'One last hurrah'

Summer is winding down, so why not celebrate?

That's the motto of Palatine Street Fest organizers.

"We want to have one last hurrah before fall comes," said coordinator Katie Freese. "Most people kick off the beginning of summer, but we're kicking off the end."

The eighth annual event runs Friday through Sunday in downtown Palatine.

New this year is community outdoor bingo, being put on by the American Legion family and Palatine Jaycees.

Usually, Bingo lovers gather once a week inside to play, said Freese.

"We hope to get some new people involved who don't know about it," she said. "Who doesn't like Bingo?"

Entertainment is always a big draw at the fest and this year is no different. Headlining the main stage Friday night is the Freddy Jones Band, which plays traditional rock music.

Saturday night is The Gin Blossoms, a Grammy-nominated group with a well-known hits.

"In the past, we've tried to concentrate Saturday night as the biggest night," said Freese. "This year we brought it two big bands -- one for Friday and one for Saturday night."

When Street Fest started in 2000, it drew about 20,000 people. Last year, the crowd grew to about 50,000.

Other events that always are a big draw include the Police Bike Challenge, Feet Fest 3-K fun race, chili cook off and pie-eating contest.

"This is an event thrown by the Village of Palatine for the Village of Palatine," said Freese.

More than 15 local restaurants will also serve food and drinks at the three-day festival.

Pets will not be allowed at the event Friday and Saturday. People are allowed to bring them on Sunday.