July 17 City E-News: Food Truck Round Up, National Night Out, and more.

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Message from Mayor Goczkowski

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this year’s Independence Day celebrations. Both the Community Fireworks and Fourth of July Parade were fantastic events, and it was wonderful to see so many residents, families, and community groups come together to celebrate. If you missed any of the fun—or just want to relive the highlights—don’t miss the recap video included in this edition of the E-News. While our patriotic festivities may be behind us, summer fun in Des Plaines is far from over. On Tuesday, July 22, we’re kicking off the season’s first Food Truck Round Up from 5–8 p.m. at Metropolitan Square. It’s a great chance to enjoy a summer evening downtown with local food trucks, live music, and a relaxed community vibe. Bring your appetite and your neighbors! Then, on Tuesday, August 5, join us for National Night Out at the grounds of Algonquin Middle School and Forest Elementary School. This annual event strengthens the important relationships between residents and first responders through food, music, games, and family-friendly activities. It’s one of our city’s most meaningful and enjoyable gatherings of the year. You’ll find more details on both events in this newsletter. I look forward to seeing even more of you out enjoying all that Des Plaines has to offer this summer. In the meantime, please share this e-news with your family, friends, and neighbors, and encourage them to subscribe. If I can assist you in any way, please feel free to contact me at 847-391-5301 or agoczkowski@desplainesil.gov. Yours in service, Andrew Goczkowski Mayor of Des Plaines

City Council Preview

The Des Plaines City Council will meet on Monday, July 21, to discuss community matters. You can access the agenda here.

You can watch full City Council meetings anytime on our website.

First Food Truck Round Up Scheduled for July 22

Des Plaines' summer tradition is back! Join us for the first Food Truck Round Up of the season starting at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, July 22, at Metropolitan Square. Bring your appetite, lawn chairs, and friends for an evening of delicious food, games, and artisan shopping. Listen to live music by Justine Ewald beginning at 5:30 p.m. You can find a full list of participating food trucks by visiting our website.

The Food Truck Round Up series continues on August 19 at Des Plaines Library Plaza and September 9 at Rosemary S. Argus Friendship Park and Conservatory. We hope to see you at one—or all—of the events.

National Night Out

Join us for National Night Out on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at Forest Elementary and Algonquin Middle School grounds. This free, family-friendly evening will feature Police and Fire Department vehicles, a K9 demonstration by Jager, and a Tactical Response Team display, plus games, activities, and community group booths.

Mark your calendar and enjoy a night of community connection and public safety awareness.

Independence Day Rewind

From fireworks lighting up the sky to the festive parade through town, our Independence Day celebrations were full of hometown happiness. Watch the recap video to experience it all!

Community Connection - July

Celebrate fresh starts in Des Plaines with the July edition of Community Connection, highlighting two new local businesses and an exciting new space at the Des Plaines Public Library.

If you have a submission idea for this program, please complete the form on the Community Connection page of the City of Des Plaines website.

Upcoming Meetings and Reminders

• 7/21 - City Council Meeting
• 7/22 - First Food Truck Round Up
• 8/4 - City Council Meeting
• 8/5 - National Night Out
• 8/18 - City Council Meeting
• 9/1 - Labor Day - City Offices Closed

Visit desplainesil.gov and check out our calendar to see what’s happening around town.

City of Des Plaines
Phone 847.391.5300

1420 Miner Street
Des Plaines, IL 60016