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Community Corner

73rd Annual Lemont Keepataw Parade & Fun Fest Set for August 31, 2025

This year's theme, "Neighbors Helping Neighbors," highlights the everyday acts of care and connection that strengthen our community.

Lemont Keepataw Day Parade and Fun Fest
Lemont Keepataw Day Parade and Fun Fest (Image Credit | Brigid Presecky, Hilltop Photo Company)

The 73rd Annual Lemont Keepataw Parade will march through historic downtown Lemont on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at 1 p.m. during Labor Day Weekend.

This year’s theme, “Neighbors Helping Neighbors,” celebrates the heart of what makes Lemont special. It honors the many people and organizations who show up for others in big and small ways, whether by volunteering their time, supporting a neighbor in crisis, organizing community events, or simply being there when it matters most. The theme reflects the kindness, generosity, and shared commitment that knit our town together.

Local residents, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to participate in the parade and showcase their interpretation of the theme by walking, building floats, or cheering along the route.

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After the parade, the celebration continues with the Fun Fest starting at 2 p.m., offering something for all ages:

Get involved and be part of the fun:

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  • Sponsor the parade and fun fest and be recognized on our website, social media, and at the event: Sponsorship Info
  • Walk or create a float in the parade: Parade Registration
  • Nonprofits can host a kids' game: Game Host Sign-Up
  • Volunteer to help before or on event day: Volunteer Info
  • Food vendors and artisan market participants can email entertainment@lemontkeepataw.com for booth information

The Lemont Keepataw Day Committee, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit led by local community members, organizes the event each year to celebrate Lemont’s rich history and vibrant community spirit.

Named after Potawatomi Chief Keepataw, whose tribe once traveled the area near modern-day Lemont, the festival began in 1950 as a small-town celebration. It has grown over the decades into a cherished local tradition. Lemont was originally named Keepataw before changing to Athens, then Palmyra, and finally Lemont in 1850.

Learn more at www.lemontkeepataw.com.

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