Chicago's Oldest House Celebrates a Milestone 9/10

On Sat, Sept. 10, the Prairie Avenue Historic District of the city's South Loop will be the site of the 5th Annual Festival on Prairie Avenue. At the Festival, hosted by the Prairie District Neighborhood Alliance (PDNA), visitors will experience an atmosphere of Prairie Avenue in the 19th century with activities spotlighting a unique variety of art, history, architecture, music and family-style play. A special emphasis of this year's festival will pay tribute to the 175th anniversary of the Henry B. Clarke House, Chicago's oldest (1836) and the 125th anniversary of the John G. Glessner House, an internationally-known architectural treasure (1886). "We are thrilled to be able to provide attendees the opportunity to take a Free behind the scenes tour of both the Landmark Glessner and Clarke Houses as part of the Festival," said Tina Feldstein, PDNA President. "Thousands of people pass by these Landmarks every day, but few know the fascinating story behind these historic Chicago structures," Feldstein added.

The Festival is expected to draw thousands of South Loop residents, as well as, many other Chicago art and history enthusiast. Festivities include: A main stage with all day entertainment, a menagerie of exotic animals, pony rides, inflatables, a War of 1812 encampment, Minute to Win it games, magicians, face painters, character artists, pie eating contest, pinatas, sports games, music, historic Prairie Avenue house tours and plenty of tasty food and treats.

Another exciting addition to this year's fest will feature a fine art and crafts fair showcasing a large collection of Chicago artists. "This event has been a huge draw for families for years, and now the Fest is poised for even greater heights with the addition of a wonderful art and crafts fair," said Jackie Walker, Vice-President of the PDNA.

Media include hand-blown and fused glass, calligraphy, painting, weaving, lampworking and metalsmithing jewelry, ceramics, pottery, clothing and textiles, candle making, sculpture, photography, and so much more.

Event Specifics
2011 Festival on Prairie Avenue Saturday, September 10th from 12:00PM to 6:00PM
Festival Location is 1800 S. Prairie Ave and Chicago Women's Park and Gardens
Festival suggested donation: $5 (children under 12 months Free)
Festival sponsors: PDNA and Doran's Landscape
Festival food sponsors: Café Society and Reggie's cook up a classic picnic barbecue
For more information and details about the Festival on Prairie Avenue, visit www.pdnachicago.com

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