Kinder Family Picnic

Travel back in time with the Des Plaines History Center and join the Kinder family for a picnic on July 19 from noon to 3 pm. Bring your family for an interactive afternoon of activities, games, and history on the lawn of the Kinder House.

The yard will be set up with traditional picnic games like croquet and cornhole. Amble over to the picnic area to rest with your family under our big oak tree. Treats will be provided, but feel free to bring a picnic lunch to eat on our lawn. . Come learn how early Des Plaines families would have made their ice cream and butter, and if you’re hungry, you can make some yourself.  The Kinder House will be open to tour, but be sure to stop by the front porch first, where you can pose in historic costumes for an old-time family portrait! 

“Kids and adults alike will enjoy stepping into a 19th-century picnic,” said Curator Olivia Cimino.

This summertime family fest celebrates Des Plaines' history and ecology in conjunction with the Flora, Fauna, and Us exhibit. The Izaak Walton League will present as historical fur trappers to interpret the practices of this once bustling trade. The River Trails Nature Center will have specimen to interact with while learning about local nature and ecology. Children’s author Kathy Lentz is hosting arts and crafts projects inspired by the themes of her animal books.

Families can register for the picnic online at desplaineshistory.org/programs/calendar/kinder-picnic. Suggested donation of $10 per family. Email [email protected] with any questions. Explore the history and ecology of Des Plaines this summer!