Bed races among unique events slated for Naper Days
With their habits blowing in the wind, the nuns once again will be on the run for a good cause as they attempt to reclaim their title in this weekend's bed races - just one of the many unique community-based festivities during this weekend's Naper Days.
The three-day event at Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St. in Naperville, caters to all ages and tastes with a variety of events and entertainment. This marks the fifth year since the Father's Day weekend festival returned to Naperville's summer calendar in 2004.
"It has grown through the years and people keep coming back because they know this celebrates family and all the great things that Naperville has to offer," said Donna DeFalco, marketing committee co-chair for Naper Days and marketing coordinator at Naper Settlement.
The Naper Days Bed Races is a festival highlight and draws crowds year after year. On average eight to 10 teams compete as four runners push a rider in the bed across the finish line. Races begin at 11 a.m. Saturday.
Sister Raphael Schmitz of St. Patrick's Residence plans to once again take her place as the rider in her team's bed - pushed by four men recruited by a connection with a resident of the facility - for the fifth year in a row.
Team Nuns on the Run, which represents St. Patrick's Residence, placed second last year after a close race against the Young Professionals of Naperville, who took the Golden Cape Trophy and bragging rights for the year. In the past, Nuns on the Run has taken the top spot as well as the title of Most Creative Bed. Though winning is always fun, it is not their main objective, team members say.
The team also gives away items like necklaces and bright colored boas to kids and spectators to get them involved and having fun as a way of making Naper Days a bit more special.
"We really do it to thank Naperville for letting us be a part of such a great community and all that they do for us," said Sister Jeanne Haley, administrator of St. Patrick's Residence. She added that it's a wonderful event to bring people together and a great way to show that the sisters know how to have fun.
Residents of the nursing home and rehabilitation facility also play a big part in the excitement of the day by cheering on their team at the race.
Other memorable Naper Days events include the Blue Ribbon Baking Competition; the Taste of Naperville, with prices ranging from $3 to $5; and a variety of family entertainment like performances by Scribblemonster and inflatables.
"We worked really hard this year (so) that all the different age groups would have something," said Michelle LeBlanc, children and family activities co-chair of Naper Days.
An eclectic mix of entertainment will take the main stage including headliners The Smithereens and Matthew Sweet.
Local teen bands also will get to take to the main stage Sunday, getting the rock star experience during the Hix Brothers Teen Band Showcase.
Rick Kasbee, teen band coordinator for Naper Days, said the showcase gives teens an opportunity that is hard to come by as a young band.
"For them, it actually is the rock star experience," he said. "It gives them something to shoot for."
A new addition to the festival is Sunday's Get Fit Naperville Walk. Fathers and their children are encouraged to take the one-mile walk together as part of their Father's Day celebrations.
<p class="factboxtextbold12col"><b>What:</b> Naper Days</p> <p class="factboxtextbold12col"><b>When:</b> 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, June 19; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, June 20; and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 21 </p> <p class="factboxtextbold12col"><b>Where:</b> Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville</p> <p class="factboxtextbold12col"><b>Tickets:</b> $5 online and at the gate before 6 p.m., $10 at gate after 6 p.m.; free for children 8 and younger </p> <p class="factboxtextbold12col"><b>Info:</b> <a href="http://naperdays.org" target="new">naperdays.org</a></p>