The Naperville Police were out in full force, for the 12th annual KidsMatter Skaters Picnic.
“The origin of the Skaters Picnic during the Last Fling is, sort of was created before the skate parks existed. It was actually the thought of the city that there was some friction between the skateboarders who were riding around downtown, some businesses and the park district police, and the police department. So the city, Mayor Pradel actually thought this is a great way to bring these groups together to sort of foster communication and understanding and appreciation,” said Bridget Hatch, Marketing and Events Director for KidsMatter.
Over 150 skaters attended this year’s picnic at the Park District’s Centennial Skate Park, complete with demonstrations by professional skateboarders and a donut eating competition.
“Today I’m just having fun skating here at the Naperville Skaters Picnic. It’s a great event you should come check it out,” said Theo Wnek, who has been to the picnic for three years in a row.
Even Mayor Chirico dropped in for the festivities.
“Great event, it’s fun to watch these kids. I was going to bring my skateboard and do a few tricks for you, but I thought I would for sure end up at Edward so I would like to avoid that,” said Chirico.
Both of the Park District’s Skate Parks are open from 8am to sunset, year round, weather-depending.
Naperville News 17’s Evan Summers reports.