A must-stop for a summer fun destination is Geneva’s 74th Annual Swedish Days Festival supported by Northwestern Medicine. “The Granddaddy of Illinois Festivals” will run Wednesday through Sunday, June 19-23.
More than 200,000 visitors and residents stop by for a variety of activities – combining traditional events and exciting new attractions. Look for more information in the Geneva Chamber of Commerce's online brochure.
“The Geneva Chamber is pleased and excited to bring back Swedish Days in all its blue and yellow glory,” says Johanna Patterson, Communications Director. “We know Genevans and visitors are ready for five days of fun.”
Here is a sneak peek.
Shopping & Treasures
Some shops will be offering specials during Swedish Days. Select stores will be open until 8 p.m. or later on Wednesday and Thursday, June 19-20. Sweden Väst, on Saturday and Sunday, June 21-22, will specialize in Swedish items. If you are looking for that Swedish Days souvenir, this is where you will find it.
Free Entertainment
Free nightly musical entertainment on Central Stage kicks off June 19 with Geneva Park District performances and Geneva’s Got Talent. The Chamber will welcome bands to Swedish Days for the first time over the next two nights. Featured artists will be performing during the afternoons June 19-22 in the Craft Beer Tent.
Food Booths
Festival goers can feast on traditional Swedish and favorite American and ethnic foods including, brats, corn dogs, turkey legs, sandwiches, meatballs, pizza, garlic crab pasta, and roasted corn to name a few at the many non-profit food booths. Sinfully good desserts will also be available.
Restaurants, Pizzerias & Pubs
Do not forget all the fine restaurants in Geneva. From casual bistros to five-star formal dining, a day in Geneva is not complete without sampling one or more of our fine restaurants and eateries. Or stop by one of the beer gardens that will offer good food, drink, and entertainment during the festival, including the Chamber’s Craft Beer Tent on James Street. Visit the Chamber's website for a listing of our restaurants, pizzerias and pubs.
Long-Time Genevans
If you have lived in Geneva for over 25 years, join others for the Geneva Settlers Breakfast on June 20. This popular event is at Copper Fox, 477 S. Third St., with breakfast served at 8:30 am. No reservations are necessary.
Activities For Young Visitors
June 19 brings the carnival to town. Open every day of the festival and each day offers an unlimited ride wristband opportunity.
Swedish Days 2024 is packed with favorites – Dodgeball Tournament, 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament and mini golf.
June 21 is “Kids’ Day” where from early in the morning to late into the night, kids can stay busy. The day kicks off with the Kids’ Parade leaving from Campbell & Fifth streets (look for the registration sign). The fun continues with activities galore at the Geneva Public Library, outside and inside.
The Kids’ Day Parade invites children through age 10 to enter one of our parade categories.
Come For The Run, Stay For The Fun
The Swedish Days 5K Lopp on June 22 promises an unbelievable race experience. More information is available on the Chamber's website.
Grand Parade
On June 23, bring some chairs and blankets so the entire family can enjoy the Grand Parade – truly a community parade that over 45,000 will be viewing.
Swedish Days offers free admission with easy access via Metra. Events, hours, and schedules are available on the Chamber's website or call the Chamber at 630-232-6060 for information.
Source: Geneva Chamber Of Commerce News Release