Weather's no help, so let Schaumburg event signal start of summer

Summer is just around the corner now ... or is it?

With weather proving an unreliable indicator of season lately, maybe only the calendar and nighttime sky can be counted on to determine summer's start.

Or the Schaumburg Park District, which again will be helping to usher in the sweetest of seasons with its annual Solstice Hop & Vine Fest. The fest takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 21 at Spring Valley Nature Center, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road in Schaumburg.

The event combines quality beers and wines with the food of several community restaurants, as well as musical entertainment amid the beauty of an unspoiled natural landscape.

Proceeds raised will benefit the Schaumburg Park Foundation's scholarship and other charitable programs.

The nonrefundable tickets are $30, with an additional $1 service fee for online purchases. Admission includes a commemorative wineglass and 10 food/beverage tickets.

Purchases can be made online at schaumburgparkfoundation.org; in person at the nature center; or by phone at (847) 985-2115. Attendees must be 21 or older, and a valid ID is required.

Free parking and shuttle bus service is available at nearby Conant High School, 700 E. Cougar Trail in Hoffman Estates.

Because of the natural venue, conservative footwear is recommended.

Schaumburg Bank & Trust will be a new presenting sponsor, and accompanying food will be provided by California Pizza Kitchen, Chandler's Chophouse, The Melting Pot, Moretti's Ristorante and Pizzeria, Riccardo's, Sweet Escape and Whole Foods Market.

Music will be provided by Ken Slauf and his band providing a folk/Americana/contemporary sound, and the mellow jazz of the Marti Bonne/Geoff DeMuth Quartet.