While many summertime and other popular village events had resumed in Lake Zurich post-pandemic, the parade that had been part of Alpine Fest had not – but it’s back now.
The parade rolled mid-morning July 21, making its return since it was halted due to the COVID-19 global emergency. More than 30 entries were featured in the parade, which started at the corner of Whitney Road and Route 22. It continued east to Main Street, and ended at Lion Fred Blau Park.
“The Lake Zurich Lions Club is excited to be able to bring the Alpine Fest Parade back,” said Rob Rosenberg.
The parade is a much anticipated part of Alpine Fest, which this year ran July 19 to July 21, and draws hundreds of spectators – especially this year after the hiatus. Alpine Fest is a tradition launched in summer 1942, partly in celebration of the victories of World War II by volunteer and service organizations who came together, according to Lions Club information about the summer festival. https://www.lakezurich.org/451/Lions-Club-Alpine-Fest.
The emcee on the decorated parade stage on East Main Street across from the park was Rosenberg, who also announced the live music in his role as stage manager over the festival’s three days.
Rosenberg has been a part of the Lake Zurich Lions Club for two decades and is, “very proud of the things the Lions Club does for this community,” he said, including providing eyeglasses and hearing aids for people who need them.
The club works with guidance counselors in local schools to identify youth whose family cannot afford new eyeglasses for their children. Rosenberg said the Lions Club strives to give students equitable opportunities to thrive in the classroom as part of a happy childhood.
“It’s why we do this,” Rosenberg said.
Lake Zurich Mayor Tom Poynton distributed parade treats from a golf cart .
“It’s unbelievable, great crowd,” he said.
The parade grand marshal was Chuck Wendt, who was recognized for 21 years of service with the Lake Zurich Fire Department.
“He has been president of the Lake Zurich retired Fire Rescue Members Association for 30 years and works as an accountant for 51 years,” Rosenberg told the audience while announcing the parade.
On the parade route, on the side of the street near Lion Fred Blau Park, was the family of Adam Roscher, of Long Grove, including son Luke, 5, and daughter Emma, 8.
“This is our first time going so we’re really excited for it,”Roscher said, as the parade set to roll past where he and his family were standing.
He had just learned that the Alpine Fest Parade had been on pause since 2019 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Hopefully,” Roscher said, the worst of the pandemic is behind us.
Karie Angell Luc is a freelancer.