The curtain is rising on an exciting new season at the Hemmens Cultural Center, and it promises to be one of the best yet. From Grammy-winning mariachi performances and shadow-dance artistry to hilarious comedy and a tribute to Bruce Springsteen, the 2025-26 lineup offers something for everyone. Tickets are available now through the Hemmens box office

The city of Elgin has launched Engage Elgin, an online platform designed to make it easier than ever for residents to connect with city projects, share feedback and help shape Elgin’s future. The site serves as a central hub for information and participation, giving residents multiple ways to stay informed and get involved. In addition to surveys, open forums, voting opportunities, videos and interactive maps, the platform offers tools for residents to share feedback, exchange ideas and take part in decision-making.

Elgin continues to grow its community electric vehicle charging network, with new installations planned for high-traffic public destinations by the end of 2025. Since completing the EV Readiness Program in 2024 through the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, the city has installed four public chargers with eight ports at the Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex and the Centre of Elgin parking deck. Those chargers have logged nearly 2,000 connections this year.

The public is invited to share input on ways to improve street and sidewalk accessibility as part of the city of Elgin’s Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan.

The Elgin Historic House Tour returns for its 43rd year, offering residents and visitors a rare chance to step inside some of the city’s most architecturally and historically significant homes.

Nine shows have been scheduled so far at The Hemmens Cultural Center as the 56-year-old Elgin venue moves into its full first season following the completion of its $14.4 million expansion and renovation.

Elgin has been named one of the best places to live in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, ranking No. 5 among cities in Illinois and earning the No. 122 spot nationally on the publication’s 2025-2026 list of the “250 Best Places to Live in the U.S.”