Hammond’s Festival of the Lakes (FOTL) is returning July 20-24, and with new headliners across all genres of music, this year’s fest is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever.
And if you’re planning on heading down to Wolf Lake Pavilion to partake in any of this year’s festivities, here’s what you need to know.
FOTL hours:
Wednesday & Thursday: 5pm-11pm
Friday: Noon-11pm
Saturday: 7am-11pm
Sunday: 9am-11pm
Admission:
Admission to the Festival of the Lakes is free, but just like year’s past parking costs $25 per vehicle. However, if you’re planning on going to the festival on multiple days, you might want to look into the discounted three-day parking passes available through the Hammond Civic Center.
Carnival admission:
If you’re planning on taking the kids out to enjoy the rides at the FOTL, tickets can be purchased at $1 per ticket, or one-day wristbands can be purchased for $25 apiece.
But if you really want to get in on the fun, the Carnival Mega Pass is available for $50 a pass and is good anytime during any day of the festival.
Note: No pets, coolers, umbrellas, bicycles, or camcorders are allowed.
The shows:
All shows begin at 7:00 P.M. with the opening act with the headlining act to appear at approximately 9:00 P.M.
July 20: The ‘End of the Road’ is the beginning of the action as famed 90s R&B group, Boyz II Men, kick off the headlining performances on July 20 with opening act The Spaniels Forever.
July 21: Head on down the backroads with a little country music featuring Grammy nominated, the Eli Young Band, with opening act Jamrose.
July 22: Get ‘Bad to the Bone,’ with the legendary George Thorogood and the Destroyers, featuring opening act Sleepwater Band.
July 23:Ludacris stomps into town on Hip Hop Night, performing his top hits and bringing his reputation for electrifying performances to the main stage. Golden & Fitz Fonzarelli opens up the evening.
July 24: The always popular Latin Night caps off a great week in music with the world-famous Banda Sinaloense el Recodo de Don Cruz Lizárraga, headlining what is sure to be a great evening in music.
Opening acts on Latin Night:
Daniel Pantojo with Mariachi Acero 5:00-5:45 P.M.
David Guevara with Mariachi Acero 5:45-6:30 P.M.
Grupo Klonadoz 6:30 - 7:15
Los Jefes Del Rancho 7:30 - 8:15
Natalia Corona 8:15 -9:00
As always, admission to the shows at Wolf Lake Park are free. But if you really want to get in on the action, check out the new VIP passes available for purchase, featuring access to VIP seating and, best of all, private restrooms.
What else is happening:
There’s something for everyone when it comes to FOTL, and that doesn’t just apply to the music and rides. Check out what else is happening each day here:
July 22:
Senior Day: Seniors ages 55 and older are invited out to the FOTL for a free lunch, goodie bags (while supplies last), and entertainment from Gino and Friends.
Golf Scramble: Get lost in the game of golf at Lost Marsh Golf Course in Hammond and enjoy a day on the links with prizes for best score, longest drive, and a whole lot of other fun activities!
July 23:
Special Persons Day: FOTL has set aside a time for those with permanent disabilities to come out and enjoy a free lunch and free carnival rides from 10:00 A.M. to noon.
Kids Day at the Aquatic Play Center: Kids ages 12 and under can come enjoy a free day at the Wolf Lake Splash Pad from 10:00 A.M. to 3:45 P.M.
Fishing Derby: Grab a pole and bring $1 to help support Wolf Lake Stocking, and come enjoy a day on the lake, starting at 8:00 A.M., with prizes for best catches!
Kathleen Pucalik Memorial 5K Run Walk and Splash: Have a good run for a good cause! More details here.
July 24:
Hot Rod and Custom Bike Show: Got the hottest bike or ride on the block? Come show it off from noon - 3:00 P.M.! Registration begins at 8:00 A.M.
Polka Party: Held at the Hammond Marina, the Polka Party will feature music from The Music Company, as well as refreshments and authentic Polish food.
Parking:
Parking is available at Forsythe Park for $25 per car. For more details on parking and show locations, click here.
Traveling to FOTL? Check out these hotel packages!
For more information, or to learn more about shows and attractions, visit the official FOTL website here.
Check out Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr. previewing this year's FOTL in our GREAT News Studio.
