Home Town Fest provides low-cost fun in Round Lake

There are a few new twists, but the single-day Home Town Fest in Round Lake is sticking to a tried and true formula: lots of fun at a low cost.

“This will be our fourth year,” said Joyce Swieton, village clerk and head of the festival committee. “We’ve tried to create a hometown family picnic-type event.”

The festivities are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 18, at Goodnow and Avilon avenues, off Route 134. Visit http://eroundlake.com.

The festival features a variety of local and area bands, including Jeff Vescelius and his tribute to Neil Diamond and Jack Eiler paying tribute to Frank Sinatra. Several food vendors will be on hand with a variety of offerings.

“There are quite a few free things for the kids and family to enjoy,” Swieton said. Some events require tickets.

Activities again include a taco eating contest (spicy and mild) from Nanuco’s; pie baking contest; a car and motorcycle show; craft booths; puppet show; face painting; play on the fire truck; a rope bridge; bounce house; trackless train; and, carnival games. A show by Magic Dave is new this year.

“The taco eating contest is always fun,” Swieton said.

St. Joseph School’s 50/50 bingo will be played from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The price is $1 per card or six cards for $5.

Swieton said the festival is funded by donations and no taxpayer dollars are used.

This year she is authorized to spend up to $3,500, but doesn’t expect to reach that figure. About $600 of that amount, for the first time, was spent on a flier included in water bills to help spread the word.

She said the intent has been to keep costs low.

“School is starting, everyone is cutting corners because of the extra expenses,” she said. “It’s all about the family, community and businesses getting together and having a good time.”