Oak Fest 2015: Event Opens with Fun for All

Oak Fest kicks off its 28th season Wednesday, July 1 through Sunday, July 5 at 159th and Central. This five-day event is packed with family fun. The festival might look a bit different this year—in a good way.

Similar to last year’s event, this year’s will not feature one large entertainment tent, but instead take on more of an “open air” feel, with two tents to shield guests from the sun and the occasional sprinkle. A crafters showcase has been added, with up to 30 vendors and businesses signed up to showcase their wares. The carnival returns for kids of all ages (even the adult ones). Carnival Mega Passes buys you access to all rides during the entire festival and are $50 now through July 1 and available at City Hall, or $75 at the festival grounds. There are also daily ride pass specials throughout the week. More information is available at the Oak Fest website.

“Our goal every year is really two-fold,” said Chairman Joe Koce. “We want to raise as much money as we can for the local Oak Forest organizations and to give Oak Forest the best party of the summer!”

Check out this summary of what’s to come, courtesy of Living Oak Forest.

Wednesday, July 1

The fest opens at 6 p.m., with Bingo and the Carnival. Pamela Rose and Windy City Country will take the stage at 6:30 and is brought to you in part by Rockin’ Horse Saloon & Grill, quickly becoming an Oak Forest institution. Be sure to stick around because there will be a Salute to Hometown Heroes fireworks display presented by the Oak Forest Veterans Commission at 9 p.m.

Thursday, July 2

Doors open again at 6 p.m. with food vendors, Bingo and the Carnival waiting to delight guests. Make It Last will showcase an acoustic set at 6 p.m., followed by a performance by Maggie Speaks, one of the most popular live bands in Chicago. Dance the night away with this one-of-a-kind cover band.

Friday, July 3

Spend #FridayFunday at Oak Fest. Come early or stay late … the doors are open until midnight. PriSSillas start rocking the crowd at 6:30 p.m. and then Infinity will bring its tour to Oak Forest and take the stage at 9 p.m. This is another top cover band, sure to please the crowd and get everyone up on their feet.

Saturday, July 4

Family Fun Day starts at 3 p.m. with performances by local children’s groups. Have a child with special needs? Come early for the Special Needs Children only time from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Show off your tossing skills at the Bean Bag Tournament, which starts at 4 p.m., registration opens at 3. Bullwinkle performs from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. And don’t forget to head over to the Watermelon Eating Contest, which starts at 6:30 p.m. When the sun goes down, another fireworks display will go on. April’s Reign will take you into the night with their rocking sounds starting at 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, July 5

The final day starts off with a vroom with a Car & Bike show at 11 a.m. Bingo and Carnival begin at noon. If you like music, you will love Day 5. 13 Tikis will take the stage at 11 a.m. followed by Cadillac Groove at 1 p.m. Make It Lastreturns to Oak Fest with a set at 4:30 p.m. Then the Headbangers Ball closes out the 28th season starting at 7 p.m.