Geneva's Swedish Days kicks off Tuesday, marks 70 years in Geneva
"The Granddaddy of Illinois Festivals" is reaching "grandparent" age as it marks its 70th year. Geneva's Swedish Days will run Tuesday through Sunday, June 18-23, throughout the city's downtown.
More than 200,000 visitors and residents stop by for a variety of activities - combining traditional events and exciting new attractions.
Here's an overview of what you can expect.
Shopping and treasures
Shoppers look forward each year to merchant sidewalk sales offering bargains in Geneva's 100-plus specialty shops. Check out Moonlight Madness on Tuesday evening where shops are open until 9 p.m. The Art and Craft Show returns Friday and Saturday only.
Free entertainment
Free nightly musical entertainment on the Central Stage kicks off Wednesday with Geneva Park District performances and Geneva's Got Talent. Thursday, Friday and Saturday will feature bands. On Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday afternoons from 1-3 p.m., relax on the courthouse lawn and listen to featured artists.
A car show debuts from 5-9 p.m. Thursday on South Third Street featuring cars, food, a DJ and free photo booth.
Food booths
Festivalgoers can feast on traditional Swedish and favorite American and ethnic foods including, brats, ribs, turkey legs, veggie burgers, wood smoked pork sandwiches, meatballs, pizza, garlic crab pasta and burritos, to name a few, at the many nonprofit food booths. Sinfully good desserts will also be available.
Restaurants, pizzerias and pubs
Don't forget all the fine restaurants in Geneva. From casual bistros to five-star formal dining, a day in Geneva isn't complete without sampling one or more of the city's restaurants and eateries. Or stop by one of the beer gardens that will offer good food, drink, and entertainment during the festival. Visit genevachamber.com for a listing of the 40-plus restaurants, pizzerias and pubs.
Activities for young visitors
Kids will want to be at Swedish Days 2019 every day, but Tuesday's kickoff explodes with activity for young visitors.
Creation Station opens at 10 a.m. on Wednesday and continues Thursday and Friday with fun projects. Join Sounds Like Music, School of ART, Geneva and American Science and Surplus at Creation Station's new location on the corner of Third and Campbell.
Swedish Days 2019 is packed with favorites - the carnival; 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, Fun at the Library Tent and mini golf.
New this year is Toddler Town on South Fourth Street. Little ones shorter than 35 inches have a spot all to themselves. From Wednesday to Friday the Discovery Tent, in front of 316 Campbell Street, is full of interesting discoveries for all.
Friday, June 21 is "Kids' Day" where from early in the morning to late into the night, kids can stay busy. All Star Sports coaches will try to dodge getting dunked. The Kids' Day Parade invites children through the age of 10 to enter in one of the parade categories.
5K run
Located along the scenic Fox River in Geneva, the Swedish Days 5K Lopp promises an unbelievable race experience. As part of the Swedish Days Festival, the run encourages participants to tie-in to the Scandinavian theme with their attire. More information available at genevachamber.com.
Grand parade
On Sunday, bring some chairs and blankets so the entire family can enjoy the Grand Parade - truly a community parade that over 45,000 will be viewing. It starts at 1 p.m.
As always, admission to Swedish Days is free. Events, hours, and a complete schedule are available at genevachamber.com or call the Geneva Chamber of Commerce at (630) 232-6060.