Forest Preserve District of Cook County is Seeking Tree Huggers

Submission by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County

The 100 Years / 100 Events week will end on September 27 with a Celebration Finale from 3 to 6 p.m. at Caldwell Woods featuring performers, art and activities for all ages. Caldwell Woods is located at 6350 W Devon Ave. in Chicago.

In what might be the most unusual and fun aspect of the Celebration Finale, the Forest Preserves of Cook County is inviting everyone to be a part of the Largest Tree Hug in Cook County. Between musical performances and nature play, participants will join together to all hug a tree at the same time in an attempt to set the record.

“This is a celebration of trees and all the nature Cook County has to offer,” said Forest Preserves special event coordinator Molly Fitzgibbon. “There will be something for everyone there, and activities for all ages.”

Featured performers include Cajun Vagabonds and the Bullfrog Community Choir. The Niles Public Library will host a poetry writing and reading session, as well as an open mic for those who would like to publicly share their odes to nature. Kids of all ages can engage in a variety of art making activities and nature play and exploration.

The 100 Years / 100 Events Celebration Finale is open to all. Nature Express shuttle buses will take participants to the event from Thatcher Woods, Crabtree Nature Center, Camp Bullfrog Lake, Lake Avenue East and Eggers Woods. The buses are free, but registration is required.

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