Septemberfest returns to Bloomingdale after hiatus

It might be returning a little later than usual, but Septemberfest is definitely back in Bloomingdale.

The festival, a 38-year tradition in the village that usually is scheduled for the weekend after Labor Day, was canceled in 2010 due to budget constraints. But this year organizers worked hard to resurrect the fest they say represents the community.

“This year is a little later than usual, but we wanted to have enough time to put it together and do it right,” said Bill Wolff, Septemberfest committee chairman. “Unlike Family Fest in summertime (an event also canceled in 2010), which was more to attract people from other areas, Septemberfest has always attracted primarily Bloomingdale residents.”

This year’s fest will begin with its traditional parade at 11 a.m. from DuJardin School, 166 S. Euclid Ave., heading north on Euclid, then west on Schick Road.

Local units in the parade will finish their route in Old Town, where Bloomingdale VFW members and Boy Scout troops will lead the fest’s opening ceremony at noon.

The celebration will continue with craft exhibits, food, and performances by the Bloomingdale Park District Gymnastics Team, Mohler Dance Academy, Dance Explosion, Center Stage Dance Studios and others.

The evening will feature the New Invaders, who will perform rock music of the ’60s from 7 to 9 p.m.

The fest also traditionally awards scholarships to high school seniors, but Wolff said organizers did not have time to raise funds once village officials gave them the go-ahead to proceed with Septemberfest this year. He adds that organizers hope to bring back the scholarships in 2012.

Although the fest is scaled back a bit, Wolff said it will be good for residents to participate in the tradition that has brought them together in Bloomingdale’s historic district for 38 years.

“I think that’s one thing people like about it: Septemberfest gives you the opportunity to walk around the Old Town area and meet and greet the people you maybe see every day, but never actually get to say hello to and talk with,” said Wolff.