Annual Oak Brook Winterfest Jan. 29

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Oak Brook Fire Chief Tom McEllin and his daughter lace up their skates at the 2011 Winterfest. | Contributed photo

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Updated: January 30, 2012 8:13AM

It’s a tradition that has stayed strong for 49 years and is a staple of the Oak Brook community. The Annual Oak Brook winter carnival will be held at Central Park, 1450 Forest Gate Road on Jan. 29, 2012.

“We’re seeing a passionate and concerted effort from the community to make this event really special,” says Jessica Alexenko, marketing manager for the Oak Brook Park District.

The event, which will kick off the park district’s 50th anniversary, will once again feature a community sponsored ice rink. The ice rink construction and maintenance is made possible by donations from local community groups and homeowners including Gold Sponsors: Midwest Club Homeowners, Oak Brook Little League and Forest Gate Homeowners; Silver Sponsors: Brook Forest Homeowners, Hunter Trails Homeowners and Timber Trails/Merry Lane Homeowners; and Bronze Sponsor: Forest Glen Homeowners.

“The generosity of our homeowners associations and community partners is what makes Winterfest possible,” says Mary Tansey, park district corporate relations.

The event was first hosted 49 years ago on what was once Paul Butler’s property. In years past, it featured a Snow Queen, curling on the lake and cross-country races. This year, the park district has re-joined forces with the Civic Association, Historical Society and many other groups to preserve the historical integrity of the event.

The community collaboration is reflected in the event’s new name, Winterfest. “We deeply respect the historical implication of the winter carnival,” Alexenko said. “However, we want to communicate in every way possible that this is a community effort. Joining the words ‘winter’ and ‘fest’ reflects the way the community has come together to continue to create this outstanding celebration.”

The Oak Brook Fire Department has once again volunteered to fill the ice rink and the Civic Association will be on site to provide a warm welcome to participants.

For those interested in supporting the Annual Winterfest, sponsorship opportunities are still available. Gold Sponsorships are $500-$999, Silver Sponsorships are $250-$499 and Bronze Sponsorships are $100-$249. All of the funds will be allocated to event expenses. Please contact Mary Tansey at (630) 990-4233.

The Annual Winterfest is free to attend and will include a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, games, contests, food and beverages as well as some great traditional surprises. Information is being updated regularly at www.obparks.org.