Round Lake Parks to Celebrate Anniversary with Circus Party

Thu August 8, 2024

This year marks a significant milestone for the Round Lake Area Park District as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. To commemorate this special occasion, the Park District is hosting a free Circus Celebration from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, August 17, at Sports Center Park, 2004 Municipal Way, Round Lake Beach.

Established in 1974, the Park District serves the villages of Round Lake, Round Lake Beach, Round Lake Heights, Round Lake Park, and Hainesville. One of the first programs offered by the District in its inaugural year was a mini-circus, setting the stage for a tradition of fun and community engagement that continues to this day.

A Fun-Filled Celebration

The 50th anniversary celebration will feature a variety of circus-themed activities paying homage to the District’s early days. Children can enjoy rides on a trackless train, while attendees of all ages can play old-fashioned carnival games and indulge in classic treats like popcorn and cotton candy. Be sure to look out for the Stilt Walker and the creative Balloon Artist. As a special memento, the Park District will be giving away free tie-dyed T-shirts (while supplies last).

Circus Kazoo from Grayslake will give interactive performances, including juggling, acrobatics, and circus bike riding, ensuring entertainment for the whole family.

No registration is needed for this free event, which is sponsored by Raymond Chevrolet of Antioch. All ages are welcome, though children must be accompanied by an adult.

The Circus Celebration will take place rain or shine. In case of inclement weather, the celebration will be moved indoors to the Sports Center.

A Legacy of Growth and Community

“We are so excited for the community to come out and celebrate our 50th anniversary with us,” said Park District Executive Director Katie Gamroth.

Since its inception in the 1970s, the Round Lake Area Park District has grown significantly. Today, the District owns over 700 acres of land dedicated to the enjoyment of residents and the preservation of open spaces. It maintains more than 50 park/playground sites and operates various facilities, including an 18-hole golf course, a Children’s interactive Museum, a Nature Museum, a Disc Golf Course, an outdoor Aquatic Facility, a Sports Center, and a Community Center.

The Park District recently embarked on one of its most exciting projects: Hero Park, its first all-inclusive playground. Designed to remove physical and social barriers, Hero Park will enable all children, with and without disabilities and critical illnesses, to play side-by-side with their peers and families. Upon completion, Hero Park will be one of the largest inclusive playgrounds in Lake County.

Join Us in Celebrating 50 Years of Fun and Community

The Round Lake Area Park District invites everyone to join in the festivities and celebrate half a century of community, recreation, and growth. For more information about the event or the Park District, please visit the Round Lake Area Park District website at rlapd.org.