Musicians can enter 'I Love Lake County' song contest

Visit Lake County is searching for talented musicians to create the most original song about the area as part of the "I Love Lake County Song" Search.

Whether it is a solo, band or ensemble, any sized music group is welcome to enter. The window of song submissions is open until 11:59 p.m. Sunday, March 29.

Contest organizers ask that the song encompasses everything that makes Lake County special - from the natural beauty of the forest preserves, the food of area vendors, the microbrew pubs and wineries, the diverse art, theater and music, family fun and the tall roller coasters.

Visit Lake County will crown two winners of the competition: A vote is set for March 30 to April 19 to determine the fan winner, who will receive $500 and play their song at Mickey Finn's in Libertyville Thursday, May 14.

A grand prize winner will be selected by a panel of Lake County music and special events industry professionals and announced Thursday, May 14. The grand prize winner will receive $1,000, a corresponding music video produced by Visit Lake County to highlight the area, and the opportunity to potentially perform at area summer festivals.

"This is a great way to follow up our 'Best Day of My Life' music video from last summer and connect with a wider range of the musical talent in Lake County," said Anthony Haag, Visit Lake County director of marketing.

"We are always looking for ways to promote night life activities, and travelers are searching for that night activity to experience the local area."

To enter the "I Love Lake County Song Search," contact Haag at anthony@lakecounty.org for a submission packet and a complete list of rules. More information about the song search is listed at www.VisitLakeCounty.org.