Fall brings with it a bounty of beautiful colors, a crispness to the breeze and an abundance of family fun with these new and returning events from the St. Charles Park District.
Bundling up and climbing aboard a hayride is a hallmark of the season. This year, the park district will offer Autumn Hayrides on Fridays and Saturdays through October 19. Pulled by a tractor, the 30-minute wagon rides will travel through the fields of Primrose Farm. Afterwards, participants can enjoy s’mores over an open fire.
Hayrides will take place at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Group rates, which allow for a private fire pit, are also available. Individual tickets are $16 apiece. Group rates are $150 for as many as 10 people and $225 for 11 to 16 people.
“Community members can enjoy the atmosphere of the farm with cooler weather, changing leaves and beautiful sunsets,” said Alison Jones, manager of farm programs and interpretive services. “I think the most exciting thing for those attending will be the ability to check out our new education center.”
The farm’s education center is home to a full kitchen as well as classroom space and restrooms. In the works is an agriculture history exhibit with the St. Charles History Museum, Jones added.
Another new event, Autumn Market, will give community members an opportunity to shop for treasures while connecting with others. Taking place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, October 19, the market will feature items for sale as displayed on tables throughout the parking lot south of Swanson Pool and east of Pottawatomie Community Center. Those looking to purchase sale space, which includes advertising and two spaces in the lot, for $20 can do so online in advance.
“The Autumn Market is a great opportunity to do some fall cleaning or bring homemade goods to sell at the event,” said Abby Fleming, recreation supervisor for tweens and teens. “This event is a fundraiser for the STC Underground Teen Center and will assist us in running programs and activities for the teens of the community.”
On Friday, October 25, Hickory Knolls Discovery Center will host Trick or Treat on the Trails. This new event will feature a night stroll through the center’s oak savanna. Along the journey, participants will encounter activity stations with opportunities for hands-on learning as well as plenty of treats. Timeslots take place from 6 to 8 p.m. This spooky event is suitable for all 2 and older and costs $12 per person. Attendees should bring a flashlight and treat bag.
The Fa-BOO-lous Pumpkin Carving Party will take place Saturday, October 26 at Primrose Farm. Timeslots are offered at 1, 2 and 3 p.m.
“It’s a chance for people to get into the Halloween spirit,” said Patricia Kennedy, farm program supervisor.
Pumpkins will be available for purchase. Participants are also welcome to bring their own. Snacks and cider will be provided.
As for those messy insides that are usually tossed in the garbage. At Primrose Farm, they will go to good use.
“Our livestock love pumpkin guts,” Kennedy said.
The cost is $12 per person, with those 2 and under admitted for free.
To purchase tickets for upcoming events or reserve space at the Autumn Market, visit stcparks.org. Those 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult for park district events.