The Village of Homewood is wrapping up its summer celebrations with a big block party.
The 11th annual Homewood Block Party will be 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Aug. 20 on Martin Avenue, between Ridge and Hickory roads.
The free event will include a pet parade, contests, music entertainment and games.
Event organizers are anticipating more than 2,000 visitors.
“Homewood is a great community that likes to spend time together, especially at events,” said Alissa Opyd, Homewood’s community events manager. “(The block party) is an opportunity to spend time with family and friends and to do all your summer favorites in one day, like an ice cream eating contest, a water balloon toss . ..”
The festival features the “Barkin’ Good Pooch Parade” and dog contest.
Last year, owners and 15 dogs participated in the parade.
“As a dog-owner and a Homewood resident this is one of my favorite festivals of the year,” Homewood Mayor Rich Hofeld said. “Summer is a wonderful time to spend outdoors with neighbors and reconnect. This Block Party captures the essence of summer all in one day.”
New this year will be a “Liar, Liar” contest 12-1:30 p.m., sponsored by the Homewood Public Library. Competitors will have five minutes to tell the biggest and most convincing lie they can, without use of materials or props.
The Homewood Science Center also will be on hand to showcase interactive science activities.
More Top Picks Best Monitor Stands For Desks
Entertainment will be provided by Eric Lambert, a singer and guitarist, who performs bluegrass, blues, rock and soul music. He will perform 2- 4 p.m. The Final Say band, which performs Top 40 hits, will perform from 5 -8 p.m.
Food vendors will include The Cottage, Wiley’s Grill, Fratello’s Cafe & Deli and the Homewood Dairy Queen.
Kelly White is a freelance reporter of the Daily Southtown.