America’s premier “The Beatles” tribute band will headline this year’s Osage Orange Festival at Illinois College. The annual event planned for Friday, May 11, will also include activities for all ages including inflatables games for children.
Sponsored by the Illinois College Alumni Association, the Osage Orange Festival is a time-honored tradition on the Hilltop. The event began with a picnic in 1882 when students and faculty took a break from their studies to trim the Osage hedge that surrounded campus. The picnic has grown into a festival in recent years to accommodate musical entertainment and activities for all ages.
The Osage Orange meal will begin at 6 p.m. in Bruner Fitness and Recreation Center’s King Field House. Hot dogs, chicken and barbeque sandwiches will be served, along with traditional picnic fare. Meals are $10 for adults and $5 for children five through 12, with children four and younger free of charge. Soft drinks, wine and beer will also be available for purchase.
A hit with families, enormous inflatable games will be set up in the King Field House for children. In addition, bag games are available for all ages to enjoy.
Free live music by “BritBeat” will transport festival goers back to the ’60s as band members don mop tops, retro costumes and vintage instruments to re-create the sounds of “The Beatles.” The Chicago band displays the same youthful excitement and charm as the original “Fab Four” to resurrect the electrifying performances given by “The Beatles” when they first came onto the American scene. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. and lasts until 10:30 that night.
Make Osage Orange Festival reservations to the Office of Alumni by Friday, May 4, at 217.245.3046 or rsvp@ic.edu.
Founded in 1829, Illinois College is a residential liberal arts college fostering academic excellence rooted in opportunities for experiential learning while preparing students for lifelong success.