Many Enjoyed Free Activities from the Des Plaines Park District on Thanksgiving Morning.

The Des Plaines Park District offered complimentary activities on Thanksgiving morning to show appreciation to the community and to encourage a healthy start to a day known for overeating and lounging. The morning began at 8:00 am with a 90-minute three-part fitness class that incorporated Tabata training, strength training, and Yoga. Three separate Park District instructors led the class to a packed house. “We almost needed to move from the fitness studio into the gymnasium,” said Lisa Kelley, Des Plaines Park District fitness instructor. “This was such a great turnout!”

The sun began to peak through at 9:45am just as the free, 1.5 mile community walk stepped off. Cindy Yelich, Special Events Coordinator, led the group and included an element of competition to the fun walk. Participants were to guess how long they thought it would take to walk the course and the closest guess won.

The morning was capped off by a fun and friendly game of football on the fields at Prairie Lakes. It was a chilly morning, but it didn’t stop community residents from enjoying what could become a new tradition at the Des Plaines Park District every Thanksgiving morning.

The participants were encouraged to bring coats, gloves or non-perishable food items for the Des Plaines Self-help Closet and Pantry. A special thanks to those who donated.

For more information about Park District activities, classes, and events go to www.DPParks.org or call 847-391-5700.

Photos: Colette Plantz