iFestival September 1 in Elgin

Danise Habun talks about the eclectic event that she is coordinating.

1. What is iFest.

Elgin’s 2012 International Festival (or iFest, for short) is an inaugural event sponsored by the City of Elgin and local community leaders.  Elgin’s iFest will take place on Saturday, September 1, 2012 from noon to 11:00 p.m. at Festival Park in Elgin. Our goal is to showcase the contributions of the varied cultures of our community. Elgin’s ethnic diversity is a major part of what makes this city a fabulous place to live, work and play.  Elgin’s iFest will feature music and entertainment on three stages, ethnic cuisine, children’s activities, a “world market”, as well as ethnic arts and crafts. An internationally themed and multicultural parade beginning at 11:00 am will kick off the day’s activities.  For more information, visit www.elginifest.com, call (224) 725-FEST (3378) or email info@elginifest.com

2.       What do you do for the festival?

I’ve had the pleasure of being the “chair” of the event.  This has given me the wonderful opportunity to work with leaders from various community groups, the City of Elgin, businesses and organizations who have come together with the common goal of celebrating the rich culture of Elgin.  I was asked by Mayor Kaptain many months ago to carry forward his vision to create a day that celebrates all of us.  In this time of turmoil and division, it is important to demonstrate that people from all backgrounds have the ability to find common ground. The 2012 Elgin iFest does that.

3.       What people can expect from the event?

11:00 am – Parade-“Dance and Walk to the Rhythms of the World”…The Parade beings at Chicago and Spring Sts and ends with an Olympic Style Entrance into Festival Park

noon-Opening Ceremonies featuring a Proclamation by David Kaptain, Mayor of Elgin, designating September 1 as International Day in the City of Elgin

Festival activities feature all day entertainment of music, dance, a Kidz Zone with representatives from various cultures. Children and their families will have a unique opportunity to experience the sights, sounds, games and hands on activities from distant places right in their own back yards; food vendors, business and exhibition booths, a “dragon canoe” demonstration,  an Asian Candlelighting Ceremony. And so much more.

4.       Are there going to be special guest?

Our special guests will be our community! The City of Elgin is the host.  The people of Elgin and the surrounding community are our special guests and VIPS!

5.       Could you please invite people to the iFestival.

On behalf of the City of Elgin, the Elgin Human Relations Commission, our iFest Planning Committee, please accept our invitation to attend our first ever International Festival. September 1, 2012 noon-11 PM, Festival Park in Elgin.  Free admission.  There will be something for everyone at Elgin’s International Festival.