CHICAGO (WLS) — Labor Day weekend in Chicago, the unofficial end of summer, is full of fun, including Bike the Drive on DuSable Lake Shore Drive.
That happens Sunday morning, which means the drive shuts down from 6 a.m. until noon.
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That happens between Bryn Mawr and 57th Street.
Bicyclists have a 30-mile loop to explore the city, in both the north and southbound lanes.
Bike the Drive is set to begin at 6:30 a.m. in Grant Park; it takes place from Hyde Park to Edgewater.
Riders can safely access DuSable Lake Shore Drive from any of the following points: the Main Festival in Grant Park, Bryn Mawr Avenue, Fullerton Avenue, Oakwood Boulevard, and the Museum of Science and Industry.
Registration is necessary.
Visit bikethedrive.org for more information.
Suburbs celebrate Labor Day weekend
Last Fling and Septemberfest will celebrate Labor Day weekend in the suburbs.
Many communities are having festivals this Labor Day weekend.
It’s the last holiday weekend until fall kicks into full gear.
In Naperville, there’s a new rule for the 60th anniversary of the Last Fling.
No unaccompanied minors are allowed; adults must be with them.
The Jaycees, who organize the event, mention that there have been some incidents with teenagers misbehaving in recent years, and they wish to ensure no significant issues occur.
“We are a group of young people organizing this for the community. We’re not babysitters, and it’s crucial to ensure everyone is secure,” stated Last Fling Marketing Director Karen Coleman.
Originating in the 1960s, the festival was inspired by a film about summer’s end and has expanded significantly since then. The carnival rides are located on one side, there’s live music on the stage, and, of course, food booths are available.
It’s probably the last chance to get carnival food for a while. The Perk and Pickle has been coming for several years.
“We’ve consistently done well here. Many returning customers support us, and we keep coming as long as they welcome us,” said Justin Brooks from Perk and Pickle.
The Last Fling opens its doors Friday evening and ends Monday evening. The end of summer, though, doesn’t have to coincide.
It’s the 54th anniversary of Schaumburg’s Septemberfest, and preparations for the stage are in full swing. Music plays a central role in the annual event, attracting prominent acts to perform.
“It’s really the big focus. It brings probably 20-25,000 people depending on the bands each night. It’s a free show,” Septemberfest Music Chair Eric Todd said.
Schaumburg also has a large carnival full of rides and games and a big food area hosting the Taste of Schaumburg. There’s also a huge arts and crafts area with nearly 200 vendors showing and selling their products.
“It’s a fantastic festival. A lot goes into it and people enjoy it. It comes back every year strong,” Schaumburg spokesperson Kossandra Schref said.
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