A must stop for a summer fun destination is Geneva’s 73rd Annual Swedish Days Festival. “The Granddaddy of Illinois Festivals” will run Wednesday through Sunday, June 21-25, 2023. More than 200,000 visitors and residents stop by for a variety of activities – combining traditional events and exciting new attractions.
“The Geneva Chamber is pleased and excited to bring back Swedish Days in all its blue and yellow glory,” says Laura Rush, Communications Director for the Geneva Chamber. “We know Genevans and visitors are ready for five days of fun.”
Here’s a sneak peek.
Shopping & Treasures
Some shops will be offering specials during Swedish Days. Sweden Väst, on Saturday & Sunday, will specialize in Swedish items. If you are looking for that Swedish Days souvenir, this is where you will find it.
Free Entertainment
Free nightly musical entertainment on Central Stage kicks off Wednesday with Geneva Park District performances and Geneva’s Got Talent. Thursday and Friday we welcome bands to Swedish Days for the first time. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday afternoons in the Craft Beer Tent, enjoy featured artists.
Swedish Days Car Show is back on S. Third Thursday from 5-8 pm.
Food Booths
Festival goers can feast on traditional Swedish and favorite American and ethnic foods including, brats, corn dogs, turkey legs, sandwiches, meatballs, pizza, garlic crab pasta and roasted corn to name a few at the many non-profit food booths. Sinfully good desserts will also be available.
Restaurants, Pizzerias & Pubs
Don’t forget all the fine restaurants in Geneva. From casual bistros to 5-star formal dining, a day in Geneva isn’t complete without sampling one or more of our fine restaurants and eateries. Or stop by one of the beer gardens that will offer good food, drink, and entertainment during the festival, including the Chamber’s Craft Beer Tent on James Street. Visit genevachamber.com for a listing of our restaurants, pizzerias and pubs.
Long-Time Genevans – We are looking for you
If you have lived in Geneva for over 15 years, join others for the Geneva Settlers Breakfast on June 23. This popular event is moving to Copper Fox, 477 S. Third Street with breakfast served at 8:30 am. No reservations necessary.
Activities For Young Visitors
Wednesday brings the carnival to town. Open every day of the festival and each day offers an unlimited ride wristband opportunity.
Swedish Days 2023 is packed with favorites – Dodgeball Tournament, 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament and mini golf.
June 23 is “Kids’ Day” where from early in the morn to late into the night, kids can stay busy. The day kicks off with the Kids’ Parade leaving from Campbell & Fifth streets (look for the registration sign). The fun continues with activities galore at the Geneva Public Library, outside and inside.
The Kids’ Day Parade invites children through the age of 10 to enter in one of our parade categories.
Come for the Run, Stay for the Fun
The Swedish Days 5K Lopp promises an unbelievable race experience. Join runners Saturday, June 24. More information will be available at genevachamber.com.
Grand Parade
On Sunday, bring some chairs and blankets so the entire family can enjoy the Grand Parade – truly a community parade that over 45,000 will be viewing.
Free admission with easy access via the Metra. Events, hours, and schedule will be available at genevachamber.com or call the Geneva Chamber of Commerce at 630-232-6060. Visit genevachamber.com for the what, when and where for the week.
