PrairieFest Returns For Father's Day, Congestion Expected: Oswego PD

OSWEGO, IL — PrairieFest is returning Thursday through Sunday to the streets of Oswego. The festivities are expected to bring large crowds, causing congestion throughout the village, police said Monday.

To many, a highlight of the Oswegoland Park District-hosted event is the carnival that runs all four days. But it's not the only activity on the docket. Visitors can also visit Expo Village, pet animals at the petting zoo, ride ponies for free and hear a variety of live music each day.

On Father's Day, observed Sunday, the beloved PrairieFest Parade will proceed through downtown Oswego. Stepping off at 1 p.m. At the intersection of Garfield Street and Jefferson Street, floats will travel down Jefferson Street to Main Street and later turn onto Tyler Street before ending at the intersection of Washington and Franklin streets.

"This year's theme celebrates a 34 year tradition of PrairieFest kicking off the season of sunshine!" organizers said.

The PrairieFest 5K and One Mile Prairie Dog Jog are also planned for Sunday. The 5K will get started at 8 a.m., and the mile jog will begin 10 minutes later.

"To ensure safety and enjoyment at PrairieFest, attendees can expect to see an increased police presence and additional security measures on festival grounds and along the parade route," officials said.

As a result of the plethora of activities, Oswego police are warning locals and visitors of increased traffic and delays, especially on the following roads:

• Route 71 between Route 34 and Forest Avenue
• Plainfield Road between Route 71 and Woolley Road
• Madison, Washington and Main streets in the downtown Oswego area
• In the downtown area between 1-2:30 p.m. Sunday due to the PrairieFest Parade

The entrance to Oswego High School's south lot near the intersection of Route 71 and Franklin Street will not be open to drivers traveling south on Route 71. Access will be closed to the gravel parking lot at the soccer fields, police said.

Drivers not attending PrairieFest are encouraged to find alternate routes to avoid delays.

Parking for festivities can be found at a few places in downtown Oswego:

• District 308 Transportation Center parking lot, with access from Stonehill Road
• South and north lots at Oswego High School
• Oswegoland Park District soccer fields