Alpine Fest Parade a sweet tradition in Lake Zurich

The Alpine Fest Parade, which organizers say is the largest parade in Lake County, marched through downtown Lake Zurich on Sunday in front of a clapping, cheering and candy-hungry crowd.

Hundreds of people lined Main Street to watch the marching bands, bagpipers, civic organizations and local businesses that participated in the annual parade. Early on, the most popular of the marching units appeared to be those that tossed out the most candy.

"The boys love the candy part," said resident Lisa Nunez, who brought her two sons, ages 9 and 7. "They wanted to bring little sacks to put it all in, but I told them they could only take what fit in their pockets."

Other attendees said they liked the hometown feel of the event.

"It's a special thing that happens right in your own town," said Ed Cavanaugh, a Lake Zurich native who now lives in Elgin. "It feels different than other parades."

Cavanaugh also expressed thanks for Sunday's weather, which was mostly sunny and pleasantly mild.

The event helped kick off the final day of Alpine Fest, the 72-year-old summer festival organized by the Lake Zurich Lions Club. The fest, which was held at Lion Fred Blau Park on Main Street, featured carnival rides, games and live music. The bands scheduled to play Sunday were Incoming Groove Band and fest closer Dirt Tornado.