Elim Christian Services Celebrates Dutch Culture At Festival

CRESTWOOD, IL — Explore the culture and customs of the Holland and the Netherlands at Elim Christian Services 2019 Dutch Festival in Crestwood from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28. This is Elim’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds will benefit the children and adults served by Elim’s many programs and services for persons with disabilities.

The day’s festivities begin with a delicious “pannenkoek” or pancake breakfast, Nibble away the rest of the day on great Dutch and American cuisine, such as banket (pastries with almond filling), hutspot (beef and potatoes) oliebollen, pizza, hamburgers, bratwurst, and hotdogs.

Browse the Dutch Village shops and colorful farmer’s market. Entertainment acts will delight audiences of all ages. Elim’s Dutch Festival draws thousands of visitors every year from all corners of Chicagoland.

“Every person, young or old, and in between, will find something great to enjoy at Dutch Fest,”
says Dan Vander Plaats, director of advancement at Elim. “My own family counts down the days to every year’s festival, looking forward to great food and shopping, and lots of options for kids and adults throughout the day. My great hope is to introduce new people to Dutch culture and to the incredible global ministry that sits right here in their own backyard. You won’t just enjoy the festival, you’ll enjoy knowing that your participation is making it possible for people with disabilities to thrive.”

The festival will be held on the grounds of Elim’s main campus at 10320 S. Central Ave., Crestwood. Admission and parking are free, but tickets are needed for making purchases at the food court and in the children’s games area.

Elim Christian Services was founded by members of the Dutch Reformed Church and endeavors to help children and adults with developmental or physical disabilities reach their God-given potential through faith-based programs and services. The organization operates a school for students ages 3 through 22 who have developmental or physical disabilities providing a full array of advocacy and services. Elim also offers vocational training, life skills training, case management, transportation, recreation and community life integration for adults who have transitioned from Elim’s school and youth services.

Here’s a rundown of Saturday’s activities:

7:30-10 a.m. Pancake Breakfast
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stores and ticket booths open
8:30-9:30 a.m. Dutch Organ
9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Pony rides
9 a.m.-4 p.m. Food court, games, petting zoo and train rides
9:30-10:20 a.m. Parade and opening ceremonies (main stage)
10:20-10:50 a.m. Elim Worship Team (main stage)
10:50-11 a.m. Dutch History Live Wooden Shoe Dancers (store area)
11 a.m.-1 p.m. Elim Experience
11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Vinnie Adams and Band (main stage)
12:45-1 p.m. Dutch History Live Wooden Shoe Dancers (store area)
1-1:45 p.m. Robyn Vitson & “RVQ” Jazz Quartet (main stage)
1-2:15 p.m. Reptile Show (Door A39)
1:45-2 p.m. Dutch History Live Wooden Shoe Dancers (store area)
2 to 2:45 p.m. Robyn Vitson & “RVQ” Jazz Quartet (main stage)
3-4 p.m. Dutch Organ