Palatine Jaycees Hometown Fest a summer classic
They say the classics never get old. That may explain the enduring popularity of the Palatine Jaycees Hometown Fest.
First held in 1957, this year’s fest takes place Wednesday through Sunday, July 2-6, around Community Park, 250 E. Wood St. The fest is a smorgasbord of classic summer fun — from carnival rides and live music, to an awe-inspiring fireworks show and patriotic Fourth of July parade.
And what better way to start a classic than with a classic? Movie night is back to open the fest Wednesday with the animated hit “Shrek” beginning at dusk.
Earlier in the day, from 3 to 5 p.m., the festival grounds hosts the Kathleen Blanck Memorial Carnival. The event allows individuals with special needs and their families to enjoy complimentary rides in a quieter setting, before the carnival opens to the public.
The fireworks show is set for dusk on Thursday, July 3. Organizers say one of the perks of the show’s launchpad behind the village hall is that it can be seen from many places across town. Views are clear from the majority of the fest grounds, and the top of the Gateway Center Garage downtown is another popular viewing location.
The Hometown Fest Parade steps off at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 5, from Cedar and Slade streets and travels an approximately one-mile route through the downtown and ending at the festival grounds.
Live music at the Fred P. Hall Amphitheater is always a big part of Hometown Fest and organizers are bringing a bevy of new bands to this year’s lineup. Of the 12 acts playing, only three — Abby Kay Band, Bucket Number Six and Boy Band Review — have played the fest during the past five years.
The lineup includes:
• The Abby Kay Band, (5 p.m.), Bucket Number Six, (7 p.m.), and Too Much Molly, (10 p.m.) Thursday, July 3.
• School of Rock Arlington Heights (12:30 p.m.); GOLDMEMBER (2:30 p.m.); Covington Groove (5 p.m.); Marina City (7:30 p.m.) and Boy Band Review (10 p.m.) Friday, July 4.
• Pearlsnap (12:30 p.m.); Liquid Faction (2:30 p.m.); Sean McKee Band (5 p.m.); Whiskey Road (7 p.m.); and iPop (10 p.m.) Saturday, July 5.
• Madcats (Noon) Sunday, July 6.
One notable change for festivalgoers — a switch to a “point of sale” system for alcohol. Organizers said the village had success with it at last year’s Street Fest, and they believe it will reduce lines for patrons and increase volunteer productivity.
As for parking, space immediately around the festival grounds is limited, so the Jaycees recommend visitors, if possible, car pool, use rideshare services or park in the downtown commuter lots and Gateway Center Garage.
For more information about the fest, including a full schedule of events, visit www.hometown-fest.com.