Braidwood Summerfest kicks off Thursday

The only thing hotter than the weather this season will be the 45th Annual Braidwood Lions Club Summerfest rolling into town July 16-19. This year's theme, "100 Years of Mother Road Kicks," celebrates the centennial of historic Route 66—a highway that has long connected communities, travelers, and memories across America.
In Braidwood, the Mother Road is more than a ribbon of highway. It is part of the city's story. As Illinois joins communities across the nation in celebrating 100 years of Route 66,
Summerfest provides the perfect backdrop to honor and celebrate Route 66’s legacy while creating new memories for families and visitors.
Opening night
The four-day celebration begins Thursday evening with the opening of the carnival, food court, bingo, and beer garden, setting the stage for a weekend filled with fun.
Festival-goers can also enjoy a live broadcast from WCSJ Radio before dancing the night away to The Route 66 Band, whose classic rock-and-roll hits from the 1950s and 1960s perfectly complement the spirit of Route 66.
Friday rocks
Friday continues the celebration with carnival rides, family activities, and another evening of live music as Hillbilly Rockstarz brings country rock favorites to the entertainment stage.
Throughout the weekend, local organizations will welcome visitors with interactive displays, photo opportunities, and community outreach that showcase the hometown hospitality Braidwood is known for.
Saturday sizzles
Saturday promises to be one of the busiest days of the festival. Shoppers can browse the Arts and Crafts Show and Flea Market while automobile enthusiasts admire classic vehicles during the Summerfest Car Show. Families can cheer on participants in the always-popular Baby Contest before gathering for one of the festival's most anticipated traditions—the annual Pie Eating Contest.
Live music, carnival rides, bingo, and delicious festival favorites ensure there's something for every generation.
Sunday fun day
The celebration concludes Sunday with one of Summerfest's signature events—the Hometown Proud Parade. Marching bands, decorated floats, classic cars, community organizations, and local businesses will make their way down Main Street in a colorful tribute to Braidwood's past and present.
As the sun sets, the annual fireworks display will provide a spectacular finale, bringing another Summerfest to a close under the summer sky.
Discount passes
Pre-sale wristbands and Mega Pass coupons will be sold until 3 p.m. Thursday, July 16. Pre-sale wristbands are $25, which will save you $5. Pre-sale Mega Passes are $70, a savings of $10 over carnival prices.
Both may be purchased at Braidwood Berkot’s, Braidwood City Hall, Whitmore Ace Hardware, Fossil Ridge Public Library, Midland State Bank of Diamond, Hairagain Salon, Rock Robin’s Salon, Shelly’s Hair Salon and Clip & Sip Hair Salon, both in Godley.