Stevenson Spirt Fest to help CASA Lake County

Stevenson High School’s annual Spirit Fest charity event returns Saturday, Sept. 17.

The family-friendly event, sponsored by the school’s National Honor Society chapter, will be held in the evening for the first time, running from 5 to 10 p.m. in Stevenson’s stadium.

This year, all proceeds from the event will go to CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Lake County, a nonprofit organization that advocates for the best interests of abused and neglected children within the juvenile court system.

CASA helps more than 500 children annually. The Lincolnshire school’s goal is to raise $25,000.

Last year, Spirit Fest raised $20,000 for the Saving Tiny Hearts Society.

During Spirit Fest, families are invited to the stadium for games, a 5-kilometer spirit walk, a professional fireworks display and, for the second year, a chance to help set a Guinness World Record.

Last year, Spirit Fest set a record by holding the world’s largest robot dance, with 525 people taking part. This year, organizers are hoping to make the largest glow stick design by having participants spelling “CASA” in glow sticks on the football field. The current world record comprised 308 people.

Fireworks are planned for 9 p.m.

Individual admission is $10. Admission for a family of three costs $20. Admission for a family of four is $25, while a family of five or more would pay $30 to enter.

Since Spirit Fest is a charity event, those attending are encouraged to donate more than the minimum admission fee.