Big Trucks in Ron Beese Park

Ron Beese Park in Barrington will make its yearly transformation into a kid's paradise Saturday for the annual Big Trucks event.

The event, designed for kids of all ages, includes the chance to climb in and explore more than 20 vehicles, including fire and dump trucks.

Kids get to learn about each truck, watch demonstrations and even get behind the wheel. The event also features the popular big wheel races and an inflatable dump truck slide

This year, Maryann and the Professors will provide the entertainment. The group performs songs from the 1960s to the present day.

The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ron Beese Park, 50 Rotary Drive. The big wheel races are from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., with Maryann and the Professors taking the stage from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

There's a $2 admission fee. The event is sponsored by the Barrington Park District, Village of Barrington, Barrington Fire Department and Barrington Bank and Trust.

For more information, visit barringtonparkdistrict.org.

Ducks coming to Barrington: Little yellow ducks -- of the plastic variety - are getting ready to invade Langendorf Pool in Barrington.

Hospice of Northeastern Illinois will host its 15th annual Duck Race and pool party from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Aug. 16 at Langendorf Park in Barrington.

The highlight is the traditional Duck Race, where hundreds of plastic quackers sail down the pool slides in exciting races. More than 75 prizes will be awarded.

The Duck Race will also feature swimming, face-painting, hair-braiding and a DJ. An appearance by Hospice of Northeastern Illinois' very own Mr. Duck is also sure to be a highlight. Looking new and improved this year, Mr. Duck will be hanging out, meeting guests and posing for pictures.

Ducks can be purchased in "Flocks" of 25 for $100, "Families" of six for $25 and "Individually" for $5. "VIDs" (Very Important Ducks) will race in their own special race and are available at $250 each, with the winning duck earning $1,000 in cash for its owner.

For information on purchasing a duck or becoming a sponsor, contact Kristin Frazier, special events coordinator, at KFrazier@HospiceAnswers.org, or (847) 381-5599, ext. 368.

Hospice of Northeastern Illinois is a community based, not-for-profit serving families throughout McHenry, Lake, Northwest Cook, Kane, Boone and DuPage counties.

• Chad Brooks covers the Barrington area. Contact him at (847) 427-4476 or cbrooks@dailyherald.com.