Labor Day weekend in Naperville can only mean one thing – it’s time for Last Fling.

The highlight of summer fun, the Naperville Jaycees have hosted the four-day block festival for more than 40 years. Dating back to the 1960s, the festivities include music, food, family activities, a Labor Day parade and a carnival.

In addition to providing music, food and fun, the Jaycees use the festival’s proceeds to support area nonprofits. Over the past 20 years, Last Fling’s proceeds have donated over $4 million to nonprofits in Naperville and the surrounding communities.

Some of the funds went toward well-known landmarks such as the Jaycee Marina, the Naperville Jaycees’ ADA Playground along the Riverwalk, and the Jaycees Pavilion in Fredenhagen Park. The Naperville Jaycees also donated to the Century Walk, the Carillon Clock Tower, and Wentz Hall.

“The Last Fling is not only fun, it’s also a fundraiser,” said Karen Coleman, the festival’s public relations manager. “It’s a great way for everyone to get involved and give back to the community while having a really great weekend.”

Last Fling begins at 5 p.m. Friday in downtown Naperville along Jackson Avenue and ends at 8 p.m. Monday. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and from noon to 8 p.m. Monday.

Friday’s headliner, Rod Tuffcurls and the Bench Press, takes the stage at 8pm. Sammy & the Knights open the music at 5pm.

Saturday’s music begins at 12pm with Sonic Road Trip, followed by Fleetwood Mac tribute band The Chain at 2.30pm. Motown Nation plays at 5.15pm, followed by headliner Hi Infidelity at 8pm.

Saturday is also a special day for visitors to the fair. Visitors with special needs receive priority seats without waiting on the rides with a wristband. An accompanying person must be present.

Rockhouse opens the Sunday music evening at 12:00 p.m., followed by Heart to Heartbreaker at 2:30 p.m. and 90s Pop Nation at 5:15 p.m. Headliner Sixteen Candles takes the stage at 8:00 p.m.

The popular 80s cover band 16 Candles will be the headliner on Sunday at 8 p.m.
Courtesy of Naperville Jaycees

The festival ends on Monday with Rick Lindy and the Wild Ones at 12:00 and The Ron Burgundys at 15:45.

Monday’s schedule includes a Labor Day parade that will begin at 10 a.m. near Naperville North High School and travel through downtown Naperville, ending near Naperville Central High School. The Naperville Jaycees, in partnership with the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, will collect donations along the parade route in honor of Junior Chamber International Senator Al DeGeeter.

Following the parade, a free lunch for veterans will be offered starting at noon in the sponsor area near the stage on Jackson Avenue. Anyone with a valid military ID may attend.

The four-day festival also includes numerous family-friendly activities, including senior bingo, a bubble party, arts and crafts, yoga and a spaghetti eating contest.

For a full calendar of events, visit lastfling.org.