Plainfield Cruise Nights To Return Tuesday Amid Pandemic

PLAINFIELD, IL — The Plainfield Cruise Nights can now return as the state moves to Phase 4 of the governor's reopening plan amid the pandemic. The Plainfield Area Chamber of Commerce said the first Cruise Night of the summer will be held July 14.

The event will take place every Tuesday starting at 5:30 p.m. through Aug. 25.

"Our downtown will continue to keep its outdoor seating for restaurants the way it is, so please understand that there are not as many spots as normal," organizers said in a social media post.

The Cruise Nights, usually starting in June, were canceled earlier this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In lieu of the event, the chamber hosted its first Classic Car Cruise, in which vehicles 20 years or older were driven for an hour through at least four neighborhoods in Plainfield.

According to Tasha Marsaglia, executive director of the Plainfield Area Chamber of Commerce, the Cruise Nights — begun six years ago — have not only benefited local businesses but are also a fundraiser for the chamber.

"By not having this event, it is affecting our organization as well. But one of our big things was we still wanted to bring something to our community during this time," she told Patch in an earlier interview. "Our events have always been free for cargoers to be a part of. The only way that we do actually make money to help cover costs is through our sponsorships and then our raffles."

The chamber is asking guests to not arrive prior to 4:30 p.m. and to practice social distancing. Restaurants in the area require masks, and seating capacity is limited.

For more information and the schedule, visit here.

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