SeatGeek Stadium hosts 4th of July carnival

in The Township of Lyons Chronicle

A group of people ride a yellow amusement park ride that swings high into the air against a clear blue sky. Riders are secured in seats along the ride’s arms, with several raising their legs as the ride tilts upward.

Carnival goers are seen on a ride Sunday afternoon, the last day of the carnival (Photo credit: Emily Schuler).

 

SeatGeek Stadium, located in Bridgeview, Ill., hosted a four-day carnival, from July 2-5. The America 250 Bridgeview Semiquincentennial Celebration Carnival celebrated the Fourth of July and the 250th year anniversary since our nation gained its independence.

Setup for the carnival began on Wednesday, with people working outside all day long setting up carnival rides and food stands. The next day, Thursday, setup was finalized as tents with fans were added and the stage was set up. By Thursday afternoon, the setup was complete and the carnival was officially in session.

A young boy wearing a Spider-Man shirt stands between two adults at a carnival booth. One man wears a purple shirt, while the other wears a white shirt, glasses, a gold chain and a Spider-Man backpack. Colorful stuffed animals and toys fill the background.
A young boy plays one of the carnival booth games in hopes of winning a prize (Photo credit: Claudio Rodriguez).

Crowd turnouts were minimal on the first day, as most visitors ended up going later in the night. The carnival was open from 3-11 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. On Saturday and Sunday, times of operation were from 12-11 p.m.. 

The fair had many different vendors, ranging from trinket sellers to snack and dessert sellers. Desserts ranged from funnel cakes to deep-fried Oreos. Guests’ food favorites often varied. 

“I definitely love the ice cream and the corn dogs,” said Julie Garza, carnival attendee.

Other guests wish that there were more food options. 

“I feel that they should have fries and burgers in the future, including more dessert options,” Troche said.

Not only were there a variety of rides, but there were also multiple bands that performed each night for free. Each night had a different theme that the bands adhered to. For example, on Thursday it was alternative 80s/90s night, with Saint Astro and Maxt Out performing. 

Two musicians perform onstage under vivid blue lighting. One plays an electric guitar while the other sings into a microphone. A drum set and colorful stage lights are visible in the background.
Singer of Maxt Out and guitarist perform together Thursday night (Photo credit: Claudio Rodriguez).

On Friday the theme was country, with the Wildfire band performing at 6 p.m.

Saturday had a classic rock theme, with the band Jokers Rival performing at 8 p.m. 

Lastly, on Sunday the theme was latin with the Salsa Project 7 performing at 3 p.m. and Visions of Santana at 5 p.m.

Guests enjoyed the variety of rides at the carnival.

“My favorite ride here [was] the Freak Out,” said Hope Troche, carnival attendee. 

The Freak Out is a claw-shaped ride that swings back and forth at increasing heights.

Prices for a one-day unlimited ride wristband was $40, compared to $75 for an all-weekend unlimited ride wristband.

Overall, the carnival turned out to be a success. This fair served as the perfect hangout spot for locals in the area.

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