Lake Zurich's Alpine Fest started after World War II
The Lake Zurich Lions Club Annual Alpine Fest returns this weekend for three days of carnival games and rides, food, and family entertainment. Lions Club President Scott Hicks tells us what you need to know.
Q. What makes this such a great event?
A. In most communities, the summer carnival is handled by the village government, the chamber of commerce, or a combination, but Alpine Fest in Lake Zurich is all done by the Lions Club. As a result, no taxpayer money is spent and any commercial exposure is simply a product of a contribution to a great cause. Even better, all of the proceeds are poured right back into the community. The Lions maintain Lions Park for use by residents, including the ball field. We also help to maintain the lake and stock it with fish every year. We help the blind and hearing-impaired in this community, and we make four scholarships available for deserving students bound for college or vocational school.
Q. How long has this event been around? Is there anything new or different this year?
A. The Lions started Alpine Fest after WWII to celebrate the return of our soldiers. At that time, it was mainly a food event with bingo and some other games of chance, and a place to buy beer. It is much larger now. We have a full-fledged carnival, professional entertainment and the best food on the planet, and everyone knows that this is the best place to be in the middle of July.
Q. What's the highlight of the event?
A. The highlight of the event is the Alpine Fest Parade, Lake County's biggest. Although we have magic carpets, equestrians and dignitaries, the best part is that we have a chance to show off the kids in the community - the high school band, pom squad, cheerleaders and the like.
Q. What kinds of activities will appeal to kids and families?
A. Besides the rides for all ages, there's a family tent with magic acts and other fun.
Q. What about adults?
A. Lots of wonderful entertainment under the big top tent, great food and cold beer.
Q. What kinds of food and beverages will be for sale?
A. Bloomin' onions, funnel cakes, snow cones, roasted corn, burgers, brats, pizza, pop and alcoholic beverages.
Q. Tell us about the people behind the scenes who pull this event together.
A. This event doesn't happen by itself. It takes about 300 volunteers and all 100 of our Lions to make this happen. We'll take the rest of the month off, but we'll be planning next year's Alpine Fest in August. If you'd like to help, call (847) 691-4187.
<p class="factboxheadblack">Lake Zurich Lions Club Alpine Fest</p> <p class="News"><b>When:</b> 6 p.m. to midnight Friday, July 24; 1 p.m. to midnight Saturday, July 25; parade at 11:30 a.m., rides begin at 1 p.m. Sunday, July 26</p> <p class="News"><b>Where:</b> Lions Park, Main Street and Route 22, Lake Zurich</p> <p class="News"><b>Cost:</b> Admission is free. Bring money for rides, food and entertainment. All proceeds support community interests and help the blind and hearing-impaired. </p> <p class="News"><b>More info:</b> <a href="http://www.lzlions.org" target="new">lzlions.org</a></p>