Village Celebrates Annual Block Party

As Summer made its way into town this week, Saturday got off to a smooth start, with the kick-off of the 17th Annual 5k run/walk. 

Bringing attendees from as far as Aurora, 91 people participated of varying ages and skill levels. 

For many runners the event was not about a competition, but about the chance to have some fun with neighbors, close friends and family. 

“I run competitively and participate in a lot of half-marathons. However, I do this one for fun,” said first place women’s division runner Jorie Schumann. “It’s my hometown race and I know most of the people who compete so it makes for a good time.” 

As participants ran, jogged, walked and long-boarded across the finish line friends, family and neighbors cheered everyone on. 

After the race commenced, organizers announced the winners' circle.

Male division 5K winners included  Joseph Lerrner of Oak Lawn who placed first, Rob Peterson of Evergreen Park who placed second and Neil Nicholson of Aurora who placed third. 

Women division winners included  Evergreen Park resident Schumann, who placed first, Amanda Callas of Evergreen Park who placed second and Beth Anderson of Evergreen Park who placed third. 

As participants cooled down afterwards with cold water and fresh fruit, the smell of charcoal grills filled the air as food vendors and arts and crafts booths began to set up in the parking lot of the

When the clock struck noon, hundreds of Evergreen Park residents flooded to enjoy the Annual Day in the Park Block Party. 

Now in its 23rd year the event, was created in 1988 by the as an opportunity for residents to come together and enjoy themselves in a family0-friendly environment. 

“The event…has all type of activities for people of all ages,” said village clerk Catherine Aparo. “There is live entertainment and music, local craft and restaurant vendors, a beer garden and a petting zoo which allows kids and adults alike to have fun.”

For Evergreen Park residents Jim and Sue Flavin who have been attending this event since it’s inception, the day offers them a chance to spend time with their two young grandsons, John and Jack. 

“The event is great for the grandkids because they have a lot of little activities that they can participate in, plus they have things that we can do to0,” said the Flavins.

As the day went by and the temperature increased so did the crowds. Long lines of children gathered in the grass for a chance to pet the llamas and ride the miniature ponies, while adults sampled food provided by Bleekers, Barracos, Sesame Inn and Zaca Tacos. 

Managers from Zaca Tacos, which will be opening their eighth location in Evergreen Park on August 1st, felt the day would give them a chance to introduce themselves to the community. 

“We are happy to be here today, the people have been fun and friendly, and overall it’s been a great time,” said co-owner Erasto Acun. “We are excited that we are getting a chance to preview our menu for people who may not be familiar with us.” 

The Evergreen Park fire and police department also came out to the block party to meet and mingle with residents.

“It’s important for us to get out and meet the community. So we brought materials about safety awareness, we are grilling polish sausages and corn, we provided a fun house and miniature fire gear that kids can try on. This all in an effort to meet our residents under less stressful circumstances,” stated fire Lt. Edward Dunne. 

Dennis Duffy, director of recreational services and coordinator of the event, could not  have been happier how the day turned out.

“It worked out very well, it was best weather we have had in twenty three years, the music was enjoyable, we had new vendors and people overall had a great time.”

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