Cantigny to show its French connection

Wheaton's Cantigny will be showing off its French pride this weekend.

Sunday will mark the first Cantigny French Connection Day from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will feature French activities for everyone, including an open air market by Bensidoun USA, French street performers, a special appearance by children's book character Madeline, the Radio Disney Road Crew, a French yard game called Pétanque, face painters, a stilt walker, a magician, wine tasting and a French garden tour. Kids also can learn French words.

Lisa Bryant, Cantigny's communications associate, said Col. Robert McCormick fought with the First Division Infantry during World War I and was at the Battle of Cantigny, the first victorious American conflict of the war.

When he inherited his family farm, Red Oak Farm, he renamed it Cantigny Farm because the battle had such an impact on him.

Bryant said Cantigny leaders organized the event to inform everyone about its French heritage and how to pronounce the name.

"We're assuming it will go well," Bryant said. "I think we'll try to do this every year."

The event also kicks off grand openings for Le Jardin Restaurant and Bertie's Gourmet Coffee Shop, Cantigny's newest eateries.

"We really wanted to expand our services to the north side of the park," she said. "We just want to provide a nice space for people to come, enjoy a good meal and enjoy their day at Cantigny."

Cantigny's French Connection Day is free. Parking is $3 from 7 to 10 a.m., $8 from 10 to 5 p.m. and $3 from 5 p.m. until sunset.