The 2022 Fairy House Village at Big Marsh Park!
The Chicago Park District and partners are inviting scout groups/troops to be part of a unique and magical journey for families and other visitors at Big Marsh Park this summer!
Throughout history and across different cultures, there are many interpretations of what fairies are, what they look like and even what they’re called. Nonetheless, these mythical creatures always have one thing in common — their love for nature. Some even consider themselves to be the guardians of the natural world.
The 2022 Big Marsh Fairy House Village is an opportunity for scout groups/troops to imagine, design and build their own version of a Fairy House and have it displayed at Big Marsh Park. The 2022 program at Big Marsh will highlight and encourage connections to nature through study, exploration, play, and stewardship.
Space is limited. Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis. (Deadline to register extended to April 30, 2022)
To learn more about the project and how to register click the FAQ’s link below.
2022 FAIRY HOUSE PROJECT FAQ’s
Click the links below for additional content that’ll help inspire your fairy house builds:
conservation workday
Scouts learn about the techniques and tools used in ecological restoration, and the ill effects of invasive species on our local ecosystems. Participants will get hands-on experience in cutting and removing non-native species of plants, collecting and cleaning seeds or planting beneficial plants. Afterwards, we’ll sit back with s’mores around a cheerful campfire.
bird survey
MARCH-JUNE & AUGUST-NOVEMBER
Scouts will learn how to properly observe, identify and record bird data. They’ll hike the marsh’s nature trails and use binoculars to spot the various bird species that find refuge on the marsh during their spring and fall migrations.
calling frog survey
APRIL-MAY
Scouts will learn about all things frog, including how to distinguish their different calls. At dusk, they’ll hike out to the marsh and put their new skills to the test by conducting their own frog calling survey.
eco-rec climbing experience
MAY – OCTOBER
Scouts will test their strength by climbing the historic 30-foot ore walls at Steelworkers Park, under the supervision of an experienced instructor. They’ll learn about the region’s culture and history of steel making.
eco-rec bike clinic
MAY – OCTOBER
Scouts will enjoy a day of fast-paced adventure using Big Marsh Park’s fleet of BMX bikes. Participants will learn proper riding techniques, the ABC’s of bike maintenance, and enjoy riding on the park’s state-of-the-art bike trails.
ready to participate?
Programs range from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours in duration, with a minimum of 10 and maximum of 20 scouts per experience. There must be 2 chaperones per 20 scouts.
The cost of an experience is $10 per scout. Chaperones are free.
Groups or parents must create or sign into an existing account at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com in order to pay for participation in the Scout Experience.
Questions? Email us at Scouts@chicagoparkdistrict.com.