Will County, IL – Families and outdoor enthusiasts will have plenty of opportunities to get outside this week as the Forest Preserve District of Will County hosts a lineup of programs ranging from a fishing derby to a pirate-themed paddle.
According to the Forest Preserve District, registration for all events is available on the Event Calendar at ReconnectWithNature.org. The week’s activities will highlight history, wildlife, biking and water recreation across several preserves and museums in the county.
The schedule begins Thursday with two educational field trips for homeschool and remote learners at Isle a la Cache Museum in Romeoville. From 10 to 11:30 a.m., children ages 7 to 12 can take part in The Story Circle to learn French and American Indian stories and create pictographs. Later that day, from 12:30 to 2 p.m., The Trade will allow students to experience 1750s Illinois through hands-on bartering activities. Both programs are free but require registration by Tuesday.
On Friday, Sept. 19, cyclists can join the TGIF Ride at Centennial Trail — Schneider’s Passage in Romeoville. The 9-mile ride runs from 4 to 5:30 p.m. for experienced riders ages 16 and older. Helmets are required, and registration closes Thursday.
Saturday’s lineup includes the Summer Send-off Fishing Derby from 7 to 11:30 a.m. at Hidden Lakes Trout Farm in Bolingbrook, where participants can compete for biggest catches. Later that morning, Fall Flutterers at Plum Creek Nature Center in Crete Township will focus on butterfly migration with a hike, refreshments and milkweed seeds to take home.
The week wraps up Sunday, Sept. 21, with a Pirate Paddle at Whalon Lake in Naperville. The two-hour event from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. will feature pirate games and treasure hunts on the water. Kayaking experience is required, and equipment will be provided.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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