Stop by grand openings, open houses May 8 in East Dundee
Visitors to East Dundee's downtown district will have plenty of ways to celebrate Mother's Day from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, May 8, with the kickoff of the Sunday farmers market, grand openings of two local businesses, and open houses held at both the newly renovated Depot on River Street and the village police station on Barrington Avenue.
Often referred to as the heart of East Dundee, The Depot on River Street has become the "go-to" destination for year-round community events.
The Depot and its surrounding grounds has been host to weekly summer special events and markets. Its interior was recently given a facelift that more truly reflects its train station roots. A coat of new paint, flooring and installation of a new tech bar and cabinetry have made a world of difference in this repurposed space, which houses the village's marketing and events staff and Dundee Visitors Center.
Located next to the village hall in the former fire district building, the new two-story, 12,000-square-foot police station has been designed to be an environmentally sustainable facility that's on its way to receiving the hard-to-achieve gold LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). This state-of-the-art station utilizes a solar energy system; and HVAC systems equipped with high efficiency air-condition and air handling units along with a building automation system. The new station replaces the previous 1,600-square-foot facility that dated back to 1891.
Both the Depot and the police station will be open for visits from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
In addition to the open houses, the Sunday Farmers Market will officially kick off its season. Located on Depot grounds and operating from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., this market will feature fresh produce, flowers, organic eggs and fresh made bakery products. Taking place every Sunday through Sept. 25, the farmers market also will host special events ranging from a children's bike rodeo, historical walks and Pet Adoption Days to special entertainment, activities and food tastings.
The day also will feature the grand openings of two of East Dundee's newest businesses - Midwest Retro on Barrington Avenue, featuring all things repurposed; and Uncommon Palate on River Street featuring upscale wines, cheeses and boutique gifts. Onyx Studio, offering a wide range of personal beauty services and located on Barrington Avenue, also will welcome visitors during the day. As always visitors are encouraged to patronize the various restaurants; pubs and shops located nearby.
"East Dundee has a small, historic downtown where everyone is welcome. We're providing our residents with an excuse to get out; take a stroll; see how much has changed in the area and visit our farm fresh market and newly-opened businesses," said Lael Miller, East Dundee village president. "This is only the beginning of our line up of summer events this year."
The village of East Dundee is home to 3,000 residents. Its downtown plan is to create a "culinary" district consisting of the right mix of restaurants, retail and community events to serve as a destination attraction for both residents and regional visitors. For information on the plan, and all East Dundee events, visit the community calendar at www.eastdundee.net.