The Oak Brook Park District hosted a family event on Thursday, Aug. 22 that was a bit different than usually is the case.
Instead of moms, dads with their children, Barks & Brew offered the opportunity for people to bring out their canine family members to Oak Amphitheatre, 1315 Kensington Road.
Thirty-six people and 20 dogs, all leashed, as per the rules, came out to participate in activities for the dogs, while the humans in attendance also were given two tickets each for Two Brothers Beer.
The Park District started Barks & Brews in 2020, said Kate Sniegowski, recreation manager, specialty programs, for the park district.
“People like it because it’s a laidback, yet social event,” she said. “It’s fun the way we incorporate the dogs into the activities, and it’s really their event.”
Sniegowski said Park District staff received plenty of compliments about the event being a great time.
“We have some repeat participants that look forward to it every year,” she said. “Participants love that it is something to do with their fluffy family members and meet other dog people.
“With 20 dogs around and the best weather possible on a beautiful August evening, how can you have a bad time?”
The Park District has several additional special events scheduled for the final four months of 2024.
Next up is a Toy Story Movie Party from 4 to 6 p.m. Sept. 14 in the gym at the Family Recreation Center, 1450 Forest Gate Road.
The Toy Story Movie Party will start with 45 minutes of Toy Story games, activities and snacks. Pizza from “Pizza Planet” will be offered before the showing of the original “Toy Story” movie. Each child will take home a “Toy Story” themed goodie bag.
A parent or guardian must be registered and attend with their children.
Registration may be completed on the park district’s website, www.obparks.org/special-events.
Advance registration also is required to participate in the Halloween Trick or Treat Trail from 2 to 5 p.m. Oct. 5 at Central Park West, 1500 Forest Gate Road.
Park District staff suggests participants dress up in costumes for a “spooky walk in the park,” a 1/2-mile walk in the woods that will include meeting fun characters while walking through the woods and trick or treating.
At the end of the walk, the Haunted Wagon will be available for a leisurely ride around the park. Other features include bounce houses, arts and crafts, a pumpkin patch, and additional activities with friends and family.
Chuck Fieldman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.