Toochie’s Booze, Barbecue & Boogaloo: A Labor Day Weekend Celebration Like No Other

What began as ten friends gathering in Carl “Toochie” Belsar’s backyard has grown into one of the most beloved and soul-filled celebrations in Lake County. This Labor Day Weekend marks the 10th anniversary of Toochie’s Booze, Barbecue & Boogaloo—a joyous, music-filled reunion of Families, Friends, Fraternities, and Sororities that now draws hundreds of people to a spectacular lakefront venue.

The first gathering, in 2014, brought together Black alumni from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, most of whom were part of the historic “Project 500” effort that increased Black student enrollment in 1968. These were trailblazers, and their annual reunion has become a heartfelt “Celebration of Life”—a chance to reflect, reconnect, and rejoice in the blessing of time.

Toochie, the heart and soul behind it all, personally funded the event for the first seven years. “Life is not a dress rehearsal,” he says. “We don’t get to do redos. Our greatest commodity is time, not money.” That deep belief in living life fully, in fellowship with others, is what drives him to host this celebration no matter what—even if it means dipping into his 401k. Only in the last three years has he begun selling tickets to help cover the cost of three days of gourmet buffets, open bars, and outstanding entertainment.

And what entertainment it’s been! Live performances began in 2015 with the Terry Sims Band and two local Chicago groups, but the celebration leveled up in 2019 when the legendary Ohio Players headlined. In 2020, the event moved from Toochie’s backyard to the stunning Illinois Beach Resort venue on the lakefront, providing the perfect backdrop for reminiscing and celebrating life.

As this “grown folks” getaway continues to grow, the vision is clear: a private version of the Essence Festival or Budweiser Superfest—with multiple stages, seminars, vendors, and a VIP experience. With support from attendees and sponsors alike, that dream is well within reach.

Cheers to 10 unforgettable years of music, memories, and miracles. And a BIG thank you to everyone who helps make Toochie’s Booze, Barbecue & Boogaloo Labor Day Weekend Getaway a continuing success!

Check out an ole school video of our headliner LAKESIDE.