On Saturday, July 12, families and neighbors gathered at Homerding Park to swap screens for sunshine as the Worth Park District celebrated Unplug Illinois Day with its annual Unplug & Play Day event.
The newly renovated park at 116th Street and Oak Park Avenue was buzzing with laughter, creativity, and the joy of being outdoors, as residents took part in a statewide initiative encouraging communities to disconnect from devices and reconnect with nature, movement, and one another.
“It’s important for today’s kids, young and old, to unplug and play,” said Paula Marr, sponsorship and marketing coordinator for the Worth Park District.
“The Worth Park District is dedicated to uniting our community through the enjoyment of our parks and keeping beautiful open spaces as a place to learn, play, and grow. Unplugging has been shown to help improve quality of life, help you feel more recharged every day, and improve your interpersonal communication. These kids need to move their bodies and connect with others through play and creativity. We’re creating a space to inspire kids and families to create fun outside at our wonderful parks.”
Throughout the day, children and families joined in classic lawn games, explored the new playground, and decorated the fresh half-mile walking path with bright and colorful chalk designs.
There were also plenty of moments for adventure as kids tested out the new playground stations, and time for connection as people relaxed beneath the new pavilion and shade trees to catch up with neighbors and friends.
One of the highlights for many was visiting with Pawfficer Louie, the Worth Police Department’s beloved therapy K-9, who made his rounds to greet attendees of all ages.
Creativity flowed throughout the park as children got temporary tattoos provided by the Worth Public Library, colored pictures, drew with chalk, and built their own kites. The kite-making station was especially popular, and many families later took their creations to Altman Park, the district’s newly acquired 30-acre open space, where kids proudly flew their colorful kites. The activity also served as a fun way to recreate the cheerful cover image featured on the district’s summer program guide.
“This event was all about helping kids and families move, connect, and create memories outside,” Marr said. “We wanted to offer a fun space for people to experience all the benefits that come with stepping away from technology and plugging into their community.”
Unplug Illinois Day, spearheaded by the Illinois Park and Recreation Association, is celebrated across the state as a way to promote wellness, sustainability, and stronger communities by highlighting the powerful role parks and recreation agencies play in everyday life.