Catch some fun at Glendale Heights Harvest Fest

Bonnie and Clyde will invade Glendale Heights on Sunday, but you don't need to guard against a crime spree in the village.

Instead, two catfish named after the legendary criminals will be the top catches during a senior fishing derby. The derby on Lake Becerra will be a part of the village's fifth annual Harvest Fest at Heritage Park, 311 Windy Point Drive.

The festival also will include free hay rides, a chili cook-off and duck races.

"We have always prided ourselves on having fun, family events. This is one of them," public relations manager Gina Thorson said. "It absolutely has grown over the years."

Registration for the catch-and-release derby begins at 9 a.m., one hour before the actual derby starts. Awards and prizes will be handed out at noon. Special undisclosed gift certificates will be handed out to any participant who captures the fugitive catfish.

While seniors will do their best police work on the lake during the morning, many other events will take care of the rest of the crowd throughout the day.

Bags tournaments and the chili cook-off will begin registration in the morning. Attendees will be able to sample the chili at noon and judges will take a taste and choose a winner at about 12:30 p.m. Live music will top off the festival, which wraps up at 4 p.m. Also, marionette shows and a craft fair will take place throughout the day.

With families struggling because of the economy, Thorson said the festival gives village residents a chance to spend a day outside and having fun without having to dip into their wallet too much.

"This recession has hit everyone," she said. "Maybe they can get away from their problems and have a fun day with the family."