There is a long and treasured tradition of picnicking before (and during) performances. Many people come early and dine while they watch the stage being set-up.

Austin Gardens is tucked away in the heart of downtown Oak Park. There are many restaurants which offer wonderful dine in or carry out fare. Both Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s are very close by for last minute feasts.

Our Box Office sells concessions such as coffee and cold drinks as well as light snacks.

In agreement with the Park District and the Village, our patrons are able to bring their own adult beverages to the park. The BYO permit allows for alcohol to be consumed in Austin Gardens one hour before the performance until one hour after a show has closed.

Oak Park Festival Theatre is hosted in Austin Gardens compliments of the Park District, and we ask that our patrons please respect their policies:

• Carry In/Carry Out Program: We all understand the importance of caring for our environment so that we leave our planet better than we found it for future generations. Each one of us can make a difference. The same is true for our parks. We are asking for your help and cooperation in keeping our parks clean and safe through the Oak Park Park District’s Carry In/Carry Out program. You simply need to carry out all waste and recyclables you bring into the park. The purpose of this program is to raise awareness about generating less waste, using more reusable containers, increasing recycling efforts, and taking better care of our parks. It’s also good for our environment and saves tax dollars!

  Thank you in advance for your support and participation. If we all accept this one small responsibility, we’ll have cleaner, safer and more enjoyable parks.

  This program is an initiative of the Park District of Oak Park’s Greening Advisory Committee. For more details visit http://www.pdop.org/AboutUs/GoGreen