Dutch Days Festival Celebrates 50 Years In Illinois Town

If you've ever wondered what celebrating Dutch heritage looked like or entailed, look to the small town of Fulton, IL. For 49 years, the small town in Whiteside County has been celebrating its settlers with food, music, a parade, and more.

To kick off the 50th annual Dutch Days celebrations, the Fulton Fun Crew is hosting its first outdoor event of the year and kids won't want to miss out on more Dutch Days fun Friday evening. Break out your wooden shoes because Dutch Days in Fulton is right around the corner.

50th Annual Dutch Days In Fulton, IL

According to the Dutch Days website, Dutch Days in Fulton, IL takes place the first weekend in May. This year, it takes place on Friday, May 3, and Saturday, May 4th. For two days, the residents of Fulton and the surrounding area gather to celebrate their Dutch heritage. The first permanent Dutch settler arrived at what was to become the City of Fulton in 1835.

Some who attend Dutch Days come for the food. Festival goers can attend the traditional Dutch dinner on Friday evening, try a fresh pastry on Saturday morning, or enjoy one of the many food vendors that travel from all over the region to participate. Plus there are more than 100 Arts & Crafts vendors.

Klompen dancers appear in the streets to show how they folk dance in their traditional wooden shoes during Dutch Days. Custom-made wooden shoes can even be purchased for those who want a pair.

Before the parade, the Burgomaster, Mayor for those who don't speak Dutch, and Town Crier inspect the streets to see if they are ready and clean enough. The street sweepers come through with water and brooms to prepare the street for the parade. During the parade, you will see authentic Dutch customers, bands, floats, and more.

A shameless plug for our friend Bill Stage! Make sure you stop by and check out his band Folk n' Stages at Denny O's in downtown Fulton that Saturday night

Dutch Days Kickoff Party

To get the fun going, the Fulton Fun Crew is hosting its first outdoor event of the season, Band By The Windmill at the de Immigrant Windmill on Friday, May 3rd.

The fun starts at 6 p.m. and will feature live music from the Hap Hazard. Since it will be later in the evening, people of all ages can enjoy illuminated yard games. Those 21+ can get some drinks at the beer garden.

At 5:30 pm, our friend Random Tanner will be spinning toons and kids of all ages (including adults for some of these) can participate in contests like Dutch Shoe Race, Bags, a Hula Hoop Contest, and more. Downtown in the heart of the festival through-way.

Dutch Day and the Band by the Windmill are free to the public.