Elburn's Day in the Park returns with fireworks

The Elburn Day in the Park is back, now that it is close to having enough money to put on a worthwhile fireworks show.

Organizers last year canceled the event because they weren't raising enough money to pay for the 20- to 30-minute show to which viewers were accustomed.

But it now has about three-quarters of what it needs to pay for such a show, said Leslie Flint, chairman of the Day in the Park committee. The July 11 party is an Elburn Chamber of Commerce event, supported entirely by donations.

"We're pretty excited," she said.

After going without last year, "people were more aware they wanted it back this year," Flint said. So they attended pork chop dinner fundraisers and put money in donation canisters at downtown Elburn merchants. The committee is still collecting money in those canisters, and is working on getting donations from businesses.

Admission to Day in the Park at Lions Park is free. Parking costs $5 a car.

New this year is a health fair, which last year was conducted during the Elburn Summerfest.

Other than that, it's the same as in yesteryears: Food, carnival, games and bands from 11 a.m. until dusk.

"I'm a big fan of the bags and volleyball tournaments," Flint said, when asked her favorite part. To sign up for the volleyball tournament, visit elburnchamber.com.

Overall, the picnic provides "nice outdoor activities for everyone," she said.