This year marks the 100th Anniversary of the River Forest Memorial Day Parade, and we’re honoring the milestone with the launch of the River Forest Business Bash — a vibrant, community-focused street fair celebrating River Forest and veteran-owned businesses.
Happening immediately after the parade, the Business Bash offers the perfect opportunity to keep the community energy going, spotlight local businesses, and create a new tradition rooted in local pride.
Vendor Fee Structure for Business Bash:
FREE – Licensed River Forest businesses
FREE – Veteran-Owned Businesses from Oak Park, River Forest, or Forest Park
$50 – OPRF Chamber Members (outside of River Forest)
$100 – Non-Members
Each confirmed vendor will receive:
One 6-foot table and two chairs
Promotion through Chamber and Village marketing channels
Access to hundreds of attendees in a high-traffic, family-friendly environment
Set-Up Time: 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Vendor Parking: Central Avenue (east of Keystone)
Business Fair Hours: 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM (immediately following the parade)
Vendor Selection & Guidelines:
We prioritize businesses located in River Forest and veteran-owned businesses from Oak Park, River Forest, and Forest Park.
Due to space limitations, all vendor applications will be reviewed and selected based on fit with the event, business type, and community impact.
Vendors offering engaging, family-friendly, and community-oriented products or services will be given strong consideration.
Food vendors will be limited, and must meet all Village of River Forest health and safety requirements.
Selected vendors will be contacted with confirmation, setup instructions, and additional details upon acceptance.
Business Bash vendors are highly encouraged to participate in the Parade, operated by the River Forest Park District. For more information about the Parade, please visit https://rfparks.com/memorial-day-celebration
We’re seeking community-minded partners to help bring this event to life. Sponsors receive brand visibility, community goodwill, and key placement in event marketing.
🎤 Presenting Sponsor – $1,000 (Only 1 Available)
Name recognition as Presenting Sponsor on all event materials
Top billing on signage, press releases, and social media
Premium parade and booth placement
Opportunity to speak during the event’s welcome
Custom branding add-ons (banners, giveaways, etc.)
🌟 Community Sponsor – $500 (4 Available)
Logo placement on signage, website, and social media
Preferred booth placement
Recognition in Chamber communications
Optional add-ons (umbrella, extra chairs, etc.)
Additional sponsorship dollars may allow us to offer live entertainment, kids' activities, or extra amenities.
Monday May 26, 2025
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM CDT
9:00-10:30 | VENDOR SET-UP
10:30-1:00 | Celebration & Business Bash
1:00-2:00 | Clean-up
Lake Street (Forest to Keystone) and Keystone Avenue (Lake to Central), River Forest
FREE – Licensed River Forest businesses FREE – Veteran-Owned Businesses from Oak Park, River Forest, or Forest Park $50 – OPRF Chamber Members (outside of River Forest) $100 – Non-Members
Melissa Mallinson
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