You’ll dig this
A scavenger hunt will send kids out to the demonstration garden behind the Garfield Park Conservatory to find the signs of summer. The garden, the size of a city lot, has black-eyed Susans, cone flowers, rosemary and fennel, which attract butterflies. Kids will discover a composting machine and a worm bin, where they can dig in the dirt to find creatures that benefit the soil. The scavenger hunt is more than just plain fun–it will give families ideas about growing a garden of their own.
Scavenger Hunt: Summer’s Here, 1 p.m. Sat., Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave. Free. 312-742-PLAY.
— Nancy Maes
Kids lead the way
Kids can bring their bikes, decorated for the 4th of July, and their pets to be a part of the 4th of July parade in Highland Park. In fact, kids will lead the procession, whose theme this year is “Honoring Our Heroes From Sea to Shining Sea.” When their ride at the head of the parade comes to an end, youngsters can play relay races, try to win a Hula Hoop contest, ride a pony or a miniature train and enjoy carnival games.
Children’s Bike & Pet Parade, 9:45 a.m. Thursday, municipal parking lot, south of Central Avenue facing St. Johns Ave., Highland Park. 847-432-0284. Fourth Fest, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, Sunset Park, Highland Park. Free admission, activities priced separately. 847-432-2442.
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— Nancy Maes