The Fourth of July holiday is going to be pretty busy and active in Orland Park.
Aside from the traditional events hosted by the village, the village board on June 2 approved a July 4-6 summer festival hosted by the Our Lady of the Holy Land Arab-American Catholic Community on the grounds of the former Andrew Corporation, 10500 W. 153rd St.
Michael Bader, one of the representatives of the church, said the festival will be open to everyone.
“Our community was established about three years ago and for the past two years, we have been active in the community,” he said. “We would love to do our festival to promote our goal and to create awareness of our mission and what we do.”
There will be live music, bouncy houses in a children’s area, cultural performances, music and games, food booths featuring Mediterranean and American food plus beer and wine services.
According to literature provided to the village board, the festival aims to “create a joyful, inclusive and family-friendly environment where everyone feels at home.”
The group also said, “Our festival is not only a celebration of our roots, but a bridge to new friendships.
“As Christian Arabs from the Holy Land, we have lived side by side with many cultures, traditions and religions. We bring with us a deep respect for diversity and a sincere desire to contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of Orland Park.”
As for the traditional Orland Park celebration, the festivities start at 7 p.m. July 3 with the Veterans Liberty Run and Walk at the 153rd Street Metra Station, 10499 W. 153rd St.
There will be a timed one-mile run, an untimed one-mile walk and a 50-yard kids dash.
On July 4, at Centennial Park West, 15609 Park Station Blvd., there will be a new kids and bike parade at 5 p.m. A concert featuring In the Stix and Pop Nation follows at 5:30 p.m.
The presentation of colors and singing of the national anthem by the Children’s Theater Troupe will begin at 9:30 p.m. followed by the fireworks.