Jaycees Seek Participants for 4th of July Parade and Expo

Parade and Expo applications for Palatine’s Fourth of July celebration, Hometown Fest, are now open through their website at hometownfest.org. The Palatine Jaycees are looking for local organizations, crafters, artists, non-profits, and businesses to participate in both events. In this time of uncertainty, the Palatine Jaycees are cautiously optimistic that the festival will go on.

The Jaycees’ Fourth of July parade is a 64 year tradition in Palatine. The parade will be held on July 3 at 11:00 AM. There are openings for groups who would like to enter a float or simply march in the parade. Entries in the parade will cost $75.00 for nonprofits and organizations and $125.00 for businesses.

The Arts and Crafts, Business and Charity Expo runs July 2 - July 3, 2021 in Community Park by Palatine Road and Northwest Highway. Exhibitors will be assigned a 12' X 12' space on a first come, first serve basis. Arts and crafts booths cost $100, business booths cost $180, and non-profit booths cost $20.

Hometown Fest is one of the best known and attended events in the area. The Expo draws in over 60 exhibits annually and the parade is attended by thousands from Palatine and the surrounding communities. “Both the parade and expo give opportunities to promote and support local businesses,” said Hometown Fest co-chair Jenny Levin.

Since 1957, the Palatine Jaycees have proudly partnered with the village and park district to host Hometown Fest, Palatine’s Fourth of July Celebration. The festival includes fireworks, entertainment, food vendors, parade, carnival, business expo and craft fair, Family Day and many other family activities.

The mission of the Palatine Jaycees is to provide development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change. The members volunteer their time to organize and run the Fest each year. Proceeds from Hometown Fest benefit Palatine by funding community projects, community grants, high school scholarships, and much more.

All state and local guidelines will be followed to ensure a safe festival, and all festival activities are subject to change due to the ever-developing COVID-19 pandemic. Please continue to wear masks and social distance to keep the Palatine community safe!

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About the Palatine Jaycees
The Palatine Chapter of the Jaycees has more than 100 members and is one of the largest of the 50 chapters throughout Illinois. The Jaycees give individuals ages 21 to 40 the opportunities to develop personal and leadership skills while serving their communities. The Palatine Chapter has been recognized locally and internationally for their efforts.

The Palatine Jaycees currently hold their monthly general meeting virtually on the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 pm and when allowed at Arlington Lanes in Arlington Heights. For further information on the Palatine Jaycees, membership or any of their sponsored events visit http://www.palatinejaycees.org, or email info@palatinejaycees.org.