July weather means it’s time to hit the pool, and Otter Cove Aquatic Park and Swanson Pool in St. Charles have got you covered with a jam-packed schedule of theme and specialty days to keep the summer fun going all season long
New this year is Ollie’s Go With the Flow 5K on Saturday, July 18. Named for the space’s otter mascot, the event invites community members to walk or run 28 laps with the current of its lazy river.
In this non-competitive offering, participants will receive a lap counter clicker, giveaway item and the opportunity to enjoy post-race snacks. Geared to those 12 and older, the event is open to those of all fitness abilities.
“This event was inspired by interest in the Not So Lazy River Walks we host throughout the week and the community members who reach out about water walking in our lazy river,” said Tiffany Kohorst, aquatics and youth programs supervisor.
Check-in begins at 8 a.m., with the event starting at 8:30 a.m. The cost is $35 a person.
Other theme days keep things lively.
Those with a sweet tooth should mark their calendars for Sundae Sunday on July 19 at both pools. The first 150 guests to enter beginning at 11 a.m. will receive free ice cream sundaes from Culvers. Ice Cream Sandwich Day will also take place Sunday, August 2 at Swanson, with free treats while supplies last.
DJ Night at the Pool from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 22 will feature dancing, spirited contests and games for those in attendance while the focus will be on music throwbacks from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 5 with Timeless Tunes: Boy Bands.
Christmas in July will give kids a chance to get in good with the North Pole’s number one resident well ahead of the holiday season. Santa will make his arrival at 2 p.m. Friday, July 24 at Swanson and noon on Saturday, July 25 at Otter Cove.
Pool-goers can learn what it’s like to watch over swimmers with Shadow a Lifeguard from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, August 5 at Swanson Pool and Tuesday, August 11 at Otter Cove. Lifeguards will go over basic first aid and safety as well as the importance of scanning skills.
“There will also be the chance to jump in the water with a rescue tube,” Kohorst said.
And staff is really looking forward to Dino Day on Sunday, August 9 at Otter Cove, she added. Kids can dig for fossils in the sand area all day.
For more information on theme days and additional details, visit ottercove.org/calendar or swansonpool.org/calendar.