City of North Chicago Celebrates 20 Years of Community Days Festival-20 Years of Community. One City. One Epic Celebration.
The City of North Chicago is proud to announce the 20th Anniversary Community Days Festival, taking place August 1–2, 2026, at 1850 Lewis Avenue. This milestone celebration honors two decades of community pride, partnership, and unity while bringing residents, families, businesses, and visitors together for one of the city's most anticipated annual events.
Presented in partnership with the City of North Chicago, Foss Park District, and North Chicago Community Unit School District 187, Community Days has become a cherished tradition that showcases the spirit, diversity, and resilience of North Chicago.
The two-day festival will feature live entertainment, local food vendors, family-friendly attractions, youth activities, community resources, and cultural celebrations. More than just a festival, Community Days provides an opportunity for neighbors to connect, organizations to engage with residents, and the community to celebrate everything that makes North Chicago unique.
The celebration begins with the Community Days Parade on Saturday, August 1. The two-mile parade steps off promptly at 10:00 a.m. and concludes at the festival grounds located along the 1700 and 1800 blocks of Lewis Avenue.
"This year's theme—'I'm So Go! I Am North Chicago. I'm Home.'—captures the pride we feel in our city and the deep sense of belonging that defines our community," said Mayor Leon Rockingham Jr. "Whether you are a lifelong resident, a District 187 graduate, a business owner, or a new family joining our neighborhoods, Community Days is a celebration of you. North Chicago's greatest asset is its people, and this festival gives us the opportunity to come together and celebrate the bonds that unite us."
This year's 20th anniversary celebration will feature an enhanced festival experience that honors the event's rich history while creating new opportunities for residents and visitors to build lasting memories.
"For 20 years, Community Days has served as North Chicago's homecoming," Mayor Rockingham added. "What began as a local celebration has grown into a beloved city tradition where generations gather, alumni return, and families reunite year after year. Community Days reflects the diversity that defines us and the unity that strengthens us. Through music, food, family activities, and community engagement, we continue building the connections that make North Chicago a welcoming place to call home."
To elevate this year's entertainment experience, the City of North Chicago has partnered with True Conglomerate Productions, an entertainment company known for booking premier talent and producing high-quality live events. Festival attendees will enjoy performances from 16 musical acts throughout the weekend.
SATURDAY ENTERTAINMENT
- DJ Fito
- Park N Ride
- DJ Sean Mac
- Jason Warrior (The Voice)
- Lonne G
- Billy's Band of Brothers
- DJ The X
- D Low
SUNDAY ENTERTAINMENT
- House Band
- Dance Team
- First Corinthian Choir
- Soul Message Band
- TCO Reunion Tribute to James Sisson
- Vertical Encounter
- Alex Soler
- Brandon P (National Recording Artist)
Community Days continues to thrive thanks to the generous support of community organizations, local businesses, and corporate sponsors. Their contributions help provide high-quality entertainment, engaging youth and family programming, and a safe, welcoming, and accessible experience for residents of all ages.
"Community Days is a testament to the power of collaboration," Mayor Rockingham concluded. "When municipal leadership, public education, parks and recreation, businesses, and community partners work together, we demonstrate what is possible through a shared vision and commitment to our residents."
Different backgrounds. Shared pride. One North Chicago.
For more information about the 2026 North Chicago Community Days Festival, including event schedules, sponsorship opportunities, parade information, and volunteer opportunities, please visit the FESTIVAL WEBSITE.