Civic Engagement Festival: "Democracy in Action!"

Village Clerk Christina Waters speaks with a person at Village Hall

Join the Village of Oak Park and Village Clerk Christina M. Waters for the second annual Civic Engagement Festival: “Democracy in Action!” on Sunday, May 3 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Village Hall, 123 Madison St.

Held in celebration of Public Service Recognition Week and Professional Municipal Clerks Week, this free, family-friendly event brings together residents, community partners and local leaders for an afternoon of learning, connection and fun.

The festival is designed to:

Empower residents of all ages through civic engagement
Showcase how local government works
Provide opportunities for community connection and public service
Highlight ways to get involved in shaping Oak Park’s future

Attendees can enjoy interactive experiences, educational sessions, performances and opportunities to connect with local organizations and Village services throughout the day.

Event Highlights by Location

The schedule is tentative and subject to adjustment. Activities will take place across Village Hall and the Courtyard.

Council Chambers (Room 201)

12:00 – 12:30 p.m. | Welcome & Opening Program
Kick off Civics Fest with opening remarks from Village leadership, followed by a special performance and introduction to the day’s activities.

12:30 – 1:30 p.m. | Clerk’s Conversation
A moderated discussion featuring Village Clerk Christina Waters and Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon on voting access, elections, and civic participation.

1:30 – 2:30 p.m. | Youth Mock Government
Oak Park youth step into leadership roles to simulate a Village Board meeting—reviewing local issues, hearing public input, and exploring how decisions are made.

Courtyard (Outdoor Main Area)

12:30 – 2:00 p.m. | Live Music: School of Rock
Enjoy live performances while exploring activities and connecting with community organizations.

2:00 – 4:00 p.m. | DJ Maui
Music and energy continue as residents engage with resources, activities, and one another.

Ongoing (12:00 – 4:00 p.m.)

Community resource tables featuring local organizations and Village departments
Meet Pawfficer Howie from the Oak Park Police Department
Explore a fire truck with the Oak Park Fire Department
Picnic tables and seating areas for gathering and conversation
Waste and recycling stations available throughout the space

Room 101 (Oak Park University / Neighborhood Services)

Ongoing (12:00 – 4:00 p.m.)
Interactive community conversations and activities led by Oak Park University and Neighborhood Services, inviting residents to share ideas, reflect on civic life, and engage in local planning.

East Hallway (Youth Activities Area)

Ongoing (12:00 – 4:00 p.m.)
Hands-on youth activities including arts and crafts, writing letters to elected officials, and creative civic engagement opportunities.

Food Trucks (S. Taylor Avenue)

Ongoing (12:00 – 4:00 p.m.)
Enjoy food and refreshments from local vendors located along S. Taylor Avenue, directly east of Village Hall.

If your organization is interested in having a presence, please complete the organization interest form below:

Click here to view form.

If you’re interested in volunteering to support the event, please complete the volunteer interest form below:

Click here to view form.