Summerfest makes a splash

By: 
STAFF REPORT

 

A smattering of rain throughout the weekend couldn’t dampen the spirits of festival goers who flocked to the 37th Annual Braidwood Lions Summerfest at Old Smokey City Park.

Dark skies, rain clouds, and muggy temperatures threatened the festival throughout the four-day event, but couldn’t keep hundreds from enjoying carnival rides, entertainment, food, fun, bingo, flea market, contests, and the annual parade.

Despite a few moments of downpours, activities didn’t have to be suspended for any significant amount of time. The main stage was alive four straight nights, starting Thursday with the Jet Frankenstein Band. The Ethan Bell Band hit the stage on Friday, followed by The Silhouettes on Saturday. Silverstrings closed out the festival on Sunday with classic country, bluegrass, and rock.

The clouds and rain cleared in plenty of time for the festival-finale fireworks show on Sunday, sponsored by Exelon Generation.

Braidwood businessman and owner of Joneseez, Bob Jones, was chosen as Grand Marshal for the annual Hometown Proud Parade on Sunday.

This year’s theme was “Christmas in July.”

Summerfest is the Braidwood Lions Club’s largest fundraiser of the year, helping to raise funds needed to provide humanitarian sight and sound services as well as the various community events and activities that are Club provides or sponsors throughout the year. All funds go back into the community. More pictures of the event can be found in this week's edition of the Braidwood Journal.