Cook County forest preserve picnic grove reservations begin Jan. 4
The new year is quickly approaching, and many people are already planning their gatherings and special events for 2016. With 283 picnic groves, many with shelters, the Forest Preserves of Cook County offers numerous great locations for special events of all sizes. In addition to groves, the Forest Preserves also offers rentals for indoor event facilities, athletic fields and more.
Online and in-person permit sales for 2016 will begin at 8 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 4. Picnic permits are required for groups of 25 or more.
In addition to saving time by purchasing permits online, visitors can view information such as site availability, grove maps and the various fees associated with grove rentals by visiting fpdcc.com/permits.
People can also apply for permits in person at Forest Preserves General Headquarters, 536 N. Harlem, in River Forest. Doors will open at 7 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 4, and those planning to apply for permits in person must have a valid state identification card or driver's license. Accepted payment methods are cash, check or credit card (Visa or MasterCard). Purchasers should begin completing their permit application immediately upon arrival to expedite wait time, and have two or three additional locations in mind in case the first choice is not available.
Large events with an estimated attendance of 1,000 plus can submit their applications (via email at fpdcc.rvp@cookcountyil.gov, USPS mail or in person) as early as Dec. 14, 2015. Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Indoor room rental reservations for 2016 will also be accepted beginning Dec. 14, 2015, via email only at pavilion.rentals@cookcountyil.gov.
Events that include routes, such as walks or runs, are required to submit the proposed route with the application. Reservations for athletic fields will be accepted on Feb. 1, 2016, in person only at Forest Preserves General Headquarters beginning at 8 a.m. Additional details will be sent out at a later date.
In 2015, more than 8,600 permits were sold for picnics and special events, with nearly 10 percent sold on opening day. Top sites for picnics and special events include Dan Ryan, Busse Woods and Schiller Woods.
For questions or assistance with online permit purchases, contact Forest Preserves permits staff by calling (800) 870-3666, option #2, or visit fpdcc.com.