Gathering For Family Fun

September 24, 2026

Original coverage in The Source Newspaper.

Second Annual Downtown Discovery Day Held Sept. 12

Jacksonville Area Friends of Family Learning (JAFFL) held its second “Downtown Discovery Day” for families on Sept. 12 in downtown Jacksonville; it was an afternoon of free entertainment, interactive learning and community exploration.

Created in response to local families expressing a desire for more free, interactive weekend activities for young children, Downtown Discovery Day transformed the downtown square into an educational scavenger hunt.

Families visited participating businesses and public spaces throughout the downtown to complete hands-on activities, discover local resources, and earn prizes and giveaways along the way.

“Downtown Discovery Day is a celebration of what can happen when a community comes together to support young children and families,” said Sarah Wilson, Board President of Jacksonville Area Friends of Family Learning.

Over 20 downtown businesses, nonprofits and community organizations opened their doors as scavenger hunt destinations.

“The scavenger hunt is a fun reminder that learning happens everywhere — not just in classrooms,” said Bridget English, Regional Council Manager for Birth to Five Illinois: Region 1. “Every stop gives children an opportunity to explore, ask questions, and make connections while families discover the people and resources that support them.”

Jacksonville Area Friends of Family Learning is dedicated to strengthening children, families and the community by promoting early learning, family engagement and collaborative partnerships that help every child thrive.

Downtown Discovery Day reflects that mission by connecting families with the organizations, businesses and public spaces that make Jacksonville a welcoming place to learn, play and grow.