Rain can't stop Irish Fest fans

A late afternoon downpour Saturday didn't deter the intrepid few who braved the elements to attend Arlington Heights Historical Museum's annual Irish Fest.

By 5:15 p.m. a sprinkle remained, but the sun broke through luring festivalgoers who had been sheltering indoors out onto the museum grounds.

And Irish eyes were shining again.

Kelly Tabor, of Arlington Heights. has attended the festival for years and had no intention of leaving, despite the forecast.

"We really enjoy it. There's something for everyone," said Tabor whose companions had already set up their chairs in anticipation of headliners Mike and Joe, who were set to perform at 9 p.m.

The festival began about 16 years ago as a way of celebrating the cultural heritage of Arlington Heights' founding families, said museum administrator Dan Schoenberg. Organizers originally intended to host German and Polish festivals as well, Schoenberg said, but the Irish-themed, family-friendly event proved so popular, they stuck with it. Through rain or shine, you might say.

When it comes to an outdoor festival, the one thing you have no control over is the weather, he said.

"You have to plan accordingly," Schoenberg said.

That meant moving Saturday's first performers, The McNulty Irish Dancers, indoors. That's where Michael Johnson and his family headed when rain began. After it stopped, the Arlington Heights family headed back outside and straight for the face painters and the games in the Wee Folk Tent.

"We're going to make the best of it," he said.