It’s That Time of the Year Again!

Hello Patch readers!  I’m back as your intrepid reporter in the trenches of Buffalo Grove Days.  That can only mean one thing: BUFFALO GROVE DAYS is right around the corner!  This year, our festival runs Aug.  28 - Sept. 2.  For new readers who are unfamiliar with this festival, it is our home-grown “block” party that has celebrated the end of summer for over 50 years.  Our committee of 60 people has been meeting for months to plan and prepare for this year’s event.  So now, I am happy and proud to report on all aspects of this extravaganza.  

Musical acts highlight the entertainment every year and this year is no exception. Our Main Stage opens this year with 16 Candles performing 80s favorites Friday night, 8:30 - 10:30 pm.  Kicking off the Main Stage on Saturday Night is the Rumble Tones Blues Band performing 7:30 - 8:30 pm.  Following up at 9 to 10:30 pm, Haley Reinhart will grace the stage. The Wheeling native made it to the top three on American Idol Season 10.  On Sunday night, we welcome back American English, the Beatles tribute band.

Let’s not forget the Beer Tent, where some of my personal favorites perform.  Among those returning this year are the Soulchasers, Whitey O’Day, Mystriss, Industrial Drive and Andrew Blenderman, a piano bar experience.   New to the tent are The Blue Moondogs and Pipe Dreams. Pipe Dream’s current set list runs the gamut from classic rock songs like Journey’s “Anyway You Want It” to modern pop hits like Duffy’s “Mercy” to country hits like Carrie Underwood’s “Last Name.”

In addition to the music, other acts will entertain the whole family.  We have a pocket circus, a juggling show, puppeteers and crafting.  Our Arts and Craft Fair boasts vendors of jewelry, sports items and clothing among much more.  The Barbecue Challenge brings an old-fashioned  state fair feel on Saturday afternoon.  The parade kicks off at 1 pm on Sunday on Bernard just east of Arlington Heights Road and runs the length of Bernard turning up Raupp ending near the carnival midway.  Fireworks will shoot off later that night at 9:15 pm with prime viewing available from the Main Stage, Rotary Village Green, Willow Stream Park and the Buffalo Grove Golf Course.  Plus, the carnival runs rides and games Thursday through Monday.

The entire fest culminates on Monday with Food & Fun, our program for people with disabilities and their families.  These special guests are treated to carnival rides, lunch and entertainment.

Check back here for updates on Buffalo Grove Days or visit the website at http://bgdays.com/.