Parade kicks off Bloomingdale Septemberfest’s 50th anniversary

Posted September 04, 2024 12:16 pm

Submitted by Village of Bloomingdale

Dancers from Lights Camera Dancin’ perform in the 2023 Septemberfest Parade. Bloomingdale’s traditional end-of-summer celebration returns on Saturday, Sept. 7. Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com, 2023

Bloomingdale Septemberfest is marking its 50th year on Saturday, Sept. 7. The day begins at 11 a.m. with the parade, which steps off near DuJardin School, 166 S. Euclid Ave., heads west onto Schick Road to Third Street, making its way to Old Town Park, arriving around noon. Highlights of the parade include the Navy Band Great Lakes and “Royal Court” members from previous Septemberfests.

After the parade, the opening ceremony at noon will feature key presentations, including the VFW flag presentation, the unveiling of the time capsule, and a special 50th anniversary presentation by the Bloomingdale Historical Society. It also features the presentation of five Joe Draghi Septemberfest Scholarship Fund awards. Over the past five decades, the scholarship fund has awarded Bloomingdale young adults thousands of dollars in scholarships.

Tony Spavone, a beloved Bloomingdale restaurateur for over 40 years and classically trained singer, will perform the national anthem to start the festivities.

Bloomingdale Septemberfest, the annual end-of-the-summer gathering on the first Saturday after Labor Day, returns to Old Town for the 50th year. Courtesy of Village of Bloomingdale

The year’s master of ceremonies, Brett Walkow, returns for his fourth year. He is known for his blend of humor, warmth, and audience engagement, having performed globally alongside stars like Melissa McCarthy and appeared on “The Tonight Show.”

Throughout the afternoon, enjoy a showcase of local talent, featuring performances by the Bloomingdale Park District gymnastics, Notable Notes, Center Stage Dance Team, Bloomingdale School of Music, and Synergy Dance.

At 4 p.m., The Wayouts will be bringing fresh life to 1960s garage rock classics by The Kinks, The Animals, and more.

It will be followed by Hillbilly Rockstarz at 6 p.m. featuring today's top country hits and timeless classics.

At 8 p.m., the headliner, Radio Gaga, will perform the biggest hits from Queen and Lady Gaga in a Vegas-style production.

Radio Gaga plays a free concert Tuesday, Aug. 8, as part of the Huntley Concerts in the Square series. Courtesy of Radio Gaga

The stage entertainment also will feature local groups showcasing the community spirit.

From noon to 10 p.m., explore a variety of craft vendors, enjoy treats from the food vendors, and make sure the kids have a blast at the carnival.

Learn more at facebook.com/bloomingdale.il/.

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