Annual Firecracker Fest Expected to Lure Hundreds with Music, Games

More than 700 people are expected to party at the Mokena Lions Club 2011 Firecracker Festival, the club's largest yearly fundraiser.

The festival is Saturday, July 16 with the gates at the Metra Lot in downtown Mokena -- at Wolf and Front streets -- opening at 6 p.m. The party will last until 12:30 a.m.

The fest is for adults over the age of 21 only, said Bob Bishop, co-chairman of the 24th annual fest.

A $10 entry fee gets fest-goers a spot to see local band "Rendition" entertaining from 7 p.m. to closing time, as well as access to food provided by and other refreshments at the beer wagons and Margaritaville tent, Bishop said.

The ticket automatically enters attendees into a sweepstakes, with a $5,000 first prize, $1,000 second prize and a $500 third prize. The winner doesn't need to be present to win and there will be other opportunities to win cash with two 50/50 raffles. 

This year, the fest will also feature a bean bag tournament, with cash prizes to the top three teams.

"This outing also is an excellent way for friends to gather and meet others," Bishop pointed out.

It's also an excellent way to party with a purpose, as proceeds benefit local organizations.

"During 2010 alone, we helped over 25 local organizations in their goals," Bishop said. "Our focus is to help provide eye exams and glasses to those in need."

Throughout the year, the Lions Club gives to the community, from its annual Easter Egg Hunt to providing food baskets on holidays to distributing American flags at Mokena's annual 4th of July parade. The club also awards scholarships to Lincoln-Way High School seniors.

The Firecracker Fest is one of the bigger events and attendance has grown every year, Bishop said.

"Families and friends have been enjoying the Firecracker Festival from the beginning and continue to attend each and every year," he said.

To stay updated on Lions Club news and events, log on the club's website and or visit its Facebook page.