Petting Zoo, Wildflower Walk Planned For Founders Day In Downers Grove

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — A petting zoo, a wildflower walk, documentaries and other special activities are planned for the 2023 Founders Day celebration in Downers Grove.

Presented by the Downers Grove Historical Society, Founders Day features six days of events that run the gamut from golf games and gardening to live music and a family bike ride. See the full slate of activities below.

April 29

11 a.m. Pine Hollow Open Golf Tournament

Head to the historic Belmont Golf Club for a tournament set at one of the oldest golf courses in the country. Tickets are $24 for residents and $28 for nonresidents. To register for the tournament, call 630-963-1306.

1 p.m. Farm to Table Heirloom Gardening

The Downers Grove Historic Museum will host an event that teaches guests about heirloom plants and the village's farming history. The fee to attend is $14 per person. Click the link to register for Farm to Table Heirloom Gardening.

May 2

6 p.m. Premiere Screening of History Happens Here: The Tivoli Theatre

Tivoli Theatre owners Shirley and Willis Johnson will be recognized as the village's Historians of the Year for 2023 during a special event that includes a premiere screening of History Happens Here: The Tivoli Theatre. The documentary delves into the local landmark's background and celebrates some of its memorable milestones. Before the show, there will be a brief reception and live organ music. Historical Society members can attend this event at the Tivoli Theatre for free. The cost for nonmembers is $5. Click the link to register for History Happens Here: The Tivoli Theatre.

May 3

6:30 p.m. Homesteading in the Burbs

This free event at Downers Grove Library gives visitors a peek into the life of homesteaders who live in the area. They will share details and answer questions about the sustainable and eco-friendly impact of their lifestyles.

May 4

6:30 p.m. Our Precious Grove

Morton Arboretum's Dr. Isabel Rivera will present this adults-only event at Alter Brewing to discuss the history and future of the village's oak trees. Pizza will be provided and there will be a cash bar for guests. Donations are encouraged. Click the link to register for Our Precious Grove.

May 6

9 a.m. Self-Guided 5K and 10K Walk

Head to the Downers Grove Museum Annex at 831 Maple Ave. to take a stroll through the grounds. There will be a group walk that starts at 9:30 a.m., but participants are welcome to stroll solo at their own pace. The cost to take part is $3 and registration will be available at the event.

9 a.m. Wildflower Walk in Lyman Woods

See the colorful wildflowers that bloom throughout Lyman Woods during this walk, which will be led by local naturalist Lance Herning. In the event of inclement weather, a rain date is scheduled for May 7 at 1 p.m. Limited spots are available. Click the link to register for the Wildflower Walk.

9 a.m. Family Fun Bike Ride

Join the Downers Grove Bicycle Club on a bike ride that traverses some of the village's picturesque paths. Click the link to register for the Family Fun Bike Ride.

11:30 a.m. Founder of the Year Recognition Ceremony

The historical society will pay homage to Abigail Stearns Root, who was one of the village's early settlers. The event will be held at Main Street Cemetery.

12 p.m. Country in the Park

Kids can meet and greet farm animals at a petting zoo during this event at Downers Grove Museum. Historical exhibits and themed games are also planned for Country in the Park, which features live Civil War-era music at 12 p.m. and 1 p.m.