Celebrating Nature Together at Kids' Fest

Friends of the Chicago River had a fantastic day supporting our partners at the Forest Preserves of Cook County during Kids’ Fest 2026 at Wampum Lake on July 11. The free, family-friendly festival welcomed visitors of all ages for a day of outdoor adventure, hands-on learning, and fun in nature.

One of the highlights for many attendees was the opportunity to paddle Wampum Lake in canoes with Friends of the Chicago River. Families explored the water together while learning more about importance of protecting and restoring the Chicago-Calumet River system.

Thanks to an enthusiastic and experienced team of volunteer canoe guides, Friends’ canoe program excels at supporting beginner paddlers to feel comfortable and safe getting on the water. Our current paddling partnership with the Forest Preserves of Cook County is helping both our organizations focus canoe trips in the Calumet area for local residents, where there is limited access to canoe or kayak rentals. Check our events page for more opportunities through October.