Palatine Jaycees seeks participants for Hometown Fest

Parade and expo applications for Palatine's Fourth of July celebration, Hometown Fest, are now open through its website at hometownfest.org.

The Palatine Jaycees are looking for local organizations, crafters, artists, nonprofits and businesses to participate in both events. In this time of uncertainty, the Palatine Jaycees are cautiously optimistic that the festival will go on.

The Jaycees' Fourth of July parade is a 64-year tradition in Palatine. The parade will be held at 11 a.m. July 3. There are openings for groups who would like to enter a float or simply march in the parade. Entries cost $75 for nonprofits and organizations; $125 for businesses.

The Arts and Crafts, Business and Charity Expo runs July 2-3 in Community Park, Palatine Road and Northwest Highway. Exhibitors will be assigned a 12-foot-by-12-foot space on a first-come, first-serve basis. Arts and crafts booths cost $100; business booths cost $180; and nonprofit booths cost $20.

Hometown Fest is one of the best known and attended events in the area. The expo draws in more than 60 exhibits annually and the parade is attended by thousands from Palatine and the surrounding communities.

"Both the parade and expo give opportunities to promote and support local businesses," said Hometown Fest co-chairwoman Jenny Levin.

Since 1957, the Palatine Jaycees have proudly partnered with the village and park district to host Hometown Fest, Palatine's Fourth of July celebration. The festival includes fireworks, entertainment, food vendors, parade, carnival, business expo and craft fair, Family Day and other family activities.

The mission of the Palatine Jaycees is to provide development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change. Members volunteer their time to organize and run the fest each year. Proceeds from Hometown Fest benefit Palatine by funding community projects, community grants, high school scholarships and more.

All state and local guidelines will be followed to ensure a safe festival, and all festival activities are subject to change due to the ever-developing COVID-19 pandemic. Please continue to wear masks and social distance.

The Palatine chapter of the Jaycees has more than 100 members and is one of the largest of the 50 chapters throughout Illinois. The Jaycees give individuals ages 21 to 40 opportunities to develop personal and leadership skills while serving their communities.

The Palatine Jaycees currently hold a monthly general meeting virtually at 7:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month and, when allowed, at Arlington Lanes in Arlington Heights.

For information on the Palatine Jaycees, membership or sponsored events, visit www.palatinejaycees.org or email info@palatinejaycees.org.