Grayslake's Family Picnic and Fireworks set for Saturday

Grayslake's Central Park will be hopping with a soul music, food, carnival rides and more from midafternoon until late evening Saturday.

It'll be the 15th annual Family Picnic and Fireworks, sponsored by the Grayslake Park District, village of Grayslake government and the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce. The bash, which is free, will run from 3 to 10 p.m.

Park district Executive Director Jeff Nehila said there is a reason crowds flock to the Family Picnic and Fireworks at Central Park, just west of Route 83 and Center Street.

"The event is a wonderful community event and includes something for everyone," Nehila said. "This family-friendly program is a highlight that many families in the community look forward to every year. It's a super time to kick off the July 4 weekend a little in advance."

Fans of local food will find a variety of options with the Taste of Grayslake, which will go from 3 to 9:30 p.m. The rides will operate from 3 to 8 p.m.

Ride and attraction tickets will be $1 apiece or six for $5. All-you-can-ride wristbands cost $15.

Other fun will include clown and face painting with Cuddles the Clown from 5 to 9 p.m. and balloon twisting with RC Jugglers from 6 to 9 p.m.

Music lovers will get to hear tunes selected by the Memory Makers disc jockeys from 3 to 6 p.m. The headliner will be Chicago-based soul band World Class Noise from 6 to 9:30 p.m.

The fun will continue with fireworks at dusk, or about 9:30 p.m. Nehila said the fireworks are best viewed from Central Park.

Nehila said visitors are encouraged to leave their vehicles a short walk away from Central Park at Grayslake Central High School on Lake Street, Grayslake Middle School and Grayslake Public Library.

The high school is on the park's west side, while the middle school and library are on the other end, north of Library Lane and Center Street.