Pekin Park District

06/17/2026

Evening Swim Lessons have been canceled for Wed., June 17. Make-ups will be on Saturday, 6/27

● The 5:45 pm class will be at 9:00 am
● The 6:20 pm class will be at 9:35 am

06/17/2026

2026 Pekin Farmers Market this Thursday at 3:30 p.m.

🚨🚨RECORD BREAKING MARKET🚨🚨
🛍️46 VENDORS!
🎉Featuring Young Entrepreneurs
📆Thursday June 18th! 3:30-6:30
📍Miller Center Parking Lot

06/17/2026

The following Mineral Springs Facilties will not be open today:

• Boating on the Lagoon: Closed on Wednesdays
• DragonLand Water Park: Closed due to weather and forecast
• Magic Dragon Mini Golf: Closed due to weather and forecast

06/17/2026

Morning Swim Lessons have been canceled for Wed., June 17. Make-ups will be on Fridays, 6/19 & 6/26

Today’s 10:10 am and 10:45 am make-ups will be at 10:10 am and 10:45 am on 6/19

Today’s 9:00 am and 9:35 am make-ups will be at 9:00 am and 9:35 am on 6/26

06/16/2026

Today, the Pekin Park District Police Department had the honor of speaking with area Scouts attending the W. D. Boyce Council Cub Scout Day Camp – Dinotopia 2026.

Our officers shared information about the role of Park Police, the importance of following rules and regulations within our parks and facilities, and how we help keep our community safe. The Scouts had the opportunity to ask questions, learn about police work, and get a hands-on look at the various functions and equipment found in our police vehicles.

It was a wonderful experience engaging with these young leaders and helping them gain a better understanding of public safety and community service. We appreciate the opportunity to be a part of this event and look forward to continuing to build positive relationships with the youth in our community.
Thank you to the W. D. Boyce Council and all of the Scouts and leaders who welcomed us today!

06/16/2026

--June's Employee Spotlight---
Madison F.
Department: Recreation
Job Title: DragonLand Assistant Manager
Hire Date: 5/17/2019

Q: What was your first job?
A: I started at DragonLand as a lifeguard.

Q: When you started out in the workforce, what did you think your job would be at this point in time?
A: I expected to either be a wildlife rehabilitator or in medical school to become a surgeon.

Q: What do you like to do to relax?
A: I like to read or go on walks with my family and dog.

Q: What's a cause or charity that means a lot to you?
A: A cause that means a lot to me is breast cancer awareness.

06/16/2026

Swim Lesson make-ups for 6/16 will be this Friday, 6/19

Today’s 9:00 am and 9:35 am classes that were canceled due to thunder will be made up this Friday at the same times.

06/15/2026

Remembering Tom Elliott 🕊️

To say Tom Elliot left an indelible mark on our parks and our people would be an understatement.

For decades, as the Superintendent of Parks, Tom dedicated his time, knowledge, and heart to the community of Pekin. From coordinating the Marigold Festival to meticulously preparing the Mineral Springs Park diamonds for national tournaments, Tom was the definition of a true public servant. He was the kind of leader who always pitched in to help, firmly believing that taking on extra challenges was worth it if it benefited the community.

Even long after his well-deserved retirement, Tom’s immense knowledge of our parks remained an invaluable asset. Whenever a question arose about past events, historical layouts, or the exact location of underground utilities, the routine and reliable answer was always to "ask Tom." His sharp memory and unmatched expertise kept our parks running smoothly across generations.

We hear the beautiful conversations throughout the Pekin community and fully share the sentiment that we want to honor his incredible legacy with a lasting memorial. The Park Board of Commissioners and staff will determine the best way to remember Tom and communicate our thoughts directly with the family.

Tom, you did a tremendous job, and you will be missed beyond measure. Thank you for making Pekin a better, brighter place for us all.

06/14/2026

Catch Felix and Fingers Dueling Pianos at the PAV in Mineral Springs Park tonight until 9:30pm. You pick the songs!

06/13/2026