Community Comes Alive: Yorkville's Hometown Days Festival

Yorkville's Hometown Days Festival is a beloved annual tradition that brings the community together in a celebration of music, food, and fun. But what makes this event so special? Is it the Ultimate Air Dogs contest, where golden retrievers (and their owners) show off their jumping skills? Or perhaps it's the Brews and Barbecue event, where locals can sample craft beer and barbecue from Fox Republic Brewing and Station One Smokehouse? Whatever the draw, it's clear that this festival is a true community event. But what does it mean to be a "hometown" event? Is it just a nostalgic trip down memory lane, or is it something more? According to Katelyn Gregory, the community engagement and marketing coordinator for Yorkville, it's a bit of both. "This is definitely kind of a homecoming and a reunion of sorts for some people," she says. "We do tend to see a lot of returning people who have either grown up here in Yorkville or have family here. " It's a chance for people to reconnect with their roots and with each other. But what about those who are new to the area? Are they included in the festivities? Absolutely. The festival is designed to be inclusive, with something for everyone. From the touch-a-truck area to the car show, there's plenty of entertainment to go around. And let's not forget the food - from hot dogs to barbecue, there's something to satisfy every taste bud. So, what's the secret to the festival's success? Is it the planning and organization that goes into it, or is it something more? According to Jeff Hahn, who has been selling hot dogs at the festival for over 30 years, it's the community itself. "I like to say that our hot dogs are made with love," he says. "And I think that's true for the whole festival. People come here because they want to be together, to reconnect with their friends and neighbors, and to celebrate their community. " But what about the impact of the festival on the local economy? That's a great question. According to Gregory, the festival is a significant economic boost for the area. "We do tend to see a lot of local vendors and businesses participating in the festival, and it's a great way for them to get their products and services out to the public," she says. So, what's the takeaway from this year's Hometown Days Festival? It's clear that this event is more than just a celebration - it's a community builder. It's a chance for people to come together, to reconnect, and to celebrate what makes their community so special. Whether you're a longtime resident or just visiting for the day, the Hometown Days Festival is an event not to be missed.