Programming and activities have returned at Chicago's McKinley Park and other Chicago Park District locations as COVID-19 pandemic conditions improve, allowing for volleyball, table tennis, kids programs and a new slate of activities for veterans and service members.
Back since Monday, January 25, the resumed programs pick up after they were suspended in accordance with the state’s Tier 3 Resurgence Mitigation plan to suppress the spread of COVID-19. The original schedule called for starting the winter season on January 4.
“The Chicago Park District is committed to protecting our patrons and workforce by following the guidelines put in place by the state’s public health officials,” said General Superintendent and CEO Michael Kelly. “While limited, winter programs will allow residents to enjoy in-person opportunities in a safe, socially distanced setting.”
From Kids to Veterans
Under the current guidelines, McKinley Park can offer limited, socially distanced programming. The field house will also remain open to the public for washrooms and shelter during regular hours of operation.
The list of programs for McKinley Park include both walk-in sessions and scheduled seasonal classes. Veterans programming includes archery, badminton and table tennis, with adaptive equipment available.
Park Kids; Moms, Pops & Tots; and Play School present engagement programs weekdays for toddlers through tweens. Open volleyball (5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays) and table tennis (1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays) join the ongoing action on the McKinley Park ice rink with its schedule of ice skating and hockey sessions.
Ideal Snowman Conditions
The park remains open for walking and running, although masks are mandatory throughout, and social distancing must be observed at all times. Large gatherings and close-contact activities remain strictly prohibited.
Still on the docket is the McKinley Park snowman contest, which runs through February 20, 2021, and offers a park district fun pack for the most creative snow-person built in McKinley Park. Use organic materials and post your work to the Instagram service with a #Mckinleysnowman tag for a shot at the prize.
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