Photograph by Jon Cancelino
Dressed in their best beachwear, guests will celebrate the summer at the annual Party on the Pier event, which is scheduled to kick off at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, July 23, at Tower Road Beach in Winnetka. Upon their arrival, partygoers will indulge in a delicious beach barbeque catered by Gourmet Garden, as well as many signature drinks, beer, and a selection of fine wines donated by Flickinger Wines. Local bands Running Still and Who’s Your Daddy will provide live entertainment for the evening. The two bands were recruited for the 2010 event after a successful performance by the Chicago Afrodisiacs last summer. “Similar to last year, the main stage will be on the beach, allowing the sand as our dance floor and the lake as our beautiful backdrop,” says Party on the Pier Chair Lisa Madlener.
This year’s highly anticipated event, which is expected to draw around 400 people and is sponsored by Sheridan Road, marks the seventh annual Party on the Pier celebration. “The party concept initially began as a unique way to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Winnetka Park District in 2004,” Lisa explains. “It met with such rave reviews that we decided to host it annually and continue the celebrations.”
All proceeds from the event go directly to the Winnetka Parks Foundation—the fund-raising branch of the Winnetka Park District—and will support park facility improvements and programs. In the last year alone, the foundation has funded projects such as clubhouse lighting and furnishings, two new platform tennis courts, an indoor putting green, ice lounge renovations, a portable movie screen, and events such as the July 4 festivities.
Party on the Pier tickets are $75 in advance and $85 after July 16. To register online and view a current guest list, visit www.partyonthepier.org. For additional information, call 847-501-2040, or visit www.winnetkaparksfoundation.org.
