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📸 Credit: Forest Preserve District of Kane County on Facebook
Lace up your hiking boots, because the “Great Orb Hunt 2025” kicks off Sept. 4 through Sept. 30 at three exciting locations this fall.
In partnership with Fine Line Creative Arts Center, the Forest Preserve District is co-hosting the Great Orb Hunt for its third consecutive year. Participants get to search in natural areas for a chance to find (and keep) a hand-crafted glass or ceramic orb created by Fine Line artists.
Similar to years past, orbs will be hidden at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve in St. Charles, as well as the prairie path at Fine Line Creative Arts Center. The newest preserve to join the search, Dick Young Forest Preserve in Batavia, is also the largest preserve in Kane County.
Here’s how it works:
A total of 150 orbs will be hidden in small batches at different times throughout the event.
Orbs will be placed 1–5 feet off designated trails.
To help participants locate orbs efficiently, the District has created maps that are available via social media.
Areas marked in red will not have orbs hidden, nor will orbs be placed in waterways or mowed areas.
Executive Director Lynn Caldwell of Fine Line Creative Arts Center is looking forward to the event once more.
“Every orb found is a unique piece of art,” Caldwell said. “If you find an orb, it is yours to keep. However, we kindly request that each finder keeps only one orb. If you find additional orbs, please leave them in the wild for another seeker to find.”
Laurie Metanchuk, director of community engagement for the Forest Preserve District of Kane County agrees that the program is a wonderful opportunity for families, friends and individuals to engage in an outdoor activity that combines art, exploration and fun.
“This event promises a fun experience for art enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike,” Metanchuk said. “We’re especially excited to expand the hunt to our largest preserve this year, adding a fun new challenge.”
If you want to participate, you can learn more here.
Fine Line Creative Arts Center is at 37W570 Bolcum Rd., St. Charles and LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve is at 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles. Dick Young Forest Preserve is located at 39W115 Main Street, Batavia.
For more information, visit www.fineline.org or www.kaneforest.com.
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