Proud American Days festival in New Lenox kicks off

NEW LENOX – Heavy rain Thursday cleared up right before Proud American Days kicked off in New Lenox.

The festival grounds were wet, but visitors still arrived to enjoy carnival food, music, rides and entertainment at the four-day event that marks New Lenox by its village motto as the “Home of Proud Americans.”

"Every year, Mother Nature always plays a role in the success of our festival," said Lauren Lotz, spokeswoman for the New Lenox Community Park District, which runs the event. "So this year, we're hoping for good weather. We'll get through this."

One of the highlights of the festival is the annual Proud American Days Military Tribute, which on Sunday will include appearances from elected officials such as New Lenox Mayor Tim Baldermann, state Sen. Michael Hastings, D-Tinley Park, among others.

Military families are encouraged to attend.

“It’s just a wonderful opportunity to recognize the military for all their services, especially in these troubled times,” Lotz said.

One of the other highlights of the festival is the carnival and rides. Besides the classic Ferris wheel, Proud American Days has attractions such as the Cliff Hanger, which gives riders the experience of hang gliding.

Thursday, Friday and Saturday offer unlimited ride wristbands for $30 but from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, there will be unlimited ride wristbands for $15, a move Lotz said is geared toward children.

“[The] carnival is such a huge draw,” she said.

Proud American Days is “very kid-friendly,” said David Blackmore, of New Lenox. His children took a ride on the Train Station, one of the many rides offered to children at the festival.

“It’s a good time. It’s fun,” he said.

Dennis Tuzik, of New Lenox, came out to the festival for the first time so his daughter could enjoy some rides.

“It looks fun,” he said.

While the New Lenox Community Park District operates the festival, Lotz said three organizations have volunteered their time to help run it, and the park district in turn pays them an hourly wage that goes back to their organization.

The New Lenox Lions Club, Knights of Columbus and Lincoln-Way Music Boosters are the three organizations that are helping this year, she said.

The park district’s Friends of the Parks foundation also is helping for all four days, she said.

Thursday’s events featured the annual raffle by the Lions Club and a bags tournament offering cash prizes. Friday will include the Lions Club Special Needs Day at the entertainment tent.

On Saturday, visitors can see the New Lenox Fire Foundation’s “controlled burn” beef cook-off, Proud American baby contest and craft fair. A classic car show will take place Sunday, which Lotz said typically averages 80 cars.

Lotz said the festival would not be possible without sponsors. Among them are BMO Harris Bank, Berkot’s, New Lenox Dental Group, Silver Cross Hospital and Hartz Construction Co.

“It’s a great, wonderful community event,” Lotz said.

Sue Hildebrande, of New Lenox, came out with her family to enjoy the festival.

“They’re having a blast,” she said.

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IF YOU GO

WHAT: Proud American Days

WHEN: 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, 1 to 11 p.m. Saturday, and 1 to 8 p.m. Sunday

WHERE: 601 E. Lincoln Highway, New Lenox

INFO: www.proudamericandays.org