Old Naperville Day took over a part of Chicago Avenue for a good cause and a lot of fun.
The block party was proclaimed Old Naperville Day by Mayor Steve Chirico.
“Well this is all about The Lantern and our downtown businesses, and celebrating Old Naperville Day,” said Mayor Chirico. “They did it last year to recognize the 50th anniversary of The Lantern, and it was such a great experience for everybody that I want to memorialize it as a resolution, so we were able to declare this Sunday – Old Naperville Day.”
The festivities included plenty of food from The Lantern and their neighbors, along with live music.
Many came out for the entertainment and fun with the community.
“I like that they bring all the community together, a couple of the businesses- there are more businesses here this year, so it kind of brings everybody together and it kind of brings back that small town feel,” said attendee Mary Beth Bleifuss.
“To walk the city in the streets and listen to some music and have some good food, it’s wonderful,” said attendee Paul Siuciak. “I wish they would do this more – close down the streets and have some live entertainment.”
And all that entertainment will benefit Operation Support Our Troops America, a charity that started in Naperville.
“They support active troops while they’re in harms way as well as after they get home and their families while they’re here so they’re a great organization,” explained Manager of The Lantern, Teri Feldott.
Those with The Lantern are hoping that Old Naperville Day will stay with the community for years to come.
“It’s a family-friendly event, it’s a community event, and we’re really just trying to get it out there and start a tradition and many more years to come, and just get stronger and bigger every year,” said General Manager of The Lantern, Brenda Dieter.
Naperville News 17’s Christine Lena reports.