Free Family Festival Brings Nature And Art To Southwest Suburbs

PALOS HEIGHTS, IL -- A free Nature and Arts Festival in the southwest suburbs will feature art, music, photography, writing, and fun nature-based activities for all the family. The event, which has been organized jointly by Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens and the Palos Heights Public Library. The festival runs 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 28, at Lake Katherine in Palos Heights.

A trio from the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra will open the festival by playing a selection of nature-related classical pieces. Other attractions include a wild edibles cooking demonstration by nutrition educator Chris Rosandich at noon and a presentation at 1 p.m. by floral designer of the year, Walter Fedyshyn, who will demonstrate how to create a natural container from recycled material and ‘found’ objects from backyards, forest floors or gardens.

Local author and photographer Mike MacDonald will share breathtaking images and stories from his coffee table book “My journey into the Wilds of Chicago.” MacDonald, of Downers Grove, has 25 years’ experience taking nature photos and says he plans to blow his audience away with an introduction to the natural beauty of their home.

“There's more protected natural area within 50 miles of downtown Chicago than 34 of the 59 national parks,” MacDonald said in a news release. “These same preserves have more native plant species than any national park. Every day between mid-April and mid-September you can find a national park quality blooming event happening somewhere in our area. Unfortunately, most Chicagoans are unaware. And because you can't love and support something that doesn't exist, I've made it my mission is to play matchmaker—to introduce Chicagoans to that gorgeous neighbor next door and to spark thousands and thousands of love affairs.”

Other nature-based activities in the Lake Katherine Clubhouse include nature journaling, a poetry wall, hands-on-art activities, creative writing prompts, a found art station, and music. Fest-goers can also follow a storybook trail by the waterfall. Starting at 11:30 a.m., Palos Heights librarian Tina Ruszala will present storytime.

This is the second year Lake Katherine and the Palos Heights Public Library has hosted the Nature and Literature Festival. Lake Katherine is located at 7402 W. Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights. For more information, visit the nature center's website or call 708-361-1873.

“We are excited to participate, bringing programs that touch on the various arts that inspire us,” said Jeannine Kacmar, head of public services at Palos Heights Public Library. “Nature and art can soothe the soul and enrich our lives. Teaming up with Lake Katherine is a good way to highlight these resources in our community and make them accessible to all."