Rain can dampen the fun at Braidwood Lions Summerfest

Mother Nature took it literally when the Braidwood Lions opted for a tropical theme for the 41st Annual Summerfest.

Amid humid and sometimes steamy weather, the skies opened up a few times to drench festival goers, with a 15-minute downpour on Sunday afternoon that halted the carnival—but only briefly.

Summerfest took place at Old Smokey City Park on July 14-17, this year’s theme “A Tropical Extravaganza.”

While the brief rains left some muddy puddles in the midway, it didn’t stop the fun.

Returning to the festival again this year was live entertainment, Bingo, the annual pie eating contest, the baby contest, car show, beer garden, flea market and craft show, parade, rides, food, and fun.

Crowds on Saturday were also treated to a performance from the Jesse White Tumblers and a demonstration of skill from the members of River Valley Martial Arts.

Festival organizers said despite a little rain, the festival was fun for all.

“Our 41st Annual Braidwood Lions Club Summerfest has come and gone, and we can’t be more thankful for all of you who came out to support our club and the other local organizations who participate in our annual festival,” the Braidwood Lions posted to their Facebook page.

“This year was obviously a challenge due to Mother Nature throwing a few weather curve balls but as always things persevered and continued on throughout the weekend. We’ve dealt with it all over the years. From oppressive heat and humidity to soaking rains and thunderstorms, we roll with the punches and continue on our mission to provide a fun filled hometown festival.”

Summerfest is the Lions Club’s largest fundraiser of the year. The money raised goes back into the community, through the club’s humanitarian sight and sound services as well as various community beautification projects and other community events and activities.

Photos from the Baby Contest and Pie Eating Contest can be found in the July 20 edition of the Braidwood Journal.

Next year’s Summerfest takes place July 13-16, 2023 at Old Smokey City Park.