Scores of people turned out to Buffalo Grove Days at Mike Rylko Park in Buffalo Grove over the extended Labor Day weekend, with a crowd also lining the parade route Sunday as it returned to the event for the first time since the start of the pandemic.
An estimated 40,000 people, in total, attended Buffalo Grove Days, which ran Aug. 31 to Sept. 4 at the village’s iconic park.
Village spokeswoman Molly Gillespie said the signature end-of-summer event started as “a small neighborhood party” over six decades ago.
“It’s grown with the community over the years,” Gillespie said about Buffalo Grove Days. “It’s truly a tradition that the community looks forward to every year to celebrate the end of summer and all things Buffalo Grove.
“This community event showcases what is possible with the collaboration of the community and its local partners, including the village, park district and chamber of commerce.”
The usual fare and entertainment was available at this year’s event, with a carnival, live music, and a variety of food and beverages. But new for 2023 was the return of the parade, rolling for the first time in three years. It featured 70 participating groups and organizations, including elected officials’ participation, as it moved down Buffalo Grove Road onto Deerfield Parkway.
New Village President Eric Smith walked the parade route Sunday and recalled how Buffalo Grove Days “started out a long time ago as just a neighborhood block party to get everybody together and meet each other, know your neighbors.
“And it’s grown over the years to a huge event, but the same intent, you know, for everybody to get and meet their neighbors and know who everybody is; the different cultures that we have and diversity,” Smith said.
The grand marshal was former Village President Beverly Sussman, who left office this past spring and after not seeking reelection.
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“I’m very honored,” Sussman said, of being selected to lead the parade.
U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider, D-Highland Park, also appeared on the parade route with Lake County elected officials.
Schneider said being able to greet fellow Lake County neighbors is “a great opportunity any day but today, on Labor Day weekend, celebrating all those who work so hard to make our country strong and wonderful, it’s great to come together as a community.”
The carnival had rides for all ages, including the family-favorite Ferris wheel with its panoramic views. Community resource tables were available and representatives working them offered such giveaways as balloons and treats. Food trucks lined a parking lot midway and a large stage on the lawn featured an itinerary of entertainment.
“Whether you’ve lived here all your life or are new to the community, this event has something for everyone,” said Erika Strojinc, new executive director of the Buffalo Grove Park District.
Siblings Audrey Lewit, 6, and Ava Lewit, 3, of Buffalo Grove, attended on Saturday and had their faces painted in a family-friendly tent near the expansive stage.
“I hope we’re just making memories … maybe do a family tradition from BG Days,” said the girls’ mother, Deidra Lewit.
Mike Lee attended with his 2-year-old daughter, Layna, who had her face painted with a pink Disney theme.
He said Buffalo Grove Days, as an annual offering provides “happiness.”
“It’s great, a lot of kids’ activities, kids having a lot of fun, they’re all excited,” Lee said. “We’re excited as long as they’re having fun.”
Karie Angell Luc is a freelancer.