Winnetka Children’s Fair Heralds the Arrival of Summer Festivities
As the school year draws to a close, the annual Winnetka Children’s Fair marks the eagerly anticipated start of summer holidays. Held on the scenic grounds of Winnetka Park, this beloved event has become a cherished tradition for generations of families. This year’s fair promises to deliver a day filled with endless entertainment and merriments for children of all ages. From towering inflatables to face painting and live music, there’s something to capture the imagination of every young attendee. The fair’s central attraction is the sprawling carnival midway. Children can indulge in thrilling rides, participate in challenging games of chance, and win prizes that spark their joy. The air is filled with laughter and excitement as kids race through obstacles, test their aim, and win coveted stuffed animals. Alongside the carnival, the fair showcases a plethora of interactive activities. Local artisans lead crafting workshops, where budding creators can unleash their creativity and take home handmade souvenirs. Educational exhibits provide opportunities for children to learn about science, nature, and the arts. Live music reverberates through the park, creating a festive atmosphere. Talented performers entertain families with melodies ranging from classic children’s songs to vibrant pop and rock anthems. Food vendors tempt taste buds with an array of delicious treats, ensuring that everyone has something to satisfy their cravings. The Winnetka Children’s Fair is an invaluable community event that fosters a sense of togetherness and celebrates the special bond between children and their families. It provides a carefree and unforgettable day that will be remembered long after the summer holidays have drawn to a close. As the sun sets on the park, casting a golden glow over the fairgrounds, families gather to experience the grand finale: a spectacular fireworks display that illuminates the night sky with vibrant colors and thunderous applause. The dazzling spectacle signals the end of another successful fair, leaving behind memories that will warm the hearts of children and parents alike for years to come.Kids took center stage over the weekend at the 77th annual celebration of the Winnetka Children’s Fair, an event that features small carnival games and attractions for area children to enjoy and unofficially kick off summer.
Kids took center stage over the weekend at the 77th annual celebration of the Winnetka Children’s Fair, an event that features small carnival games and attractions for area children to enjoy and unofficially kick off summer. This generations-old tradition is organized annually as a gift to the children of Winnetka by the Winnetka Community Nursery School Board of Directors, with the help of hundreds of local volunteers and the support of several area businesses. “When I see the kids cycling to the Village Green in droves after school lets out on Friday, and when I see them taking over the Green, it really gives me chills,” said Molly Murgatroyd, co-chair of the Winnetka Children’s Scholarship. Murgatroyd said the event was first envisioned as a fundraiser in 1945, when it was hosted in the Ryerson family’s backyard. Since then, the Children’s Fair has become a beloved children’s event for Winnetka residents and a staple of the community. This year’s two-day event, held Friday, June 7 from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Saturday, June 8 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, featured carnival-style games, rides, and attractions. Attendees could enjoy refreshments such as hot dogs and snow cones, ride a giant slide, zip line, and pirate ship, take pony and camel rides, watch performances by DJ Gator, New Trier Cheer, and the Studio North Academy of the Performing Arts, and more. Murgatroyd stated that a number of adult-oriented features were added to this year’s fair, such as a coffee and cake stand from Towne & Oak, along with expanded options for child-oriented entertainment as part of the event’s offerings. “Basically we want people to experience a sense of nostalgia at the fair, so we try to keep things like old-fashioned games and vintage decorations pretty much the same every year,” said Murgatroyd. “It’s fully run by a board of 16 local mothers – all tasks large and small are handled by cooperating mothers.” According to Murgatroyd, this year’s fundraising goal was set at $20,000-$30,000 to match last year’s fundraising amount, but regardless of the final numbers, the fair will continue next year as a cherished community tradition. Clifford Porter, a resident who attended the Children’s Fair on Village Green as a child, shared his thoughts on the event. “It’s a good time for us to reconnect with old friends and they have such fun activities for the kids,” Porter said. “They wait all year for it.” First-time attendee Liz Fritz of Wilmette expressed her enthusiasm for the fair. “This provides such great entertainment for the kids, they just love it,” Fritz said. Bill Walsh of Winnetka, who attended with his family, commented on the value of the fair for children’s development. “It’s really cool to go with the kids, the experiences beyond their screen-centric lives and video games are so rare,” Walsh said. “It’s good to see them getting lost in the fun.”
Winnetka Children’s Fair Kicks Off Summer Festivities Children and their families gathered at Centennial Park on Saturday for the annual Winnetka Children’s Fair, marking the official start of summer break. Despite the gloomy weather, the park was bustling with activities, laughter, and excitement. The event featured a wide range of attractions, including face painting, inflatable obstacle courses, pony rides, and a petting zoo. Local vendors showcased their summer products, offering everything from handmade crafts to delicious treats. Children enjoyed sampling shaved ice and cotton candy while browsing unique toys and accessories. The fair also provided opportunities for educational entertainment. The Winnetka Public Library hosted a storytelling session, while the Winnetka Recreation Department led kids in sports and games. “It’s wonderful to see the community come together to celebrate our children,” said Mayor Scott Moore. “The Children’s Fair is a cherished tradition that creates memories that will last a lifetime.” Parents expressed their gratitude for the event, noting that it provided a safe and fun way for their children to kick off the summer holidays. “My kids have been looking forward to the fair all week,” said local resident Emily Johnson. “They’re having a blast, and it’s a great way for them to connect with their friends.” As the day came to an end, children left the park with smiles on their faces, eager to continue their summer adventures. The Winnetka Children’s Fair served as a reminder that the season of laughter, play, and unforgettable experiences had officially begun.
