Fiesta Days to return to McHenry this summer

McHenry’s Fiesta Days will return this July with a limited capacity and some other changes in light of the pandemic, the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce announced.

The festival, now in its 73rd year, will take place July 8 to 18, kicking off with Cask and Barrel Night, an all-inclusive whiskey and beer tasting event, and continuing with Music Fest Weekend from July 9 to 11 with bands, food vendors and beer tents at Petersen Park, according to a news release.

Acts will be announced on social media early next week, according to the release.

Also in the lineup of Fiesta Days activities is Beach Bash Sunday, a free family day with kids activities, a car show and open beach. The hours will be extended with bands beginning at 5 p.m. and – new this year – a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m., sponsored by Ignite Medical Resorts.

The second week takes place in downtown McHenry and Veteran’s Memorial Park with the Art and Street Fair, according to the release. The festivities include Arts and Crafts in the Park, a “Makers Zone” craft stations for kids, a Student Art Show and other events.

The weekend culminates with the Fiesta Days parade on Sunday, July 18.

Fiesta Days committee members are working hand in hand with local and state officials to ensure that the event is safe and responsible, the chamber said in the release. Their goal is to set a benchmark for safety and transparency for other festivals.

“We are thrilled to celebrate our return to live music,” said Molly Ostap, president of the McHenry area chamber. “Our volunteers have been working throughout the pandemic to produce several versions of what Fiesta Days might look like this year. We are happy to announce it will feel pretty similar to previous years, only safer.”

In addition to increased health and safety measures, ticket sales will be capped to provide a venue capacity that is in accordance with city, county and state guidelines. Each night of Music Fest will be capped at 2,500, and Cask and Barrel Night at 350.

Tickets will be available for purchase starting at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 12, on mchenryfiestadays.com.

The event is presented by Gary Lang Auto Group, which is also the grand festival sponsor for Fiesta Days, according to the release. More than 70 organizations sponsor the event each year. Sponsorships can be purchased by contacting the chamber at 815-385-4300.