Day Of The Immigrant Returns To Bolingbrook On Saturday

BOLINGBROOK, IL — The Southwest Suburban Immigrant Project will hold its 10th Annual Day of the Immigrant at the Bolingbrook Performing Arts Center on Sept. 21.

According to a release from the organization, SSIP’s event brings together immigrant and non-immigrant neighbors primarily from Will and DuPage counties. Over the years, attendance numbers at the event have grown to over 18,000 people, who come to enjoy food, music, children’s activities and more.

This year’s event will focus on getting out the vote by recognizing new U.S. citizens and hosting a voter registration drive, the organization said.

SSIP is also bringing back its Annual Building the World We Need Fund which provides scholarships for area students.

The festival will also feature musical entertainment by Mariachi Estrellas de Chicago, Grupo Love Secreto, Los Askis, Mexican Folkloric Dance Company of Chicago, Sones de México, and the popular Cadetes de Linares.

This year’s special guests also include Masters of Ceremonies, television and radio media personalities Aileen Ocaña, Veronica Avila and “La Patrona” Diane Fong, according to a release from the organization.

Day of the Immigrant brings resources, exhibitors and fun for children of all ages from its “kids zone” to art workshops presented by Mexican artist Emanuel Zarate Ortiz. In addition, seven "alebrijes," a type of Mexican folk art, will be on display uniquely for Day of the Immigrant, including one of his works, which will make its debut in Bolingbrook, the organization said.