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PEORIA, IL (May 29, 2025) – The Peoria Park District invites the community to celebrate the sunshine, fresh air, and all the exciting adventures that summertime brings! Whether you’re seeking family-friendly festivals, outdoor concerts, splash-worthy pool days, or quiet moments in nature, the Park District has something for everyone to enjoy this summer.
From Glen Oak Park to the RiverFront, and Donovan to Franciscan, Peoria’s parks are alive with the sounds of summer—laughter, music, and play. With almost 9,000 acres of parkland and hundreds of programs, camps, and events, there’s no better place to connect, explore, and make lifelong memories.
Highlights of Summer With the Peoria Park District Include:
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Summer of Fun Pass: Back for its fifth year, the District is proud to offer unlimited access to Peoria Zoo, Peoria PlayHouse Children’s Museum, Owens Ice Center, Golf Learning Center, and Gwynn Family Aquatic Center for thousands of students and their families who reside in Peoria, June 1 through August 31, thanks to funding from the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority.
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Bringing Fun To You: Unique summer programming series like Yoga in the Park, Parks on Tap, Streets Belong to Me, and Rec ‘n Roll return this year, bringing fun and fitness directly into the neighborhoods we serve.
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PPD Events: From concerts and cultural festivals on the RiverFront to guided hikes on our scenic trails, there’s something for every interest and age.
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Get Active!: Patrons can also take advantage of a variety of lessons and leagues—learn how to skate, swim, golf, and more! Thanks to the Peoria Park District’s scholarship program, income-eligible families can receive support to help cover the cost of many of these programs, ensuring that every child has the chance to participate.
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Cool Off in Style: From splash pads to pools, the District offers refreshing ways to beat the heat across the city.
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Gwynn Family Aquatic Center (opens June 2) Monday-Thursday and Saturdays from noon–5 pm.
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Proctor Recreation Center pool (opens June 2) Monday–Friday from noon–4 pm.
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Splash pads at Proctor Recreation Center and Logan Park are open daily (weather permitting) from 11 am–7 pm.
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And coming soon….A brand-new splash pad in Lakeview Park is scheduled to open later this summer.
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Glen Oak Park: Say hello to the giraffes at Peoria Zoo, stroll through vibrant gardens at Luthy Botanical Garden, or participate in hands-on activities at the Peoria PlayHouse Children’s Museum. While in the park, enjoy the newly renovated fully inclusive playground, pickleball and tennis courts, and so much more! Join us on the Second Saturday of each month for joint programming across the Zoo, PlayHouse and Luthy!
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Camps: The District’s five ACA-accredited day camps are officially full and will welcome almost 300 children a week this summer across Ancient Oaks, Lakeview Recreation Center, RiverPlex, Proctor, and Peoria Zoo.
“Summer is our season to shine,” said Emily Cahill, Executive Director of the Peoria Park District. “We’re here to help families make memories, kids discover new passions, and neighbors connect in the great outdoors—all right here in Peoria.”
Whether you’re rediscovering a favorite park or trying something new, the Peoria Park District is your home for summer fun. Visit peoriaparks.org to view the full calendar of events, register for programs, or plan your next park adventure.
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