Community spirit was on full display Saturday as Chicago Ridge residents packed Freedom Park for the sixth annual Slice of Summer, a celebration that once again showcased why the village is known for bringing neighbors together.
The Chicago Ridge Park District’s signature summer event transformed the park into a lively festival filled with amusement rides, live music, family games, food vendors, community organizations and a fireworks finale. Children dashed toward the Ferris wheel, giant slide, inflatables and other rides while parents unfolded lawn chairs and settled in for a day of entertainment.
“This event is our largest summer event,” said Jennifer Grabowski, superintendent of parks and safety for the Chicago Ridge Park District. “It’s just a little slice of what summer has to offer in Chicago Ridge.”
The celebration welcomed residents, visitors and local leaders from across the area. In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, the first 250 guests received complimentary slices of watermelon donated by Bucks Farmstand in Alsip.
Beloved characters including Spider-Man, Mario, Luigi, Woody and Jessie delighted children throughout the afternoon, stopping for hugs, high-fives and countless photos. Face painting, balloon artists, magic shows, relay races, water balloon games and other interactive activities kept families entertained from start to finish.
Live music provided a soundtrack throughout the day with performances by Richie Z, Rosie and the Rivets, Classical Blast and Mr. Myers. As evening approached, visitors gathered on blankets and lawn chairs to watch a colorful fireworks display that illuminated the night sky.
While the rides and entertainment drew large crowds, the event’s biggest attraction was the sense of community found throughout the park. Families reunited with friends, neighbors caught up with one another and children spent the day making new memories together.
“We see families who might only see each other at a school event now running across the park to reconnect for a bit,” Grabowski said. “We see families setting up picnic areas to enjoy the day. To be in the heart of bringing this joy to families and residents is what the park district is all about.”
Community organizations also played an important role in the celebration. Representatives from the Chicago Ridge Lions Club, Chicago Ridge Police Department, Chicago Ridge Fire Department, Fire Buddies, the Village of Chicago Ridge, Chicago Ridge Public Library, Worth Township, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Jon’s Way and Ivy League welcomed visitors throughout the day. Event sponsors HMD Bar & Grill and Midwest Minute Clinic also helped make the festival possible.
Several elected officials attended the event, including Illinois State Rep. Rick Ryan, Worth Township Supervisor Patricia Joan “Trish” Murphy and other local leaders who spent time visiting with residents.
“Events like Slice of Summer are only possible because of the incredible partnerships we have throughout our community,” Chicago Ridge Park District Board President Rob Pratl said on behalf of Vice President Mary Crout and commissioners Dave Conrad, Jamie Albon and Bob Meyer. “Seeing people of all ages enjoying the park, spending time with neighbors, and celebrating our community together is exactly what makes events like this so special.”
