The Manhattan Irish Fest, a staple event that has drawn crowds to the village for over 30 years, is officially set to continue its run for another four years. The Village Board on Tuesday unanimously approved a resolution welcoming the festival through 2029 and committing $5,000 annually in sponsorship funds.

The agreement with the Irish American Society of Will County solidifies the future of one of Will County’s largest festivals, which celebrates Irish culture while serving as a major fundraising platform for local nonprofit organizations.

“For over 30 years, Irish Fest has been a strong community partner promoting Irish culture and preserving Irish traditions in America,” a village memo stated. “This resolution will allow the Irish Fest tradition to continue for the next four years.”

The village’s financial contribution will continue its long-standing support for the event. The resolution comes amid a flurry of community activity and positive developments highlighted during the board meeting.

Mayor Mike Adrieansen praised the recent grand opening of the village’s new dog park, calling the event a “huge success.” He credited the public works department and village staff for their hard work in bringing the long-awaited project to fruition.

“It turned out really nice. I think the community is really going to enjoy it,” Adrieansen said. He also pointed to recent landscape improvements downtown, where public works crews have been adding decorative rock and edging around the railroad crossing gates.

The sense of community was deeply felt by Trustee Tom Doyle, who became emotional while thanking residents for their support during his recent health challenges. “Brought tears to my eyes,” Doyle said. “It shows me people in Manhattan, this would bring Manhattan together.”

Trustee Justin Young echoed the positive sentiment regarding the dog park opening, noting the successful collaboration between the village, the park district, Metra, and other entities. “It’s the way it’s supposed to be when we’re using the taxpayers’ money and taking everyone’s time,” Young said.

Village Clerk Rebecca Bouck announced a busy schedule of upcoming events, including a Young Entrepreneurs event on July 19, the Park District’s Sip of Summer on July 23, and a combined Movie in the Park and Public Safety Night on July 25.

The board also passed a resolution in support of the Illinois America250 Commemoration, which will celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.