Spring is in the air. Instead of thinking of all of the things that won’t happen this Spring and Summer due to the pandemic and restrictions on large gatherings, here is a list of things that we can all enjoy as the weather warms.
• Fun on the Fox. Whether it’s in a kayak, fishing, or using the Trail, the Fox River is a treasure that runs through our downtown. Participants can find a book to enjoy some quiet time on a bench overlooking the Fox River, or become more adventurous and go out in a kayak. There’s a boat launch behind La Quinta de los Reyes, with a prospect of paddler going round trip to the dam, to grab dinner and a margarita.
• Concerts at RiverEdge Park. The Park will be open in the Summer with seven concerts on tap. Starting July 9, RiverEdge Park will be host to outdoor events following State guidelines.
• Public Art Tour. The free Otocast app can be downloaded to your phones to explore the two dozen works of art in downtown Aurora.
• Shop Markets. Art and Market continues every other Saturday through May 22 at Society 57, 100 S. River Street. The new indoor market has been a success at safely bringing together the community and supporting small businesses. Fall dates will be coming soon. In the Summer, the City’s Special Events team will be host to a socially-distanced outdoor farmers market at Water Street Square across from City Hall. Masks are required at the markets.
• Outdoor Dining. Eating outside became not only popular last Summer, but it helped restaurants to stay afloat during the shutdown. This Summer, look for more creativity and expanded outdoor dining options such as a beer garden at Gillerson’s Grubbery, a covered booth at Chupacabra Puerto Rican Kitchen, and a parklet at Tredwell Coffee.
• First Fridays. The monthly arts event kicked off this moth after a slight delay due to COVID-19. After going somewhat virtual last year, First Fridays is back in person at about two dozen venues downtown. Food trucks are part of the event every month. The trucks will be parked in the bank lot at 2 S. Broadway May 7, and they’ll return to Water Street Square across from City Hall in June. First Fridays runs through December with the exception of July.
• Art Weekend. The first weekend of June means First Fridays June 4 and Fox River Arts Ramble Saturday, June 5. Both days will be filled with art and venues open to include art and music.
As the Summer progresses, visit auroradowntown.org, to stay tuned to Aurora Downtown’s Facebook page for further happenings such as Wednesdays at the Plaza, Movies at Museums, and Alley Art Festival.
Marissa Amoni is the manager of Aurora Downtown, a nonprofit organization of business and property owners in Special Service Area One. The group started in 1975 with the vision to improve redevelopment districts downtown. Learn more at auroradowntown.org.