Will County Gazette

The Village of Park Forest has introduced a social media campaign to promote its local parks and encourage residents to enjoy outdoor spaces during the fall season. The initiative features images and stories from several parks, including Somonauk Nature Adventure Park, Central Park, Logan Park, Rail Fan Park, Thorn Creek Nature Center, Old Plank Road Trail, Veterans Park, as well as smaller neighborhood parks.

Strategic Communications and Engagement Manager James Guirguis said, “This campaign is about reconnecting residents with the spaces that make Park Forest unique. We want people to see these parks not just as places to pass through, but as places to gather, unwind, and enjoy throughout the season change.”

Guirguis also emphasized the appeal of autumn in highlighting local amenities. “As the leaves start to change and the weather cools, it’s the best opportunity for families and individuals to get outside and experience everything the Village's parks have to offer,” he said.

The campaign will be visible on the Village’s official Facebook page with new park features released weekly until November 10. According to Guirguis: “Community engagement doesn’t just happen at meetings—it happens in Village parks, on Village trails, and in those shared outdoor moments. We hope this campaign inspires residents to rediscover the joy of being outdoors in Park Forest.”

Residents interested in reserving park pavilions for private events next summer can take part in an annual Parks Pavilion Permit Lottery scheduled for February. Details about this event will be announced soon.

The Village is inviting community members to share their own fall photographs taken in local parks by posting them on Facebook with the hashtag #ParkForestFall. Three selected winners will each receive a $25 gift card and have their photo published by the Village.

For additional information about local parks or participating in ongoing activities or contests related to this campaign, residents can visit the Village Parks website.