Family Field Day on May 23 at St. James Farm

DuPage County residents can celebrate the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County's centennial today at a fun-filled Family Field Day at St. James Farm.

Activities run 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 23, at St. James Farm Forest Preserve, on Winfield Road a quarter-mile north of Butterfield Road in Warrenville.

Visitors can see all that the forest preserves have to offer at this open house featuring a new trail and spots for picnicking. The event offers opportunities to visit with district naturalists, interpreters, rangers and volunteers and to discover a great variety of nature-oriented programs. Visitors also may watch dog obedience and field trials, and dairy demonstrations. Other activities include fishing, archery instruction, barn tours and live music.

The event also will feature a display of vintage tractors with ties to the preserve's agricultural history and a collection of the district's award-winning alternative-fuel vehicles showcasing eco-friendly technology.

"Family Field Day is a great tradition where families can retreat to a country setting and make lasting memories," said Joe Cantore, president of the DuPage forest district. "This event offers something for all generations to get outside, take in the scenery and realize the benefits of outdoor play and leisure in a forest preserve."

Admission and parking are free. Children's activities require tickets for a nominal fee. For information, contact dupageforest.org/familyfieldday or (630) 933-7248.

St. James Farm is open one hour after sunrise to one hour after sunset 365 days a year. Visitors can explore the new two-mile limestone loop trail that connects to the Illinois Prairie Path, see a 1906 Burlington and Quincy caboose, or stroll among historic buildings, tree-lined paths, statues and other works of art.