One of Griffith’s most popular annual happenings, Rock ‘n’ Rails Music & Street Festival, recently ushered in the last weekend of summer with extended activities, myriad of vendors and an extensive musical lineup.
To say there was something for everyone during the four-day event was an understatement.
“We come to this every year, not just for the kids, but for everyone. There’s so much to do,” Kelli Ormand of Griffith said, on opening day. “There’s a special area for the kids and the pets, plenty of food booths, and I love to shop at the vendors.”
Her husband, Kyle Ormand, said he was so impressed with the nighttime entertainment lineup that he would probably attend all four nights. Those scheduled to take the stage were local bands, an Elvis Presley impersonator, and tributes to Neil Diamond, The Beatles, and The Who.
The Kids Zone offered a Talent Show, Doggie Costume Contest, and Superheroes Day, among other activities. And an Open Mic was available for all to try.
“We just left the Kids Zone, but my sons wanted to stay. There’s so much going on there,” said Heidi Unger of Griffith. “But we got here late and there’s so much to see. We can’t stay in one place too long.”
Food stops were the highlight for many of the visitors — vendors offered delicacies ranging from grilled cheese and perogies to deep fried Oreos and pizza.
New to the venue this year was a BBQ Station Food Court and Family Beer Garden.
“We’re here for dinner at least two times during this yearly fair,” Hammond resident Jerri Lyn Comer said. “Everyone in my family likes to eat something different, so we don’t have to walk too far to find everyone’s favorite food. You can’t get that in a restaurant.”
Patrick and Janey Goodman of Griffith also said the food offerings at local fairs and festivals are what lure them to the events.
“We come mostly to eat the food,” Patrick Goodman said with a laugh. “I usually eat pretty healthy during the week, so it’s a treat to have some of my childhood favorites on the weekend — like elephant ears and Carmel apples.”
Broad Street was blocked off near the downtown area to accommodate the hundreds of visitors during the four-day event.
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Ron and Marcy Simon of Highland stopped by on two separate occasions.
“We’re here every year and it’s always a lot of fun, especially the entertainment,” Ron Simon said. “It’s usually really crowded, but the food is great and there’s a lot to see, so you just deal with it.”
The Parker family of Chicago echoed Simon’s thoughts.
“This is an annual stop for us when we visit my parents in Griffith,” Jim Parker said as he stood in line for cotton candy. “Sure it’s crowded, but you have to expect that for a popular place. This is always our last festival of the year, so we want to let go of summer with a bang. We’re here all day.”
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.