The Village of Plainfield will host its first Hispanic heritage celebration with Barro Fest on July 27, from 1 to 10 p.m. at settler’s park.
The fest will celebrate Hispanic heritage through music, food and crafts. Less than five percent of Plainfield’s population as of the last census is Hispanic. However, the inaugural Barro Fest hopes to bring 1,000 attendees to Plainfield to celebrate Hispanic heritage. No road closures are necessary as the festival will be held at the park. In case of inclement weather, the contingency plan is to close Village enter Drive between Lockport Street and Van Dyke Road, which, according to staff, would allow a flat dry surface and not potentially damage Settler’s Park.
The security of the event will include one sergeant and three officers who will staff the festival where alcohol will be sold. This is in addition to two police officers paid by the organizer. The estimated cost to the village is $4,000.
Jaime Garcia, who lives in nearby Shorewood, said she is glad to see the Hispanic culture celebrated in Plainfield.
“There are a lot of Hispanics who live in Shorewood and Joliet, and this would be a great way to celebrate our heritage,” she said. “I like the fact they are focusing on the artisan crafts that celebrate who we are as people. This event is more about education than just fun.”
Following board approval, Mayor John Argoudelis perceives the festival as a “coming of age for the Hispanic community” in Plainfield.
Nick Giancolis of Bolingbrook said his family loves to explore other cultures.
“This is a great way for my family to see the rich heritage of the Hispanic community,” he said. “I cannot wait to try the diverse and tasty foods.”
Besides Barro Fest, other festivals are on the schedule around communities in Will County this summer. Taste of Joliet will run from Friday, June 21, to Sunday, June 23, at Joliet Memorial Stadium, 3000 W. Jefferson St. Headlining acts include the band Goo Goo Dolls on June 21, and county music hitmakers Lady A on Saturday, June 22. Tickets are available for purchase at www.tasteofjoliet.com. Last year’s Taste of Joliet shattered the all-time attendance record, bringing more than 55,000 people out for the three-day event.
Plainfield Fest featuring carnivals, concession stands, and entertainment will be from Friday, June 28, to Sunday, June 30, in the downtown section of the community.
Shorewood Crossroads Festival featuring food and entertainment will be from Friday, Aug. 2, to Sunday, Aug. 4, at Four Seasons Park.
Taste of Bolingbrook featuring family fun, food fest, entertainment and craft vendors will be from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, at the Promenade.
The Plainfield July Hispanic celebration at Settler’s Park is adjacent to Plainfield Village Hall at Lockport Street and Van Dyke Road. The event is free and open to the public.