This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

Long Grove's Annual Heritage Days

This Labor Day weekend, historic downtown Long Grove goes back to its hometown roots! On Saturday, August 31st – Monday, September 2nd from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., guests are invited to experience different cultures, food and dance without leaving the Northwest Suburbs at the Long Grove Heritage Days. A charming four-season village, Long Grove offers more than 40 distinctive shops, galleries, and restaurants housed in authentic homes and businesses that date back to the 1800′s. Originally settled as a German farming community, Long Grove has been described as a hidden European town now mixed with many different cultures, which make it so special!


“We are going back to our village’s historic roots and celebrating everyone’s heritage,” said Sharon Fine, director of community development for The Village of Long Grove.  “This event differs from most, in that it is simply hometown family entertainment and fun.”


Today, visitors can stroll the cobblestone walks that wind through the historic downtown, enjoying seasonal lush gardens and scenic views. Home to a variety of different cultures including Irish, Scandinavian, Polish, German, French, Native American and Italian, Long Grove will celebrate with ethnic foods, live music, dance, and activities! The town’s internationally inspired shops will proudly showcase their cultural heritage. 

Find out what's happening in Libertyvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.


Highlights of the weekend, include:



  • Book Signings by Long Grove’s Very Own Poets, Writers and Artists.

  • Swedish Folk Dancers, Norwegian Folk Dancers and International Dance Instruction.

  • Docent Lead Historic Hayride Through the Village. Three tours daily, limited seating.

  • Taste the International Flavors inside Long Grove’s Restaurants and Specialty Food Shops including French, German, Greek, Irish, Italian, English and Polish.


Daily Activities: 

Find out what's happening in Libertyvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.


12-5 p.m. 


Live Music featuring Native American drummers, German Oompah Band, a Bagpiper, Opera singers along with Old Time Showtunes, Dixieland, Austrian, Polish, Irish and Scandinavian folk music. 


2-4 p.m. 


Tea with the Queen


12- 4p.m. 


Family fun on Towner Green: Face Painting, Badminton, Croquet, Volleyball and Bean Bag Toss. 



WHEN: August 31- September 2   


10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily 



WHERE: Downtown Long Grove Historic District 


Old McHenry Rd & Robert Parker Coffin Rd. 



ADMISSION: FREE Admission and FREE Parking 



For more information visit www.visitlonggrove.com, or call the Long Grove Visitor’s Center at 847-634-0888.


About The Village of Long Grove


Originally settled as a German farming community, the Village of Long Grove’s rich historical background gave way to a multitude of additional cultures such as French, Polish, Greek, Irish, Canadian, Scottish, British, Scandinavian, Italian, Native American and many more. Known as a ‘must-see’ destination in Lake County, the Village gives visitors a very unique feel unlike any other place. It is almost as if they are nestled in a hidden town in Europe. 


Recognized as one of the nation’s genuine historic villages, and famous for their annual festivals, the Village of Long Grove also serves as a Midwest destination, known for its one-of-a-kind, unique shopping experience that cannot be duplicated. Only in Long Grove can one experience a charming, historic village abundant with unspoiled natural beauty, and a diverse collection of shops, restaurants and events, all supported by a genuine hospitality rarely found in urban environments. A 35-mile jaunt from Chicago, the Village of Long Grove is an experience not to be missed. 


Come visit, shop and dine in Long Grove… You’ll love it. For more information about the Village of Long Grove please visit www.visitlonggrove.com or call 847-634-3114.


We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?