Heat up your summer with these must-do activities around GovState

By Isabella Hollingsworth-Sons, Staff Writer

As summer finally heats up, Governors State University (GovState) wants you to know how to make the most out of summer for free on and near campus.

1.) Groovin' at GovState

Nothing says summer like listening to live music under the open sky! In a free concert series by The Center for Performing Arts (the Center), you can experience a dynamic lineup of live musicians held on the patio with food and drink available for purchase. A limited number of VIP picnic tables with umbrellas are available for a $100 gift to The Center. Each table seats up to six people and comes with its own umbrella to keep you cool and shaded while you enjoy the show.

People sitting outside at a 100-ft long stone table on Governors State University campus 2.) A Seat at the Table

Take your seat underneath a storied tree in a remote part of the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park on GovState's picturesque campus. Every other Tuesday at noon throughout the summer, bring your own lunch and join a passionate organic conversation with friends and neighbors at the Running Table (a 100-ft long picnic table made from recycled materials and designed by Dan Peterman.)

Phoenix sculpture at Governors State University Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park 3.) Walk in the sculpture park

Enjoy the other 30+ sculptures in one of the nation's top sculpture parks. With inviting walking paths and grassy terrain, the park offers you the choice of your own adventure and an experience of gigantic and intricate art on the campus.

Governors State University mascot Jax the Jaguar holding a chocolate cake next to text that reads Join GovState in celebrating 56 years of excellence and innovation in the Southland 4.) GovState Birthday Party in Park Forest, Illinois

There ain't no party like a GovState Birthday Party because a GovState Birthday Party raises money for the Foundation! With games, a food truck, and a thrilling frog hopper ride for the little ones, the event celebrates the best of us! And don't miss a special VIP tent where members of the Class of 2025 get in for free! Celebrate 56 years of excellence, innovation, and community in Park Forest on July 16.

Governors State University Library main seating area 5.) Visit the library

Cool off from the summer hear with a view of 1,000+ authors in the GovState Library. With comfy seating, air conditioned private study rooms, the library is an electric atmosphere for partnership and innovation.

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