ParkTalk Blog – New Programs Coming Summer 2026!

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

Naperville Park District offers a wide variety of programs for all ages and diverse interests. More than 8,000 recreational classes, athletic teams, special events and performances are offered annually, providing community members with the opportunity to discover new passions or participate in something they already love. Every quarter, new programs are added to the seasonal Program Guide to ensure variety while serving the diverse recreational needs and interests of the community.

Many of the new programs that are added are recommended through the New Program Request Form – an online form on the Park District’s website where anyone can submit their ideas for consideration for programs they would like to see the District offer. Once the Park District receives the program request, Program Managers review them to determine whether the program aligns with the District’s mission, vision and core values to create welcoming recreation and park experiences that support wellness, foster connection, and serve the community’s diverse interests and needs. If the program is already offered, staff will consider reevaluating the existing program and potentially revamp it to meet current recreation trends. Additionally, Program Managers often develop new program ideas to fill a need or respond to an emerging recreation trend.

The 2026 Summer Program Guide is available exclusively on the Park District’s website, and program registration is currently underway. The Program Guide highlights annual summer events and popular Park District facilities that help families maximize their summer fun. Additionally, the Summer Program Guide features a variety of athletic teams, art programs, adult recreation leagues, special one-time events, trips and more. Here are a few new programs that youth and adults can enjoy this summer:

Beginner Quilting Camp | Ages 7-18

Beginner Quilting Camp is a weeklong youth quilting program where participants that are new to the craft will learn proper sewing and quilting techniques. Similar to other introductory quilting programs offered by the Park District, participants will be guided by talented instructors as they create their own lap quilt. Quilting can be a relaxing and therapeutic activity as quilters get an opportunity to create something to use in their own home. Additionally, quilting can boost confidence as crafters can tangibly see their project progress and practically use their final creation. Sewing machines will be provided for use throughout the week, and all supplies needed will be provided by the instructor for a $25 fee.

Pottery: Fairy House Building | Ages 8-12

Pottery is one of the oldest human inventions, and over time, it has developed into a creative hobby that produces beautiful and unique works of art. Participants of Pottery: Fairy House Building will build their own fairy house out of clay while learning basic hand-building techniques and the stages of the glazing process. Children with an affinity for fairytales and the creative process, or simply have an interest in this art form, will leave this 5-class program with their own piece to display at home. All pottery classes are held at the Park District’s Studio One, located at 604 Sindt Court, and unfinished projects are kept there for safety. All materials are provided, and participants are asked to wear old clothes to each class.

Red, White and Bingo Luncheon | Ages 50 and Up

Seniors throughout the community have opportunities to participate in activities or special events with the Park District through Active Adults & Seniors programs. Unless specified, all programs are held on the upper level of the Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, where seniors can also participate in drop-in programs to play games, create crafts or socialize. The popular Bingo program is getting a patriotic twist in celebration or the United States’ 250th anniversary at the Red, White and Bingo Luncheon on Thursday, July 9. This is a one-time event to celebrate Independence Day with a festive hot dog luncheon and 12 games of regular bingo. Participants will enjoy great company, and some lucky winners will leave with exciting prizes. Since food must be ordered in advance, interested individuals are asked to register by Thursday, July 2.

End of Summer Luau Glam Night | Ages 4-10

While the end of summer can be disappointing, the Park District wants to end it in style at the End of Summer Luau Glam Night. This new, one-time art program hosted at the Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center will transport participants to Hawaii as Glitzy Girlz staff glams them up with hair flowers, make-up and nail polish and helps them design fun Hawaiian themed crafts. Each participant also receives a flower lei and a flowered Hawaiian skirt for fun photos with props in front of a palm tree backdrop. Capping off the luau are engaging activities like a maraca freeze dance and limbo. There is no better way to end the summer than with a Hawaiian getaway in the heart of Naperville.

The Naperville Park District offers a variety of programs each season for many interests and age groups. To register for other summer programs, presentations, trips and more, view the 2026 Summer Program Guide at www.napervilleparks.org/programguides. Registration for summer programs is ongoing.