SPRINGFIELD PARK DISTRICT KICKS OFF 125TH ANNIVERSARY WITH YEAR-LONG CELEBRATIONS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Nathan Essex
Date: January 2, 2025
Phone: (217) 544-1751 ext 1002
[Springfield, IL] – The Springfield Park District’s mission is to enrich the lives of the community by providing exceptional recreational, educational, and cultural opportunities through a variety of well-maintained parks, facilities, and programs. For 125 years, the Park District has remained dedicated to fostering a vibrant, active, and connected community where people of all ages can come together to explore, engage, and enjoy the outdoors.
In 2025, the Springfield Park District proudly celebrates 125 years of Parks, People, and Possibilities – a legacy of enriching lives through accessible outdoor spaces, enriching programs, and an unwavering commitment to the community. Since its founding, the Park District has been a vital part of Springfield, offering everything from scenic parks and athletic fields to the Henson Robinson Zoo and the Nelson Center Ice Rink. Throughout the years, the district has remained at the heart of the community, providing opportunities for recreation, education, and fun.
“Celebrating 125 years of enriching lives through parks, people, and possibilities is a momentous occasion that reflects the dedication of the staff, the support of the community, and the boundless potential of the Springfield Park District. This milestone marks not only a rich history but also a future filled with continued opportunities for joy, connection, and growth. The year-long celebration invites everyone to join in honoring this legacy and embracing the excitement ahead.” -Derek Harms, Executive Director, Springfield Park District.
The Springfield Park District’s 125th anniversary celebration is a year-long opportunity to explore the district’s diverse offerings, including the scenic parks, family-friendly recreation programs, and cherished community events that have enriched lives for over a century.
Stay tuned for more event details and updates throughout the year. For more information on these events, visit the Springfield Park District website at springfieldparks.org or follow us on social media.
Key Events:
- $1.25 Public Ice Skating Celebration – February 8, 2025 at the Nelson Center
- Cabin Fever – February 22, 2205 at Erin’s Pavilion
- Springfield Park District Trivia Night – March 1, 2025 at Erin’s Pavilion
- Spring Floral Display – March 22, 2025 – April 13, 2025 at the Washington Park Botanical Garden
- International Carillon Festival – May 22, 2025 – May 25, 2025 at the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon in Washington Park
- Nelson Center Pool Opening – May 24, 2025 at Nelson Center in Lincoln Park
- Taste of the Past: Historical Photo Display – June 14, 2025 at the Washington Park Pavilion
- Unplug Illinois Day – July 12, 2025 at the Nelson Center and Henson Robison Zoo
- Night Glow Festival – September 18, 2025 at Southwind Park
- Spots Time Machine: Longest Drive, Putt, and Chip Contest – September 13, 2025 at Lincoln Greens Golf Course
- Sports Time Machine: Intro to Horseshoes – August 16, 2025 at Lincoln Park
- Happy Harvest Hoedown – October 4, 2025 at Southwind Park
- Zoo Lights – November and December at the Henson Robison Zoo
- Winter Holiday Floral Show – December 6-21, 2025 at the Washington Park Botanical Garden
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For more information on this topic and any other Park District news-related items, please visit our website at springfieldparks.org
About the Springfield Park District: Parks, People, and Possibilities
The Springfield Park District, founded on February 8, 1900, is the second park district in Illinois and a proud, independently governed municipal agency committed to enhancing the quality of life for the Springfield community. Our mission is to provide accessible and memorable recreational opportunities while preserving natural resources for future generations.
Governed by a publicly elected board, the District manages more than 20 parks, recreational facilities, and natural areas, offering diverse programs, events, and rental spaces for everyone to enjoy. With less than six percent of local taxes supporting our operations, we continue to offer exceptional value to the community, making Springfield Park District “Your Place to Play.” Play Your Way Every Day!