Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Springfield Park District will celebrate 125 years of enriching the community with parks, programs, and services in 2025. Established on February 8, 1900, it became the second park district in Illinois. As an independent municipal agency, the district offers recreational and educational opportunities for all ages including the Henson Robinson Zoo, Nelson Center Ice Rink and numerous parks.

“This milestone celebrates our rich history and a future full of opportunities for joy, connection, and growth. We invite everyone to honor this legacy and join in the excitement ahead,” said Executive Director Derek Harms.

The district will host events and activities throughout the year to mark this special occasion:

Event Highlights:

  • $1.25 Public Ice Skating Celebration – February 8 at the Nelson Center
  • Cabin Fever – February 22 at Erin’s Pavilion
  • Springfield Park District Trivia Night – March 1 at Erin’s Pavilion
  • Spring Floral Display – March 22 – April 13 at the Washington Park Botanical Garden
  • International Carillon Festival – May 22-25 at the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon in Washington Park
  • Nelson Center Pool Opening – May 24 at Nelson Center in Lincoln Park
  • Taste of the Past: Historical Photo Display – June 14 at the Washington Park Pavilion
  • Unplug Illinois Day – July 12 at the Nelson Center and Henson Robinson Zoo
  • Sports Time Machine: Intro to Horseshoes – August 16 at Lincoln Park
  • Night Glow Festival – September 18 at Southwind Park
  • Sports Time Machine: Longest Drive, Putt, and Chip Contest – September 13 at Lincoln Greens Golf Course
  • Happy Harvest Hoedown – October 4 at Southwind Park
  • Zoo Lights – November and December at the Henson Robinson Zoo
  • Winter Holiday Floral Show – December 6-21 at the Washington Park Botanical Garden

More information is available at springfieldparks.org.