The sun shone brightly over Twiggs Park on a memorable Saturday in July 2026, as the fifth annual Family Fest and After Dark events brought the Evanston community together in a celebration of unity and fun. Organized by Connections for the Homeless and Fifth Ward neighbors, these back-to-back events showcased the best of local talent, community partnerships, and family-friendly entertainment.
From the moment the gates opened, Twiggs Park was alive with laughter and excitement. The air buzzed with anticipation as families and friends gathered to enjoy a day filled with free activities, live performances, and delicious food. The event was more than just a block party; it was a testament to the power of community and the importance of giving back.
The heart of the community: Family Fest
The Family Fest kicked off in the afternoon, offering a wide range of activities for all ages. Children delighted in pony rides and a petting zoo while adults enjoyed line dancing with the energetic Mz. Roz. The park was filled with the sounds of music and the sights of giant inflatables, face painting, and resource booths.
Community organizations played a significant role in the event, with over 50 partners setting up tents to provide information, resources, and giveaways. Among them were the Girl ScoutsEvanston Own It and Peer Services each contributing to the festive atmosphere. The Black Pearl Dance Ensemble founded by Djuwanna Frazier and the 40+ Double Dutch Club founded by Pamela Robinson and Catrina Dyer showcased their talents, drawing applause and admiration from the crowd.
Food was a highlight of the day, with free hot dogshamburgers and ice cream being served by dedicated volunteers. The aroma of grilled favorites wafted through the park, enticing everyone to partake in the culinary delights. The event was a true community effort, with volunteers like Emma Kalamperovic and Grace Rometty working tirelessly to ensure everyone had a memorable experience.
Community partnerships and announcements
The Family Fest also served as a platform for Connections for the Homeless to announce significant updates. Jasmine Cazares the organization’s Internal Communications Manager, shared exciting news about an upcoming rebranding. Starting the following month, the organization would be known as Housing Connections with the tagline For Home. For Good. Additionally, a renovation of their drop-in center at Hilda’s Place located at 1458 Chicago Ave was scheduled to begin later in the year.
The official unveiling of the new name and a groundbreaking ceremony were set for 4 p.m. on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at Hilda’s Place. This event marked a new chapter for the organization, reflecting their commitment to providing housing solutions and support services to the community.
Evening festivities: After Dark
As the sun began to set, the excitement shifted to Double Clutch Brewing for the After Dark event. The parking lot transformed into a vibrant hub of activity, with a high-energy entertainment lineup that included DJ Corey Bless and live performances by Projecto 7Indika Reggae and Suite Mollie. Attendees could enjoy craft brews and food available for purchase, with proceeds from the pay what you can tickets going to support Connections for the Homeless.
The evening was a celebration of music, dance, and community spirit. The diverse lineup of performers catered to a wide range of tastes, ensuring there was something for everyone. The atmosphere was electric, with people of all ages coming together to enjoy the music and each other’s company.
As the night drew to a close, families like Val Jones and her daughter Dariyah walked home, their hearts filled with joy and memories from a day well spent. The fifth annual Family Fest and After Dark events had once again brought the Evanston community together, fostering connections and celebrating the spirit of unity.
