The Rockford Park District’s Lockwood Park invites the community out to the country for its opening day of the season, Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 10 am to 4 pm to enjoy the benefits of being outdoors in fresh air and nature while engaging in unique activities and making memories at 5201 Safford Rd. in northwest Rockford.

May 4 is also Kentucky Derby day, so wearing fancy hats is encouraged! Free activities include visiting Sarver Children’s Farm barn, a petting zoo, meeting baby chicks and calves, Derby-themed games, yard games, and more.

Scheduled paid activities include:

Discounted wagon rides

Derby-themed crafts

Pony Experience sessions – 10 am-2 pm, 10-minute sessions

Meet the oxen, and basic commands demonstration – 11 am-1 pm, and 2-4 pm

Horseback trail rides – 1 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm – pre-registration required at https://lockwoodpark.com/rides, or at 815-987-8809

Pony races (riderless) – 1:15 and 3:15 pm decorating; races at 1:45 and 3:45 pm  – decorate and enter one of the park’s ponies for a race; $25 per group, four groups per time slot; pre-registration required; either online, or on site (subject to availability). See website for details and requirements.

A complete list of activities (paid as well as free) is posted at https://lockwoodpark.com/; admission to the park is free. Information about Lockwood Park, as well as prices and advance ticket purchase for fee-based activities is available at www.lockwoodpark.com or by calling 815-987-8809.

Visitors are welcome to picnic at the park. The park, its facilities, and some programs are wheelchair accessible. For more information about the park and its activities, group lessons, events, facility rentals, and horse boarding services, visit www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/lockwood or call 815-987-8809. Information on accessibility and adapted equipment for park visitors with disabilities is available at 815-987-8800.