Thursday, November 12, 2026 | View in browser
Read below for information about snow reminders, the Snow Shoveling Program, new Divvy stations, free holiday parking, the Mayor’s Holiday Food, Book & Toy Drive, winter program registration, and more.
 Holiday event roundup
’Tis the season in Evanston! From artisan markets and festive concerts to tree lightings and ways to give back, here’s your guide to celebrating the holidays around town. Kicking things off this weekend:
Holiday kickoff on Central Street: Ring in the holiday season on Central Street this Saturday. Spend the day exploring the neighborhood’s local shops and restaurants, many offering special deals. Hop aboard a free trolley to travel up and down the street, and watch for entertainment pop-ups. Then, gather for a tree lighting at 5 p.m. at Independence Park.
 Click image to view video.
❄️ 'Snow' way it's that time already...
We know, we know, it’s too soon. Let’s talk winter anyway! We haven’t seen our first snowfall yet, but it’s never too early to get ready. Here are a few friendly reminders to help everyone stay safe and keep Evanston moving when the snow arrives:
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Landlords: Keep sidewalks, parking lots, and common areas free of hazards
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Clear snow from around refuse containers so crews can access them.
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Clear sidewalks within 24 hours after any accumulation of snow or ice.
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Clear snow from around fire hydrants to assist first responders.
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Sign up for convenient text/email snow parking notifications. Text COE SNOW to 468311 or visit cityofevanston.org/snow.
 Grab a shovel and make a difference!
Speaking of snow, the City’s Snow Shoveling Program is back. The program pairs older adults and residents with disabilities with neighbors who volunteer to shovel for free. This year, there are two ways to pitch in: help individual residents or keep accessible parking spaces, curb cuts, and crosswalks clear. Whether you need a hand or want to lend one, sign up at cityofevanston.org/shoveling.
 Sign up for EvanstonAlerts
When an emergency happens, it's critical to stay informed. EvanstonAlerts is the City’s emergency notification system, used to warn community members about immediate threats to health and safety, like critical police activity, evacuations, and life-threatening weather situations.
Get notified: You can get alerts by text, email, or phone for multiple locations, including your home, workplace, and school. Sign up today!
 Divvy expands with 18 new stations in Evanston
Evanston’s Divvy network is growing with 18 new stations (15 already installed), bringing the city to 32 stations once complete. The fleet will also include more lower-cost pedal bikes, as residents requested. Early results are strong: trips ending at Evanston stations rose 53% from August through October compared with last year.
Attend a ribbon-cutting: Celebrate the expansion at a ribbon-cutting on Monday, Nov. 16, at 10 a.m. at the new Grove Street and Maple Avenue Divvy station outside the McGaw YMCA.
More News and Events
Help every Evanston family celebrate the holiday season
Donate new toys and games, new or gently used children’s books, and non-perishable food items for the Mayor's Holiday Food, Book and Toy Drive. See drop-off locations or make a tax-deductible online donation to the Evanston Parks Foundation by December 1.
Need help? Food and toy bags will be distributed on December 9, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Fleetwood-Jourdain Center. Food bags need no registration and are available while supplies last. Toy and book bags require registration and Access Evanston participation. More info.
Two hours of free parking daily returns for the holidays
Shop local this season with up to two hours of free parking daily in Evanston’s business districts, November 25, 2026 through January 1, 2027. Just enter code “Evanston2026” in the Park Evanston app (once per day per account).
Calling all pet owners!
Don't forget to register your furry friends for 2027. Pet registration letters were mailed in early November. Make sure to submit your renewals by December 31 to keep your pet official, safe, and beach-ready! Renewal is quick and easy at cityofevanston.org/pet.
Winter parks & rec program registration
Registration for Evanston residents opened on November 9 and will open for nonresidents on Monday, Nov. 16. Check out the Winter Program Guide and register online at cityofevanston.org/register.
Share your feedback on the New Ryan Field
Residents are invited to share their thoughts on the New Ryan Field, including home football games, community events, and any other aspects of the stadium by filling out Northwestern's New Ryan Field Community Engagement Survey.
Illinois Made applications are due December 31
Local artisans, makers, and small businesses with a physical storefront can apply to the state’s relaunched Illinois Made program. Selected businesses may be featured in Illinois tourism marketing. Learn more and see current participants.
Get Engaged
Community Calendar
That’s it for today's e-news. Thanks for reading!
Sincerely,
The City of Evanston Communications Team
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