Batavia Park District Dish: Summer’s rolling in with style

Though the first, official day of summer is in a few days, with the summer solstice on June 20, as the birds sing me awake, I see my roses and lilies popping in the garden, veggies are sprouting and it’s 80 degrees in the shade many days, I’d say summer is on! Hurrah!

Summer’s rolling in with style at the Batavia Park District. With many of the restrictions of the pandemic in our rear-view mirror, summer will look and feel friendlier this year – downright amazing if you ask me! Put on your sunglasses and get ready for a fantastic lineup of fun and possibilities.

Let’s toast to that! We’re excited to offer an exclusive, delicious new upgrade to our outdoor River Rhapsody Concert Series: Wine from Acquaviva Winery. Yes, you read that right. You are cordially invited to our first-ever downtown wine downs on Batavia’s beautiful Riverwalk! We will be serving Acquaviva’s delectable red and white wines to accompany the food and friends with whom you gather on the lawn for the concerts on Wednesday evenings from 7 to 8:30 p.m. June 16 through Aug. 4 at the Peg Bond Center.

Talk about a perfect pairing! So, whether you crave some rock, rhythmic soul, toe-tapping country or Top 40 tunes, River Rhapsody’s upbeat, diverse musical acts promise a ton of fun and a smooth midweek finish for date nights and family picnics alike.

If you’re still looking for a special Father’s Day activity or another way to de-stress as the summer season heats up, grab your gear and reel in the fun with your family and friends at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 19, at our Fishing Derby on Clark Island, at 401 S. River St.

This annual event welcomes seasoned anglers and those with no mad fishing skills at all. A limited quantity of fishing supplies will be available, and we’ll be giving away prizes and catching proud moments ashore.

Later this month, celebrate Hall Quarry Beach’s centennial birthday with us from 1 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 27. It’ll be a beach bash to honor our favorite limestone swimming hole in all its summer splendor! Take a selfie with Chuck the Duck and enjoy food, throwback games and cool giveaways.

Remember the Quarry is open daily for swimming and sunning. Sand volleyball leagues also start soon. Quarry season passes (at pre-season rates) are available all summer! Get yours at the Civic Center, at 327 W. Wilson St., or choose daily admission at $10 for residents, $13 for non-residents.

Hop on an open-air trolley tour for another taste of Batavia’s charming past. The Depot Museum offers adventurers of all ages a chance to sit, relax and enjoy guided tours of Batavia’s rich history. These fabulous tours board at The Depot Museum, at 155 Houston St., and last 45 to 60 minutes, depending upon traffic. Trolley tour dates are scheduled next on July 2 and July 11. Space is limited, so sign up today.

Treat yourself to these events around town along with Batavia’s popular bicycle trails, and kayak and paddleboat rentals off Depot Pond. Be sure to save the weekend of Aug. 27-29 for Windmill City Festival, just around the corner! New this year, the festival will feature performances by live bands on two stages – the Riverwalk Stage and The Comedy Vault Stage – along with our craft and vintage market, food trucks, beer garden and some of Batavia’s favorite, traditional activities.

For more information about Batavia Park District’s programs and events, please call 630-879-5235 or visit bataviaparks.org.