Mane Event, Taste add flavor to Million Week

Whether you are fond of horse racing or not, the highlight of Million Week — the annual celebration of the Arlington Million horse race — is Friday and Saturday, Aug. 12-13, when Arlington Heights turns its downtown into a two-day party zone.

The Million Dollar Block Party, or Mane Event, is 5-11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 12 at Vail Avenue and Campbell Street.

This evening of food, drink, a business expo, games and live music is held the night before the Million is run on Saturday at Arlington Park.

The Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce Business Expo will have giveaways, coupons and other information.

Elsewhere there will be pony rides, a jump house, balloon twisters, police and fire displays and games on Campbell Street for the kids.

Ÿ 6-6:30 p.m. Metropolis Rock Band on the main stage.

Ÿ 7-8:30 p.m. Heartless plays the music of “Heart” and other pop and rock songs that will ignite the crowds.

Ÿ 9-10:30 p.m. Libido Funk Circus plays megahits of the ’80s and adds a great party atmosphere that all ages will enjoy.

After the racing is done on Saturday, come back to downtown Arlington Heights for an evening of Taste of Arlington Heights, 5-11 p.m.

The fest will have food and beverages from 15 local restaurants.

Ÿ 6-8 p.m. Exit 147 on the main stage.

Ÿ 8:30-10:30 p.m., Dot Dot Dot on the main stage; the band was featured on Fox TV’s “The Next Great American Band.”

Admission to both events is free.