Plaza del Lago adjusts events to fit 2020’s safety needs; Oktoberfest up next

Plaza del Lago has been making the most of its outdoor space during the pandemic.

The iconic Wilmette retail center, owned by Retail Properties of America Inc., hosted a month-long art expo and a one-day fashion show in September and is planning an Oktoberfest for Thursday, Oct. 15.

According to a release from marketing group a.s.k., the plaza partnered with the North Shore Art League to display works of art in storefront windows across the plaza for the entire month.

Paired with the pieces were artist bios as well as QR codes so guests could view artist and purchase information on their mobile device.

As part of the event, the plaza hosted two live painting demonstrations, where artists worked “en plein air” and answered questions from the gathered crowd.

The plaza was the backdrop for another fall event on Sept. 17, when Convito Cafe hosted a fashion show in front of around 70 safely distanced guests, the release says.

The event was a fundraiser for the Wilmette District 39 Educational Foundation.

Models wore masks as they strutted in attired found at Plaza del Lago shops, like Chantilly Lace, La Colonna, Giggles & Giraffes, Hanig’s Footwear, Vibrato Boutique, Musick Luxury Handbags & Accessories, Yellow Bird and YogaSix.

Retail Properties of America donated $2,000 to the foundation and other businesses donated a percentage of their sales for the day.

Up next is Oktoberfest, from 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15, at Convito Cafe.

According to a release guests must reserve a table in advance so that the restaurant can safely plan and they must wear a mask.

On the menu will be bratwurst, schnitzel and other seasonal favorites to pair with craft beer.

The Chris Karabas Band, out of Wilmette, will entertain starting at 6 p.m.

To make a reservation for a 90-minute dinner seating, call (847) 251-3654 or email convitomanager@gmail.com.

For more information, visit www.plazadelago.com/plazadelagoevents/distantoktoberfest.