The 23rd annual Taste of Orland Park got off to a strong start Friday night, drawing crowds to Village Green for an evening of food, live music and community celebration before severe weather disrupted the remainder of the weekend’s schedule.
“The food, the bands, everything here is amazing,” said Miguel Aveclar of Alsip, who attended Friday night’s festivities.
The three-day festival, presented by Northwestern Medicine, opened Friday with local restaurants, family activities and live entertainment, but organizers were forced to cancel Saturday’s events because of weather conditions.
In a Facebook post Saturday afternoon, Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge announced the cancellation.
“Due to current/forecasted weather conditions and the saturation of the grounds on the Village Green, the Taste of Orland Park has been called for tonight, Saturday, Aug. 1,” Dodge wrote.
Saturday’s entertainment, including performances by the Petty Kings, the Doonaree Pipe Band, Hillbilly Rockstarz, Annika Starander Weaver’s Cher tribute and headliner 7th Heaven, was canceled, along with youth performers and Live Band Karaoke that was scheduled on the Community Stage.
Organizers faced additional weather-related challenges Sunday. In a Facebook post, Orland Township Trustee Ken Duffy Jr. announced that the festival’s opening would be pushed back later in the day.
The delayed opening affected Sunday’s entertainment schedule as organizers adjusted performances to accommodate the later start. Festivalgoers were encouraged to watch official Village of Orland Park social media channels for updated schedules and event information.
Despite the weekend’s weather interruptions, Friday night’s successful kickoff showcased why the Taste of Orland Park remains one of the community’s signature summer traditions, bringing together residents and visitors to enjoy local restaurants, live entertainment and community spirit.
Good thing Friday,s weather was accommodating. Seems like Saturday is a washout. Too bad !
Is orland fest still on with the rain