73rd annual Swedish Days Festival returns with parade, music, food and more
More than 200,000 visitors are expected to visit the city of Geneva next week for its 73rd annual Swedish Days Festival.
"The Granddaddy of Illinois Festivals" will run Wednesday through Sunday, June 21-25, in Geneva's historic downtown. The festival combines traditional events and new attractions.
"The Geneva Chamber is pleased and excited to bring back Swedish Days in all its blue and yellow glory," says Laura Rush, Communications Director. "We know Genevans and visitors are ready for five days of fun."
Here's a sneak peek.
Shopping and treasures
Some shops will be offering specials during Swedish Days. Sweden Väst, on June 24-25, will specialize in Swedish items. If you are looking for that Swedish Days souvenir, this is where you will find it.
Free entertainment
Free nightly musical entertainment on Central Stage kicks off June 21 with Geneva Park District performances and Geneva's Got Talent. On Thursday and Friday, June 22-23, bands will play. Featured artists will play on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday afternoons in the Craft Beer Tent.
The Swedish Days Car Show is back on South Third Avenue from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, June 22.
Dining and drinking
Festivalgoers can feast on traditional Swedish and favorite American and ethnic foods, including brats, corn dogs, turkey legs, sandwiches, meatballs, pizza, garlic crab pasta and roasted corn, as well as desserts, at the many nonprofit food booths. Local restaurants will be open and may offer specials for Swedish Days. Or stop by one of the beer gardens that will offer good food, drink, and entertainment during the festival, including the chamber's Craft Beer Tent on James Street. Visit genevachamber.com for a listing of restaurants, pizzerias and pubs.
Settlers Breakfast
If you have lived in Geneva for over 15 years, join others for the Geneva Settlers Breakfast on Fridasy, June 23. This popular event is moving to Copper Fox, 477 S. Third Street with breakfast served at 8:30 a.m. No reservations necessary.
Fun and games
Wednesday, June 21, brings the carnival to town. The carnival is open every day of the festival and each day offers an unlimited ride wristband opportunity.
For those with a competitive nature, Swedish Days is packed with favorites - a dodgeball tournament, 3-on-3 basketball tournament and miniature golf.
Friday, June 23 is "Kids' Day" where from early in the morn to late into the night, kids can stay busy. The day kicks off with the Kids' Parade leaving from Campbell and Fifth streets (look for the registration sign). The fun continues with activities galore at the Geneva Public Library, outside and inside.
The Kids' Day Parade invites children through the age of 10 to enter in one of the parade categories.
Swedish Days 5K Lopp
The Swedish Days 5K Lopp takes place at 8 a.m. on Saturday, June 24. It starts and ends at Peck Farm Park, 4038 Kaneville Road. Pre-registration is $40; race day registration is available for $50. Visit raceroster.com/events/2023/71493/swedish-days-lopp-5k.
Grand Parade
On Sunday, June 25, bring some chairs and blankets so the entire family can enjoy the Grand Parade - truly a community parade expected to draw at least 45,000 spectators. It steps off at 1 p.m. from Anderson Boulevard and Center and proceeds south to State Street, east on State to Third Street, then south on Third to the Metra train station.
Visit genevachamber.com for a complete schedule.
Swedish Days festival
What: A midsummer celebration, celebrating 70+ years, featuring food, entertainment, a carnival, kids’ activities, Swedish offerings, shopping and more.
When: June 21-25. Generally each day’s activities begin at 11 a.m.; see
online schedule for exact times.Where: Most activities take place throughout downtown Geneva.Cost: Free general admission; fee for some activities.Parking: Public parking for the festival is close, with four parking lots just blocks from the festivities.Details: See Visitor Essentials on the home page of
genevachamber.com or call (630) 232-6060.