Summerfest, the event of the summer at The Danish Home of Chicago, was a smashing success! Special thanks go to all of The Danish Home of Chicago’s fantastic volunteers and hardworking staff for making Summerfest 2024 so successful. Due to the major building expansion construction in the backyard, about 300 guests instead enjoyed the traditional summer picnic on The Danish Home’s East Lawn on Saturday, June 22 from Noon to 5 PM.
During the morning, Bente Rasmussen led her talented team of Danish open-face sandwich makers in the dining room in preparation for lunch. In addition to the availability of the delicious “Smørrebrød” Plates, guests could buy hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, ice cream, coffee and cake, beer and wine, soft drinks, and bottled water outside.
Visitors also had the opportunity to purchase 50/50 lucky chances and to learn about The Danish Home’s building expansion through the architectural drawings on display. In the Bakery Booth, the Danish Sisterhood volunteers led by Karen Nylen-Swidergal were busy selling Danish kringle, Seven Sisters, cookies, cakes and other goodies. At the White Elephant Tent, Jean Jackson and her volunteer team sold a variety of treasures and unique items. Ellen Stolfa was equally busy in the Jewelry Booth. The children were busy playing games and having their faces expertly painted in different designs. The Balloon Clown was also popular, crafting various balloon shapes for the kids.
Chris Haxager, Carol Vashinko and their volunteer team had collected some amazing prizes for Lucky Buckets and the Silent Auction, ranging from Baseball Tickets to a Modern Viking Wine Gift Basket, Apple Smart Watch, a Weber Grill, Rose Plants, Platt Hill Nursery Gift Certificates, a crisp $100 Bill, and more. We thank all of the generous prize donors for contributing these prizes.
During the Welcome Ceremony, Women’s Auxiliary President Karen Peterson presented a $6,000 check to The Danish Home of Chicago’s President/CEO Scott Swanson as the first payment for the Family Bathroom Renovation in the Gathering Room.
To end the afternoon, The Box Band played some wonderful live music. Many thanks go to Event Planner Debi Lathom for organizing the memorable day and to everyone for making the day so special. (Photos courtesy of Lars Rasmussen)
To view more photos from the event, please click here.
