About Us
In 2006, the Norridge Park District celebrated its 50th Anniversary with a 4 day festival held in July. The event was a huge success and the communities were excited about the possibility of a future festival being held each year during the summer. In 2007, the Board of Commissioners and the Staff decided to change from its annual Fall Festival celebration to a new summer festival. A name was created: Island in the City Festival. The name was derived from a book that was written by a local author, Thomas McGowen, entitled, "Island Within a City: A History of the Norridge-Harwood Heights Area". The city of Chicago surrounds two suburban communities, Harwood Heights and Norridge. The Festival was created to provide a way for all of the civic organizations, local governments, and residents of the area to come together to celebrate over a 4 day period at an event that was held the 2nd weekend of July each year.
Since 2006, the Island in the City Festival has grown and offers something for all age groups. The Festival offers free muscial entertainment, food, drink and a carnival with games and attractions. A special children's carnival area has been set up for younger children's rides separated from the bigger rides. In 2009, the Festival grew to over 50,000 participants! Great weather, good food, and good entertainment helped to make the event a great success.
The Island in the City Festival Committee would like to thank the Village of Harwood Heights, the Village of Norridge, business sponsors and all of the volunteers who help make the Island in the City Festival such a great event.