Cardboard Regatta Highlights Mythical Creatures Week
Oak Park recently celebrated Mythical Creatures Week, offering a variety of free activities through the Park District of Oak Park. Participants engaged in a cardboard boat regatta at Rehm Pool, testing engineering skills by attempting to sail cardboard creations across the pool.
Arts and crafts sessions at the Dole Center included crafting fairies, muppets, and mermaid collages. Austin Gardens hosted plaster casting of animal and bigfoot tracks. Families gathered at Pleasant Home, while Scoville Park featured strolling characters and mythical creatures. The Oak Park Conservatory provided learning experiences about local plants and creatures.
Darien Fest Promises Music and Entertainment
The 38th annual Darien Fest takes place from August 7 to 9 at Hinsdale South High School. Opening ceremonies include the Veterans of Foreign Wars presenting colors, with the high school’s band and cheerleaders participating. Ocean’s Rat Pack performs on August 7, and carnival games operate throughout the weekend.
August 8 features carnival games, a business expo, bands such as Whiskey Road and Heartache Tonight, and bingo with Cancer Smashers. On August 9, enjoy carnival rides, My Dance Hula live performance, and music from Blind Reality and Grand Illusion. Attendees should note the prohibition on pets, bikes, and outside food or beverages. More details are available on the City of Darien’s website.
Hinsdale Real Estate Firm Receives High Honor
Bomba & Mancini, a Hinsdale-based real estate firm, recently ranked as the #5 Small Team in Illinois by RealTrends Verified. The acknowledgment reflects their strong sales performance in 70 transactions totaling $99 million. Located in Chicago’s western suburbs, they are affiliated with @properties Christie’s International Real Estate.
Co-founder Bryan Bomba expressed gratitude for the honor, acknowledging the trust placed in them by clients.
Burr Ridge Art Festival Showcases Diverse Talent
The Burr Ridge Art Fair, scheduled for August 8 and 9 at Burr Ridge Village Center, features over 75 artists. Guests can explore photography, jewelry, sculptures, and paintings. Activities include art demonstrations, face painting, a henna tent, live music, and a dedicated kids’ art zone. Admission and parking are complimentary. Further information is available online.
Community Blood Drive Organized by Brookfield Women’s Club
A community blood drive, sponsored by the Brookfield Women’s Club in conjunction with the American Red Cross, will be held on August 9 at Brookfield Village Hall. Appointments are encouraged, and donors are required to present proper identification. Participants receive a $20 Amazon gift card. Appointments can be scheduled through the Red Cross website.
Food Pantry Support from Immanuel Lutheran Church
Immanuel Lutheran Church in Hillside offers a drive-through grocery giveaway for families in need. Scheduled dates include August 9, September 12, and October 10, starting at 11 a.m. The pantry is volunteer-operated and funded by foundation grants, corporate giving, and private donations. Additional details are accessible online.