Kraig Kenning among those performing at Prairie Arts Festival
Arlington Heights native and national slide guitar champion Kraig Kenning returns to the Northwest suburbs this weekend to perform at the 23rd annual Prairie Arts Festival in Schaumburg.
Kenning returns to the fest after a four-year hiatus, bringing his popular mix of folk, blues and rock to the festival's south stage from 2-4 p.m. on Saturday and from 1-3 p.m. on Sunday.
The Prairie Arts Festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on Schaumburg's Robert O. Atcher Municipal Center, located at 101 Schaumburg Court. Admission and parking are free.
"I've played the fest many times in the past, and it's near and dear to my heart," says Kenning, who is based in Streamwood but travels nine months a year. "It turns out to be a little mini-concert for me. People attending the fest hear me from a distance, and then make their way to the stage to gather.
"It becomes like an outdoor concert," adds Kenning, who will return to Schaumburg on June 11 to play at the farmers market.
Kenning leads a list of nearly a dozen singers and musicians who will provide continuous live entertainment throughout the festival's two days. Its main draw is the collections of more than 140 fine artists, who work in sculpture, painting, jewelry, graphics, pottery, glass, photography, drawing, mixed media and fiber art.
"It's the first big weekend for art shows, so it's become an annual kickoff to summer," says Roxane Benvenuti, show coordinator. "Every show has its own character, but ours definitely is our grounds. With the beautiful landscaping, pond and swans, it makes the perfect setting for an art show."
As if right on cue, Schaumburg's swans hatched their young cygnets - seven in all - this week, and they provide another attraction to those who attend this weekend's festival.
Musicians provide much of the festival's vibrant atmosphere. They range from jazz and flamenco to African kalimba drumming and the soothing music of a classical harp.
They perform in three areas spread out across the festival grounds, including the south stage located near the food tent, where Kenning will perform for diners.
The festival stretches out across the municipal center campus, including its peaceful pond surrounded by weeping willow trees, with walking trails weaving patrons through the rows of artists' tents.
Of course, looking at artists' pieces can work up an appetite, and this festival delivers on that count as well.
Twelve Schaumburg area restaurants will be on hand in the food tent providing choices that range from typical picnic fare, such as hamburgers, brats and hot dogs, to tacos, crab rangoon and Philly cheese steak sandwiches.
Children will find their own area to pursue their fine arts interests, with ongoing activities provided by the Schaumburg Park District.