Location: Marian R. Byrnes Natural Area, 2200 E 103rd St, Chicago, IL 60617
Date: Saturday, 06/13/26
Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Join us for the formal rededication and ribbon cutting at Marian R. Byrnes Park celebrating both remarkable landscape and the legacy of Marian R. Byrnes!
A teacher, community organizer, and lifelong environmental advocate, Marian Byrnes was a leader who helped protect this cherished green space from industrial development and preserve it for future generations. Once known as Van Vlissingen Prairie and shaped by both industrial use and natural regeneration, the site has long been valued as open space on Chicago’s Southeast Side. It was transferred to the Chicago Park District in 2011 and officially established and named as a park in 2018 in her honor. Today, thanks to two Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD grants—including a major 2022 investment—this 140-acre natural area features new amenities such as scenic overlooks, boardwalks, multi-use trails, a shade pavilion, improved access points, and expanded parking, ensuring Byrnes’ vision of accessible, community-centered green space continues to thrive.
Following remarks, guests are invited to tour the park and its new amenities via complementary Divvy bikes led be a CPkD naturalist.
No RSVP required. This is a public, all ages program and open to all.
10 am - Ribbon cutting and opening ceremony
10:30 am - Naturalist led bike ride
11am - ChangoSnakeDog Puppet Show (Bradley Park)
12:45pm - Happiness Club hip-hop performance (Trumbull Park)
2pm - Summer fun activities (Marian Byrnes)
Note: the ribbon cutting event kicks off a full day of fun, connection, and celebration at the “Kick Off a Summer of Fun” event on Saturday, June 13 from 10:00am–4:00pm. Taking place across three South Deering parks—Marian R. Byrnes Park, Bradley Park, and Trumbull Park—this free, all-ages event invites neighbors to come out and enjoy a mix of live performances, outdoor activities, games, and community gatherings. Whether you stop by for one activity or spend the whole day with us, it’s a great way to welcome summer, explore your local parks, and connect with the community.
Accessibility:
Event will take place on paved and level trails and boardwalks. Any recent rain may create muddy conditions. Restrooms are unavailable.
Weather/Attire/Other:
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Please bring bottled water. Dress for the weather. Based on the forecast, you may want to bring hats and sunscreen, long pants and bug spray, and a light jacket. Ticks can be expected here.
Free parking in the parking lot is available. Public transit to site is available via Jeffery Blvd. bus, route 15.