29-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Chicago Tribune
Lincolnwood Fest draws thousands to Proesel Park, also includes a dunk tank charitable fundraiser
The village of Lincolnwood's signature summer community festival saw crowds estimated in the tens of thousands over the course of its four-day run at Proesel Park, featuring carnival rides, live music and more.
'Lincolnwood Fest is a celebration and vibrant gathering that brings our community together and attracts visitors from all over Chicagoland,' said Karen Hawk, the village's director of Parks and Recreation.
She said the fest, which started July 24 and ran through Sunday, showcased local and regional talent on the main stage, and was a venue for kids and families, and favorable food options.
Amid soaring summertime air temperatures, a dunk tank featured on Saturday and Sunday helped to raise funds for the Lincolnwood Student Achievers Scholarship Program that recognizes Illinois Scholars, Hawk explained.
Lincolnwood Fest is a summer tradition for many families, including for Jason Welch, of the Uptown neighborhood in Chicago, who accompanied his son Aaron, 5.
Father and son rode the Ferris wheel while Aaron held a neon kaleidoscope bouncy ball the youngster won after playing a basketball hoops game.
'This is our first year coming out here and it's been a blast,' Welch said about making memories.
The event premises were surrounded by temporary fencing and also monitored by Lincolnwood police. The entrance gate was also staffed by security personnel.
Jesse Perez and Nereida Mendez, of Lincolnwood, visited the carnival rides and fairgrounds with their children Janiah, 11, Mia, 7, and Ethan, 3.
'I do feel safe here, it's a good environment,' Mendez said. 'It's important to make memories.'
