Watch the Zombie Invasion in Aurora on Saturday
Stuart Sports Complex is one lively place, where action-loaded athletic events keep everybody's pulse pounding.
But on Saturday, Stuart will be invaded by the living dead, turning this sports-centric spread into a mecca for mayhem.
In the early evening twilight of Sept. 20, real-life zombies - at least the undead ones - will rise from their haunts for the Fox Valley Park District's Zombie Invasion 5K.
It all begins at 5 p.m., when an 60-person army of animated corpses scatters across Stuart on a flesh-eating, virus-spreading mission.
They'll be awaiting more than 150 racers who are running a 5K to escape the drooling derelicts in pursuit. Racers will rely on speed, agility and their intact brains - a distinct advantage they have - while maneuvering through a sea of obstacles and desperately trying to avoid waves of bloody zombies.
While registration has closed, day-of signup is available on Sept. 20 at Stuart.
And … you can still witness the Zombie 5K as a spectator, and enjoy all the fun without the fear. And … all spectators attend free. Bring family and friends for an up-close view of the action and access to the Zombieland Party in the Park that includes entertainment and a roaring bonfire (food and beverages available for purchase).
Stuart Sports Complex is at 38W585 Jericho Road, Aurora.
Playwright Festival at Prisco:
Local performing arts talent will be spotlighted during a daylong dedication to playwrights, set for 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Prisco Community Center, 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora.
The New Works Playwright Festival will feature all levels of playwrights, from experienced adults to first-time child writers with active imaginations. In all, 14 new plays written by eight playwrights from throughout the Chicago area will be presented, ranging from 10-minute plays and short works to full-length staged readings.
"Romantic comedies, thought-provoking dramas and reflective monologues - they'll all be on the program," said performing arts supervisor Kyle Donahue. Panel discussions with a professional feedback panel are part of the program as well.
The all-ages event is open all day, allowing visitors to come and go. A $5 donation is suggested but not required. Refreshments will be available for purchase throughout the day. For a detailed schedule of plays, visit www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org/drama. To contact the Prisco Center, call (630) 859-8606.
Backyard birds and botany:
We may live in an urban environment, but that doesn't mean we can't make a contribution to conserving biodiversity. Plants and animals are depending on us, actually.
On Sept. 24 at the FVPD Greenhouse at Lincoln Park, 259 S. Russell Ave., Aurora, Natural Areas specialist Cathy Daul and her staff will host "Backyard Prairie Birds and Botany" at 10 a.m. In addition to providing an overview of the district's native prairie sites, this free program will enlighten attendees on the importance of adding native plants to their own yards - and how to do it.
Learn how you can aid in the recovery of bee populations by planting species-rich flower gardens. Discover how to create bird-friendly landscapes and native plants help support healthier ecosystems and promote biodiversity - even the most urban locations.
It's easy, exciting - and, like nature's beauty, the program is free. Call (630) 897-4261 for information.
•Jeff Long is the public relations manager for the Fox Valley Park District. Contact him at jlong@fvpd.net