Summer Guide 2012: Fairs and Festivals

We've already had "A Taste of Wheaton," "PrairieFest" in Oswego and the "Pride on the Fox RiverFest" in St. Charles this month. But if you like fairs and festivals like I do, there are plenty more to look forward to this summer. In addition to festivals in the western suburbs, I've included on the below list a few notable fairs that are within a 2- to 3-hour drive. 

Please let me know if I've missed a fair or festival you think I should include. I'll be glad to do an update! 

Photo by topshampatti on Flickr.PrairieFest

Swedish Days 

• Where: Downtown Geneva
• When: June 19 through June 24
• Why: This is a great all-around festival, marking the longest days of the year and the city's Swedish heritage. It features a carnival, music, food, craft show, children's games and a parade on the final day that's particularly good. Friday, June 22, is "Kids' Day," featuring a Kids' Day Parade, Radio Disney and other entertainment that will appeal to children.
• Cost: Free admission. 

Long Grove Strawberry Festival

• Where: Old McHenry Road and Robert Parker Coffin Road in Long Grove
• When: June 22 through June 24
• Why: Long Grove says the Strawberry Festival is the "granddaddy" of the town's signature festivals, drawing thousands of visitors for music, food and fun. You'll find strawberry treats, plus free live entertainment. For kids, there are kiddie rides, face painting and family activities. 
• Cost: Free admission

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Festivals, Fairs and Fried Food: The Go West 'Go Guide' to Summer Fun Around the State

We've already had "A Taste of Wheaton" and the "Pride on the Fox RiverFest" this month. But if you like fairs and festivals like I do, there are plenty more to look forward to this summer. In addition to festivals in the western suburbs, I've included on the below list a few notable fairs that are within a 2- to 3-hour drive. 

Please let me know if I've missed a fair or festival you think I should include. I'll be glad to do an update! 

Photo by topshampatti on Flickr.PrairieFest

PrairieFest

• Where: Throughout Oswego, with the main festival grounds at PrairieFest Park at 91 Plank Road
• When: June 16 through June 19
• Why: This will be the 23rd year for PrairieFest, which is put on by the Oswegoland Park District. It features children's performers, petting zoos, pony rides, camel rides, free children's activities and an Expo Village in which businesses and crafters promote their services and sell their wares.
• Cost: Free admission.  

Swedish Days 

• Where: Downtown Geneva
• When: June 21 through June 26
• Why: This is a great all-around festival, marking the longest days of the year and the city's Swedish heritage. It features a carnival, music, food, craft show, children's games and a parade on the final day that's particularly good. Friday, June 24, is "Kids' Day," featuring a Kids' Day Parade, a teddy bear clinic and entertainment that will appeal to children.
• Cost: Free admission. 

Click to read more ...