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Your one-stop guide to daily and featured programming, special events, and workshops at Wonder Works.
If you are interested in performing or sharing a special talent with Wonder Works visitors, please email us at info@wonder-works.org.
2026 Learning Themes & Events
Every month, Wonder Works dives into a new two-week learning theme — from Dino Works to Ocean Wonders and Bugapalooza — packed with hands-on activities, hidden discoveries, and plenty of imaginative play. Plus, keep an eye out for special events throughout the year that add even more fun to the calendar!
- August 6-17Wonder Animals
- October 22-November 2Wonderween
- November 12-23Buildaplooza
- December 3-14Winter Wonderland
- December 31Noon Year's Eve
Daily & Featured Programming
Every day features two special programming blocks — 11am-11:30am and 2pm-2:30pm — with activities like storytime, music, and yoga.
You never know what fun awaits!
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Miss Molly & Her Ukulele
Sing and dance along with Miss Molly for a lively session of music, movement, and pure joy!
This program is made possible by the generous support of the Oak Park Township and River Forest Township Youth Services Committees.
Upcoming Dates
- Thursday, August 8 at 11am
- Friday, August 21 at 11am
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Sensory Friendly Play Session
A quieter, more relaxed version of Wonder Works designed for kids who benefit from a calmer sensory environment. Every child deserves a space to explore and play comfortably. Registration is required as we limit the number of families during this time. Learn More
Upcoming Dates
- Sunday, August 9 at 9am with special guest Kids Unlimited Therapy
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Little Creators Club
A rotating maker series with brand-new projects each month — think birdhouses, slime, and sensory lava lamps. Kids get small-group instruction for fun, high-quality art projects you won’t find anywhere else. Punch card purchase and registration required; not included with regular admission. Learn More
Upcoming Dates
- Thursday, August 13 at 3pm
- Saturday, August 15 at 9:30am
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Touch & Learn
Get up close with real animals, artifacts, and hands-on science led by expert guests from organizations like Lincoln Park Zoo and the Chicago Herpetological Society — real encounters that spark real curiosity. Learn More
Upcoming Dates
- Snakes | Friday, August 7 at 11am
- Animal Artifacts | Monday, August 17 at 11am
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Yoga with Miss Kelly
Little ones stretch, balance, and breathe their way through a kid-friendly yoga session designed to build focus, calm, and confidence — no experience necessary, just a willingness to wiggle.
This program is made possible by the generous support of the Oak Park Township and River Forest Township Youth Services Committees.
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Social Emotional Learning Storytime
Social-emotional learning meets story time in this cozy session, led by Miss Tracy from Once Upon Some Messy Fun, where kids explore big feelings through beloved books, songs, and gentle guided discussion.
This program is made possible by the generous support of the Oak Park Township and River Forest Township Youth Services Committees.
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Author Visits
Discover the storytellers behind picture books, live and in person! Each visit features a story time led by the author, followed by a personal book signing — with select titles available for purchase on-site. Learn More
Upcoming Dates
- Avani Chhaya’s Lakshmi on the Lake | October 17 at 11am
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Special Events
Mark your calendar! From themed takeovers to community fundraisers, these one-of-a-kind events bring even more magic to Wonder Works throughout the year.
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Wonder Animals
- Thursday, August 6 through Monday, August 17
A two-week celebration of all things wild! Explore hands-on animal encounters, artifacts, and activities designed to spark a love for wildlife. Waddle like a penguin, care for animal patients at our Veterinarian Play Station, and explore real animal pelts and artifacts — there’s wild fun around every corner! Learn More
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Coffee & Music
- Sunday, August 9 from 10:30am-11:30am
Free & open to the public! Enjoy live outdoor music from Cooler by the Lake in the Becky Boyce Nature Play Space, with coffee available for purchase from Zemi Coffee Cart. Stick around and head inside with regular admission — members are always free!
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Foam Fun Fest
- Sunday, August 16 from 9am-2pm
Get ready to get foamy! Join us for a splashy, sudsy celebration outdoors featuring a foam pit and a live bubble performer — the ultimate summer play day for kids of all ages. Tickets are available for purchase. Learn More
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Sunshine Classic
- Wednesday, September 30 from 8am-4pm at White Pines Golf Club
Tee off for a great cause! Swing into a day packed with 18 holes of golf, a closest-to-the-pin contest, longest drive competitions, a cannon shot, a casual lunch, and a post-golf reception with heavy appetizers. The winning foursome takes home golf for four at White Pines! Proceeds help fund free and reduced admission for families across our community — a need that’s grown significantly in 2026. Learn More
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Playful Pickle
Playful Pickle
- Saturday, October 24 | 5pm-8pm | The Tennis & Fitness Centre of Oak Park & River Forest
Serve up some fun for a great cause! Choose from two one-hour sessions across our 8 pickleball courts — the first hour is all about laid-back fun, while the second brings the competitive spirit. Space is limited to 32 players per session, so grab your spot for $50 per person and get ready to paddle for a cause. Learn More
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Parent & Caregiver Workshops
Connect with fellow parents and caregivers while your kids play! These free expert-led sessions on child education topics are made possible by Oak Park and River Forest Township Youth Services Committee. Registration required.
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Smart Love Parent Education
- Sunday, October 18 at 9am
Join Smart Love Family Services for a parent education session rooted in their well-known Smart Love™ principles, focused on building inner well-being and healthy relationships. Registration is required for this free workshop. Learn More















