News

Bensenville, Ill. (July 15, 2024)— Get ready for an unforgettable aquatic adventure as the Bensenville Park District and Armando Perez State Farm present a free “dive-in movie” showing of Disney-Pixar’s “Elemental.” Join the fun at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, August 3, at the Bensenville Water Park, 1100 W. Wood Street.

As part of the popular movie in the park series, the dive-in movie event promises to be a unique and thrilling experience for moviegoers of all ages. “Elemental” is a captivating animated film set in Element City, a vibrant metropolis where fire, water, land and air residents coexist. The story centers around Ember, a fiery and passionate young woman, and Wade, a go-with-the-flow water guy. Despite their fundamental differences, the two form an unexpected friendship that challenges the city’s strict separation of elements. As Ember and Wade navigate their distinct worlds, they discover surprising connections that defy the conventions of their society and lead to personal growth and understanding.

The film’s rich, imaginative animation brings the unique characteristics of each elemental character to life, highlighting the beauty of diversity and the importance of looking beyond surface differences. With its heartfelt narrative and dynamic visuals, “Elemental” delivers a powerful message about the strength found in embracing unique individual qualities and working together to create a harmonious community.

The Bensenville Water Park provides the perfect setting for this immersive cinematic experience. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the movie from the comfort of the water or lounge poolside. Single-person rafts and pool floats are allowed, allowing attendees to relax and soak up the suspense while staying cool in the refreshing water.

Admission to the dive-in movie event is free, as Armando Perez State Farm’s sponsorship has covered the cost of admission for patrons. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own single-person rafts and pool floats to enhance their viewing experience, as these items will not be provided.

“We are proud to once again sponsor the park district’s dive-in movie, with the help of our friends at Grand Subaru,” says State Farm Agent Armando Perez. “It’s just one way we can give back to the Bensenville-Wood Dale community. We look forward to adding to the great environment with raffle prizes and more!”

Gates open at 7:30 p.m., and the movie begins at dusk. The event is expected to draw a large crowd, so early arrival is recommended to secure a prime spot. Concessions will be available for purchase, with a selection of refreshments and snacks to enhance the movie-watching experience.

“The park district’s Movie in the Park series has become a treasured community tradition, bringing families and neighbors together for a memorable outdoor cinema experience as part of our Park n’ Play initiative,” adds Superintendent of Recreation Nicole Chesak. “We are grateful to Armando Perez State Farm and Grand Subaru for making this ‘dive-in movie’ a free event for our residents.”

The event is the fourth in the five-film movie in the park series that includes “Space Jam” (May 18, White Pines), “Trolls Band Together” (June 8, Arbor Park, Wood Dale) and the July 20 presentation of “Charlotte’s Web” at 8 p.m. at Fischer Farm, 16W680 Old Grand Avenue. The series concludes with a Hispanic Heritage Month presentation of “A Million Miles Away” at 7:30 p.m. Friday, September 20, at the Pavilion at White Pines, 500 E. Jefferson in Bensenville.

The movie in the park series is a part of the park district’s “Park ‘n Play” initiative, which brings more than 50 events to neighborhood parks throughout the summer. For more information about the Bensenville Park District’s Park ‘n Play activities, including a schedule of events sortable by date, park and activity, visit the park district website, BvilleParks.org/park-n-play.

Bensenville, Ill. (July 10, 2024)—Looking for a great reason to leave work early on a Friday afternoon? Well, the Bensenville Park District will host Beer Tasting & Bags at White Pines Golf Club from 3 to 5 p.m. on Friday, July 26. The event will be held on the outdoor patio at 500 W. Jefferson St.

For $10, participants can sample a flight of beers while playing bags (cornhole). Advance registration is required by calling 630-766-0304, ext. 300.

“We’re excited to host Beer Tasting & Bags on the patio just outside 37 Bar & Grill at White Pines Golf Club,” says White Pines PGA General Manager Andrew Godfrey. “It’s the perfect way to enjoy a summer afternoon, combining great beer with a bit of friendly competition. We look forward to welcoming the community for what promises to be a fun and memorable experience.”

In the event of rainy weather, the event will be held indoors beneath the tented Pavilion at White Pines.

The White Pines Golf Club—owned and operated by the Bensenville Park District—is more than golf. With 36 holes of championship golf, a full-service restaurant and event facilities, White Pines’ beautiful landscape and exceptional amenities make it a premier destination for golfers and event-goers alike.

For more information about White Pines events and activities, visit WhitePinesGolf.com. For Bensenville Park District information, visit BvilleParks.org.

Bensenville, Ill. (July 8, 2024)—The Bensenville Park District invites families and community members to a special free movie night at Fischer Farm, located at 16W680 Old Grand Avenue in Bensenville, at 8 p.m. Saturday, July 20. Join for a delightful outdoor screening of the beloved classic, “Charlotte’s Web,” which will start at dusk.

“Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, friends and loved ones to Fischer Farm and enjoy a magical evening under the stars,” says Fischer Farm Manager Christine Shiel. “We are thrilled to host this free movie night at Fischer Farm, providing a wonderful opportunity for families to come together and enjoy a cherished story in such a beautiful, historic setting. It’s the perfect way to celebrate summer and community.”

“Charlotte’s Web,” based on E.B. White’s timeless children’s novel, tells the heartwarming story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a clever spider named Charlotte, who devises a plan to save him from becoming dinner.

The event is free and open to the public, and food and beverages will be available for purchase. Fischer Farm is located at 16W680 Old Grand Avenue in Bensenville. Park patrons may arrive at 8 p.m., and the movie starts at dusk.

Fischer Farm is one of several historical gems of the Bensenville Park District, offering a glimpse into 19th- and 20th-century farm life with its preserved buildings, artifacts and educational programs. It serves as a unique venue for events and activities that connect the community with its rich heritage through agricultural education.

Movie at the Farm is a part of the Bensenville Park District’s Movie in the Park series, which provides free movies to park patrons throughout the summer as part of the district’s Park N Play initiative. Upcoming movies include the Dive in Movie presentation of “Elemental” at the Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, August 3, presented by Armando Perez State Farm. The series concludes with a Hispanic Heritage Month showing of “A Million Miles Away” at 7:30 p.m. Friday, September 20, at the Pavilion at White Pines. All movies begin at dusk. For a full schedule of Park N Play activities and events, visit BvilleParks.org/Park-N-Play.

Passes are valid through the end of the 2024 season

Bensenville, Ill. (July 1, 2024)—Season passes for the Bensenville Park District Water Park & Splash Pad are on sale for 50 percent off regular prices beginning Friday, July 5.

Half-season passholders receive unlimited admission to the Water Park & Splash Pad, free and unlimited admission to aqua fitness classes and a discount admission to water park events.

The sale pass rates are as follows for the general public, and those living within Bensenville Park District boundaries receive additional discounts as noted, beginning July 5:

  • Child/Teen (ages 3-17) – $66 | $55 (In-District);
  • Adult (ages 18+) – $72 | $60 (In-District);
  • Senior (ages 55+) – $66 | $55 (In-District);
  • Family of two – $108 | $90 (In-District);
  • Family of three – $126 | $105 (In-District) and
  • Family of four – $144 | $120 (In-District).

Each additional family member above a family of four is $22 after July 4. Complete information may be found on the park district website, BvilleParks.org/waterpark.

Season passes may be purchased at the Deer Grove Leisure Center (DGLC), 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville Monday through Saturday. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Drop-off registrations can be delivered at any time the DGLC is open.

The Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad, located at 1100 W. Wood Street, is a family-friendly facility that features a 155-foot water slide, two drop slides, a diving board, a 2,527 square-foot splash pad, a sun deck and a full-service concession stand. The park district offers swim lessons as well as specially themed days and special events throughout the summer. The facility is open for rentals and hosts birthday parties and other activities.

The water park is open noon to 7 p.m. daily. The water park season runs through Sunday, August 11.

Passes are valid through the end of the 2024 season

Bensenville, Ill. (July 1, 2024)—Season passes for the Bensenville Park District Water Park & Splash Pad are on sale for 50 percent off regular prices beginning Friday, July 5.

Half-season passholders receive unlimited admission to the Water Park & Splash Pad, free and unlimited admission to aqua fitness classes and a discount admission to water park events.

The sale pass rates are as follows for the general public, and those living within Bensenville Park District boundaries receive additional discounts as noted, beginning July 5:

  • Child/Teen (ages 3-17) – $66 | $55 (In-District);
  • Adult (ages 18+) – $72 | $60 (In-District);
  • Senior (ages 55+) – $66 | $55 (In-District);
  • Family of two – $108 | $90 (In-District);
  • Family of three – $126 | $105 (In-District) and
  • Family of four – $144 | $120 (In-District).

Each additional family member above a family of four is $22 after July 4. Complete information may be found on the park district website, BvilleParks.org/waterpark.

Season passes may be purchased at the Deer Grove Leisure Center (DGLC), 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville Monday through Saturday. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Drop-off registrations can be delivered at any time the DGLC is open.

The Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad, located at 1100 W. Wood Street, is a family-friendly facility that features a 155-foot water slide, two drop slides, a diving board, a 2,527 square-foot splash pad, a sun deck and a full-service concession stand. The park district offers swim lessons as well as specially themed days and special events throughout the summer. The facility is open for rentals and hosts birthday parties and other activities.

The water park is open noon to 7 p.m. daily. The water park season runs through Sunday, August 11.

Bensenville, Ill. (June 25, 2024)—In addition to the popular weekly Fischer Farm Camp sessions for ages 6 to 10, the Bensenville Park District is offering a number of activities at its urban farm, located at 16W680 Old Grand Avenue in Bensenville.

Explore and enjoy the farm life at the fun, exciting farm camp at Fischer Farm. Each week, participants will interact with farm animals and learn about working and living on a farm past and present. Campers will go on hikes, churn butter, take care of sheep and goats and feed chickens. Through farm chores, creative crafts and adventurous field trips, campers will travel back through time and have an amazing summer. Fees are $155 for a week-long session, $135 for those living within Bensenville Park District boundaries. Registration is due by the Wednesday prior to each weekly session at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood St., Bensenville. Sessions begin July 8, 15, 22, 29 and August 5.

Celebrate National Cow Day at Fischer Farm July 9. Fischer Farm started out as a dairy farm when the Fischer family settled in 1836. The family’s dairy farm success was evident by 1919. The cow-themed
program in celebration of National Cow Day honors the foundation on which the farm was started. Adults are $15, $10 for in-district residents. Ages 4-12 are $5 and must be accompanied by a paid adult. Kids 3 and under are free with a paid adult.

Bring the family out and become immersed in the wondrous glow of Fireflies, 8-9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 13. Experience the magic of these beautiful creatures, discovering the science behind these staples of summer. Then craft a glowing creation to take home! Once the stage is set, take a short hike
around the farm to seek out this incredible insect for a closer look! End the night by the light of a campfire and roast tasty marshmallows. Kids ages 4-12 are $5 and must be accompanied by a paid adult ($15, $10 in-district). Kids 3 and under are free by a paid adult.

All ages are invited to meet at the bee hive to explore these small, buzzing insects in Beein’ a Pollinator, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, July 20. Native bees will be introduced, and attendees will learn why these little black and yellow animals are important to the ecosystems. The fee for adults is $15, $10 for those in district. Kids ages 4-12 are $5 and must be accompanied by a paid adult. Kids 3 and under free with a paid adult.

The month of July concludes with Monarch Mania from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, July 27. In this caterpillar- and butterfly-filled program, participants will make monarch butterflies to help learn about the stages of these delicate creatures. Then they’ll help staff release some monarchs and watch them fly away on their journey south. Adults are $15, $10 for in-district residents. Ages 4-12 are $5 and must be accompanied by a paid adult. Kids 3 and under are free with a paid adult.

Fischer Farm visitors are also invited to get familiar with the farm by participating in this free, walk-in farm scavenger hunt. Pick up cards at the farm gift shop. Each item found will provide a bit more information about the farm. Once everything is found, bring the card back to the gift shop for a prize. Get a bonus for sharing one new thing learned during the hunt.

“While at the farm, be sure to stop in the gift shop and try some our own fresh eggs, lamb, pork, honey and homemade honey-lavender soap,” says Fischer Farm Manager Christine Shiel.

Learn more about Fischer Farm by visiting the farm’s website, BvilleParks.org/fischerfarm. Registration for all programs is required in advance at least one week before the start date, except summer camp.

Bensenville, Ill. (June 25, 2024)–TruGreen is scheduled to begin the second of three applications of fertilizer and herbicide to the turf at the following Bensenville Park District locations beginning Friday, June 28, weather permitting:

  • Deer Grove Leisure Center;
  • Bensenville Water Park (exterior);
  • Arbor Park;
  • DiOrio Park;
  • Krempels Park;
  • Pines Park;
  • Poplar Park;
  • Rose Park;
  • Sunrise Park; and
  • Sunset Park.

After a service, TruGreen advises to allow the application to dry before resuming use of the fertilized area. Although highly dependent upon temperature and humidity, most liquid products TruGreen uses dry within 1-2 hours.

Bensenville, Ill. (June 24, 2024)—As part of a comprehensive initiative offering veterans opportunities to stay active utilizing park district facilities and services, the Bensenville Park District is offering a free swim day at the Bensenville Water Park and Splash Pad, 1100 W. Wood Street, on July 4.

Veterans will be treated to a free day at the water park from noon to 5 p.m. Thursday, July 4. Proof of military service may be required.
“We honor and deeply appreciate the service and sacrifice of our veterans and active military personnel,” Board President Rich Johnson said. “Their unwavering dedication and bravery protect our freedom, and this is just one way to say ‘thank you.’”

Additionally, Veterans are invited to join in the Wood Street Fitness Aqua Zumba class at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 3, followed by a Healthy Minds Healthy Bodies (HMHB) picnic, offering the camaraderie of other veterans and service members in the HMHB community at the Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad. Veterans may register for the picnic in advance through NEDSRA at NEDSRA.org.

In addition to the summer veterans’ events, White Pines hosts the annual Veterans Day Breakfast at 9 a.m. November 11, in partnership with the Village of Bensenville and Fenton High School. Each year, the breakfast features a keynote speaker as well as recognizes the contributions of the military community. The event also recognizes the winners of Fenton’s “Defending Freedom” essay contest and features performances by Fenton musicians. The event is free for Bensenville veterans and HMHB veterans.

The park district previously held a veteran golf outing June 24, which enabled veterans to golf for free and enjoy a free lunch.

Johnson also announced the installation of veteran parking spaces at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, Fischer Farm, Veterans Park, the water park and White Pines Golf Club. The installation is to take place in July.

For more information about the Bensenville Water Park and Splash Pad information may be found at BvilleParks.org/waterpark.

Heat and humidity can be a deadly combination. Extreme heat can be particularly hazardous for children, seniors, those with special needs and pets. In addition to discomfort and fatigue, high temperatures can cause heat-related illnesses: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. For those looking to stay out of the heat, the Bensenville Park District’s Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street in Bensenville, is among many designated extreme heat cooling sites located throughout DuPage County.

Ready Illinois (ready.illinois.gov) provides the following guidance regarding extreme heat:

      • Know the terms used by the National Weather Service during extreme heat: Heat Wave, Excessive Heat Watch, Heat Advisory, Excessive Heat Warning, and Heat Index.
      • Stay out of the sun. If you must be in the sun, wear sunscreen (at least SPF 15) and a wide-brimmed hat.
      • Stay in the shade or under awnings as much as possible.
      • Avoid overexertion and strenuous outdoor activities.
      • Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible to prevent sunburn.
      • Consume plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Water, diluted juices, and electrolyte solutions are best. Stay away from carbonated drinks.
      • Avoid alcohol.
      • If you are on a fluid-restricted diet or taking diuretics, consult your doctor before exposing yourself to heat.
      • Keep lights in your home low or off, keep shades drawn, and avoid using the oven.
      • Keep rooms well ventilated with air conditioners and fans. Keep your windows open if you don’t have air conditioning or a fan (Note: Fans will not prevent heat-related illness when the temperature is in the high 90s).
      • Cool down with cool, wet towels and periodic cool baths or showers.
      • Take advantage of cooling centers, public pools, and air-conditioned stores and malls during periods of extreme heat.
      • Exposure to air conditioning for even a few hours a day will reduce the risk for heat-related illness.
      • Closely monitor children, the elderly, or those who require special care during periods of intense summer heat.
      • Do not leave children or pets in a closed vehicle, even for a few minutes. On a hot day, temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach 140ºF-190ºF within 30 minutes.
      • Make a special effort to check on your neighbors during a heat wave, especially if they are seniors, families with young children, people with special needs, or living alone.
      • Seniors and others who may be sensitive to extreme heat should contact friends, neighbors, or relatives periodically throughout the day.
      • Seek help if you feel symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

Bensenville, Ill. (June 6, 2024)— The Bensenville Park District announces a new partnership with the American Specialty Health (ASH) Network, a leading health solutions company. This collaboration grants access by ASH’s Active&Fit® and Silver&Fit® members to Wood Street Fitness, located at 1000 W. Wood Street in Bensenville.

With the partnership, Active&Fit® and Silver&Fit® members can now work out at Wood Street Fitness, providing a wide range of fitness opportunities and resources to support their health and fitness goals.

Active&Fit® is a comprehensive fitness program designed to promote an active lifestyle by providing access to a diverse network of fitness centers and studios nationwide. Members can choose from a wide range of facilities, classes and amenities, making it easier to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines.

Silver&Fit® is tailored specifically for older adults, offering a variety of fitness options, including gym memberships, home fitness kits and online classes. The program aims to improve overall health and well-being among seniors by encouraging regular exercise and social engagement.

By joining the ASH Network, Wood Street Fitness expands the audience for its offerings and reinforces its commitment to promoting health and wellness within the community. Members can now enjoy the benefits of both Active&Fit® and Silver&Fit® programs, enhancing their fitness journey and achieving their wellness goals.

“We are thrilled to partner with American Specialty Health and bring Wood Street Fitness programs to ASH fitness members,” says Fitness Supervisor Silvia Acevedo. “This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to provide accessible and inclusive fitness solutions for individuals of all ages and abilities.”

Founded in 1987, ASH provides musculoskeletal provider network management, fitness/exercise programs, health management programs, and consumer health services for health plans as part of their plan sponsor solutions. Since its inception, ASH has launched more than a dozen programs, crafting each of these programs within the organization to meet needs and demands of the marketplace. Today, ASH’s fitness programs serve more than 5 million members.

For more information about Wood Street Fitness, its facilities, offerings and its partnership with American Specialty Health, please visit WoodStFitness.com or contact Acevedo at SAcevedo@BvilleParks.org.