Organizers say Naperville's Last Fling off to strong start
Appropriately enough, a fall-like chill blew in just in time for Naperville's Last Fling, the community festival that serves as an unofficial goodbye to summer.
Not that anyone was complaining Saturday about having to wear jeans or a light jacket.
"Actually, I'm so happy it's not hot," said Beth Koppelson of Naperville, who was enjoying a minute of relaxation at the fest while her two girls shrieked with delight on the "Pharaoh's Fury" carnival ride. "It feels nice to spend the day outside and actually be comfortable."
The annual Last Fling, which is organized by the Naperville Jaycees, runs through Monday along the Riverwalk in downtown Naperville. The massive event includes a carnival, food, a business expo, family activities, special games and a stellar slate of live music, including a show today by country-music star Clint Black.
The event got off to a strong start on Friday, organizers said. A concert by blues legend Buddy Guy on Rotary Hill drew roughly 4,000 people.
"That's one of the biggest shows we've had in a long time," said Rosemarie Breske Garvey, a member of the Jaycees executive committee. "For the first day, it's fantastic, and I think that's a sign that this will be a good fest."
Last Fling is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Naperville Jaycees. Organizers estimate that it will bring between 200,000 and 250,000 people to downtown Naperville over the course of the weekend.
Steven White of Downers Grove brought his three children to the carnival on Saturday morning.
"You know, school just started, so they're a little bummed out," he said. "This gives them a bit of extra fun during this long weekend."
Special events scheduled for today at Last Fling include a pie-eating contest at 11 a.m., a rib cook-off between 1 and 4 p.m. and a strong man contest between 1 and 6 p.m. The musical lineup at the Rotary Hill Main Stage is Jason and the Haymakers at 4 p.m.; Annabelle Road at 6 p.m. and Black at 8 p.m.
Admission to the festival is free, but there is a charge for food, drinks, carnival rides and the Main Stage concerts. For details about Last Fling, visit lastfling.org.