The Department of Cultural Arts & Special Events

Elgin's Department of Cultural Arts and Special Events (DCASE) is one of the creative forces behind the city’s vibrant cultural programming and public arts initiatives. It produces a range of high‑impact community events—such as the Fourth of July Parade & Fireworks, La Fiesta de Elgin, End of Summer Bash, Concerts & Movies in the Park series, Nightmare on Chicago Street, Letters to Santa, and more—that celebrate diverse artistic expressions and foster civic pride.

Through dynamic partnerships with local artists, nonprofit organizations, sponsors, and community volunteers, the DCASE curates an inclusive cultural landscape. It supports public arts installations, offers grants, and coordinates special event permitting and vendor opportunities, aiming to enrich Elgin’s creative economy and make arts accessible to everyone .

Whether it’s an outdoor summer concert or a downtown holiday spectacular, the Department of Cultural Arts and Special Events is dedicated to connecting people through shared cultural experiences—and making the arts a vibrant part of everyday life in Elgin.