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What to Learn at Chicago's City Civics Day

Posted on November 1, 2023   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Sidney Madden

Sidney Madden

Chicago flag in 2022

Chicago flag in 2022. (Jakub Porzycki / NurPhoto / Getty)

Residents are invited to the inaugural City Civics Day Saturday to learn how the city runs and how to get involved.

Hosted by the Planning & Development and Cultural Affairs & Special Events departments at Epiphany Center for the Arts in West Loop, here are the panels we’re most looking forward to:

  • 🚂 Converting old rails to community trails: Representatives from North and South Side trails will discuss public benefits to these projects.
  • 🌱 How to organize a community garden: Learn how designing a pergola in South Merrill Community Garden fostered community.
  • 🗞️ Why local media matters: City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran will weigh in on how news informs civic engagement.
  • 🌊 How to improve Chicago’s river: Brush up on the history of the river system and learn about what’s being done for future generations.

Chicagoans can walk in, or sign up ahead of time. Events run from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and attendees can stick around all day or just for a session.

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