Crowds line streets for largest Buffalo Grove Days parade

Crowds lined Bernard Drive in Buffalo Grove on a beautiful sunny afternoon Sunday to watch the annual Buffalo Grove Days parade.

It was the annual fest's largest parade ever, with more than 115 participants, including marching bands, politicians, floats, the Medinah Shriners and lots and lots of kids.

"It is a tradition that the community looks forward to every year. It is very family friendly," said Buffalo Grove Days Committee Chairman Alan Danenberg.

This year's parade was highlighted with U.S. Winter Olympic silver medalist Megan Bozek appearing as Grand Marshal.

"It is quite and honor to to be part of the parade," said Bozek, a Buffalo Grove native who starred on the women's hockey team.

Family and friends watched as the parade went by, kids scattering to collect candy thrown to them from parade participants.

"This is my 28th one," village resident Denny Muench from his front yard. "We enjoy them every year. This has become a family event with family and friends coming to our house to watch."

Parade watchers were asked to bring nonperishable food items along with them Sunday to donate to local food pantries.