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Recreations Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Parks, People, and Progress

By: Daniel LoCasico, Director of Parks & Recreation

As we reflect on 2024, it was a year of growth, connection, and community spirit for the Park District of Franklin Park. From celebrating milestones to launching new initiatives, we made significant strides in enhancing the parks, programs, and experiences that matter most to our residents.

Last spring, we upgraded the Ice Arena and North Park with new windows and doors, improving both aesthetics and energy efficiency. At the Ice Arena, an old manual door with drafting issues was replaced with a new, automatic, properly sealed door. A second Studio Arena entrance was added to improve participant flow. The Banquet Hall patio doors were made taller, and side panel windows were widened, brightening the room and reducing the need for artificial lighting during daytime events. The new doors also offer party and event guests a beautiful view of the patio and gazebo. Additionally, the Banquet Hall received new carpeting, replacing the one installed in 2010.

Our 2024 programs and events achieved great success, with increased registration and participation. The 50th Annual Ice Show welcomed numerous alumni and families with ties to the Ice Arena, filling the building with energy and nostalgia. Our Panther teams excelled, winning seven NWHL/NIHL championships, placing second three times, capturing 10 travel tournament championships, and finishing as runners-up six times. The Youth Volleyball and Basketball Cooperative Leyden League teams grew in size and competed at a high level against teams from Norridge, Rosemont, Schiller Park, and Leyden Township.

Attendance at the Easter Egg Hunt, Park Parties, Concerts, and Street Dance was the highest in years. The Annual Eddie Biondo Fall Fest Parade and Pumpkin Fest drew nearly 6,000 attendees. Earth Day and Trick or Treat in the Park continue to grow annually, thanks to the support of local businesses, residents, and favorable weather. We are grateful for your kind words and support on social media.

As we move into 2025, we look forward to completing more capital improvement projects to ensure our facilities and parks remain modern, clean, and safe. Your enthusiasm, support, and participation are what truly make our Park District thrive. Together, we’ll continue creating vibrant spaces that bring our community closer and enrich the lives of all who visit.

Save

Daddy Daughter Dance

Saturday, Feb 1 from 6-8 p.m.

Location: Centre at North Park, 10040 Addison Ave.

Color Run, Walk, & Roll

Sunday, May 4 Begins at 9 a.m.

Location: Starts & finishes at North Park

Thank You For Spending

Take a look at the highlights from this year.

We kicked off the year with our inaugural Mother-Son Night Out, bringing moms and sons together for an unforgettable evening of fun-filled activities at the Ice Arena. With 54 participants, it was a wonderful start to the year, creating lasting memories.

The inaugural Color Run, Walk, & Roll brought together 225 participants of all ages for a vibrant celebration of wellness. Hosted by the Parks Foundation of Franklin Park and District 84 PTA, the event highlighted health, happiness, and community connection.

Our newly revamped Centre Place Banquet Hall now features stunning new doors and fresh carpeting, making it the perfect setting for your special occasions.

Looking to book an event? Learn more about our pricing packages at fpparks.org!

Our Panthers Hockey teams had an outstanding showing during the Northwest Hockey League tournaments! Squirt 1 and Gold Mite 1 skated their way to 1st place victories, while Midget 1 and Gold Mite 2 secured impressive 2nd place finishes.

Congratulations to all the players and coaches for an incredible season!

Our talented Ice Skaters shined in the spotlight during the 50th Annual Ice Show, delivering graceful routines in a truly milestone performance. Over three days of spectacular shows, we welcomed more than 1,600 attendees. Looking ahead, be sure to mark your calendars for the 2025 Spring Ice Show, taking place on May 16, 17, and 18.

The Park Parties season kicked off, bringing fun and excitement to several local parks! We visited James Park, Hawthorne Park, Ruby Addison Park, and Birch Park, where families enjoyed lively activities, games, and delicious food.

These community gatherings are a wonderful way to connect with residents and celebrate the joy of summer in our beautiful parks.

Spending 2024 With Us

year. We can’t wait to spend 2025 with YOU!

We wrapped up our Summer Camp in July with a bang! Over 560 campers participated in a fun-filled season of learning and exploration. The final days of camp included a carnival day, packed with games, prizes, and a whole lot of fun. Summer Camp information for 2025 will be available in our Spring into Summer brochure available in March.

The Parks Foundation had an Observation Hive installed at the Sunflower Nature Center located near North Park. This unique and educational addition has offered a hands-on learning opportunity for our Early Childhood and Youth Programs, giving participants the chance to explore the fascinating world of bees up close.

The North Park Gazebo and the bridges at Ruby Addison Park and Elder Park were updated, adding picturesque new spots for the community to enjoy our beautiful natural surroundings. Be sure to check them out!

Our Pumpkin Smash event brought eco-friendly fun to the community! Participants had a smashing good time recycling their pumpkins in creative and sustainable ways. We recycled 942 pounds worth of smashed pumpkins!

On September 7, we marked the Ice Arena’s 50th Anniversary with a celebration brimming with nostalgia and excitement. Past and present skaters, coaches, and community members gathered to share cherished memories and look ahead to the future.