Des Plaines' Sister Fest going country this year

Corral the family and friends.

It's time for the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth's annual Sister Fest on Saturday. And this one-day festival will be a little bit country.

The 11th annual Sister Fest featuring music, games and food, will carry a country and western theme this year.

Sister Fest will run from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday on the grounds of Maryville Academy at River and Central roads in Des Plaines.

Admission and parking are free.

Proceeds will benefit the sisters' ministerial work this year, which marks the 132nd anniversary of the founding of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth.

"It's a wonderful event: a coming together of family, friends and our civic community," Sister Clare Marie Kozicki said. "It's truly a witness to the goodness of people."

Some of the festival's favorites will return, including the antique and classic car show.

Registration will begin at 9 a.m. for the show. Classic cars will be on display from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

You'll also be able to sample some of tasty baked goods at the bake sale, and check out the crafts of local artisans.

In anticipation of its stellar musical lineup, Sister Fest has expanded its dance floor so people can kick up their spurs.

Black Dog Promotions will spin the best of the oldies from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Ampol Aires will play their popular polka music from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. At 3 p.m., the White Saddle Band will play music from the heartland.

The Billy Childers Band will play traditional and contemporary country music at 5:30 p.m.

The country theme will continue at 8 p.m. with Big John Howell and The Born to Boogie Band, which performs country, rock and blues.

Children won't have an excuse to be bored either. There will be plenty of children's entertainment as well, such as an obstacle course and pony rides.