Kids chased golden rings. Parents snapped photos of foam-headed villains. And Oak Lawn Park District staff transformed a quiet corner of Centennial Park into a video game-inspired world built for play.
Summer’s Last Blast returned Friday, drawing families from across the village for a night of themed games, music, giveaways, and a movie under the stars. Now in its fourth year, the free event was built around the film Sonic 3 and invited guests to explore character-themed “zones” created by each park facility.
“It’s such a fun way to celebrate the beginning of the school year,” Selina DeAnda-Shah, 8, of Oak Lawn, said.
Justin Waters, marketing manager for the Oak Lawn Park District, echoed her sentiments.
“This was a free, family-friendly event that centered around a theme of Sonic 3,” Waters said. “Each facility within the park district had a specific character from the movie and was tasked with creating their zone based off of that character. They had decorations, games, and giveaways. Attendees completed each zone and then voted which was the best.”
The Oak View Center and Museum channeled Sonic the Hedgehog.
The Ice Arena and Aquatics Center took on Shadow’s persona. Community Pavilion hosted Tails. The Racquet, Fitness and Gymnastics Center leaned into the villainy of Dr. Robotnik. Knuckles came to life through the Stony Creek Golf Course, while the Administration office adopted the Donut Lord.
“The best part of this event is showcasing the creativity of our staff,” Waters said. “They’ve spent a lot of time brainstorming and creating their game zones, decorating their facilities, and we’re very excited for people to see what they’ve come up with.”
Families made their way from one character zone to the next, collecting experiences and casting votes in the “Best of the Blast” competition.
Around the park, local businesses and organizations were set up as vendors, offering everything from crafts and food to real estate and healthcare information. Among those participating were Smilyn’ Clydes Hot Dogs, Arwa Aljbour Real Estate, the Oak Lawn Park District Preschool, Girl Scouts, Bobalicous, the Oak Lawn Children’s Museum, Lasered Artistry, the Dunkin’ Donuts Sampling Truck, OSF Healthcare, and Themed Centerpieces & Party Favors.
Concessions were available throughout the night, and after the final games wrapped, the evening ended with an outdoor screening of Sonic 3.
The event has grown year after year. In 2022, the theme was Ghostbusters. In 2023, Minions. Last summer, the district drew inspiration from the film Migration. But for many, this year’s Sonic-themed edition delivered the perfect blend of speed, nostalgia and fun.
“The end of summer is always a little bittersweet,” said Tom Hartwig, the district’s executive director. “But this event lets us celebrate what we’re all about: being outside, connecting, and creating memories.”
Waters agreed, saying the event is a way for families to enjoy a final moment of summer before routines return.
“They can have a blast with their family and friends,” he said. “It’s free for the community, so we hope they take advantage of it. We’re excited for people to see what our staff has come up with.”
