Wood Dale's Prairie Fest continues growth spurt
Wood Dale's Prairie Fest began as a one-day community picnic 14 years ago but - much like any 14-year-old - it has gotten much, much bigger since its start.
Returning to the city starting Thursday, July 30, the event is now a full-on, four-day festival that features carnival rides, food, fireworks and live music.
And while visitors from throughout the suburbs are welcome, city officials say they hold tight to the reason they launched Prairie Fest all those years ago.
"This started as an event to promote community spirit and we want it to still be a real community-oriented event," Mayor Nunzio Pulice said.
To honor that tradition, Thursday night will be Resident Appreciation Night, featuring an appearance by Tommy Hawk, the Chicago Blackhawks mascot, and perks for those who live in Wood Dale.
With proof of residency, each person is eligible for a $4 food voucher. And residents also can pay $10 for a carnival ride wristband, while the cost is $20 for others.
Pulice says the event takes months to organize and people from nearly every city department volunteer either on-site or behind the scenes to make the festival memorable.
"Everyone is doing something," he said.
The fruits of their labor are paying off with even more growth this year. Though it's due to construction at Irving Park and Wood Dale roads, the fest's usual grounds, the event is moving to a bigger location near Wood Dale Junior High.
Offerings also have expanded with a classic car show on Thursday night, as well as Lester the Clown performing all four nights rather than for only select days.
Favorites such as thrill rides, family rides and kiddie rides (about 40 total) will return, along with popular cover bands such as Kashmir paying tribute to Led Zepplin on Saturday.
"It's just a wonderful family event," Pulice said.
If you go
What: Wood Dale Prairie Fest
When: Thursday through Sunday, July 30 to Aug. 2
Where: Near Wood Dale Junior High, 655 N. Wood Dale Road
Cost: Free admission and parking; mega passes are $40 in advance, $50 at the gate
Info: wooddale.com