Cornhole enthusiasts and community supporters are getting ready for one of Tinley Park’s most anticipated annual events. The Tinley Park Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 11th Bag Crawl on Sunday, May 17, a day that combines friendly competition with a tour of local businesses along historic Oak Park Avenue.
Participants will test their tossing skills at seven different downtown locations, accumulating points for a chance to win cash prizes and other awards. The event, which has become a staple in the community, draws both seasoned cornhole players and residents looking for a fun afternoon out.
The Bag Crawl was first introduced in 2011, capitalizing on the rising popularity of the backyard game, according to Tinley Chamber Executive Director Tom McNulty. What started as a modest gathering has since blossomed into a significant community tradition, reflecting the Chamber's long history of fostering local engagement since its inception in 1955.
A growing tradition
Over the past decade, the Bag Crawl has transformed from a simple outing into a can't-miss fixture on the local calendar. Attendance has grown consistently, with last year’s event drawing over 140 participants. Organizers note that early interest for the 11th-anniversary event suggests this year could see a record turnout, potentially exceeding 150 attendees.
The event is designed not just as a competition, but as a way to strengthen community bonds and support local establishments. It’s part of a broader effort by the Chamber, which has served the area for nearly 70 years, to promote Tinley Park as a vibrant place to live and work. The village itself has a rich commercial history, from its 19th-century origins as a railroad hub named Bremen to its industrial innovators of the 20th century.
Our Bag Crawl has taken on a life of its own. It’s not just about playing, it’s about reconnecting, meeting new people, and building a sense of community that keeps getting stronger each year. This year's crawl continues that tradition, offering a unique way for residents to explore the evolving landscape of downtown Tinley Park, which has seen a variety of new developments and events in recent years, including the popular Tinley Park Brew & Vine Festival and the recently launched Wellington Gin Trail.
A tour of Tinley Park's local spots
The crawl-style tournament leads participants on a journey through the heart of the village. The event kicks off with registration at 11:30 a.m. at Banging Gavel (17400 Oak Park Ave.). From there, players will proceed to six other local businesses, playing a round of cornhole at each to build a progressive score.
The seven stops on this year’s tour include:
- Banging Gavel (Registration)
- Ed & Joe's
- Bremen VFW Post 2791
- Durbin's Harmony Square
- Still Ride Bike Shop
- Harald Viking Lodge
- SIP Wine Bar (Awards)
The day concludes at SIP Wine Bar, where scores will be tallied and cash prizes and other awards will be distributed. The route gives attendees a chance to visit a mix of well-established venues and newer spots, promoting foot traffic and commerce throughout the downtown corridor, a key objective for a village that recently projected a $2.18 million surplus in its draft budget.
How to join the crawl
Tickets for the Bag Crawl are available for $35 per person in advance and can be purchased online through the Tinley Park Chamber of Commerce website. Day-of registration will be available for $40 at the door.
Registration includes a commemorative Bag Crawl T-shirt and a goody bag, which contains a $20 gift card from The Whistle Sports Bar and Grill. Participants will also enjoy complimentary food at each of the seven stops along the course, adding significant value to the ticket price. The event offers a chance not only to win prizes but also to sample offerings from some of Tinley Park's favorite establishments.
The event serves as an important community-building initiative and a key fundraiser for the Chamber, which represents over 400 local businesses. The organization plays a vital role in local economic development, from hosting events to advocating for businesses in civic matters, such as the recent lawsuit filed by Brixmor over a grocery store moratorium.
As the May 17 date approaches, organizers are optimistic that the 11th annual Bag Crawl will be the most successful yet, further solidifying its place as a beloved Tinley Park tradition.
