Thursday, May 28, 2026 | View in browser
Good evening,
Read below for information about weekend events, First Friday, benchmarking, and more!
 Enjoy a fun-filled weekend
Let's dink around! Join the Evanston Police Department for Paddle & Connect, a free open-play event for all skill levels on Sat., May 30, from noon to 4 p.m. at James Park! Enjoy friendly games, refreshments, a live DJ, and a chance to connect with neighbors and first responders.
Celebrate Asian American culture and creativity: Join Evanston ASPA for their annual Umbrella Arts Festival, a celebration of Asian American culture on Sat., May 30, from noon to 5 p.m. at Fountain Square. This festival features Asian American artists, cultural performances, food trucks, hands-on art activities, and diverse Asian cuisines.
Pedal through town with Downtown Evanston: Join in for a free, family-friendly bike ride on Sat., May 30, at 10 a.m., leaving from Raymond Park. The 1.6-mile ride heads to King Arts Playground, and all ages and skill levels are welcome. Helmets required. Register here.
Evanston receives top ranking!
Evanston was ranked #9 overall out of 205 suburbs in the Chicago Magazine June/July 2026 issue, which featured the publication’s first fully data-driven ranking of suburban communities across the Chicago region.
Evanston ranked #1 in Mobility, #6 in Green Space & Park, and #11 in Community. Chicago Magazine praised Evanston as “a city that puts the urban in suburban,” highlighting its walkability, transit access, cultural amenities, and diverse housing options.
 A message from the City Manager’s Office
Evanston’s Energy and Water Benchmarking Ordinance requires that commercial, institutional, and residential buildings over 20,000 sq. ft. and condominium buildings over 50,000 sq. ft. report their annual energy and water consumption.
The goal? To encourage energy efficiency, help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve Evanston’s environment. Check the City’s benchmarking page and helpdesk for more information.
Deadline: Submit your annual benchmarking report by June 30, 2026. Warnings will be issued to those who fail to comply.
 Embrace community at our First Friday events
The City's “My City, Your City, Our City” initiative presents First Friday, a community event series featuring free food, music, activities, an obstacle course, and raffles. The kickoff event will take place on Fri., June 5, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Mason Park (Church/Florence).
Wear Orange: Participants are encouraged to wear orange in support of National Wear Orange Day to honor victims and survivors of gun violence and to raise awareness about the importance of safer communities.
 City staff plant trees to honor Arbor Day
In honor of Arbor Day (delayed but meaningful all the same), City staff came together today to plant three trees throughout Evanston, continuing a tradition that has earned us Tree City USA recognition every year since 1984, along with the Tree City USA Growth Award for more than 20 consecutive years running.
The Health and Human Services Department, in partnership with Chicago Internal Medicine Practice and Research (CIMPAR) and in consultation with IDPH, is expanding access to free COVID-19 and flu vaccines for eligible Evanston residents. Keeping up-to-date on these vaccines is an effective way to protect against severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
Saturday, May 30
9:30 a.m. to Noon.
Robert Crown Community Center, Room D
Vaccines are free for eligible community members. Advanced registration is encouraged, though walk-ins are welcome. Community members may choose to receive one or both vaccines. A confirmation email will be sent after registering; please bring a copy to the event.
For more info, call 847-448-8289 or email health@cityofevanston.org.
More News and Events
Let's talk about mental health
The Equity and Empowerment Commission will host A Community Conversation: Mental Health, Wellness & Equity on Sat., May 30, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Robert Crown Community Center. Join a panel of local professionals and advocates for a conversation on mental health, reducing stigma, and connecting with accessible resources. Register today.
Snag a free tree on Friday
The City's Public Works Agency is giving away free trees to Evanston residents this Fri., May 29, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the parking lot behind 2100 Ridge Ave. No registration is required; just show up with an Evanston address and choose from a variety of shade and ornamental trees.
Shop $25 Day on Central Street
This Saturday, May 30, Central Street is celebrating $25 Day, a one-day deal where local, independent businesses spotlight $25 items and special promotions. Show up, spend $25, and show some love for your neighborhood shops.
Sign up for Free Mental Health First Aid training
The City is offering free Mental Health First Aid training for community members, providing the skills to recognize, understand, and respond to signs of mental health challenges and substance use disorders. The next session will take place on Sat., June 6. Register to participate.
Thank you, Don Cornelius, for 35 years of service
After 35 years with the City, Don Cornelius retires on May 29 as Public Works Streets Supervisor. Starting in 1990, Don has left a lasting mark on Evanston's street sweeping, snow removal, and winter operations. Congratulations, Don, enjoy a well-earned retirement.
Free home energy coaching with Climate Action Evanston
Climate Action Evanston offers free one-on-one coaching sessions on the second Wednesday of each month, from 6 p.m to 8 p.m., in Room 108 of the Evanston Public Library. Get expert guidance on heat pumps, solar, induction appliances, insulation, draft-proofing, and more. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are encouraged. Sign up today!
Calling all makers and local business owners: take our survey!
The City is launching a Pop-Up + Incubator Pilot Program this October, offering local business owners and makers subsidized short-term storefronts, business training, mentorship, and a pathway to permanent tenancy in downtown Evanston. Share your input by taking a short survey in English and Spanish (open through May 29) to help shape the program.
Get Engaged
Community Calendar
 Photo by: Jake Epstein, NUSports.com
Congratulations to the Northwestern Wildcats women's lacrosse team on their 2026 NCAA Championship! Trailing 11-9 heading into the fourth quarter, the Wildcats stormed back with five goals to win 14-11 on their home field at NU's Medicine Field at Martin Stadium. Go 'Cats!
That’s it for today's e-news. Thanks for reading!
Sincerely,
The City of Evanston Communications Team
|
