Rock the Block Celebrates Its 13th Year with Music and Community Spirit
The 13th annual Rock the Block event in downtown Lake Zurich took place on a clear Saturday evening, marked by pleasant weather with temperatures in the 80s. This free event, held on September 12, ran from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Attendees were treated to performances by three live bands. The evening’s lineup included The Ron Burgundy’s, a yacht rock band, followed by Libido Funk Circus playing pop favorites, and concluded with the rock band 7th Heaven.
Food trucks occupied Main Street, alongside vendors offering diverse goods from their booths. One highlight was a large bar equipped with high tables, complementing a big screen television. It served adult beverages, with many servers working as volunteers.
“It’s a perfect night,”
commented Lake Zurich Mayor Tom Poynton, as he estimated the event drew a crowd of 8,000. He highlighted how refreshing it felt to experience the breezy weather amidst the golden hour lighting of summer.
Mayor Poynton initiated Rock the Block in 2013, aiming to foster community connections. He emphasized the intention behind the event, to attract people to the revitalized Main Street area. Significant investments were made in enhancing the streetscape, thereby transforming downtown into a vibrant environment suitable for safely hosting large gatherings.
“This is a way more active, vibrant vibe,”
Poynton remarked, noting up to 100 volunteers contributed their time and skills to the event. He acknowledged their crucial role in making Rock the Block successful.
Participants had access to various activities, ranging from free to paid. One attendee, Julie Austin from McHenry, took a selfie at a photo station, sporting vivid red sunglasses with a “Cool” design. Having grown up in Lake Zurich and graduating from Lake Zurich High School in 1985, Austin expressed fondness for the community event.
The Mazuris, residents of Prospect Heights, attended with their young son, highlighting the event’s family-friendly nature. Matt Mazur expressed appreciation for having a local destination suitable for families with small children, while Mariola Mazur praised the community’s volunteer spirit.
Other families echoed these sentiments, like the Dillinghams and the Shresthas, who shared picnic tables and enjoyed offerings from food trucks. Their children relished flavored ice treats, while parents indulged in dishes such as barbecue pulled pork over mashed potatoes.
Emily Dillingham commented on the event’s community value, while Arbin Shrestha expressed gratitude towards volunteers, acknowledging the effort involved.