This year’s Itasca Fest one for the record books

The next-to-last day of Itasca Fest was one for the record books.

In addition to plenty of carnival rides, magic and music, the village and Itasca-based Subaru of America Inc. Great Lakes Region broke their own Guinness World Record for the largest parade of Subaru cars.

Itasca Fest Chairman Dan Kompanowski said “in excess of 370” Subaru cars took part in the 4.2-mile parade, surpassing the 2009 mark by more than 30 vehicles.

“We had tons of people,” Kompanowski said. “The lead cars were returning back to the parking lot before the last cars pulled out to start the parade.”

The attempt was expected to raise $10,000, which will be split evenly between Pets are Worth Saving (PAWS) Chicago and Salute Inc. of Arlington Heights, which helps military personnel and their families.

The festive mood during the morning parade carried over into the afternoon and evening at Washington Park.

Ralph Rehberger of Itasca said he planned to head over to the Tilt-a-World ride.

“It’s all my grandma has been talking about all week,” he said. “She’s very excited.”

Other festival-goers who preferred more static activities such as face-painting included 9-year-old Julia Emmett, who patiently waited her turn to get a Labrador retriever drawn on her cheek.

Her mother, Lisa Emmett, said the family lives within walking distance and attends Itasca Fest every year.

“We wouldn’t miss it,” she said. “It’s family fun. There really is something for everyone.”

The 24th annual Itasca Fest, presented by the Lions Club continues Sunday. The carnival, music and other activities will continue and a classic car show will take place from 2-6 p.m. on Bloomingdale Road.