Buffalo Grove Days Parade 2026 Celebrates Community and Tradition

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The Buffalo Grove Days Parade for 2026 unfolded under cloudy skies, with temperatures nearing 80 degrees. The parade route led to Mike Rylko Community Park. On Saturday morning, September 5, around 60 parade units gathered for the festivities.

The Buffalo Grove Symphonic Band (BGSB) served as the parade grand marshal. Celebrating 25 years of music, the band honored its founding Music Director, Howard Green, who recently retired. Green waved his conductor’s baton from an open-roof vehicle, expressing his pride in the orchestra’s achievements.

The Buffalo Grove Symphonic Band, now seeking a new music director, has made significant contributions to the community. Howard Green reflected on his unique experience participating in the parade, sharing his enthusiasm for the orchestra’s journey over the years. For more information about the band, visit here.

The Village of Buffalo Grove and the Buffalo Grove Park District partnered to produce Buffalo Grove Days. This free, five-day event spanned from Thursday, September 3, through Labor Day, September 7, at Mike Rylko Community Park. According to Michael Terson, superintendent of communications and marketing for the Buffalo Grove Park District, the food and beverage selection was exceptional. Terson also mentioned that the music lineup featured must-see performances.

“The food and beverage selection this year is fantastic,” said Michael Terson. “And every band in our lineup this year is a can’t-miss.”

A wide array of Labor Day weekend activities were offered, including games, carnival rides, music, bingo, and more.

For the Kim family of Buffalo Grove, the parade is a cherished tradition. James Kim, who grew up in Buffalo Grove and graduated from Adlai E. Stevenson High School in 2004, attended the parade with his children. He shared fond memories of his youth, and now enjoys experiencing the parade with his young kids. James Kim expressed his appreciation for Lake County’s safe environment and family-friendly atmosphere.

“Lake County is safe, a lot of good stuff around for kids,” said James Kim. “I feel comfortable here. I know it’s clean, everything is well set up.”

Participants in the parade included the Buffalo Grove Community Pageant (BGCP) 2026 Queens: Little Miss Avni Aggarwal, Junior Miss Diya Mathan, Miss Buffalo Grove Saachi Churiwala, and Teen Miss Reha Sachdev. Saachi Churiwala, who is a junior at Adlai E. Stevenson High School, expressed gratitude for the community and the opportunities it has provided.

“I’m so grateful for the schools, for the public facilities, and just the opportunity and the platform that the pageant has given me,” said Churiwala.

Among the event’s highlights was the appearance of Buffalo Grove Police Therapy Dog Grady, who charmed attendees with friendly interactions. John Griffel and Tiffany Golladay from Prairie View, along with their children, met Grady. High fives and personal meet-and-greets with first responders and community representatives were plentiful.

“Thank you so much for doing this for them,” Tiffany Golladay said about the event.

John Griffel praised Lake County’s amenities and shared his connection to the area, noting its welcoming atmosphere. Griffel, who grew up and graduated from Warren Township High School in 2000, commended the region’s schools and parks.

“Love the schools, love the area, nice walks, the kids can play in the areas with no issues,” said Griffel. “Good people come out of Lake County.”

A parade favorite was Buffalo Grove Village President and Mayor Eric Smith, who participated in the parade, affirming his dedication to community traditions.