Palatine StreetFest grows

What began as a small hometown event has more than doubled in size to become quite the party. So don't miss out on this year's Downtown Palatine Street Fest, expected to attract 45,000 people over three days.

The action starts at 5 p.m. tonight at Slade and Brockway streets and continues 11 a.m. to midnight Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.

The musical lineup features nearly 15 bands including Sixteen Candles, Andrew Ripp Band, the Smithereens and Hi Infidelity. Another 15 groups and restaurants such as Brothers Ribs and Anthem Grill will over a range of food offerings.

There are also a few special events. Cycle Fest 2010, a casual 17-mile bike ride through the streets and paths of Palatine, takes place Saturday morning. On Sunday, the Palatine Park District will hold its seventh annual Feet Fest, a 3K family fun walk/run, and the Northwest Special Recreation Association will offer a noncompetitive sprint event.

If four-legged events are more your style, check out the Sweet Pea Pet Parade on Sunday.

Admission is free, as is parking at the Gateway Center parking deck, Smith and Colfax.

For a full schedule of events and activities, go to palatinestreetfest.com.