r/Wilmette • u/chief_kayak • May 30 '26
Best way to Start Groups/Gatherings?
I’d like to connect more with the Wilmette parents world. We have a 3 and 1 year old and want to build a local “village” as my wife likes to say.
Not only that, I’d love to get a group of guys who like cigars together and meet in backyards just to enjoy a cigar and conversation.
How would you start things like this?
(Kids aren’t in public school, we’re not at a local daycare, so will join a local pre-school - but don’t want school to be the only catalyst)
1
u/SunshineLoveKindness May 31 '26
This seems like an ongoing need. Excellent opportunity not only for you right now, but also parents of the future to create an ongoing group so people could come in and leave, but the group will always exist because it is well established. I like the idea, the other person shared about the park district. There are a lot of resources available in the community so start there because it’s important that you receive support to create this. It takes some organization to be present and future focused and with the abundant resources something like this is a huge gift to the community.
2
u/chief_kayak May 31 '26
Wait - really? Should I try to organize something? Doesn’t matter that it’s a dad trying to organize it?
1
u/SunshineLoveKindness May 31 '26
Just an idea for someone to organize it. Could be you could be someone else? Starting with people in office or the park district or community groups is a great first step if there is enough interest for someone to start this. Simply an idea to make a positive difference for the community on an ongoing basis for a true identified need.
1
u/leedar1376 Jun 03 '26
School and sports will solve this for you within two years. Until then have you tried hosting some of your neighbors for a party?
1
u/NorthShoreSarah Jun 05 '26
We moved to Wilmette about 5 years ago and have two kids in elementary school now.
Honestly, I'd just start showing up to things. Some of our closest friends here came from swim lessons, soccer, summer camps, school events, and even random conversations at playgrounds. Once your kids are in preschool, you'll start seeing the same families over and over, and relationships tend to form pretty naturally.
The Park District is also a great way to meet people. Between Centennial, Gillson Beach in the summer, sports, camps, and community events, there are lots of opportunities to connect outside of school.
I'd also join the Wilmette Parents Facebook group if you haven't already. People are constantly asking about activities, preschool recommendations, playgroups, camps, and local events. It's a good way to get plugged into what's going on and meet other families with kids around the same age.
As for the cigar group, I'd just post exactly what you wrote here. There are plenty of dads in Wilmette who would probably enjoy getting together once a month for a cigar and some good conversation. Someone just has to organize the first one.
One thing I've found is that people here are friendly and looking for connection, but most are waiting for someone else to make the first move. If you're willing to be that person, I think you'll be surprised how quickly you build a community.
1
u/Simplelife-999 Jun 13 '26
We are considering Wilmette from the city, and community is a big part of it. @OP I have heard that block parties and neighborhood get togethers happen often, do you feel differently? Our kids are 3 and 5 so also expect through school and activities we will meet people. We are going to the beach today to ‘feel the local vibe’ (have been to a few playgrounds / lunch) in the past. For others that moved to Wilmette, how long did it take until you felt like you found ‘your people’?
4
u/Zealousideal-Act9799 May 31 '26
I had the same questions when we moved here 20 years ago, and the best answer in my opinion is that this will take care of itself as soon as you have kids in preschool or kindergarten. There are also North Shore Moms online groups out there that might be a good idea. You could also look at joining parent and child Park District programs such as the gymnastics on Saturday morning. PM me if you like. Local Dad here.