About WOW

The We're Out Walking (WOW) program, hosted by the City's Health and Human Services Department, is a 16-week health and fitness initiative designed for everyone who lives, works, and plays in Evanston. In collaboration with numerous community partners and sponsors, WOW continues to thrive as a cornerstone of wellness in the community. Established in 2007 to promote physical activity among women, WOW expanded in 2017 to welcome participants of all ages, genders, and ability levels. 

This 16-week program includes group walks, health, nutrition, and fitness classes, t-shirts, and more! Registration is required to participate in this program.

The Ending Celebration 

The WOW Ending Celebration 2025 will be a FREE  family-friendly event and will feature an iPad giveaway, four workout sessions, bounce houses and children's games! Enjoy an action-packed event!

Date: Saturday, August 2, 2025

Location: McGaw YMCA  

Time: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Class Times: 

1:00 p.m. Yoga/Pilates Fusion 

1:30 p.m Zumba

2:00 p.m. Hip Hop Dance 

2:30 p.m. Strength & Cardio 

Registration 

During the registration process, participants are encouraged to "opt in" to the Wellable platform, where they can track their activities, join health challenges, connect with others, and gain points and rewards. City staff will get those who "opt in" set up on the platform. Classes and activities will be listed below, on the WOW Facebook page, and the Wellable platform.

The fee to participate in this 16-week program is:

$10 for those ages 16-59
$5 for those under the age of 16
$5 for those 60 years of age or older

All participants will receive a WOW t-shirt.

Local Business Participation

Are you passionate about promoting health and wellness for people of all ages? We invite you to support this program through offering services, classes, or experiences to help inspire healthier lifestyles in our community. Whether you offer fitness classes, nutrition workshops, cooking lessons, meditation sessions, or other wellness activities, we want to hear from you! 

Join us in inspiring a healthier Evanston by sharing your upcoming wellness events with WOW participants. Your contribution will enhance the program's success and showcase your business to Evanston residents who value local partnerships. This is a great opportunity to connect with the community and showcase your commitment to the community and to a healthier lifestyle! 

For more information or questions, contact Kayla Smith at ksmith@cityofevanston.org.

Sign up to offer a service, class, or experience!

The Kick-Off Event 

Get ready for a fun-filled day of family, fitness, and community at the WOW 2025 Kickoff! Enjoy an action-packed event with bounce houses, motivational speakers, local vendors, fitness demonstrations, giveaways, and so much more.

Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025

Location: Willie May Fieldhouse, Evanston Township High School (ETHS) 
Entrance Gate: 3 (off of Wildkit Drive and Church Street)
Parking: LOT 3

Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This 14th Annual Kick-Off, is hosted by the Health and Human Services Department in partnership with local businesses. It aims to bring our community together by promoting physical activity, fitness, fun, education, healthy lifestyle, nutrition and making connections! Whether you are eager to get active, explore local resources, or simply enjoy a day with family and friends, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Let's build a healthier, stronger community together  - one step at a time!