The city of Elgin, in collaboration with community and business leaders, will hold the fifth annual Elgin International Festival (iFest) from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27, 2016, on the Riverside Drive Promenade.

Elgin iFest showcases the contributions of the proud and vast array of cultures in the Elgin community and the surrounding Fox Valley region. This free, family-friendly festival will feature live music and entertainment, an international food court, children’s activities, a “City of Peace” zone, as well as dozens of international arts, crafts and exhibits.

This year’s Olympics-themed event features representation from five international regions: Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin American, and North America.

Opening ceremonies kick off at noon with a parade featuring representatives from each region, dressed in traditional clothing. Master of ceremonies Jeff Myers will provide a welcome, followed by various speakers from the Elgin community.

Elgin iFest will offer a Trivia Passport Challenge for local area school students in grades 3-8. Students pick up a trivia passport, travel to each region and then submit their passport ticket. The U-46 school with the most students to participate in the Trivia Passport Challenge will win a movie and popcorn night at their school, courtesy of the city of Elgin. More details on the Trivia Challenge will be available at elginifest.org.


Get Involved

Volunteers are needed throughout the festival for set up, tear down, craft assistance, contest administration, information booth and general oversight. Individuals and groups interested in volunteering can sign up at elginifest.org or email specialevents@cityofelgin.org.

Exhibitors are still needed to represent the some countries and regional cultures. Apply at elginifest.org or email questions to specialevents@cityofelgin.org.

For on-the-go updates, follow Elgin iFest on Facebook and Twitter (@Elgin_iFest).

About Elgin, IL

Nestled along the banks of the Fox River, Elgin, Illinois is approximately 38 miles northwest of downtown Chicago and is home to more than 110,000 people. The growing city enjoys ready access to public transportation, diverse housing stock and a mix of commercial establishments. The city’s AAA bond rating is testament to its strong financial management and solid economic environment. Many national and international businesses have taken advantage of Elgin’s close proximity to the Elgin-O’Hare Tollway and to the “Golden Corridor of Technology and Commerce” along Interstate-90. A recent recipient of the Governor’s Hometown Award, Elgin features a nationally acclaimed library system, an array of healthcare options, and educational opportunities for all ages. Residents and visitors enjoy a thriving cultural arts community, world-class parks, award winning golf courses, historical museums and over 200 places of worship. This vibrant, diverse community is a registered Cities of Service to recognize its volunteer-rich community and history of civic engagement.

SOURCE: city of Elgin