Harvest Fest will return to Wood Dale Sept. 12

After being canceled by the COVID-19 pandemic last year, Wood Dale's annual Harvest Fest is returning next weekend.

Harvest Fest, which celebrates fall and the Wood Dale Historical Society's collections, runs 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 12, at Yesterday's Farm Museum, 850 N. Wood Dale Road.

The day will include Civil War and Korean War re-enactments, sheepshearing demonstrations and a petting zoo. Admission is free.

The Civil War re-enactment will be a highlight, featuring authentic Union uniforms, weapons, tools, and medical equipment of the era. Re-enactors will fire cannons every hour.

The Itasca-based conservation organization Wings and Talons will bring birds of prey, such as hawks and eagles; visitors will be able to meet the raptors and learn about how taking care of the environment helps preserve their habitats.

Wood Dale Historical Society President Jennifer Licona said bringing back the event after last year's cancellation is a great achievement, and she hopes that more work on the museum space can be done in the future.

"You gotta preserve a little bit of history while you have it left," Licona said. "We're excited to be doing this again and that everyone remains safe."