Local Events and Announcements

Mythical Creatures Week in Oak Park

Oak Park hosted a creative event called Mythical Creatures Week. Participants of all ages enjoyed activities organized by the Park District of Oak Park. A notable event was the cardboard regatta, where attendees tested their engineering skills by attempting to sail cardboard boats across Rehm Pool. Additional activities included arts and crafts at the Dole Center, featuring items like fairy and mermaid collages. Participants also made plaster casts of animal and bigfoot tracks at Austin Gardens.

A family event took place at Pleasant Home, while visitors strolled through Scoville Park with mythical creatures. The Oak Park Conservatory provided educational sessions on local plants and animals.

Darien Fest Activities

The 38th annual Darien Fest is scheduled for August 7-9 at Hinsdale South High School, located at 7401 Clarendon Hills Road. The event kicks off with an opening ceremony on August 7, featuring the Veterans of Foreign Wars presenting colors, along with performances by the school’s marching band and cheerleaders.

Ocean’s Rat Pack will perform on August 7 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Carnival games and rides run from 6 to 10 p.m. On August 8, activities include a business expo from 1 to 5 p.m., bingo from 2 to 4 p.m., and live music performances from several bands. August 9 offers carnival rides, games, and performances by local bands. Pets, bikes, motorized scooters, and outside food or beverages are not allowed. The Darien Business Alliance and City of Darien present the event. More details can be found on the event’s website.

Hinsdale Real Estate Firm Recognition

Hinsdale-based Bomba & Mancini, a boutique real estate firm, was recognized as the #5 Small Team in Illinois by RealTrends Verified. This independent tracking organization evaluated the firm’s performance based on sales volume and transactions. The team achieved $99 million in closed sales across 70 transactions. Celebrating its roots in Chicago’s west suburbs, Bomba & Mancini is affiliated with @properties Christie’s International Real Estate. Team co-founder Bryan Bomba expressed gratitude for the clients’ trust.

Burr Ridge Art Festival

The Burr Ridge Art Fair will feature over 75 artists offering a variety of artworks, including photographs, jewelry, and sculptures. Scheduled for August 8-9 at Burr Ridge Village Center, the event invites guests to enjoy live art demonstrations and interactive experiences like face painting and a henna tent. Live music and family-friendly activities add to the open-air festivities. A designated Kids’ Art Zone provides games and projects suitable for children. The festival is free, including parking. Further details can be found on the organizers’ website.

Brookfield Women’s Club Blood Drive

The Brookfield Women’s Club sponsors a blood drive with the American Red Cross on August 9 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the municipal meeting room at Brookfield Village Hall. Although the event welcomes walk-ins, appointments are preferred. Donors must present a photo ID or other forms of identification. Participants giving blood in August will receive a $20 Amazon gift card via email. Appointments can be scheduled at RedCrossBlood.org.

Church Food Pantry Schedule

A drive-through grocery giveaway for families in need is organized at the Immanuel Lutheran Church food pantry in Hillside. Food distribution will occur on August 9, September 12, and October 10 starting at 11 a.m. The pantry operates entirely with volunteer help and is funded mainly by foundation grants and donations. In the past year, the program served nearly 2,000 families. For more information, visit the church’s website.