ALEDO, IL — Cancer has touched nearly every life in Mercer County—and that’s why the annual Relay for Life means so much to so many.
The 2025 Relay for Life of Mercer County takes place Saturday, June 28th, from 4 to 9:30 p.m. at Central Park in Aledo, offering an afternoon and evening of remembrance, celebration, and community support in the ongoing fight against cancer.
“This is a personal cause for almost everyone,” said Mary Flint, local spokesperson for the event. “Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or have lost someone to cancer, Relay gives you a place to come together and feel supported.”
Festivities begin at 4 p.m. in Central Park, with the Survivor Walk at 4:30 p.m., where cancer survivors take a symbolic lap while friends, family, and community members cheer them on. Survivor T-shirts are available, and early registration is encouraged by calling 1-800-227-2345 (option 2).
From 5 to 7 p.m., the Aledo Fire Department hosts its popular Pancake and Sausage Dinner—a tradition that began last year in honor of local firefighters who battled cancer, including the late Michael Clark and Butch Lafferty. The meal is donation-based, with proceeds going to Relay for Life.
Back in Central Park, live music from singer-songwriter Jason Parchert begins around 6 p.m. Parchert, a well-known voice in the region and longtime supporter of Relay, will perform several hours of music. “If you haven’t heard Jason before, you’re in for a treat,” Flint said. “Bring a chair, settle in, and enjoy.”
The evening culminates with the powerful Luminaria Ceremony at 9 p.m., where decorated candlelit bags—each bearing the name of someone affected by cancer—will light the park. A bagpiper will lead a silent memorial walk as names are projected onto the back of the bandshell.
“It’s silent, emotional, and deeply meaningful,” Flint shared. “You can purchase a luminaria for $10, and it’s a lasting tribute to someone you love.”
Luminaria bags will be available at both Central Park and the fire station beginning at 3 p.m., and Relay teams will also offer homemade desserts by donation throughout the evening. This year also marks the return of the limited-edition Isabel Bloom sculpture, specially designed for the event.
Whether you stop by for dinner, a song, or the walk at sunset, organizers hope the Mercer County community will once again show up for this cause that touches everyone.
“Even just being there for a few minutes reminds you—you’re not alone,” Flint said. “Hope is stronger when we share it.”
For more details, visit the Relay for Life of Mercer County Facebook page or call 1-800-227-2345 (option 2) to register as a survivor.