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The following email provides timely information on news and services
from the City of Darien.

Weekly eNews - August 14, 2025

Mayor's Message


Thank You Darien!


A heartful thank you to all our Darien residents who joined us for our 37th Annual Darien Fest. It was wonderful to see family and friends come together to enjoy great entertainment, delicious food and a safe and welcoming environment.


We extend our sincere thanks to all of our hard-working food vendors, our Business Expo participants and our generous business sponsors, whose financial support added to the success of the fest. Special appreciation to the Darien Park District for the use of beautiful Westwood Park.


Finally, a big “thank you” to our Darien Business Alliance, our Darien Police and Public Works crew, as well as our city staff for all their contributions toward making our event so safe and welcoming. Many thanks to DBA Director April Padalik and Jessica Plzak for their tireless efforts in making every element of our fest a success.


Thank you for making Darien Fest 2025 one to remember!

Scroll to the bottom to view Community Events

DuPage County Crisis Recovery Center Ribbon Cutting


The DuPage County Crisis Recovery Center (CRC) held its official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, August 13! Mayor Marchese joined other community members in celebrating this important resource for DuPage County residents.


The CRC will open the week of September 2nd for walk-in services at 115 N County Farm Road in Wheaton, IL. The CRC provides immediate, 24/7 support for individuals facing mental health or substance use crises. Their compassionate team will offer a safe space for stabilization, guidance, and connection to long-term care. Learn more at dupagecrc.org.

Recognizing City Hall Interns


At the last City Council meeting, Mayor Marchese and City Council recognized the city's three summer interns as they presented a review of their internship, as well as detailing their Capstone Project. Pictured are Hinsdale South Principal Dr. Kari Peronto, Mayor Marchese, Monika Aleksonis, Stephanie Acosta, Shahmeer Ali, and Hinsdale South Assistant Principal Mr. Kyle Burritt.

National Night Out Recap


Thanks to everyone who came out for National Night Out on August 5, and to all of the organizations and staff who participated. It was a great event!

Back to School Bus Safety


Darien is heading back to school! Be sure to review any information provided by your child's school about drop-off and pick-up guidelines as well as information for bus riders. Also, set aside some time to talk with your children about school bus safety. Start with these tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:


Before the Bus Arrives - Arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus arrives. Ahead of the new school year, visit the bus stop and show your child where to wait for the bus, at least ten feet — five giant steps — away from the curb. Remind your child that the bus stop is not a place to run or play.


Getting On and Off Safely - When the school bus arrives, your child should wait until the bus comes to a complete stop, the door opens, and the driver says it’s okay to get on or off. Your child should use the handrails to avoid falling. 


Always Use Caution Around the Bus - Your child should never walk behind a school bus. If your child must cross the street in front of the bus, tell them to walk on a sidewalk or along the side of the street to a place at least ten feet — five giant steps — in front of the bus before crossing. Your child should also make eye contact with the bus driver before crossing to make sure the driver can see that they’re crossing to avoid the danger zone. If your child drops something near the school bus, like a phone or book, the safest thing is for your child to tell the bus driver right away. Your child should not try to pick up the item, because the driver might not be able to see them.

See a Movie in the Park This Week


The Darien Park District will be showing Wicked at the Community Center at 7301 Fairview Ave this Friday, August 15. Come early at 7pm for a witchy meet and greet!


The movie starts at dusk and there will be concessions available for purchase. Bring the whole family and a blanket to this fun, free event! Learn more here.


Darien Tree Planting Programs Available Now


Interested in ordering trees for your parkway or to plant on your private property? The following tree planting programs offer cost-saving options for Darien residents!


Find more information and a full list of available trees here.

Fall Programming at the Darien Park District


The Darien Park District's Fall Program Guide is now available! Inside, you'll find fun community events, youth programs like dance and sports, fitness programs, activities for seniors, and lots more! Check out the full guide and start planning your fall here.

Cass School District 63 Superintendent

Search Survey


For residents of Cass School District 63, which includes Concord Elementary and Cass Junior High Schools, Superintendent Mark Cross will be retiring at the conclusion of the 2025–26 school year. As a result, the Board of Education is asking for community input to help define the qualities and priorities for our next leader.


If you are interested in helping, you can find the survey and more information here. Please complete your survey by Monday, August 18. Thank you for taking the time to complete the survey and provide input into this important process.

City Council Meeting Canceled


The City Council meeting scheduled for Monday, August 18, has been canceled. The next scheduled meeting is on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. View future meetings and other community events on the Community Calendar.

Be in the Know - Help Spread the Word

Darien’s Direct Connect E-Newsletter (DC) is the City’s primary source of information for residents and businesses. Please tell your friends and neighbors about DC, forward this email to them, and ask them to sign up. Signing up is simple and can be done here.
Community News & Events
COMMUNITY EVENTS

Click on the links below for more information on these upcoming community events!

Movie in the Park - Wicked - August 15: link


DGC Sprouts Pickle Party - August 24: link


Darien Garden Club & Sprouts Meeting - August 27: link


Darien Summer Concert Series - August 28: link


DYC's Fall Registration is Open for Girl's Softball and Coed Youth Soccer: link

Darien Events and Happenings
Check out the City Calendar for information on upcoming meetings and events
Check out the Community Calendar for the news on events from Darien community organizations!


Darien Police Weekly Press Release


The Darien Police Department issues a press release each week.

Connect with us!

Meet your elected officials!


Mayor Joe Marchese, (630) 200-2390



Bryon Vana, City Administrator,

(630) 353-8114


City Hall (630) 852-5000


Police Department (630) 971-3999


Public Works Streets & Water (630) 353-8105


Community Development (630) 353-8115


Darien Business Alliance (630) 353-8111

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