Lake Zurich Chamber hosts Taste of the Towns

On May 20, 1915, the Lake Zurich Commercial Association was chartered by 36 influential local citizens.

Its purpose? “Securing the friendly cooperation of all good citizens of Lake Zurich and vicinity for the betterment of Lake Zurich and vicinity and for civic improvements therein,” according to handwritten minutes in the original meeting minutes log book.

One hundred years later, the Lake Zurich Commercial Association has evolved into the nationally accredited Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce, serving more than 500 local businesses in the communities of Lake Zurich, Deer Park, Hawthorn Woods, Kildeer, Long Grove, North Barrington and vicinity.

On Aug. 23, from 3 to 7 p.m., the LZ Area Chamber will celebrate its centennial year at its ninth annual Taste of the Towns event in Paulus Park, 200 S. Rand Road.

Special activities include a walking parade around the park, presentations and recognition of many longtime residents of the area, performances by a ragtime band and a barbershop quartet, special games and activities reminiscent of the early 1900s, and more.

This year's event is free for the public to attend and will include up to 30 local food and beverage vendors showcasing their signature items.

To receive a “taste” of food or beverage, attendees can purchase a “Tasting Menu” in advance for $35.

One “Tasting Menu” provides a “taste” of food or beverage from all participating vendors, a value of more than $50. Individual “$2 Tasting Tickets,” good for one purchase of food, can be purchased on-site the day of the event.

However, $35 Tasting Menus are only available online in advance by visiting www.TasteoftheTown.com or by contacting the chamber office at (847) 438-5572.

This event is organized as a fun event. Menu choices range from herb mascarpone and shrimp arancini from Biaggis to a variety of pizza from Domino's, Hawaiian Shaved Ice from My Flavor It! Place, unique craft beers from Beelow's Steak House and Binny's and more.

Mark your calendars and plan to help us celebrate 100 years of serving the businesses and citizens of Lake Zurich and surrounding communities.

Proceeds from the event help to fund programs and services provided by the chamber such as the Young Entrepreneurs Academy.

Visit www.TasteoftheTowns.com for details.