A new nonprofit focused on expanding local recreation opportunities is launching this month with an 1980s-themed community celebration designed to bring families together through music, dancing and nostalgia.
The Palos Park Recreation Foundation will officially debut May 29 with a “Footloose 80’s Prom” at the Palos Park Recreation Center, 8901 123rd St. The event runs from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., with doors opening at 7:15 p.m.
Founded in February 2026, the foundation was created to increase recreational offerings in and around Palos Park. Organizers said they chose a public dance event rather than a traditional fundraising gala to better reflect their mission of accessibility and community engagement.
The launch event will feature an 80s prom theme inspired by the film “Footloose,” complete with music and dancing for adults upstairs, while children will have separate supervised activities downstairs.
“In a world that often feels restrictive, we wanted to create something that brings people together through joy, movement and community,” organizers said in a statement. “This is more than a launch — it’s a celebration of connection, where everyone has a place on the dance floor.”
Tickets are $25 per adult, and children are admitted free. Organizers say the family-friendly structure is intended to encourage participation across generations.
The event is open to the public and will serve as the foundation’s official introduction to the community, highlighting its goal of growing recreational programming and opportunities throughout the area.
More information and registration are available through Eventbrite: Eventbrite event listing.