117th Annual Lake Forest Day "Celebrates Our Vibrant Local Businesses"

LAKE FOREST, IL — The 117th Lake Forest Day is set to bring the town together with two days of fun and community pride.

Stating Tuesday, Aug. 5 with the fun-packed carnival at West Park, the community can expect another summer of celebration. Festivities continue Wednesday morning with a fun run and parade along Western Avenue.

"Joins us August 5 and 6 for carnival rides, live music, great food and the beloved Lake Forest Day Parade. This year's theme, 'Shop, Dine, & Enjoy Lake Forest Every Day,' celebrates our vibrant local businesses,"

Originally held on the first Wednesday in August because many local businesses would take the
afternoons off, the first Lake Forest Day in 1908 featured a mind-reading dog, a hot air balloon and a cutest baby contest, according to the History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Bluff.

It was initially organized by the Lake Forest Women's Club to raise money for a new hospital at the request of the Young Men's Club, which then began organizing it itself.

In 1921, the American Legion McKinlock Post 264 began sponsoring the celebration as its main annual fundraiser, according to the center. The Lake Forest Day Foundation was founded in 2007 to assist with organizing responsibilities.

Last year's parade included 100 entrants, including local veterans, elected officials, community groups, businesses, performers, nonprofits and more. With the theme, "Shop, Dine, & Enjoy Lake Forest Every Day," organizers encouraged interested parties to apply to join the parade by July 23.

"The Lake Forest Day Carnival and Parade is the largest annual celebration in the City of Lake Forest and is attended by thousands of residents and visitors from surrounding communities. We welcome your participation," Lake Forest Day Chairman Ed Graghty said.

Lake Forest Day 2025 schedule

Tuesday

6 to 10 p.m.: Carnival at West Park with rides, face painting, carnival games, snacks, BBQ, hot buttered corn, ice-cold beverages and live music by CROYA. (tickets on sale from 5:30 p.m.)

Wednesday
7 a.m.: 5K & Fun Run at Deerpath Park (400 Hastings Road)

10 a.m.: Parade begins

11 a.m. - 10 p.m.: Carnival with more live music by See Alice and Sincerely Sarlacc

The parade route starts at Western Avenue and Vine Avenue, then proceeds northbound towards West Park. There will be no access to Western Avenue during the parade from 9:45 to 11:30 a.m.