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Judith Grubner No class: Sept. 16, Sept. 23

Dates

Days Time

Sep 2-Nov 25

Fee

2:15-3:15pm 11 sess: $121LM/$157.47NM

Move & Groove Line Dance: Absolute Beginner This class is for absolute beginners, or for those who haven’t grapevined in a while, and is perfect for the dancer who wants to check out what line dancing is all about. You will learn basic steps, with emphasis on proper step technique and how to combine them, to build your repertoire of line dancing skills. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Pat Bernard

Dates

Days Time

Sep 14-Nov 30 M

11:15am-12:15pm

64 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Fee 12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

We keep learning new steps and adding more turns. The beats are a little bit more complex, but still easy and fun to follow. It’s a mix of Absolute to Beginner level dances and a great choice for working adults looking for a fun, easy dance class to unwind after work. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Pat Bernard

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 9-Nov 18

11 sess: $121LM/$157.47NM

6-7pm

Move & Groove Line Dance: Improver If you’re ready, come build your confidence as you take on Improver level dances. This upbeat class builds on basic skills, focusing on smoother transitions, stronger timing, and longer combinations while dancing to Soul, Pop, Latin, and a lil’ bit Country. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Pat Bernard

Dates

Days Time

Sep 14-Nov 30 M

Fee

10-11am 12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

Move & Groove Line Dance: Step Into the Groove Join this fun, open-level dance class that will leave you moving, grooving, and laughing. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just love good music, this class is all about easy-to-follow steps, feeling the rhythm, and having a good time. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Pat Bernard No class: Oct. 9

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 4-Nov 20

11 sess: $121LM/$157.47NM

1-2pm

BeMoved® Dance BeMoved® Dance is a joyful, expressive dance fitness program designed to enhance well-being while having fun. With 22 unique dance genres—from Bollywood to Broadway—there’s something to match every mood and style. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Heidi Mokrzycki Requirements: This class is not intended for beginners new to BeMoved. No class: Sept. 21

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 14-Nov 30

11 sess: $182LM/$236.86NM

9-10am

Age 55+ Activities Ballet – Beginner Discover the joy of movement through classical ballet in a class designed especially for older adults. With gentle barre and center exercises, we’ll focus on posture, balance, flexibility, and coordination. Movements are adapted for comfort and safety while encouraging grace, strength, and confidence. No prior ballet experience is needed - just bring a curious spirit and a love of music and motion. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Nichola Goss No class: Oct. 15, Oct. 22

Dates

Days Time

Sep 3-Nov 19 Th

Fee

11:15am-12pm 10 sess: $120LM/$156.17NM

Ballet – Continuing Regain your ballet technique in a supportive, classical format. This class begins at the barre, where we refine plies and foundational movements, then progresses to center work with adagio and allegro combinations. Each exercise is designed to cultivate both grace and strength, encouraging the body to move with fluidity, precision, and confidence. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Nichola Goss No class: Oct. 14, Oct. 21

Dates

Days Time

Sep 2-Nov 25 W

Fee

10:45-11:30am 11 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

Ballet – Basics Come and join a ballet class that follows a traditional classical format, with barre and center work. Combinations are repeated throughout the session, giving you the chance to memorize patterns and focus on refining technique. Designed for those who enjoy the comfort of familiarity while building strength, balance, and grace. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Nichola Goss No class: Oct. 16, Oct. 23

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 4-Nov 20

11 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

11:30am-12:15pm

SILVERSNEAKERS CLASSES

There is no charge for SilverSneakers, Renew Active, and Silver & Fit members. Please call your insurance provider to find out if you qualify. Registration is required.

SilverSneakers Stability Improve your strength and balance with exercises that target the ankle, knee, and hip joints—all in a fun, social setting. This class is specifically designed to help prevent falls and support overall stability. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Maureen Fogerty

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 14-Nov 30

10:30-11:30am

12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

Sep 2-Nov 25

10:45-11:45am

13 sess: $143LM/$186.10NM

Sep 4-Nov 20

10-11am

12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

Golden Groove: Senior Range of Motion and Music Movement

Rejuvenate your body, increase flexibility, and groove to the rhythm in Golden Groove—a fun, music-filled class designed to enhance range of motion and overall well-being. A chair may be used for balance and support, making the class accessible for all fitness levels. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: David Aaron-Harbin

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 14-Nov 30

1-2pm

12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

Sep 5-Nov 28

11am-12pm 13 sess: $143LM/$186.10NM

Seated Zumba Gold Toning This class is designed for participants who prefer or need to remain seated while exercising—but still want all the fun and energy of a Zumba Gold Toning workout. Enjoy upbeat music and adapted chair-based choreography using light weights to promote muscle toning and bone strength. Location: Levy Senior Center Instructor: Sue Hock No class: Sept. 30, Oct. 1, Nov. 25, Nov. 26

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 2-Nov 18 W

10:30-11:15am 11 sess: $121LM/$157.47NM

Sep 3-Nov 19 Th

9-9:45am

11 sess: $121LM/$157.47NM

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 65

Age 55+ Activities SilverSneakers Classic This class features high-energy, low-impact movement to build cardiovascular endurance, resistance exercises to improve muscular strength, and mindful movement for enhanced mobility and balance. The class is accessible to all fitness levels, with both seated and standing options available. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Barbara Meyer Note: Class is virtual only on Oct 8

Dates

Days Time

Sep 3-Nov 19 Th

9-9:45am

Fee 12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

Ageless Grace: Brain & Body Fitness This fun, cutting-edge fitness class is based on the science of neuroplasticity and features 21 gentle, easy-to-follow exercises designed to support lifelong optimal function. Performed primarily in a chair with optional standing movements, the exercises are based on everyday actions and focus on balance, strength, stamina, joint mobility, flexibility, and range of motion. Suitable for all fitness levels, including individuals with arthritis or other physical challenges. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Sue Mendelsohn No class: Oct. 8

Dates

Days Time

Sep 3-Nov 19

Fee

10:15-11am 9 sess: $99LM/$128.84NM

Move through a series of seated and standing yoga poses designed to improve flexibility, balance, and range of motion. Each class concludes with restorative breathing exercises and relaxation techniques to reduce stress and enhance mental clarity. Location: Levy Senior Center/Virtual Instructor: Sandy Nowarita (Tu) Shauna Babcock (W) Barbara Meyer (F) No class: Oct. 13

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 8-Nov 17

11-11:45am

10 sess: $110LM/$143.15NM

Sep 2-Nov 25

9:30-10:15am

13 sess: $143LM/$186.10NM

11:45am12:30pm

12 sess: $132LM/$171.79NM

66 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Pickleball Workshops Important Information! Pickleball is a fun sport, but you need flexibility and coordination. All levels of play require side-to-side mobility and hand/eye coordination. Those who have experience playing racquet sports will enjoy and develop more quickly. All workshops are limited to 12 participants. If your desired class is full, we recommend joining the waitlist. Classes are for participants 50+. Location: Levy Senior Center Gym Instructor: Carl Rosenthal

Intermediate Ready to sharpen your skills? This workshop focuses on refining your technique, improving shot accuracy, and developing improved play. Participants will work on dinking, third-shot drops, volleys, and effective teamwork in doubles play. Expect a mix of drills and live gameplay actions to enhance your consistency and confidence on the court. Recommended for players who are comfortable with the basics and want to elevate their game.

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 16-Oct 14 W

12:15-1:30pm 5 sess: $150LM/$195.21NM

Sep 16-Oct 14 W

1:30-2:45pm

Oct 21-Nov 18 W

12:15-1:30pm 5 sess: $150LM/$195.21NM

Oct 21-Nov 18 W

1:30-2:45pm

5 sess: $150LM/$195.21NM

Advanced

SilverSneakers Yoga

Sep 4-Nov 20 F

PICKLEBALL

For more experienced players looking to enhance their competitive edge. This next level workshop is designed for those who regularly play and want to refine their advanced techniques, develop strategies, and improve their mental game. Emphasis will be on fast-paced drills, advanced shot selection, court positioning, teamwork and footwork.

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Sep 16-Oct 14 W

2:45-4pm

5 sess: $150LM/$195.21NM

Oct 21-Nov 18 W

2:45-4pm

5 sess: $150LM/$195.21NM

TRIPS

Chicago Botanic Garden Spend a refreshing day at the Chicago Botanic Garden exploring stunning landscapes, vibrant flowers, and serene lakes. The Dennis Newton Scholarship is available for this trip. Lunch is on your own at the Garden Cafe. Fee includes, ticket and transportation. Location: Transportation from the Levy Senior Center

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Oct 8

$30LM/$39NM

9am-4pm

Age 55+ Activities Feed My Starving Children/Royal Buffet Join us this November for a meaningful day of service and fellowship as we celebrate the season of gratitude. Participants will volunteer at Feed My Starving Children, helping pack nutritious meals for children around the world while making a positive impact in the community. Following our volunteer experience, we will enjoy lunch together at Royal Buffet. Trip fee includes participation at Feed My Starving Children, lunch, and transportation. Space is limited, so register early! Location: Transportation from the Levy Senior Center

A Christmas Carol at Drury Lane Theatre Celebrate the holiday season with a magical trip to Drury Lane Theatre for the beloved production of A Christmas Carol(hour long show). Enjoy a morning filled with timeless holiday spirit, memorable performances, and festive cheer as this classic story comes to life on stage. After the show, participants will enjoy lunch together. Trip fee includes transportation, lunch, and theatre ticket. Register early as this popular holiday trip fills quickly! Location: Transportation from the Levy Senior Center

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Nov 5

$35LM/$45.55NM

Dec 10

$80LM/$104.11NM

9am-3pm

8:30am-2pm

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 67

Age 55+ Activities CLUBS

You must be a Levy Senior Center member to participate. All clubs are at Levy Senior Center and free except for bingo and Chess Club.)

Levy Knit and String Club Bring your yarn projects and enjoy a social knitting circle in the Levy Library. Learn techniques such as casting on, casting off, purl stitching, and more. New and beginner knitters welcome.

Spanish Conversation Group Facilitated by Sandra Elbaum, this group is for those who have studied Spanish and want to improve their conversation skills. Practice fluency, pronunciation, grammar, and idiomatic expressions.

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Ongoing

Free

10-11:30am

Dates

Days Time

Fee

SilverTones

Ongoing

Free

Join the SilverTones vocal group and sing music from The Beatles, Mamas and the Papas, opera, and more. No music-reading required.

1-3pm

Mahjong Play MahJongg with friends in a relaxed, social setting. Materials provided.

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Ongoing

Free

10am-12pm

1st and 3rd Thursdays Th

Fee

Ongoing

Free

1:30-3pm

Join fellow card players for fun and camaraderie. Materials provided.

Facilitated by Jeanette Gordon, this group explores a wide variety of literature. Book discussions take place on the first Thursday of the month. On the third Thursday, members gather to share personal stories.

Days

Days Time

Bid Whist

Levy Book Club

Dates

Time

Fee

11:30am-1pm

Free

Seniors Chat Join facilitator Charlotte Jaffee for weekly discussions on current events and news, often featuring guest speakers.

Dates

Days

Time

Fee

Ongoing

12-1pm

Free

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Ongoing

Free

12-5pm

Bridge Enjoy a friendly game of bridge. Materials provided.

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Ongoing

Free

10:30am-1:30pm

Bingo Enjoy prizes, friendship, and fun! No registration required.

Dates

Days Time

Fee

Ongoing

M,F

$2 per card

12:30-3pm

Evanston Chess Club Play friendly games or join a monthly blitz tournament on the third Wednesday. All skill levels welcome; players should know basic rules. Chess sets provided.

68 Evanston Parks and Recreation Fall Guide 2026

Dates

Days Time

Ongoing

Fee

6:30-9pm Annual membership: $65R/$84.60NR

Rentals Chandler-Newberger Community Center

Ecology Center

Birthday Party Packages

Ecology Party Package

Whether you are looking for a room for a meeting, a gym, or a space for your child’s birthday party, you can find what you need at Chandler-Newberger. For information and to apply see: cityofevanston.org/chandler. Preschool Party Package (2-5 yrs) 2 hours of simultaneous use of one of our multipurpose rooms, our south gym and our indoor playground equipment, including hula hoops, dodge balls, climbing blocks, scooter carts and mini basketballs. Security deposit: $150 Blue Room/Half-Gym: $270R/$351.38NR Orange Room/Half-Gym: $225R/$292.82NR Sports Party Package (5 yrs and over) Included in this package is 2 hours of simultaneous use of one of our multi-purpose rooms, half-gym and sports equipment. Choose from basketball & hoops; soccer & nets, floor hockey sticks & nets, dodge-ball or batting cage. Security deposit: $150 Blue Room/Half-Gym: $270R/$351.38NR Orange Room/Half-Gym: $225R/$292.82NR

Gymnastics Parties

Preschool Gymnastics Party (2-5 yrs) 45-minutes of instructional gymnastics and 2 hours in multi-purpose room. Security deposit: $150 Fee up to 15 children: $330R/$429NR Fee 16-22 children: $430R/$559NR School-Age Gymnastics Party (5 yrs. and up) 1 hour of instructional gymnastics and 2 hours of multi-purpose room use. Fee up to 15 children: $360R/$468NR Fee 16-22 children: $470R/$610NR

Robert Crown Community Center Room Rentals

We can accommodate events ranging from 15-200 people. We have two full-sized gyms with locker rooms for sporting events. Advanced booking is important. For more information and to apply online see:cityofevanston.org/crown

Rink Rentals

We offer private rentals for ice skating and hockey. Skate rentals are available (no hockey equipment available). Advanced booking is important. For more information and to apply online see:cityofevanston.org/crown.

Public Skate Parties

Celebrate your birthday, graduation, or office party. Package Includes 25 admission & skate rentals during our public skate session and use of Room E for party festivities. For more information and to apply online see: cityofevanston.org/crown

Levy Senior Center

We offer several versatile spaces perfect for your next event! Our rental options include the Locust Room (48-person capacity), Bobby’s Room (88-person capacity), the Maple Room (300-person capacity), the Courtyard (50-person capacity), and the Library (20-person capacity). The kitchen is included only with Maple Room rentals. For more information, pricing details, or to book a space, contact the Levy Senior Center at 847-448-8250 or visit us online at cityofevanston.org/levy.

Host your next event in the Ecology Center’s beautiful Multipurpose room! We host parties, receptions, private events, meetings, and more. Table and chairs are included. For more information, visit cityofevanston.org/ecology The Ecology Center offers two-hour birthday party packages available on Saturdays or Sundays. An Instructor will lead a variety of nature and science-themed parties for ages 4yrs and up. The renter is responsible for decorations and treats. Birthday topics include: Animal Party, Bugs Party, Dino Party, Reptile Romp, Potions & Concoctions, Birds of a Feather, Rocking Rocks, Geocaching, and custom parties. For more information and to request a birthday party online visit: cityofevanston.org/ecology Deposit: $150 Fee: $300 R/$390 NR Party capacity: 16 child max. Fee: $300 R/$390 NR Party capacity: 16 child max.

Noyes Cultural Center

Our center offers rooms and gallery halls perfect for parties, receptions, lectures and more. For more information and to apply online see:cityofevanston.org/noyes

Art Party Packages

Book one of our fabulous two hour art-themed parties. Our instructor will lead children in a private camp from one of the following themes: Visual Arts and Sensory, Medieval, Renaissance Pirate and Princess parties. The room will be themed and decorated. For more information and to apply: www.cityofevanston.org/noyes. Deposit: $150 Fee: $350R/$455.49NR for up to 15 children

Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center

Whether it’s for a group of 10 or 300, Fleetwood staff will go above and beyond to ensure your event is a success. We have a large auditorium with a stage, a gym or smaller rooms to accommodate your next event. For more information and to apply online see: cityofevanston.org/fleetwood.

Stem Birthday Party Packages at Fleetwood

LOTUS-powered STEAM Family Parties offer hands-on, guided science, technology, engineering, art, and math experiences for birthdays, family gatherings, or special events. Participants explore fun experiments and design challenges, developing scientific inquiry, engineering thinking, teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills in a safe, engaging, and memorable environment for all ages. For more information and to apply online see: cityofevanston.org/fleetwood.

Prieto Community Center

We would love to host your next event. We have several options available, Every rental comes with the option of adding on our imaginative playroom. Rental Deposit Required. For more information and to apply online see: cityofevanston.org/prieto

Gibbs-Morrison Cultural Center

Our Center would love to host your next event in our Stage Room, which can accommodate up to 50 people. Need more room? Add-on the West Room, which can accommodate 25 more people. For more information and to apply for a rental, visit cityofevanston.org/gibbs-rentals.

To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 69

General Information & Registration Registration Classes that don’t reach minimum enrollment level are canceled. Who is a Resident? To receive the Evanston resident rate for a Parks and Recreation Department program, you must live in ZIP code 60201 or 60202. Class Cancellations In case of class changes or program cancellation, we’ll notify you in advance by telephone or postcard. Generally, refunds are issued within two weeks. If circumstances arise causing us to cancel a class session, every effort will be made to schedule a make up class. Payment Deadline Payment in full is required at registration (except for summer camps, which allow a $25 deposit per child per camp #/session to hold a space until the balance due deadline). You (or your child) will be admitted to a class or program after full payment is made. If your family has been approved for fee assistance, your portion of the fee must be paid in full before you (or your child) will be registered in the class. Insurance The City of Evanston does not carry hospitalization insurance for program participants. Contact your health care provider for details regarding your individual plan. Refund Policy Refunds will be applied to any outstanding household balances owed by your account to the City of Evanston Parks and Recreation Department. Refunds are issued via the original payment method, except cash payments, which will be refunded by check in 30 days. Program Cancellation Timeframe & Fees •

City Cancels: A full refund will be issued, regardless of household balances.

•

Before 72 Hours: Cancellations made more than 72 hours before the program start date will incur a $10 transaction fee.

•

Within 72 Hours: Cancellations within 72 hours of the start date incur a $10 transaction fee plus the prorated cost of the first class.

•

After Class Begins: Prorated refunds are only offered for documented medical emergencies or relocation, minus all deposits paid.

Prorated Refunds Prorated refunds are calculated based on the number of days the participant attended. Prorated refunds are only offered if you are canceling the entire registration and are available with documentation for: •

Illness, or medical problem affecting the participant or an immediate family member before or during the program.

•

Relocation outside the City of Evanston before or during the program.

Exclusions •

Refunds are not offered for daily, seasonal, or annual passes. This includes but is not limited to, beach passes, ice-skating passes, fitness passes, season launch permits, drop-in programs, memberships, and dog beach passes.

•

Extended care, trips, private lessons and league registrations are non-refundable due to pre-planning and resource allocation.

•

Price differences for transfers initiated after a program has begun.

•

Rentals and Birthday Parties have their separate refund policies. Visitcityofevanston. org/rentals for more information.

How To Initiate a Refund To begin the refund process, please complete the Program Refund Request Form (available at all community centers or online at cityofevanston.org) and submit it to the recreation location where the program was held. Remember to include any supporting documentation, such as a doctor;s note for illness or proof of a new address for relocation.

Transfers Transfers to other programs are possible, depending on space. Please contact the staff of your current enrollment to initiate a transfer request. To maintain program viability, transfers are not permitted if they would cause your current program to fall below minimum enrollment and your spot cannot be filled. •

Prorated Payments: Paid and outstanding balances will be prorated upon transfer.

•

Fee: Transfers to other programs incur a $10 transaction fee.

•

Price Difference Camp: Price differences resulting from transfers initiated less than 7 days before the activity start date are non-refundable.

•

Price Difference Programs: Price differences resulting from transfers initiated 72 hours or less before the activity start date are non-refundable.

Questions? Contact Recreation@cityofevanston.org or 847-448-4311. Note: This refund policy is subject to change. Fee Assistance (Scholarships) Fee assistance is awarded to qualified Evanston residents on a sliding scale according to the number of family members in relation to total family income. Fee assistance is not available for special events or trips. Information regarding the fee assistance application process and the documents needed to verify family income and residency may be obtained at any Evanston Recreation Division community center. Information and forms may be downloaded at cityofevanston.org/recreationfeeassistance. Child Supervision/Pick-up Policies Parents/guardians are responsible for picking up children promptly at the time the program is scheduled to end. Instructors often have other programs to teach and can’t supervise children for an extended period after the program. Parents or guardians who pick up a child more than five minutes late from a program are assessed a late fee of $10 per child per 15-minute time period. For instance, if the program ends at 4pm and you arrive between 4:06 and 4:21, the late fee is $10. If you advise staff that you are running late, we’ll allow a 10-minute grace period, followed by the $10 per 15-minute late fee. Toilet Training All participants must be toilet trained before beginning a City of Evanston program unless approved by program manager. Photographs and Videotaping Program participants may be photographed or videotaped. These images may appear in future promotional materials. Americans with Disabilities Act The City of Evanston’s programs, services, and activities are subject to all applicable laws regarding non-discrimination, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Following guidance from the ADA, any accommodations provided for safe and successful participation in a Parks & Recreation program will be reasonable, least restrictive, and will not fundamentally change the program. Contact the Inclusion Coordinator (inclusion@ cityofevanston.org or 847-859-7716) as soon as possible once determining what program(s) the participant would like to attend. Needs will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis and requests for accommodations should be made no later than 2 weeks prior to the program start date. See page 69 for Inclusion Services Policies & Procedures. If you have any questions about the Parks & Recreation Department policies regarding ADA, please call 847-424-5496 (voice) or 800-526-0857 (IL Relay Center voice transmission). Equal Opportunity As the City of Evanston has received federal financial assistance, the U.S. Department of the Interior, under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age or handicap. If you believe that you have been subjected to discrimination in any program, activity or facility, or if you desire further information regarding Title VI, please write to: Office for Equal Opportunity, U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240. E-mail on Registration Form Your e-mail address is just another way to communicate with you. It will not be shared with any third parties.

70 Evanston Parks and Recreation Summer Guide 2026

Inclusion Inclusion Services Policies & Procedures

Questions: please contact inclusion@cityofevanston.org; 847-859-7716 (voice) or 800526-0857 (IL Relay Center voice transmission.) Goals of Evanston Inclusion Services • To provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate safely and successfully alongside peers in Evanston’s Parks & Recreation programming.

• To provide access to the goals, benefits, and overall experience that all participants in the program receive through reasonable, least restrictive accommodations which do not fundamentally change the recreation program.

• To facilitate understanding, collaboration, and connections within all Parks & Recreation programming and within the community.

Receiving Inclusion Services Requests for Inclusion Services can be initiated by Parks and Recreation staff or participant and/or guardian(s). Parks and Recreation staff must request Inclusion Services by completing the following steps:

• Staff communicates with the participant/guardian to inform them of any concerns related to safety and successful participation in the program. Staff informs participant/guardian that they will be contacting the Inclusion Coordinator for support. • Staff contacts the Inclusion Coordinator to communicate concerns.

• Inclusion Coordinator schedules an observation of participant at program.

• After observation, Inclusion Coordinator provides an observation summary to the staff requesting assistance, which will include a determination about any support/ accommodations needed. • The staff provides this summary to other applicable staff in the program and to participant/guardian.

• If it is determined that accommodations are needed, the Inclusion Coordinator contacts the participant/guardian to complete an Inclusion Assessment. • Inclusion Coordinator provides tools to program staff for accommodations as needed.

• If it is determined that an Inclusion staff is needed, the Inclusion Coordinator begins the process of assigning/hiring and training an Inclusion Assistant. • In the case that an Inclusion Assistant is not available, the participant will be placed on the Inclusion waitlist.

• Program fees paid will be prorated as needed based on any missed days after the initial observation. • If an Inclusion Assistant is not found by the end of the program season, all fees will be credited back to the participant/guardian.

Participant and/or guardian must request Inclusion Services by completing the following steps: • Participant/guardian are encouraged to contact the Inclusion Coordinator as soon as possible once determining what program(s) the participant would like to attend.

• Once registered, the participant/guardian completes an Inclusion Assessment with the Inclusion Coordinator to determine any accommodations needed for safe and successful participation in the program.

• Inclusion Coordinator communicates with program staff and prepares tools as needed for any accommodations for the program.

• • • • •

Training and education for program staff.

Adapted equipment and/or tools for program staff.

Check-ins and visits from Inclusion Coordinator throughout the program. Modifications to program structure or routine. Inclusion Assistant added to the program.

Inclusion Services will be re-evaluated as necessary with consistent communication between the Inclusion Coordinator, participant/guardian, Parks & Recreation program staff, and Inclusion Assistant, if applicable. An increase in support will be adjusted based on the needs of the participant as determined by the Inclusion Coordinator.

Inclusion Assistant Assignments Inclusion Assistant are trained to provide support as needed to help Parks & Recreation staff include the participant in programs. This training includes adapting activities, behavior management, disability awareness, incorporating visual and sensory tools, and other participant-specific tasks as needed, such as assistance with personal care (i.e. changing clothes, eating, toileting, etc.) mobility, or communication. While every effort will be made, the determination of maximum support and the need for an Inclusion Assistant does not guarantee that an Inclusion Assistant will be available. Needs will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis and Assistant will be assigned based on availability as well as skill level required. Due to the high volume of Inclusion Assistant needed citywide, the same Inclusion Assistant cannot be guaranteed from program to program. Inclusion Assistant will not be provided for programs which do not require preregistration (e.g., drop-in camp, open gym, and family programs.)

Attendance • If an assigned Inclusion Assistant is unable to work due to an emergency or illness, every effort will be made to place an appropriate and available substitute with the participant. If a substitute is unavailable, the participant will be unable to attend the program until an Inclusion Assistant is available. Applicable program fees will be prorated until an Inclusion Assistant is available. • If a participant is going to be absent, the participant/guardian must contact the Inclusion Coordinator and Parks & Recreation program staff/designee. • If the participant is absent three times during a single program, the Inclusion Assistant will be removed and reassigned to a participant on the Inclusion waitlist. This results in immediate discontinuation of participation in the program. Code of Conduct Policies • Every effort will be made to provide opportunities for a participant with a disability to safely and successfully participate in Parks & Recreation programming. Receiving Inclusion Services does not exempt a participant from the City of Evanston’s Parks & Recreation Code of Conduct as well as program rules and consequences. The modifications/accommodations are provided to assist the participant in following the rules. They do not exempt the participant from following the rules.

• If a participant is unable to comply with these rules, even with accommodations in place, they may be subject to disciplinary procedures including discussions with guardians, suspension, or removal from the program if behaviors are deemed unsafe for the participant, peers, staff, and/or program environment. • Please note an acknowledgment form must be submitted to the Inclusion Coordinator before Inclusion Services are initiated.

• If it is determined that an Inclusion Assistant is needed, the Inclusion Coordinator begins the process of assigning/hiring and training an Inclusion Assistant. • In the case that an Inclusion Assistant is not available, the participant will be placed on the Inclusion waitlist.

• Program fees paid will be prorated as needed based on any missed days of the program due to an Inclusion Assistant not being available. • If an Inclusion Assistant is not found by the end of the program season, all fees will be credited back to the participant/guardian.

Accommodations Provided Through Inclusion Services Following guidance from the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), any accommodations provided for safe and successful participation in a Parks & Recreation program will be reasonable, least restrictive, and will not fundamentally change the program.

Accommodations and levels of support needed will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may include: To register, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation 71