story by GLENDA WINDERS
Something is always going on in Whiting, and in the summertime the food, fun and entertainment just move outdoors. Between June and September you’ll find lots of activities and events in which to take part.
The Whiting Lakefront Park and Whihala Beach are open for family fun, and this is also where you’ll come for classical music. Summer With the Symphony is holding four free concerts, the last one ending with fireworks. The Independence Day fireworks over Lake Michigan will be here on July 3, too, then catch the parade the next morning. Most Fridays the Sheridan Concert Plaza will be the scene of concerts that range from classic rock to dueling pianos, Latin Satin Soul to a lively singalong with the Yacht Rock-ettes.
Tennis professional Mary Lou Piatek will hold a free tennis clinic on Sunday, July 16, at the Piatek Tennis Courts. Players of all ages and ability levels are welcome, and if you don’t have a racquet, they’ll lend you one. Or maybe you’d prefer the Garden Walk on July 9 to visit six featured gardens, including the newest one that features the Immaculate Conception Church bell.
Aug. 12 and Sept. 23 Alfresco Nights will close down 119th Street. Sample small plates and special drinks at tables set up in the street.
Pierogi Fest provides an opportunity for people to return to their roots and celebrate their heritage at one of the largest festivals in the Midwest. Live music acts will perform throughout the three-day event, and dozens of food vendors will serve up tasty eats. The Polka Parade is on July 28, Smash Mouth performs on July 29 and the festival ends on July 30.
Empanada Fest, founded by the Whiting Hispanic Heritage Organization, will be held Sept. 16 during Hispanic Heritage Month at Whiting Lakefront Park. The event was created as a scholarship fundraiser and a way to create awareness of the Hispanic community.
