April 14 is National Gardening Day, and here at the Park District of Franklin Park, we’re always looking for ways to get our hands in the dirt and help our community grow.
Gardening isn’t just about planting flowers. It’s about learning something new, taking care of the Earth, and enjoying the simple joys of being outside. Whether you’re a first-time gardener or someone who’s been growing for years, this day is a perfect reminder that small seeds can lead to big things.
Here’s how we’re growing with you:
- We recently hosted our second annual Seed Swap event. It was awesome to see so many people sharing and picking up seeds to kick off their garden adventures.
- Across all 17 of our parks, gardens are blooming with native plants and pollinator-friendly flowers. One example is Discovery Park—a peaceful spot for visitors and a beautiful showcase of how gardening supports local ecosystems.
- Our Early Childhood Programs and Summer Camps love to dig in the dirt. Planting activities teach kids where their food comes from, spark curiosity, and help them understand the importance of caring for nature.
- National Gardening Day is the perfect lead-in to Earth Day. At our Earth Day Celebration, we invite the community to come together for hands-on activities, nature exploration, and opportunities to make a difference for our planet. Gardening is one of the easiest and most meaningful ways to get started. Learn more about our Earth Day Celebration event here: https://www.fpparks.org/event/earth-day-celebration
Gardening connects all ages and reminds us that growth takes time, care, and community. Whether you’re visiting a park, planting at home, or simply enjoying the fresh air, we invite you to celebrate this day with us.