The 2023 Harwood Heights Summer Fest and carnival marked the 76th anniversary of the village, which sits next to Norridge and is surrounded by the Northwest side of Chicago.
Last year’s 75th celebration at Saint Monica and Saint Rosalie Roman Catholic Parish on Montrose Avenue was so successful that Harwood Heights brought back its carnival starting on Thursday, Aug. 17 before the rest of the Thursday, Aug.17. The full and with the three consecutive day weekend Summer Fest launched Friday for three consecutive days.
“First and foremost, we are on the property of Saint Rosalie’s church,” said Arlene Jerzierny, Harwood Heights mayor.
“I want to thank Father Greg Lorens, who is the pastor, who allowed us to utilize their property for our community event and their parking lot.”
“We have people coming here to enjoy the food, to enjoy the bands, to enjoy the camaraderie,” Jezierny said.
In previous years, Summer Fest was held outdoors on the grounds of Union Ridge School District 86.
Jezierny said she received overwhelming positive feedback about the new event venue and carnival.
Attendees could enjoy bingo held inside the church’s multipurpose room.
Performing on Friday night was the band The Wayouts.
“It’s the best,” said Eric Korte of Elk Grove Village, who performs on bass guitar with The Wayouts. “Just being around people, being able to interact with people, it’s the best.”
Staffing the stage area as a returning volunteer was sound and band coordinator Tim Ludston of Harwood Heights. Jezierny wanted to acknowledge Ludston for the staging expertise and commitment.
Ludston said that while the event is not a fundraiser, it’s “put on for the community. It’s to be out with your neighbors, all local food vendors, get to know your neighbors and just promote community and togetherness.”
Serena Li, 6, a first-grader from Norridge, was seen smiling while spinning on the kiddie balloon ride, a colorful attraction.
Serena’s parent Vaneida Li said about the event, “I think it’s wonderful. During COVID, we lost so much social interaction, everyone was so fearful, so it’s nice to see people finally kind of let loose and just be comfortable and kids having a good time and getting that social interaction that they really need.”
School starts very soon for Serena.
“These are the last few weeks of summer, Serena’s mother said, “and you just kind of want to pack it in.”
