Students dread the ring of their alarm, but with school now in full swing, Skokie is getting ready to give summer its final send off with one big shabang. Skokie’s Backlot Bash will be in full swing this weekend, Aug 25 through the 27, on the streets of downtown Skokie.

From rocking bands to the extravagant rides, and food galore, Skokie really brings their all when locals come together for one fun filled weekend. Entry is free for all, and the carnival is open starting at noon on the weekend. Check their website for full hours for all rides.

The whole weekend will be full of fun activities. There will be an array of concerts, events, and films being shown throughout the three days.

Friday will feature 80s new wave bands The Alarm at 6:45 PM, and A Flock Of Seagulls will follow their performance. Soul Asylum will hit the stage at 8:30 on Saturday night, with James Elkington, The Differents, and Barlow performing throughout the day leading up to the main event. Tributosaurus is back again this year, covering R.E.M with hits ranging from “Losing My Religion” and “Everybody Hurts”, and are sure to bring the tremendous weekend to a close.

“I enjoyed the rides, especially the kids ones, and I’m looking forward to the music this year, because I didn’t really get to listen to the bands last time I went,” Mary Helen Youseph, senior, said.

Saturday morning the annual Backlot Bash 5k and Kids Run will take place. Registration for the event starts at 6 in the morning, and the full race will start at 8:30. Participants will receive a free shirt and Backlot Bash water bottle.

Other events taking place will include the Skokie Public Library showing The Philadelphia Story and The Public Enemy at noon on Saturday and Sunday respectively. The Bingo Bash tent will also be set up all three days for anyone who wants to press their luck at a fun game. Check out a variety of cool cars and antique motorcycles at this years Classic Auto Show, now running both Saturday and Sunday.

Niles North students will be excited to hear that the District 219 Dunk Tank will be returning, along with Relay For Life Bozo Buckets. Many teachers are planning on participating in the event, including David Wiviott, Diana Morel, and Omar Alebiosu.

“All proceeds that come from the Dunk Tank go to Dance Marathon’s charity this year, A Better Life For Kids,” Mollie Chez, senior, said. “Everything that is raised goes to orphanages and orphans in Ghana. This year we are raising money to place orphans in homes with a family, and help provided them with food education and shelter.”

Wristbands for rides for the weekend range from $25-$65, and can either last for one afternoon or the entire weekend. Wristbands can either be purchased online or on location.

Photo Credit: Darby Aanerud