Civic Engagement Festival: "Democracy in Action!"

Next date: Sunday, May 03, 2026 | 12:00 PM to 04:00 PM

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 & Schedule

The schedule is tentative and subject to adjustments. Additional details will be shared as they become available.

12:00 – 1:00 p.m.: Welcome Remarks

1:00 – 2:00 p.m.: Youth Mock Government

• A hands-on experience where Oak Park youth step into Village leadership roles, review local policies, hear public input, and discuss how decisions are made and improved

2:00 – 3:00 p.m.: Panel and Oak Park University Community Conversation

• A discussion on how residents and community partners engage with local government using real policy examples, and how local action connects with broader systems

Other activities throughout the festival include:

• Youth Art & Crafts
• Library Table: read & learn about civic engagement and leaderships
• Meet Pawfficer Howie from the Oak Park Police Department
• Explore a firetruck with the Oak Park Fire Department
• Gardening tips
• Tree walk with an arborist
• DJs and live music performances
• Food trucks

Throughout the day, attendees can also explore:

• Resource tables featuring local organizations and Village services
• Family-friendly activities and youth programming
• Opportunities to learn about volunteering and civic participation

This event is a meaningful opportunity for community partners to:

• Share resources and connect with residents
• Highlight services and programs
• Inspire civic participation and community leadership
• Foster a stronger, more engaged Oak Park

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.

When

Location

Village Hall, 123 Madison St., Oak Park, IL, 60302, View Map