Music, food, a parade and — of course, a carnival — are among Last Fling and other Naperville activities over the Labor Day weekend. (Photo by Michael Kappel / MichaelKappel.com)

Between 150,000 to 200,000 people are expected to gather at Naperville’s Last Fling to collectively say farewell to summer this weekend.

Held over four days throughout downtown Naperville, the family-friendly community festival offers something for everyone from popular family fun events like diaper derbies or scavenger hunts to the opportunity to take in local and nationally-recognized music entertainers performing on one of two stages.

“For the past 50 years, the Last Fling has been more than just a festival, it a picnic that brings the community together to raise funds for worthy causes,” Naperville Jaycees member Marty Walker said.

Attendees can enjoy food, music entertainment, a Family Fun Land, carnival rides, special events, a business expo and even a few running events.

Sponsored by the Naperville Jaycees, in close cooperation with the City of Naperville and Naperville Park District, the Last Fling is the Jaycee’s largest fundraiser and has been in the planning stages for nearly a year.

As a nonprofit service organization with more than 100 members, the Naperville Jaycees organize numerous annual events throughout year; however, the Last Fling is its biggest.

Over the last ten years, the Naperville Jaycees has donated over $2 million back to the community.

“All of the money raised is donated directly back to community nonprofits and charities,” Naperville Jaycee’s Danielle Tufano said. “We try to give to a variety of causes including hunger, homelessness, social services, and veterans.

“We have a donations committee that does extensive research on the requests that we receive annually to find the greatest need.”