Swedish Days and Geneva's Downtown

Throughout my experiences growing up in the suburbs, one of the biggest events each summer has been the mid-June tradition in Geneva, Swedish Days. From the carnival themed area and daily music events to the local vendors and businesses showcasing the latest installments, Swedish Days has grown through the years and has really helped to put Geneva, Illinois on the map.

At a minimum, the musical offerings on the Main Stage on Third Street downtown provide entertainment for many individuals; with acts such as American Idol's Nick Lynch, the Swedish American Children's Choir, and various cover acts providing entertainment to the vast expanse of visitors passing through the main Swedish Days area.  For those looking for a bit more intimate musical experience, the Concerts on Lawn area offers various acoustic acts throughout the festival.

If food is your thing, Swedish Days has anything you need. From standard fare offered by local restaurants to authentic Swedish Cuisine, if you look around, you will find some enjoyable dishes throughout the festival.  Many of the offerings come from local non-profits, so you can get good food while helping a worthy cause.

And now the best part of the week-long event, and something I have missed due to age-related issues the prior years: The Swedish Days Beer Gardens.  Although many local restaurants are offering normal bar service, venues such as the American Legion Post 75 and Gratto Italian Tapas will be serving beers in fenced-off areas on Third Street.  If you are looking for a more bar friendly area, just walk north of Main Street, and you can find bars that will hopefully be offering late night and post-festival drinks.  A personal favorite, Geneva Ale House, offers rotating taps and knowledgeable servers for the beer connoisseur.

Finally, many local businesses from the Kane County Cougars to Charlestowne Cinema 18 will be offering samples, sweepstakes, and giveaways.  I actually may or may not be legitimately excited for my free chair massage and wellness score provided by The Chiropractic People

For more information, check out the Swedish Days Brochure, provided by the Geneva Chamber of Commerce.