Full-scale Strawberry Fest returns to Long Grove June 25-27
Summertime's sweetest suburban fest is back.
The annual Strawberry Festival, a decades old tradition in historic downtown Long Grove, is returning June 25-27 after a year hiatus due to the pandemic.
Following the new CDC and state reopening guidelines, organizers are bringing back the same full-scale event that annually has inspired so much fun in kicking off summertime in the suburbs.
Attendees of all ages can expect three days of strawberry-infused foods and drinks, live music, and family entertainment.
Festival hours are noon to 11 p.m. Friday, June 25; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, June 26; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 27. Admission is $5; free before 2 p.m. Friday and at all times for children younger than 6.
Like usual, the almighty strawberry is the star attraction at Strawberry Fest. Some of the area's most popular restaurants, chefs, and vendors will serve unique strawberry-centric cuisine.
Featured items usually include things like strawberry barbecue sauces, deep fried strawberries on a stick, chocolate strawberry popcorn, strawberry kebabs, strawberry jams, strawberry fudge, funnel cakes with strawberries, strawberry smoothies, strawberry blintz, strawberry banana Nutella crepes, chocolate-covered strawberries, strawberry doughnuts, strawberry shakes, strawberry ice cream, chocolate strawberry sundaes, and more.
A variety of non-strawberry-centric vendors will also be on hand dishing out other summertime delights.
For those who like to mix it up, Strawberry Fest 2021 will include live music and family entertainment. Nonstop tunes on multiple stages, from solo acts to touring bands, will ensure there's never a dull moment for teens and grown-ups. Visit longgrove.org/festivals/strawberry-fest-2021/ for lineups.
Complimentary children's games and activities will capture the kids' attention. As in years' past, a classic carnival with popular rides will thrill the young and young at heart.
The new and improved historic downtown Long Grove, now construction-free after a major multiyear rehab, is known for its array of independent, family-owned and operated restaurants and stores. Strawberry Fest marks the kickoff to summer shopping season in town, with local merchants featuring their own summertime specials throughout the event weekend.
Visitors during fest weekend are invited to explore the recently beautified village and discover what makes Long Grove so flavorful.
Strawberry Festival's organizing group, the Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association, is a not-for-profit organization led by a team of elected volunteers that represent and serve the Long Grove historic district businesses and property owners, as well as the residents of the village.
By hosting memorable activities and events, they are able to support the interests of members, enhance the community, and encourage the use and preservation of the historic village.
For details, visit the website or call (847) 634-0888.