In 2015, approximately 25,000 Chicago residents took part in the festivities. | File photo
In 2015, approximately 25,000 Chicago residents took part in the festivities. | File photo
Last year’s “play day” has multiplied seven-fold as Chicago declared the second week of July 2016 “PlayStreets Week” in conjunction with the Department of Public Health, promoting the community as a safe place to grow up.
“PlayStreets is a key part of Healthy Chicago 2.0, our citywide effort to ensure every child has the opportunity to grow up healthy and safe,” Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) Commissioner Dr. Julie Morita said. “By working with our communities, we will help people throughout the city improve their health and well-being.”
CDPH has engaged many community partners for this year's event, including youth programs, neighborhood associations, family service organizations and local civic groups.
PlayStreets is actively promoting exercise and healthy eating habits to combat potential obesity and sedentary lifestyles in close urban areas. Sports, games, dancing, fitness workshops, bounce houses and healthy snacks await participants of all ages. For the occasion, residential streets are partially roped off from traffic to provide several hours of traffic-free fun.
Youngsters can participate in any of 150 different activities geared to get them outdoors for some fresh air, sun and fun. Fifteen of the opportunities are featured this week, while many more beckon throughout the summer.
In 2015, approximately 25,000 Chicago residents took part in the festivities.
Alerts Sign-up