August News 23

Our afterschool programs registration is now OPEN for 2023-2024!

NOTE: CUSR’s afterschool program’s registration opens August 1st

AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAMS >> 

Ages 7+, Adult & Child must both register

Bring out your creativity at the Martens Center, with the artists from Unveiled Creations for Grown Up and Me Paint. They will guide you to create beautiful canvas creations to take home. Each parent and child participant will create a canvas that will combine to make a larger picture.

• August 6 | “By the Light of the Moon” paintings | Fee (R/NR): $60/$90 | Deadline: July 28

Day: Sunday
Time: 1-3p
Location: Martens Center
Instructor: Kim Burcham and Keri Tavenner
Questions: lynne.franco@champaignparks.org or 217-819-3971

GROWN UP AND ME PAINT REGISTRATION >> 

Ages 5+

Join members of the Champaign-Urbana Astronomical Society, Inc. on select Saturdays for an evening under the stars. See the stars and planets through the largest public telescope in East Central Illinois. All skywatch sessions are cancelled in the event of cloudy weather (visit cuas.org.). No registration required.

Date: August 19
Time: 8:30-10:30p
Location: CUAS Observatory, 926 County Road 700E, Champaign
Questions: sean.hurst@champaignparks.com or 217-819-3901

CUAS Directions >> 

Story Trail starts near the splash pad/playground and is .18 mile long. This is a permanent Story Trail and will have changing books throughout the year! The current book at Hessel Park is “We’re Better Together: A Book About Community”.

Date: July 3 – August 21
Location: Hessel Park

Ages 6-10

Kids will learn hand-building techniques and create weekly ceramics projects in Pottery for Kids. They will finish their pottery with colorful underglazes.

Dates:

• September 5 – October 10 | Tu | Deadline: August 29
• September 7 – October 12 | Th | Deadline: August 31

Time: 4-5p
Fee (R/NR): $96/$144
Location: Springer Cultural Center

POTTERY FOR KIDS REGISTRATION >> 

K-8th Graders (in Fall 2023)

Led by former Illini and Professional basketball player, Trent Meacham:

• Centennial High School All-Area Player
• University of Illinois Men’s Basketball Athlete
• 9 Years of Professional Playing Experience in Europe
• Currently a College Basketball Analyst with the Big Ten Network
• Shares his knowledge of the game through his basketball camps

Players will learn basketball fundamentals and character-building skills. Free t-shirt to each camper.

Time: 

• K-1st: 8-9a
• 2nd-5th: 9:15-10:30a
• 6th-8th: 10:45a-12p

Location: Leonhard Recreation Center
Date: Tuesday, August 8-Friday, August 11, 2023
Fee (R/NR): $70/$105
Register By: August 1, 2023
Min/Max: 5/250
Questions: david.galvin@champaignparks.org or 217-819-3986

TRENT MEACHAM CAMP REGISTRATION >>

Ages 3-6

Join us for our new Pickleball Leagues! Leagues are offered for all levels of play. These recreational leagues are structured to be competitive, yet recreational. Players have the ability to move up in skill level each season. Players in doubles/mixed leagues must register as a team. All matches are self-officiated. At the time of registration, application and all fees are due. No registrations will be accepted without full payment.

LEAGUE | SKILL LEVEL | DATE | TIME

Mixed

• Beginners | < 3.0 | August 15 – mid Sept | Tu | 5:30-7p
• Intermediate | 3.0 – 3.5 | August 15 – mid Sept | Tu | 5:30-7p
• Advanced | 3.5+ | August 15 – mid Sept | Tu | 5:30-7p

Doubles

• Men’s Intermediate | 3.0 – 3.5 | August 17 – mid Sept | Th | 5:30-7p
• Men’s Advanced | 3.5+ | August 17 – mid Sept | Th | 5:30-7p
• Women’s Intermediate/Advanced | All | August 17 – mid Sept | Th | 5:30-7p

Singles

• Men’s Intermediate | 3.0-3.5 | August 20 – mid Sept | Su | 5-7p
• Men’s Advanced | 3.5+ | August 20 – mid Sept | Su | 5-7p
• Women’s Intermediate/Advanced | All | August 20 – mid Sept | Su | 5-7p

Season Length: 6 weeks (weather permitting)
Location: Outdoor Pickleball Complex, 2203 W. John St., Centennial Park
Fee (R/NR): Doubles – $81/$121.50; Singles – $49/$73.50
Equipment Required: Pickleball Paddle
Deadline: August 7

PICKLEBALL LEAGUE REGISTRATION >>

Ages 3-8

Illinois FC and the Champaign Park District offer Micro Soccer. Players should bring a soccer ball (preferably size 3), water bottle, and shin guards to each session. Soccer cleats are optional. All players receive a free t-shirt. For more details on Illinois FC Micro Soccer, visit www.illinoisfc.com.

The First Kicks classes introduce players to soccer in a fun-filled learning environment. Games and activities promote soccer skills and overall athletic development.

The Pre-K Micro classes introduce players to dribbling, passing, shooting, and coordination and body movement activities in a fun-filled environment. Games and practice activities promote soccer skills and overall athletic development.

The Kindergarten Micro classes prepare kids for the Youth Soccer League. Focus is on helping each player reach their potential in a fun-filled and challenging environment. Dribbling, passing, shooting, ball control, decision-making, and creativity are emphasized. Team play is fostered through group exercises and small-sided matches.

The Soccer Academy class is for those players looking for a more challenging playing environment. This class will help bridge the gap between the recreational and competitive player by focusing on technique training and strengthening fundamentals.

Program has been moved from 8 weeks to 6 weeks to accommodate for potential weather-related cancellations. NO REFUNDS WILL BE ISSUED DUE TO WEATHER CANCELLATIONS. Reschedules will be made if possible.

No Class*: 9/1, 9/2, 9/4
Location: Dodds Soccer, Field 12
Deadline: August 21
Late Registration: If there are openings, a $10 late fee will be added
Instructors: Licensed Illinois FC Coaches
Questions: brittany.delmar@champaignparks.org or 217-819-3981

IFC MICRO SOCCER REGISTRATION >>

Ages 15+

Can you bump, set, and spike or are you just learning? Champaign Park District offers women’s and co-ed leagues that are sure to fit your skill level.

At the time of registration, an application and all fees are due. No registrations will be accepted without full payment. Completed rosters with names, addresses, phone numbers, and signatures are due the first day of games.

No Games*: 9/3, 9/6, 9/7, 9/10, 9/12
Location: Leonhard Recreation Center
Team Fee: $245
Season Length: 10 games and a tournament
Manager’s Meeting: August 15 at 6p, Leonhard Recreation Center
Deadline: August 21
Late Registration: If there are openings, a $25 late fee will be added

FREE AGENT LIST

Want to play a team sport, but don’t have a team or want to sub on another night? Register for our Free Agent list! No fees due at the time of registration & teams will be made if enough players are interested in the same league night. Free Agent Information is shared with registered captains at the beginning of the season to pull subs on their teams if needed!

ADULT VOLLEYBALL REGISTRATION >>

Ages 13+

En Garde! Add a new twist to your fall schedule by signing up for a six-week introduction to fencing! Participants will learn through footwork, drills, small group instruction, and open fencing with varied adult ages. Fencers should come dressed to work hard in loose clothing (no denim jeans) and tennis shoes. All fencing equipment is provided.

*Additional $10 fee for U.S. Fencing Association Non-Competitive Membership per participant. Register online separately at www.usafencing.org/page/show/698114-individual-memberships

Date: September 8 – October 13
Day: Friday
Time: 7-8p
Fee (R/NR): $90/$135
Deadline: August 26
Location: The Point Fencing Club and School, 401 N. Vine St, Urbana
Instructor: Point Fencing Club Cavalier Staff
Questions: justice.miller@champaignparks.org or 217-819-3984

ADULT FENCING REGISTRATION >>

ALL GROUP FITNESS CLASSES >>

ALL SPORTS PROGRAMS >>

Join our 50 Plus! program to socialize, adventure, and learn!  Individuals aged 50+ living in Champaign-Urbana join for an annual fee of $30. Those outside of Champaign-Urbana pay $40. Non-members are always welcome to participate at the non-member (NM) fee, varies per program.

BENEFITS

• Discounted rates on many programs at both Hays Recreation Center and Douglass Annex.
• Members get advanced early registration for the yearly senior trip.
• Free admission to several annual events plus these programs: Games, Fitness, Brown Bag Lunch Discussions, Socials, Picnics, and more.

FREEBIES FOR ALL

• Fresh coffee weekday mornings.
• Table area to play cards/gather (based on availability).

BECOME A MEMBER

It’s easy to become a member! Register at any Champaign Park District facility, and you’ll be entered into our system to automatically receive member discounts on programming. Membership is nontransferable.

• M = Member
• NM = Non-member

It’s the peak of summer, so what better time to indulge in a cold, creamy treat? We will supply delicious ice cream for you to enjoy. This is the best way to stay cool this summer at Douglass Annex!

Date: July 28, August 18
Time: 1-3p
Location: Douglass Annex
Deadline: 1 week prior to program date
Fee (M/NM): Free/$4

Sign up at Douglass Annex

It’s time for summer fun on the run! Van space is limited, so hurry and register for these members-only trips!

• August 14 | Illinois State Fair
  • Music, games, and fair food! Join us for a trip to the Illinois State Fair in Springfield, with free entry for our seniors! Bring your I.D., plus money for any fair food and or rides. This trip departs from Douglass Annex.
    • Deadline: August 7
    • Time: 9a-4p
    • Fee (Members Only): $10
• August 16 | Springfield, Illinois
  • Take a trip to Springfield, where we will tour all things Lincoln. Visit his home and explore Lincoln’s neighborhood along with a stop at the Lincoln Library. Bring money for meals and shopping. This trip departs from Hays Center.
    • Deadline: August 9
    • Time: 9a-4p
    • Fee (Members Only): $10

Senior Road Trips Registration >>

Senior Road Trips Fall Registration >>

Refresh yourself on driving safety at this FREE drop-in class. There is NO driving test given at this class and it will NOT affect your insurance rate.

Date: Friday, August 11
Time: 10-12p
Fee (M/NM): FREE
Location: Hays Recreation Center
Questions: call Jean at 217-239-1152 or email at veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org

Bring your own (BYO) lunch and join us for a roundtable discussion – we will provide the dessert! We will have special guest speakers or discuss current events. Come and discuss new ideas and express your own!

Fee (M/NM): Bring your own lunch
Deadline: 1 week prior to program date

We cover it all, from your favorite classics to new premier movies at our Movie Mondays. Come view a different movie every Monday and we will provide the popcorn and beverages.

Date: August 21
Day: Monday
Time: 12p
Fee (M/NM): Free/$4 per session
Location: Douglass Annex
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org

Come have an awesome time being appreciated at our Member Appreciation Picnic at Hessel Park! Bring your appetite and luck — there will be BBQ, games, and activities.

Date: Friday, August 25
Time: 12-3p
Location: Hessel Park Pavilion
Fee: Free with membership

On the road again! We’ll keep you guessing with our trips to who-knows-where on our Mystery Road Trip. Come with an open mind and enjoy a relaxing day trip to a mystery location. Trip and fee with be revealed at Douglass Monthly Senior Meeting. Members only.

Date: August 29
Day: W
Time: 1-3p
Location: Departs from Douglass Annex
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org

For more information, visit our 50 Plus! Page >>

Fall registration is open! Click below for more information on Afterschool, School’s Out Days, Group Fitness, Busy Bee Preschool, STEAM, and more.

FALL PROGRAM GUIDE >>

Enjoy family fun and sensory friendly swimming at Sholem Aquatic Center! Sholem has various special sensory considerations and a water wheelchair. Please bring extra money for concessions.

GOALS: Learn new skills, increase peer interaction, socialization, motor functioning and development.

Date: July 28
Location: Sholem Aquatic Center
Fee (R/NR): $6/$9 Sholem Entry Fee – pay at door

SENSORY FRIENDLY SWIMMING >>

Grab some popcorn and a blanket and join us under the stars for a Thursday night flick every month during the summer with different and on-site food trucks to enjoy! Movies begin at dusk.

• August 3 | Movie: Back to the Future
  • Location: Toalson Park
• August 10 | Movie: Planes: Fire & Rescue
  • Location: Fire Station 5, 1810 N Mattis Ave

Thursday Night Flix >>

This summer, gather your friends, family, and neighbors for our Hessel Park Concerts. Audience members are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and refreshments.

Band: Meadowhawk
Date: August 5 
Time: 6-8p
Location: Hessel Park 

Hessel Park Concerts >>

Celebrate the “Chambana” community with us at Champaign-Urbana Days! Take in the live entertainment, tasty food, children’s activities, senior luncheon, and more all in Douglass Park. Use #CUDays when sharing online! 

• Friday, August 11, 2023 – 5-8p
• Saturday, August 12, 2023 – 11a-8p

Location: Douglass Park
Questions: katherine.hicks@champaignparks.org or 217-398-2573

Champaign-Urbana Days >>

Attention Sholem swim lessons participants! Come out and enjoy all that Sholem Aquatic Center has to offer and show off you new swimming skills. This graduation party is for Swim Lesson participants and one guest per household. Best part… it’s FREE! Let us show you how much we appreciate you as a Sholem swim lesson participant.

Date: August 11
Time: 8:00 am – 10:45 am
Location: Sholem Aquatic Center

Swim Lessons Graduation Party >>

This summer, gather your friends, family, and neighbors for our Jazz in the Park Summer Concerts. Audience members are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and refreshments.

Date: August 24
Time: 6-8p
Location: Morrissey Park
Band: Jeff Helgesen

Jazz in the Park Event >>

Catch a movie or a performance at the historic Virginia Theatre! Make sure to follow the Virginia Theatre’s Facebook and Instagram to know when a new show has been added, when a movie is showing or to enter a ticket giveaway!

AUGUST EVENTS:

• August 3 – 6: A CUTC & J. Barry Howell production of MEREDITH WILLSON’S “THE MUSIC MAN”
• August 10: Final Summer (2022)
• August 11: The Duke (2022)
• August 12: Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)
• August 19: Asleep at the Wheel

Click below to explore events and purchase tickets!

The Virginia Theatre >>

Because some residents are unable to participate in recreation programs due to economic hardship, the Champaign Park District offers scholarships to reduce certain fees and charges. We now offer both scholarship and registration forms in Spanish! Fill out the form and submit the completed packet in one of the three ways listed on the form.

Questions: Please call 217-398-2550

Scholarship Opportunities >>