SPRING HAS ARRIVED! Enjoy Some Time Outside in the Chicago Southland

Anyone got cabin fever? Spring has finally arrived and it is time to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Take advantage of one of many activities happening outside in the area this month - whether it’s a nature walk, yoga in the woods or a sporting event. Here are a few outdoor events in the Chicago Southland to consider adding to your calendar.

MAY 3, 6, 7, 10, 14, 17

Sagawau Bird Walks
Sagauwa Environmental Learning Center
12545 West 111th Street, Lemont
630-257-2045
Do some walking with an experienced naturalist who will help teach you about different bird species and how to identify them based on behavior, sound, habitat and more. You can even borrow a pair of binoculars for better viewing.

MAY 4

Historic Pullman First Sunday Walking Tour
Pullman Exhibit Hall
11141 South Cottage Grove Avenue, Chicago
773-785-8901
If you’ve never been to this historic Chicago neighborhood, the monthly walking tours are a perfect way to get acquainted with this early company town. Historic Pullman played a large and important role in the development of American industry. Learn about rail innovations, urban design and the labor movement while walking the streets of this town built by the Pullman Palace Car Co. where its employees resided.

MAY 6

Lansing Good Neighbor Day Parade
Beginning at Ridge Road & Wentworth Avenue
Lansing, 708-474-4170
Everyone loves this Lansing tradition that takes place the first Saturday in May. It’s the kick off of spring and this will be the 55th year for the parade, which is an exciting procession of bands, floats, vehicles, walking groups and more.

America Sings!
Fox Pointe
18138 Henry Street, Lansing
708-895-7200
The new outdoor music season is kicking off at Fox Pointe in Lansing. Be there for American Sings! It brings rhythmic choirs together for an unforgettable performance. Over 20 choirs will perform for the grand finale. The event coincides with Lansing’s annual Good Neighbor Day Parade.

MAY 7

Chicago Red Stars vs NJ/NY Gotham FC
SeatGeek Stadium
7000 South Harlem Avenue, Bridgeview
773-697-8699
Take in a professional women’s soccer match at SeatGeek Stadium. Usher in spring with a day in the sun watching the exciting action on the field.

MAY 11

S.E.N.I.O.R.S.
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center
9800 Willow Springs Road, Willow Springs
708-839-6897
This program - Seniors Enjoying Nature Inside/Outside Rain or Shine - is for ages 55 an older. Seniors can get together with peers for some nature learning and exploring. Registration is required.

MAY 11-13

Windy City ThunderBolts vs Schaumburg Boomers
Ozinga Field
14011 South Kenton Avenue, Crestwood
708-489-2255
Take in a game during the opening home series of the Windy City ThunderBolts of the Frontier League, which is a partner of Major League Baseball. Enjoy the excitement of the game in a suburban location where ticket prices are reasonable and there are many promotions, food specials and more, making it very family friendly.

MAY 13

Elim Eagles’ Wings 5K Run, Walk & Roll
Elim Christian Services
13020 South Central Avenue, Crestwood
708-389-0555
Elim Christian Services supports individuals of all abilities. Celebrate them during this event and help raise funds for their programs.

MAY 19-21

NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series
Chicagoland Speedway & Route 66 Raceway
500 Speedway Boulevard, Joliet
626-914-4761
Feeling the need for speed? Get in the stands and watch some of this exciting three-day racing series.

MAY 21

Yoga in the Woods
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center
9800 Willow Springs Road, Willow Springs
708-839-6897
This class in an all-level yoga class with a certified instructor in a serene outdoor setting. Bring a yoga mat and water. Open to ages 18 and older.

MAY 26

Stargazing
Heritage Park
14240 West 151st Street, Homer Glen
708-301-0632
Celebrate the International Dark Sky recognition of the Village of Homer Glen by spending an evening with the stars at Heritage Park. Amateur astronomers will have large telescopes available for free viewing.

MAY 27

Centennial Park Aquatic Center Opening Day
15600 West Avenue at Fun Drive, Orland Park
708-403-5000
Get your feet wet as summer approaches with a day of fun at the water park! Enjoy the lazy river, body flume slide, tube slides, platform jump, zero depth pool, lap lanes and kiddie play structures.

MAY 27-28

Camp Shabbona Woods Family Campout
Forest Preserves of Cook County
15810 North Torrence Avenue, South Holland
708-868-0606
This fun event serves as an introduction to camping for families. The cost of $75 for a group of up to 6, includes meals, all camping gear and outdoor fun.

Looking for more outdoor fun in the Chicago Southland in May? Explore our website HERE for information on the following things to do:

Disc Golf
Biking Trails
Fishing Spots
Nature Centers
Outdoor Art
Al Fresco Dining
Major League Rugby
Professional Baseball
Outdoor Concerts

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