Explore Oak Park and Beyond business survey
Calling all business owners – Explore Oak Park & Beyond wants to hear from you!
To better support the businesses in the Explore Oak Park & Beyond footprint, business owners and operators are asked to take a few minutes to complete a short survey. Your input will help the local convention and visitor’s bureau to provide the highest-quality services possible ― tailored to what you truly need. Your feedback will shape programming, marketing and resources for the coming year.
Learn more about Explore Oak Park & Beyond at www.oakparkandbeyond.org.
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Sip, Savor & Stroll... only two Thursdays left!
Picture this: Marion Street lined with tables, the scent of sizzling dishes in the air, glasses clinking and the hum of conversation mixing with the beat of live music. It’s the kind of night that feels like vacation - right here at home.
With more than a dozen participating restaurants offering everything from tacos and pasta to craft cocktails and desserts, Thursday Night Out is your passport to a world of flavor in just a few blocks. Stroll between bites, shop at your favorite boutiques and soak up that golden summer light while it lasts. Thursday Night Out runs every Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. through August 28.
Eat. Drink. Mingle. Repeat. Your perfect Thursday Night is waiting in Downtown Oak Park.
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First Fridays heads to Southtown
Tucked away but full of heart, Southtown’s First Friday celebration will bring together indie businesses, creative makers, and a laid-back vibe that feels like a block party with all your favorite neighbors. Hosted by the Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce, each First Fridays Oak Park event has live music, cold beverages and nonstop entertainment for all ages. From family-friendly games and activities to local business vendors, food pop-ups and interactive art — there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Find the Southtown party from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 5 in the municipal lot behind Carnival Grocery Store and Fifth Third Bank. More info is at www.firstfridaysoakpark.org/
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Oak Park Plein Air Festival
Get ready for three days of art without walls. From September 5-7, the Oak Park Area Arts Council and Explore Oak Park & Beyond invite you to witness creativity in motion at the first annual Oak Park Plein Air Festival, a celebration of painting, community and the beauty of our Village.
“Plein air” is the French term for “open air,” and that’s exactly where you’ll find dozens of artists, their easels set up on sidewalks, in parks and along bustling streets, capturing Oak Park’s character right before your eyes.
Whether you’re an art collector, a casual admirer or just looking for a fresh way to enjoy the weekend, the Plein Air Festival turns the entire Village into an outdoor gallery. You don’t need a ticket, just bring your curiosity, your walking shoes and maybe a camera to capture the moments that inspire you.
Find more information about the event, including how artists can register by clicking here.
Benchmarking help is available
The Village’s Energy and Water Benchmarking Ordinance requires buildings over 10,000 square feet to report water and energy use. This is an important strategy in the Village’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support our building owners and organizations in energy efficiency and electrification. Benchmarking reports are due December 31, 2025. If you need assistance in meeting the requirements of this important ordinance, the Village has the following help available:
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Attend the upcoming Data Jam
3 to 5 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 15
Oak Park Public Library – Main Library
834 Lake St.
Sign up here
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Bring your laptop and get hands-on support as you work on your water and energy report. Our team will be there to provide extra guidance and answer your questions. Find a guide to getting started here; and
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Find more information and submit tickets through the Village's Benchmarking Help Desk
For additional assistance, contact the Village’s Office of Sustainability & Resilience by emailing sustainability@oak-park.us or calling 708.358.5770.
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