Wheaton fest adds kids' race for first time
The Wheaton Park District's annual Cream of Wheaton festival is always a showcase of local musical talent and running ability.
Usually that form of fun is reserved for teens while kids dominate the rides and games. This year, the kids will join the fitness aspect of the festival by participating in the Zippity Zoo Run, a half-mile race.
Like the regular Run for the Animals, proceeds will also benefit Cosley Zoo. Daily Herald Staff Writer James Fuller asked Wheaton Park District Marketing Manager Margie Wilhelmi to provide some specifics of this year's festival.
Q. What's new this year?
A. Zippity Zoo Run (1/2-mile run for kids) and race day registration for the Run for the Animals.
Q. What's everyone's favorite?
A. The run, the food, the rides, and the entertainment
Q. Is there a carnival?
A. Yes. It's on Karlskoga Avenue today and Saturday.
Q. What else do you want people to know about?
A. There will be four different park district departments providing "free" games in the tennis courts.
Q. What food vendors will be at the festival?
A. Arrowhead American Grill, Angeli's, Bojo's, Chicago Classics, Curtis Food service, dippin dots Ice Cream, Genoa Pizza, King Spuds, The Texan, Pad Thai, Rib House, Shamrock Rootbeer, Tropical Ice, Slinkys Great American Foods, Vinnie's, Wheaton Park District, Ye Olde Town Inn
Q. Who organizes the event?
A. The Wheaton Park District
Q. When is it?
A. Today - "U Rock" 4 Uganda from 6 to 9 p.m., live entertainment for teens at bandshell and carnival rides from 6 to 9:30 p.m.
Saturday - Run for the Animals begins at 7:30 a.m.; Zippity Zoo Run for kids 8:45 a.m.; Paws for Breakfast 7 to 11 a.m.; Arts & Crafts Fair 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Showcase of Entertainment 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Taste of the Western Suburbs 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; carnival rides 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and children's entertainment 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Q. Where is the festival?
A. Memorial Park in downtown Wheaton
Q. What is the cost to enter?
A. Run for the Animals is $30; Zippity Zoo Run $15; Paws for Breakfast $7 for adults, $5 for children and seniors.
Q. Where is the best place to park?
A. Recommended at parking garage in downtown Wheaton
Q. What's the best number to call for details?
A. (630) 690-4880
Q. Is there a Web site with details?
A. www.wheatonparkdistrict.com or www.cosleyzoo.org
Entertainment schedule
June 6
Local musicians
June 7
11 a.m. to noon Wheaton-Warrenville South High School Show Choir
12:30 to 2 p.m. The Only Sons
2:30 to 4 p.m. Soul Cookin'
4:30 to 6 p.m. The White Saddle Band
6:30 to 7 p.m. Wheaton North High School Show Choir
Strolling Entertainment
12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Jeffery the Great
3 to 5 p.m. Chris Fascione