Darien Event 'Amazing,' But Some Issues: Official

DARIEN, IL – A Darien alderwoman had good things to say Monday about Darien's inaugural Oktoberfest at Carriage Greens Country Club.

"I did overall hear amazing things about the Oktoberfest, that it went very well, the weather was beautiful. Fun was had by all. Definitely, a success," Alderwoman Mary Sullivan told the City Council.

But she said a couple of neighbors of the country club emailed concerns about the Sept. 23 event, which the local Lions Club organized. They wrote about the road congestion and trespassing on their properties.

Some event-goers also strolled onto the golf course, which Sullivan described as dangerous because of flying golf balls.

Next year, she said, the organizers may want to set up fencing or some type of barrier to stop people from entering the golf course and nearby properties.

Mayor Joseph Marchese said the feedback on Oktoberfest was "highly complimentary." Some suggested more German food and different bands next year, he said.

"One of them asked me to make amends with the park district and move it to Community Park," the mayor said. "And I said no need to make amends with the park district. We have a good relationship with them."

In 2019, the Darien Park District charged the Darien Chamber of Commerce for damage the district said was caused to Community Park during the chamber's Darien Fest. The district said it no longer wanted the fest at Community Park; the city unsuccessfully tried to persuade the district to change its mind.

In a statement to Patch, Michael Falco, the Oktoberfest chairman, thanked residents for the "unbelievable turnout" at the event.

"Without them, none of this would be possible," Falco said. "I completely understand their concerns and will be working hard to implement most or all suggestions for next year's event."