Celebrate Dutch Heritage At Annual Festival In Illinois
If you've ever wondered what celebrating Dutch heritage looked like or entailed, look to the small town of Fulton, IL. For 46 years, the small town in Whiteside County has been celebrating its settlers with food, music, a parade, and more.
To kick off the 47th annual Dutch Days celebrations, the Fulton Fun Crew is hosting a Dutch Days Kickoff Party. Break out your wooden shoes because Dutch Days in Fulton is right around the corner.
47th Annual Dutch Days In Fulton, IL
According to the Dutch Days website, Dutch Days in Fulton, IL takes place the first weekend in May. This year, it takes place Friday, May 5, and Saturday, May 6th. For two days, the residents of Fulton and the surrounding area gather to celebrate their Dutch heritage. The first permanent Dutch settler arrived at what was to become the City of Fulton in 1835.
Some who attend Dutch Days come for the food. Festival goers can attend the traditional Dutch dinner on Friday evening, try a fresh pastry on Saturday morning or enjoy one of the many food vendors that travel from all over the region to participate. Plus there are more than 100 Arts & Crafts vendors.
Klompen dancers appear in the streets to show how they folk dance in their traditional wooden shoes during Dutch Days. Custom-made wooden shoes can even be purchased for those who want a pair.
Before the parade, the Burgomaster, Mayor for those who don't speak Dutch, and Town Crier inspect the streets to see if they are ready and clean enough. The street sweepers come through with water and brooms to prepare the street for the parade. During the parade, you will see authentic Dutch customers, bands, floats, and more.
Dutch Days Kickoff Party
To get the Dutch Days fun going, the Fulton Fun Crew is throwing a Dutch Days Kickoff Party at the de Immigrant Windmill on Friday, May 5th.
The fun starts at 6 p.m. and will feature live music from the Stockwells. Since it will be later in the evening, people of all ages can enjoy illuminated yard games. Those 21+ can get some drinks at the beer garden.
At 5 p.m., Dutch Dancers will be there to show off their skills. Plus, select food and craft vendors will be open selling food and other goodies.
Dutch Day and the Dutch Days Kickoff Party are free to the public.