Cantigny fest explores Wheaton park's French connections
In case visitors weren't sure of Cantigny Park's French heritage, organizers of Sunday's French Connection fest at the park practically spelled it out:
"Can" "tee" "nee," said three signs posted at the entrance, reminding everyone of Cantigny's proper pronunciation.
That was just the beginning, however, of a day filled with mimes, magicians, French food, paintings of Parisian scenery, wine tastings and French-themed activities for all ages at the Wheaton park.
The event, which organizers hope will become annual, was created this year to celebrate the grand openings for Cantigny's newest eateries, Le Jardin Restaurant and Bertie's Gourmet Coffee Shop.
Lisa Bryant, the park's spokeswoman, said the fest also aimed to teach visitors about Cantigny's French links, which began when Col. Robert McCormick fought with the First Division Infantry during World War I. He was sent to 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.
Families learned that and much more about French culture Sunday, as French tunes streamed from speakers on the front lawn, study abroad programs recruited students and families tried playing the French game pétanque (pronounced "pay-tonk"), which is similar to Italian bocce.
Aurora resident Henry Abramski, a member of the Chicago Pétanque Club, said French Connection day was successful in attracting attention to a sport he's loved since his French mother taught him to play as a child.
"We play in tournaments and we often play on the Chicago lakefront and people stop and look but never say anything, so this is the perfect setting," Abramski said. "People are here today because they are interested in French culture, so this is amazing for us."
Throughout the day, a musician also performed French music on the accordion, costumed guides shared historic lessons and more than 50 vendors sold items like art, jewelry, clothing and fresh vegetables and fruit.
Lombard resident Barb Collins, whose son formerly worked as a Cantigny arborist, said she wanted to try the new Le Jardin restaurant. But the turnout was so big that she skipped the restaurant to avoid long lines. Instead, she relaxed on the lawn with her friends Maryann and Gerry Norton, also from Lombard.
All three have been Cantigny fans for years, and they said Sunday's fest only added to it's allure.
"They've done such a great job," said Maryann Norton. "Anywhere you look, it's just beautiful."