Yes, There is a Founders' Days Parade This Year!

Alan Kirk wants to spread the word about this year's Algonquin Founders' Days Parade....yes, there is a parade.

"I’ve had numerous people tell me they were surprised we are having a parade this year with all the construction, and since they haven’t seen any press on it," said Kirk, co-chairman of the 53rd Annual Founders' Days Parade. 

Algonquin will celebrate the “Wild, Wild West” during this year's parade, scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, July 27. The parade route is the same as in years past, just a bit shorter, Kirk said, despite the Huntington Road closure. 

Parade organizers have received a large number of parade participant applications this year, said Kirk, who has served as parade co-chairman with his, Aaron, for several years. 

“We have more bands and entertainment acts then we have had in a long time, it is very exciting," Alan Kirk said. "But we still have room for more Wild, Wild West themed entries like horses, wagons, and cowboys.”

Individuals and groups wanting to join the parade, become a sponsor, or volunteer to help with the parade should call the Kirks at 847-815-4895 for an application, or visit the Founders' Days Festival webpage at www.algonquinfoundersdays.com. (Click on the registration materials tab). 

• The parade begins at the corner of Algonquin and Eastgate roads
• Continues west on Route 62
• Turns south on Main Street (Route 31)
• Ends at Washington Street (seating south of Washington Street is not recommended).
  
• At the end of the parade, floats can either continue south on Route 31, turn left on La Fox Street, or turn right on Edgewood Drive.

53rd Annual Founders' Days Festival 

Founder's Day Festival kicks off on Thursday, July 25, and culminates Sunday, July 28, with a fireworks show at Riverfront Park in Algonquin.

Festival-goers should note the new location for the Founders' Days is at Algonquin Lakes Park on the east side of town. The park is located south of Algonquin Road and west of Route 25 behind Algonquin Lakes School. 

Main stage bands include: The Lounge Puppets, 7th Heaven, Smokin’ Gunz, Modern Day Romeos, Mike & Joe, Pirates Over 40, and Battle of the Bands. 

Festivities include carnival rides, kids games, petting zoo, food vendors, market and bazaar, beer tent, bags tournament, bake off, bike decorating contest, dog and cat show, cardboard boat regatta, Founders’ Run, pancake breakfast, standup paddle board challenge, and more.

More information and events schedule is on the Founders' Days Festival webpage.