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Central Avenue in downtown Elgin will trade traffic for tuxedos later this month in honor of the local businesses, owners and moguls that help shape the city’s character.
City leaders unanimously approved a request to close one block of Central Avenue Saturday, Sept. 27, for the Elgin Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards banquet. Chamber President Veronica Seever said the banquet, which is open to the public, is meant to celebrate the establishments, nonprofits and individuals who contribute to Elgin’s growth and community spirit.
“We do a whole lot in the community, but what I love about this event particularly is it’s the one thing that really is about our members,” Seever said. “It’s about the business community, the people that pour into our community every day of their lives, and why we thrive as a community.”
Central Avenue will be closed between Avenue C and Main Street beginning at 10 a.m. the day of the event. Parking restrictions will start at midnight to allow vendor access and stage setup.
Awards will include recognition for new business of the year, small business of the year, nonprofit of the year, man and woman of the year, community partner of the year, young professional of the year and volunteer of the year. Staging and screens will support live performances, and a local car club will display vintage rides to complement the banquet’s old-Hollywood theme.
Seever said the chamber decided not to use the event as a fundraiser this year, instead putting money back into the experience for attendees.
“We just really want that small-town feel,” she said. “We’re celebrating the heart of our community first and foremost.”
Local businesses and vendors will be involved in catering, rentals and event support. Lightnin’ Bar will close to the public during the banquet to serve event guests. Seever said the chamber will speak directly with nearby businesses to ensure they are comfortable with the plan.
The banquet will require limited assistance from public works and Elgin police, according to officials, who will help manage street closures. Tickets are available to the public and not limited to chamber members.
“It’s about spending time with the people that you are around,” Seever said.
