Wheeling Park District is bringing the excitement this summer
Concerts, movies, kid entertainment and aquatic and special events continue throughout July at the Wheeling Park District.
Bring a blanket or a lawn chair to the Heritage Park Performance Pavilion and enjoy the Wheeling Park District's free Summer Entertainment Series. Sixteen Candles lights up the stage at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 9. This in-demand group of performers have made it their personal mission to bring all the great 80s songs you love to life in full force. Friday Night Headliner Concerts are scheduled once a month through August.
Sounds of Summer Concerts at the Heritage Park Performance Pavilion start at 5 p.m. every Sunday with the exception of July 4. Mama Mia! Dancing Queen recreates the ABBA experience on July 11. Two dynamic ladies with angelic voices are backed by a group of world-class musicians. On July 18, King Saturday rocks the stage with an original, audience-friendly melodic core, big guitars, lush vocal harmonies and driving rhythms. Boogie the night away with Rosie & the Rivets on July 25, when the best of the '50s and '60s dance hits are featured along with a retro twist on some current music. Sunday evening concerts continue through Aug. 1.
Movies in the Park take place once a month under the stars at the Heritage Park Performance Pavilion and feature some pre-movie entertainment for the younger set. Has your family been watching "Cobra Kai" on Netflix? On Thursday, July 15, bring them to the movie that started it all!
"Karate Kid" is the story of Daniel who moves to California with his mother and quickly finds himself the target of a group of bullies who study karate at the Cobra Kai dojo. Enter Mr. Miyagi, a martial arts master, who takes Daniel under his wing and trains him to compete against Cobra Kai. Arrive by 8 p.m. to catch the balloon artist who creates the unique, twisted creations you request.
It's time to come out and play! The "unplug" theme kicks off the month of July with the Illinois Park and Recreation Association Unplug Illinois Day Celebration from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 10, at Heritage Park. This unique event is all about plugging into activity, creativity, family and nature. Arts, crafts, nature walks and family entertainment are all part of the fun. Watch the park district's Facebook page and website for more information and a detailed schedule.
Unplug at the Park is a series of free Wednesday evening events that take place at various area parks from 5 to 7 p.m. Join family, friends and neighbors July 14 at Horizon Park. Hop on board the Express Kiddie Trackless Train for a ride around the park. On July 21, at Northside Park, train to be a superhero with Captain America and take a photo with him, too. Meet at Malibu Park on July 28, and take home a balloon twisted into a unique, fun shape of your choosing.
Special events for all ages are taking place throughout the summer. Those who are at least 55 years of age are invited to Bingo at the Community Recreation Center from 1-2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 14. Register by July 7 for 10 games and the chance to win exciting prizes.
The fun is flowing at the Family Aquatic Center. Cool off on the Fourth of July with a day of food specials and giveaways at the pool. On Wednesday, July 14, get your hula on from 4-7 p.m., at the Hawaiian-themed Summer Luau. What could be better than watching a movie under the stars - while swimming? Starting at dusk, watch Disney's "Moana" at Flick 'n Float on Friday, July 23. At the Back-to-School Teen Party on Thursday, July 29, the FAC is reserved, from 6-8 p.m., just for those in grades 6-8. Bring $1 and a school ID for a night of music, games and giveaways.
For a complete listing of summer entertainment, visit www.wheelingparkdistrict.com. The Heritage Park Performance Pavilion is at 201 Community Blvd., in Wheeling; the FAC is at 105 Community Blvd., and the CRC is at 100 Community Blvd.
For information, www.wheelingparkdistrict.com. Visit the Wheeling Park District at www.facebook.com/wheelingparkdistrict and www.twitter.com/wheelingparkdst.