The Art of Community: Join Our Artist & Vendor Network

The City of West Chicago is building a stronger, more vibrant community through events, cultural programs, and shared public spaces. As part of this ongoing work, the City is inviting local artists, performers, makers, food vendors, and small businesses to join our interest lists for future community activities, festivals and special events.

These interest lists will help the City highlight local creativity, support local business growth, and build programming that reflects the diversity and spirit of West Chicago.

Why This Matters

Community events play a key role in fostering belonging and connection. They bring residents together, celebrate cultural heritage, strengthen neighborhood identity, and create opportunities for local businesses and artists to shine.

By building a more complete roster of local talent and vendors, the City can better match opportunities to community interests and ensure that events feel welcoming and representative of West Chicago.

The City is looking for:

Local Talent, including:

• Musicians and vocalists
• Dance groups and cultural performance troupes
• Theater and spoken word performers
• Visual and multimedia artists
• Teaching artists offering workshops or demonstrations

Vendors, including:

• Food vendors and food trucks
• Artisans and handmade craft sellers
• Local storefronts and small businesses
• Farmers and specialty food producers

No previous experience with City events is required. Whether you participate regularly or this would be your first time, we encourage you to share your interest.

How to Join the Interest Lists

There is no deadline to be included. Forms are accepted on a rolling basis but the sooner you indicate your interest, the sooner you can join in on the fun! Both forms are available on the City's Special Events webpage at westchicago.org.

• Talent Interest Form
• Vendor Interest Form

Submitting a form does not guarantee or commit you to participate in any specific event. The forms help City staff maintain an updated contact list to notify interested individuals and organizations when opportunities arise.

Partnering to Grow the Arts and Local Economy

We are also inviting community organizations, schools, houses of worship, local businesses, and neighborhood groups to help spread the word. By connecting our networks, we can expand access to opportunities and ensure that events and programs reflect the rich cultural and creative life of West Chicago.

For more information, please contact: Nicolette Stefan, Events & Cultural Programs Manager, at [email protected] or (630) 818-3339.