Lakemoor Fest fireworks delivers big entertainment

Now in its 20th year, Lakemoor Fest is marking a milestone. But the emphasis isn’t on longevity. Instead organizers tout the neighborhood feel and one of the best fireworks shows in the suburbs.

“Everybody is having a family party on that day in anticipation of the fireworks show,” Village Administrator David Alarcon said. “It’s packed. Thousands and thousand of people show up for the show.”

Held in Morrison Park on the shore of Lily Lake, just south of Route 120 between Darrell and Lily Lake roads, the three-day bash boasts traditional summer fare, including a carnival, live music, food and drink.

Hours are 4-11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9; 9 a.m. to midnight Saturday, Aug. 10; and, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11.

A variety of food vendors and activities such as the tug of war, treasure hunt, fishing derby, and horseshoe and bean bag toss competitions are among the offerings that draw a total of 20,000 or more over the run of the festival. Visit www.lakemoor.net for details and times.

But it is the full half-hour fireworks show over Lily Lake at 9:30 p.m. Saturday that draws spectators from far and wide. This year, Ace Pyro is back to deliver the big booms and “oohs” and “aahs.”

“We went back with our old vendor for fireworks,” Alarcon said. “That’s special. People seem to like the old vendor a lot better. We’ve been told, and we agree, our show competes with the fireworks show in Chicago.”

The show is longer and the shells bigger than many local displays, in part because they are shot from an island in the lake. Route 120 between Darrell and Lily Lake roads will be closed for about two hours for the show.

Featured bands are Centerfold on Friday, State Line on Saturday, and The Original Rockin’ Fenderskirts on Sunday.

Lakemoor Fest is funded by donations and proceeds from the concession stands and booth rentals. Last year, the village came out $3,000 in the black.

“We operate the fest through donations, corporate sponsorships and space for our food vendors,” Alarcon said. “Every year, our goal is to make sure it pays for itself.”