Not a tropical breeze or a swaying palm tree in sight, but area families were undeterred, enjoying one last hurrah of summer despite Monday’s unseasonably cool temperatures.
The first ever Luau at the Pool was held at the Centennial Family Aquatic Center at 2300 Glenview Road as an end of summer gift to season pass holders.
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The event was meant to be a simultaneous celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Village of Wilmette, and the 50th anniversary of the Centennial Recreation Complex.
“We decided it would be a good idea to close our swimming season with an extra touch of celebration around a Hawaiian theme,” Jason Stanislaw, Centennial Recreation Complex Manager said.
According to Stanislaw, the event was meant to be a thank you to the community — just a special family pool day with fun diversions and free giveaways.
“We’ve worked so hard this summer to get things back to normal, after two years of the COVID-19 pandemic.” Stanislaw said. “All summer long, we have gotten back to offering all pool amenities, and our mantra has essentially been, we are back in full force, just like you remember it in 2019.”
A luau made for a good drop-in event, one we could hold regardless of the weather, Stanislaw said.
Giveaways included Centennial Recreation Complex 50th anniversary Tiki mugs, floating key chains, leis and photo-opportunity backdrop.
Alfred Mulle of Skokie and his family attended Monday’s Luau.
“We had to come, no matter how cool the weather, our family wouldn’t miss out on this last chance for the kids to swim and take part in this Labor Day celebration,” Mulle said.
Stanislaw says it has been exciting this summer to see pool patrons so energized and positive about their reconnection to the pool.
Henrietta Berning of Evanston, says she swims every day at Centennial and that she’s only missed one day all summer.
“Swimming is my life, how could I notice that it was cold outside when the water temperature is so beautiful,” Berning said. “Of course I came to the Luau, I’m here every day, wouldn’t miss it.”
Gina Grillo is a freelance reporter with Pioneer Press.