This July 4th – 10th, the DeKalb Park District is celebrating 25 years in operation. Before there was a DeKalb Park District, the park system in DeKalb was owned and operated by the City of DeKalb. In 1935 the city owned four parks: Annies Woods, named after Annie Glidden, the niece of barb wire inventor Joseph Glidden; Huntley Park, named after the first settlers of DeKalb, and designed to be the town square; Liberty Park, the site of the second bandstand and located on the near north side of DeKalb; and Hopkins Park, named in honor of Judge Hopkins, who donated this 32 acre tract of land which became the crown jewel of the system.
In the early 1930’s, the League of Women Voters came up with the idea that DeKalb should have its own park district, just as neighboring Sycamore had had since 1923. According to historical accounts of the time, the advantages of the park district system were apparent to the League, with one of them being the ability that an elected park board could pursue its own goals, unimpeded by the goals of the city. Another advantage was that the park board could create board action bonds that could sustain needed capital improvements.
Thus, in 1935, the DeKalb Park District was born, with the first significant improvement project opened that summer being the new community swimming pool in Hopkins Park, and many other improvements to follow.
On July 4th, are the July 4th Celebrations & Fireworks at Hopkins Park. On Monday, July 5th: Come enjoy Hopkins Pool for only $2 admission all day. July 6th, join the DeKalb Park District in a Family Bike Parade. Register from 4:30-5:30pm, Parade begins at 5:30pm. The parade will consist of a one mile loop starting at Hopkins Shelter. A $25 gift certificates for park district programs will be awarded for the best decorated bike in three age categories (under 8 years, 8-12 years, 13 and above). Birthday cake will be served upon completion of the parade.
On Wednesday, July 7th, Golf at Buena Vista and River Heights for $5. Last round to be completed by 5PM due to leagues. Thursday July 8th brings 50 cent hot dogs at ball field concession stands. The celebration rounds up with free popcorn at Movie in the Park Night, Friday, July 9th. Slide show prior to movie will feature photo contest entries.
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