Special Events

Clarkson Cookout - Saturday, September 19, 2026

Live Music • Fireworks • Kids Activities • Food & Drinks • Steve Soler Rib Contest

Join family and friends for the Clarkson Cookout at Clarkson Park on Saturday, September 19.

Live music featuring Bill Grady Band at 4:30PM and Panic at the Costco at 7PM.

  • Fireworks at dusk
  • Kids activities include a bounce house, balloonist and airbrush tattoos from 4:00–7:00PM.
  • Stormy’s Tavern & Grill food and beverages sold at the Mabie Family Pavilion
  • Kona Ice (percentage of sales donated to the Northfield Parks Foundation)

Many thanks to the Clarkson Cookout Sponsors:

Village of Northfield | Northview Bank & Trust 

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Steve Soler Northfield Rib Contest

Bragging rights & trophies to the top 3 entries!

Local grillers are invited to enter the Steve Soler Rib Contest judged by Hofherr Meat Co. All registrations will be taken at the event only. To participate, come to the Park District tent from 3:00PM to 5:30PM. Registration is free but you must register by 5:30PM at which time registration closes. All rib entries are due to the judging table inside the Lustig Lodge by 6:15PM SHARP. Ribs that come in after these times will not be judged. Winners will be announced at around 7:00PM

Contest Info

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Friday September 18 Set Up Info

Clarkson Park picnic tables will be available on a first come/first serve basis starting at 3:00PM on Friday, September 5. Any items placed on tables or on the lawn before that time will be moved to the east side of the Lutsig Lodge. Roping off an area is not permitted. Important: No vehicles are allowed to enter Clarkson Park without permission. Contact the Park District for details on obtaining a permit.

Set Up Info


Save the Date 

Boo Bash - Friday, October 30, 2026

Free Fun for Ages 3-8 (children must be accompanied by an adult)

Games • Crafts • Balloonist • Train Ride through Willow Park

Join us from 6:00-7:30 on Friday October, 30th for some Halloween fun! Bring your trick or treat bag and wear your costumes!


Pumpkin Composting - October 30-November 17, 2026

Don't trash your pumpkins - compost them! Bring your pumpkins to the Northfield Community Center parking lot. Painted pumpkins are accepted, but be sure to remove any non-organic items, such as candles, stickers and other decorations.

Sponsored by Go Green Northfield, the Village of Northfield and the Northfield Park District