Thursday, July 17, 2025 | View in browser
Good evening,
Read below for information about weekend events, the Prieto Community Center's Official Renaming Ceremony, the next Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre production, and more!
 Summer fun is calling ☀️
Enjoy an art-filled weekend: Evanston Made presents the annual Evanston Plein Air Festival, July 16–20! Enjoy free, citywide events as artists paint live outdoors, capturing Evanston’s unique beauty. Watch quick-paint competitions, attend art exhibits and workshops, and shop original works straight from the easel. Don’t miss the Plein Air Block Party on July 18 and the Festival Grand Finale on July 20.
Music under the stars: Head to Kamen Park West, 583 Asbury Ave., on Tues., July 22 to enjoy a Starlight Concert featuring live rock music by Finom! Grab your friends and family, grab a bite from one of the onsite food trucks, and enjoy an evening of upbeat music.
Disco in the Park: Boogie down at Disco in the Park on Fri., July 18, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the James Park Soccer Field. Dance the evening away to your favorite ‘70s hits, spun live by local DJ Michael Stinson. Get ready to groove at this free event.
 Celebrate the Prieto Community Center's Official Renaming
Join the City, the Prieto family, and community partners on Sat., July 19, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for the official renaming of the Dr. Jorge and Luz Maria Prieto Community Center (430 Asbury Ave.). The event will include keynote remarks, a ceremonial sign unveiling, and opportunities to reflect, connect, and celebrate the Prietos’ lasting legacy.
 Reminder: No riding on downtown sidewalks 🚳
Sidewalks are shared spaces designed to keep everyone safe. To protect pedestrians in downtown Evanston, riding bikes, scooters, skateboards, and similar devices on sidewalks is not allowed. You're welcome to ride in the street, but if you're on the sidewalk, please dismount within the downtown area.
 Up next on the FJTheatre stage...
Experience Pass Over at the Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre, a powerful and poetic play by Antoinette Nwandu, directed by Tim Rhoze. This production integrates poetry, humor, and humanity in a politically charged play that exposes the experiences of young black men in a world that refuses to see them. Performances run Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m., July 26 - August 10, at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center. Grab your tickets today!
More News and Events
Participate in the Virtual Environmental Equity Workshop
Couldn't make the in-person workshop? Join the Environmental Equity team for a virtual public workshop on Tues., July 22, at 6 p.m. The workshop will include a brief update on key findings from the team and interactive activities to explore strategies for advancing environmental equity in Evanston. Register to attend.
Attend the Pace public hearing on fare changes
Pace will hold a public hearing on proposed fare increases and ride limits for the Taxi Access and Rideshare Access Programs on Wed., July 30, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at 2102 W. Ogden Ave. Learn more and submit comments at PaceBus.com/public-hearings-tap-rap.
Help Evanston get Bicycle Friendly Community status
The City recently re-applied for Bicycle Friendly Community status from the League of American Bicyclists. The League is seeking community input to gain a better understanding of local bicyclists’ experiences in Evanston. Please take a minute to complete this brief survey.
Check out more Love Your Block programs
Additional Love Your Block grant programs have now launched, including Toddler Adventure Camp, Elks Park Neighbors Block Party, Community Landscaping & Mentorship Program, and HOP Community Farm & Peace Garden Build Day.
Sidewalk sales abound next weekend
Downtown Evanston Sidewalk Sale & Chalk Art Contest: Enjoy family fun and great deals at the Downtown Evanston Sidewalk Sale, July 26-27! Stroll through local shops offering special discounts, and don’t miss the Chalk Art Contest on July 27.
Central Street Sidewalk Sale: Shop outdoor deals, enjoy local eats, and catch live jazz on Sat., July 27 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. along Central Street. Indoor sales will continue on Sunday at participating shops. More info.
City Council continues comprehensive plan discussion
City Council has reviewed and submitted comments on the draft comprehensive plan recommended by the Land Use Commission. Discussion of the draft will continue at a special City Council meeting on Mon., July 21, at 6:30 p.m. at Morton City Hall (909 Davis St.). Share feedback in person or via the online public comment form. Learn more.
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Community Calendar
EPD named Illinois CIT Department of the Year
 Click image to play video.
The Evanston Police Department has been named the 2025 Illinois Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Department of the Year by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board!
This statewide honor recognizes EPD’s commitment to compassionate, community-centered policing and mental health response. With the majority of our sworn officers certified in the 40-hour CIT program, Evanston is leading the way in de-escalation, crisis response, and collaboration with behavioral health professionals.
Join us in congratulating EPD for setting a new standard for public safety. Check out our highlight video!
That’s it for today's e-news. Thanks for reading!
Sincerely,
The City of Evanston Communications Team
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