UPDATE: The Elburn Days festival is electrifying the community with a vibrant atmosphere as families gather for a weekend of fun and festivities from August 15 to 17, 2025. With an expected attendance of 100,000 over three days, this beloved local event is proving to be a highlight of the summer.
Held at the Elburn Lions Community Park, the festival kicked off last night despite early closures due to storms, bouncing back with renewed energy today. Attendees like Adrian Sudol and his family, who have been coming for over 20 years, express their love for the unique setting. “You don’t see carnivals in the woods and the grass; usually, it’s in a parking lot,” Sudol stated, praising the excellent bands and friendly atmosphere.
The Elburn Lions Club has orchestrated this annual celebration since its inception in 1933. Originally named “A Day in the Park,” the festival has transformed into a major fundraiser for the Lions Club, supporting various community initiatives. Outgoing president John Collum, who chairs the event, noted, “Between Lions and volunteers, we have anywhere from 125 to 150 people working during the three-day period.”
Festival-goers can enjoy a plethora of activities including live music, carnival rides, truck pulls, mud volleyball, and a beer garden. “The food vendors are of great quality, and we have great acts that come out,” Collum added. “It’s really a great place to go and spend some family fun for a long weekend.”
Local vendors, like Phil Gladd, who has managed the beef stand for over a decade, are also key to the festival’s success. “We bought 800 steak sandwiches this year to sell, and they’ll all be gone,” Gladd shared, highlighting the community’s appetite for local favorites.
The warmth and camaraderie of the attendees have not gone unnoticed. Lisa Stahura from Hampshire remarked, “Everyone here is very friendly, very communal.” Her sentiments reflect the festival’s spirit, with the community rallying around the Lions’ mission each year.
As the festival progresses today, the buzz continues to grow. Live music and carnival rides are expected to draw even larger crowds, solidifying Elburn Days as a staple of summer enjoyment. The event not only showcases local talent and food but also strengthens community bonds, making it a must-visit for families in and around Elburn.
Stay tuned for more updates as the weekend unfolds and don’t miss out on the excitement!
