Swedish Days returns to Geneva with music, food, 5K and more
Summer in Geneva kicks off with “the grandaddy of Illinois festivals,” Swedish Days. This year’s festival is the 76th, and it will run Wednesday through Sunday, June 24-28.
Thousands of visitors and residents are expected to stop by for a variety of traditional events and new attractions. Here’s a sneak peek.
New this year
Themed nights are intended to add to the fun of watching bands on Central Stage. On Thursday at 7 p.m., wear your best ’70s and ’80s outfit to win a prize. Friday at 7 p.m., beach balls will be given away to throw around while the music makes everyone wish they were on the beach. Saturday at 7 p.m., light up the night with foam glow sticks.
On Saturday, stop by the “Doodle Booth” and put a quarter in the slot. Local artist Spencer Donahue will draw you. The Doodle Booth will resemble a photo booth, but instead of a photo strip, you will receive a portrait pen doodle-style drawing.
Free entertainment
Free nightly musical entertainment on Central Stage kicks off Wednesday with the Swedish American Choir, Geneva Park District performances and the Geneva’s Got Talent semifinal. Central Stage headliners include Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute at 7 p.m. Thursday, Johnny Russler & the Beach Bum Band at 7 p.m. Friday, and the PriSSillas at 7 p.m. Saturday.
Various solo and small-band artists will play Wednesday through Saturday afternoons in the craft beer tent.
Enjoy traditional Scandinavian dancing with the Nordic Folk Dancers of Chicago on the courthouse lawn Saturday.
Food booths and dining
Festivalgoers can feast on traditional Swedish and favorite American foods including brats, corn dogs, sandwiches and meatballs, to name a few, at the many nonprofit food booths. Sinfully good desserts will be available. Other options include the many restaurants in Geneva, the beer gardens offering food, drink and entertainment during the festival, and the chamber’s own craft beer tent on James Street.
Shopping promotions
Some downtown merchants will be open late on Wednesday and Thursday for Swedish Nights. All week long, some merchants will offer special deals and promotions.
Longtime Genevans invited
If you have lived in Geneva for over 25 years, join others for the Geneva Settlers Breakfast Thursday, June 25. This popular event is at Riverside Receptions at 35 N. River Lane, with breakfast served at 8:30 a.m. No reservations are necessary.
Activities for young visitors
Wednesday brings the carnival to town. It’s open every day of the festival, and each day offers an unlimited-ride wristband opportunity.
Those with a competitive nature can join the dodge ball and 3-on3 basketball tournaments or play a round of mini golf.
Friday, June 26 is “Kids’ Day,” when kids can stay busy from early in the morning to late into the night. The day kicks off with the Kids’ Parade leaving from Campbell and Fourth streets — look for the registration sign on the south side of the Courthouse lawn. The fun continues with activities at the Geneva Public Library, both inside and out.
The Kids’ Day Parade invites children up to the age of 10 to enter one of several parade categories: Swedish Spirit, Geneva Viking Fans, and Fun with Bikes and Trikes.
Swedish Days 5K Lopp
The Swedish Days 5K Lopp promises a fun race experience. Don your Swedish best and join runners at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, June 27, at Gunnar Anderson Forest Preserve. There is also a Kids Dash at 9 a.m. for children 10 and younger. More information and the link to register are at genevachamber.com.
Grand parade
On Sunday, bring your chairs and blankets so the entire family can enjoy the Grand Parade. It steps off at 1 p.m. from Geneva High School and heads south down Anderson Boulevard, east on Route 38 and south on Third Street, ending at the train station.
Festival admission is free. For a full schedule of events, visit genevachamber.com or call the Geneva Chamber of Commerce at (630) 232-6060.