Kane County Forest Preserve advises early arrival for popular prom photo spot

Expect longer walks to photo locations

It’s prom season, and with that will come hundreds of visitors to Fabyan West Forest Preserve in Geneva on spring Saturdays, to take pre-prom photos.

The Forest Preserve District of Kane County is asking the public to plan ahead when visiting Fabyan during prom season, and to prepare for increased traffic, parking congestion, wait times and potentially longer walks.

Traditionally, students and their families gather at Fabyan West Forest Preserve before prom for photos, resulting in a significant increase in visitors between 2 and 6 p.m. During this time, guests can expect heavy vehicle traffic, limited parking availability, and increased pedestrian activity throughout the preserve.

April 25 will be especially crowded, as a number of area high schools have proms, that evening. In addition, on May 2, there is a private rental of the Fabyan Japanese Garden from 3 to 5 p.m., and admittance to the Japanese Garden will strictly be limited to those with the rental. Regardless of rentals, preserve parking is on a first-come, first served basis.

When parking reaches capacity, visitors will be directed to overflow parking across the street from Fabyan West at 2000 Batavia Ave.

People may also be directed to additional parking across the river at Fabyan East Forest Preserve. Visitors using overflow lots should anticipate a longer walk to photo locations. Pedestrian bridges are available to access Fabyan West from Fabyan East.

Forest Preserve police and volunteers will be on-site near the preserve entrance to assist with traffic coordination and pedestrian safety. Visitors are reminded to only use designated parking areas.

Parking on the grass or outside of parking lots is not permitted. Violators will be ticketed and or towed. Accessible parking will remain available for those with permits, however that too may fill up. Drop-off locations will be available.

“Fabyan West Forest Preserve is a popular destination for prom photos, and we want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable experience,” said Forest Preserve District Officer Doug Podschweit. “We encourage visitors to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and follow posted signs and staff direction,” he said.

Additionally, consider other Kane County forest preserves for photography backdrops. See kaneforest.com for a full list of preserve locations.

For updates, follow the Forest Preserve District of Kane County on social media by searching @forestpreserve.