Rockford Park District invites everyone to Lockwood Park for “Animal Mania” on Saturday, May 17, 2014, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. (weather permitting). 

This free spring event offers a day of fun in the country for the whole family.

Lockwood Park  activities will take place throughout the park, and will include wagon and pony rides, a horse extravaganza, horseshoeing demonstration, Birds of Prey presentation by Atwood Center staff, Pioneer Day activities, and games and crafts. 

Children can learn about the park’s animals in the Children’s Farm area, and observe chicken hatching, sponsored by the Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau. (Events and activities are subject to change.) 

This event is one of many free activities offered by the Rockford Park District. 

Additional activities scheduled for this year’s event include Armed Forces Day Activities:

• Show a military ID and receive 10 free tickets to be used for event activities and food

• Military information booths, display of medals and photos, write a letter to deployed troops

• Mounted drill team presentation – Tribute to the armed forces

Also step back in time, and view the Native American Village displays and artifacts at the new Native American Village

“If someone has not had the opportunity to experience Lockwood Park Trailside Equestrian Centre and Children’s Farm, we hope they will consider coming out for this event. Animal Mania kicks off our season at Lockwood Park, and is a great low-cost event for the entire family to enjoy,” said Lockwood Park Manager Debbie Ackerman.

Admission to the event is free; fees will be charged for some activities, and refreshments will be available for purchase from the Friends of Lockwood Park. 

Horse trailer parking and trail rides will be closed for the day of the event. Lockwood Park is located at 5201 Safford Rd., Rockford IL. Event flyers with the schedule of activities will be available at Lockwood Park the day of the event; programs and events are subject to change.

The mission of Lockwood Park is to help people enjoy life through their connection to animals. The park programs provide a variety of experiences and learning opportunities to promote healthy, positive interactions between people and animals. Lockwood Park is situated on 146 acres, and offers 15 miles of multi-use scenic trails for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.

For more information on Lockwood Park and equestrian programs, visit www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/lockwood, or call 815-987-8809. For information on accessibility for visitors with disabilities, contact Customer Service at 815-987-8800.

–News Bulletin news sources