Swedish Days 2009 (Geneva)

The Blind Roosevelts at Swedish Days 2008Swedish Days are here again! Beginning Tuesday, June 23 and running through Sunday, June 28, the 60th Annual Midsommar Festival takes over Geneva with food, music, fun and games for the whole family.

Geneva is a great destination year-round with its eclectic selection of shops and restaurants. But this week is the peak of activity for the community. Residents and businesses gear up all year for this one, and it should not be missed. One of the great things about this festival is that there are six days to enjoy it. Come out for one day or all six, this is festival fun at its best.

What will you find?
Here's a sampling from the full schedule of Swedish Days events: live music, dance performances, food, crafts, Swedish heritage, Geneva history, carnival rides, kids activities, sidewalk sales, fitness classes, dodgeball tournament, parades, cheerleading demonstration, mini golf, 39th Annual Granquist Music Competition, basketball tournament, Frisbee dogs, and a pie-eating contest. Whew!

For the thirsty adult festival-goers there is a beer garden located in the American Legion parking lot near James and 2nd Streets.

Also, many of the restaurants and bars in Geneva schedule their own special entertainment this week to capitalize on the influx of festival patrons. Duck into a few of these places for a friendly dose of grain, grape, and good times.

Where is the festival? How do I get there?
Most of the festival takes place up and down the famous Third Street in downtown Geneva. If you're coming from far away consider taking the Metra train to Geneva. It will deposit you right in the middle of the festival. Otherwise, parking may be difficult due to the overwhelming crowd and some street closings. There is a parking garage and a public lot near the Metra station at Third Street and Crescent Place.

As you can see, there's something for everybody at Swedish Days. Visit the official Swedish Days website for more information. And remember to come back and share your pictures, video, and comments with us. Have fun!

Swedish Days 2009 Entertainment Lineup

Photo by The Blind Roosevelts
Fox Valley VoiceGeneva, bars pubs taverns, beer garden, dance, exercise, family, festival, food and drink, games, kids, music, shopsComment