Orland Park will kick off a year of special events to celebrate the United States’ 250th birthday with the Red, White & Blue BBQ Fest & Parade on Saturday, May 23, at Centennial Park West.
This new event will feature a community parade, amateur rib cook-off, live entertainment, children’s activities and a variety of food trucks. The festivities will culminate in a spectacular pyro-musical fireworks display beginning around 9 p.m.
The event begins with a patriotic Red, White & Blue parade, running down Jillian Road and Park Station Boulevard, stepping off at 10 a.m.
Following the parade, the event will showcase a dynamic lineup of live music, including Cadillac Groove (R&B, funk, rock, soul and blues), Nashville Nation (country) and Tramps Like Us (Bruce Springsteen tribute). Attendees can also enjoy inflatable bounce houses, children’s crafts, food and beverage vendors and onsite sponsor giveaways.
As part of the day’s events, the village is seeking participants for its first Amateur Rib Cook-Off Competition. Backyard grillers and barbecue enthusiasts alike are invited to showcase their best recipes in a fun and friendly competition. The cook-off will include tasting, judging and prizes for top competitors. Entry for the competition is $100 and includes 10 racks of ribs. Payment can be made online or by mailing a check to the Village of Orland Park Recreation and Parks Department, 14600 S. Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park, IL 60462. The registration deadline is Friday, May 8.
“Memorial Day is a time to honor the brave men and women who gave everything for this country,” Mayor Jim Dodge said. “ What better way to begin America’s 250th birthday year than by coming together as a community during Memorial Day weekend to honor their sacrifice and the enduring promise of this great nation.
“I am proud to invite every resident to join us for this event as well as a full year of events that reflect our deep gratitude and American spirit,” he said.
Following the Red, White & Blue BBQ Fest & Parade, the village will continue its America 250 celebrations throughout the year with events including the annual Memorial Day Ceremony, themed movie nights, Independence Day festivities, Patriot Day 9/11 concert, the Veterans Golf Classic, annual Veterans Day Ceremony and more.
Village Manager George Koczwara credited Mayor Dodge and the board of trustees for their desire to celebrate the country’s milestone birthday with all the events planned for that day.”.
“When (Mayor Dodge) came on board he wanted to have more engagement with the residents and the community,” Koczwara said. “The board agreed.”
For a complete list of celebratory America 250 programs and events, visit orlandpark.org/America250.