Palatine Jaycees' Hometown Fest has grown over 65 years

The Palatine Jaycees are excited for this summer's Fourth of July Hometown Fest, which is scheduled from Thursday, June 30, to Monday, July 4, with fireworks on Sunday, July 3, and a parade Saturday, July 2.

Details, including a full schedule of events, are available at www.hometownfest.org. Events take place at Community Park, 262 E. Palatine Road.

Since 1957, the Palatine Jaycees have partnered with the village of Palatine and Palatine Park District to host Hometown Fest, Palatine's Fourth of July celebration.

The festival includes one of the largest fireworks displays in the Northwest suburbs, live bands, food vendors, parade, carnival, a business expo and craft fair, Family Day and other activities.

This year, the Jaycees celebrate the 65th anniversary of Hometown Fest, as well as the 65th anniversary of the chapter.

"When the fest started 65 years ago, it was a one-day fest and now it's a four- to six-day fest," said festival co-chairwoman Megan O'Brien.

"The fest has grown over the years as our chapter has grown, incorporating a full entertainment schedule, food vendors and a carnival. The Palatine Jaycees had 35 members in the chapter when the fest started and now, in 2022, the chapter has 119 members."

This year's band schedule will feature Wall of Denial, Hot Rocks, The Instinct, Bucket #6, The Bad Reputation, Six on Friday, 7th heaven, The Jolly Ringwalds, Feudin' Hillbillies, Schaumburg School of Rock, Industrial Drive, Oh Yes!, Serendipity and Boy Band Review.

In honor of the 65th anniversary, the Jaycees will be holding a movie night at dusk Thursday, June 30, featuring "Moana." Come early and meet some favorite Disney characters.

For information about Hometown Fest, email hometownfest@palatinejaycees.org or visit palatinejaycees.org/hometown-fest.

About the Jaycees

The Palatine Chapter of the Jaycees is the largest of the 36 chapters throughout Illinois. The Jaycees give people ages 21 to 40 opportunities to develop personal and leadership skills while serving their communities. The Palatine Chapter has been recognized locally and internationally for its efforts.

Hometown Fest co-chairwoman Jen Anderson said, "This event would not be possible without the manpower of the Palatine Jaycees' dedicated membership. The members volunteer their time to organize and run the fest each year."

Proceeds from Hometown Fest benefit Palatine by funding community projects, community grants, high school scholarships, and more.

The Palatine Jaycees meet the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at Arlington Lanes in Arlington Heights and on Zoom.

For information on the Palatine Jaycees, membership, or any of its sponsored events, visit www.palatinejaycees.org, or email info@palatinejaycees.org.