Linda Felter, chair of the Friends of Downtown Glenview says that Blocktoberfest is a newer event that has quickly become one of their largest, and most important local fall traditions.
Blocktoberfest, which started in 2019, was canceled in 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic, has now taken its place as Glenview’s largest downtown street party offering music, good food and ethnic flavor.
“With this weekend’s good weather, we expect over 15,000 to attend Saturday’s event,” Felter said.
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From noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, along Glenview Road, between Church and Pine Streets in downtown Glenview, Blocktoberfest offered a jam-packed lineup of live music, food and family entertainment.
This year’s headliner, The Prince Project, a Prince and the Revolution Tribute Band, plus an array of local classic rock, funk-soul concerts throughout the day, and a noon kickoff of German-inspired music by Euro Express German Band.
The full schedule of events included an activity-filled Kid Zone with crafts, face painting, balloon art and more.
The event was free, with local restaurant vendors Forza Meats, the Glenview Grind, Smetana and Ten Ninety served premium brats and sausages, Bavarian pretzels, pierogies, apple strudel and beverages along with craft beer and wine, which were all available for purchase.
A special VIP section for a $100 ticket price, offered premium views of the bands plus several other deluxe amenities.
“In Glenview we are people who like being out with our families, mingling with friends and neighbors, and we do it with the kids in tow — we love to bring everyone out to party together,” Felter said.
Jaimie Binney attended Saturday with friends.
“Bringing the whole community together to take over the streets of downtown Glenview to support local biz — it’s just fun for everyone,” Binney said.
Blocktoberfest was presented by Friends of Downtown Glenview, Ten Ninety Brewing, Co. and Fields Auto Group as a way to bring the community together to build excitement and support for the heart of downtown.
Erika Mueller attended Saturday with her family.
“This is a great family event with delicious food, good music and fun for the kids, more about bringing everyone together for a fall celebration, loosely inspired by the Octoberfest tradition,” Mueller said.
Gina Grillo is a freelancer for Pioneer Press.