Barbs Office

The City of Elgin's annual Nightmare On Chicago Street continues in 2023! The Zombie Defense Initiative has prepared an experience that citizens can find nowhere else. With thrilling performances, pounding music, apocalyptic drinks, an array of food options, and an immersive environment, this will be a year you will not want to miss. This is the 11th year that citizens have banded together in the Safe Zone. Some of the businesses might appear to be boarded up, vegetation may reclaim buildings, trash may be strewn everywhere, burning tires and barrels of toxic waste may litter the streets. Abandoned cars, buses and even airplanes have known to be damaged and overturned in the streets and on top of buildings. Do not fear! Your safety is our number one concern. Some steadfast businesses will be open for you to get food, beverages, shelter, and provisions. We at the Zombie Defense Initiative will make sure that every citizen is entertained with shocking live entertainment around every corner, bands, food, drinks, vendors, live graffiti artists, tons of photo opportunities, near encounters with zombies, a costume contest, special guests like MeTV’s SVENGOOLIE, and surprises around every corner.

The Awakenings Project, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Elgin, IL, is dedicated to supporting the creative efforts of artists who experience mental illnesses and addictions. Through initiatives like the Healing Through Art workshop series, they provide a platform for personal growth and community connection, fostering awareness and appreciation of art created by individuals in recovery. Led by professional art therapist Dianne Samp, the program offers intimate four-week workshops that blend artistic techniques with mindfulness and emotional wellness practices, all in a welcoming environment. Thanks to funding from DuPage County and the Illinois Arts Council Agency, these enriching experiences are offered at an accessible price, making the transformative power of creativity available to local residents. Generated from the website