Darien announces summer events, road projects, and Independence Day parade in latest newsletter
Darien residents received updates on city events, services, and ongoing projects in the June 25 e-newsletter from the City of Darien.
Mayor Joe Marchese opened the newsletter with a message reflecting on the nation’s 250th anniversary, stating, “Let us Celebrate the Past and Provide Hope for the Future.” Marchese said, “As America celebrates its 250th Anniversary, I find myself reflecting on my own journey over the past seventy-six years. Like our nation itself, my life has been shaped by moments of triumph and tragedy, periods of uncertainty and hope, and an enduring belief that our future is determined not by circumstance alone, but by the choices we make and the people we choose to serve. My story spans the latter half of the twentieth century and the first quarter of the twenty first, a remarkable period in our nation’s history. I came of age during the tumultuous 1960’s, a decade marked by the Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the assassinations of three beloved national leaders. Those events left a profound impression on my generation and helped shape our understanding of citizenship, sacrifice, and the responsibilities we share as Americans.”
The city announced that the Summer Concert Series would begin on June 25 at Carriage Greens, featuring the band FUZE. Food from local restaurants will be available, and Our Lady of Mount Carmel will accept donations of cleaning supplies and canned goods. The newsletter also highlighted the 55th Annual Independence Day Parade, scheduled for July 4, with the route starting at the Jewel parking lot at 75th and Cass Avenue and ending at Hinsdale South High School. The Darien Lions Club will host the parade, and more details are available at darienlions.org.
City Hall will be closed on July 3 in observance of the Fourth of July holiday, but garbage collection will proceed as usual. The Darien Police Department will suspend the overnight parking ban from July 3 at 2 a.m. to July 6 at 6 a.m., allowing street parking during those hours. All other parking restrictions will remain in effect.
Ongoing infrastructure projects were detailed, including the widening and repaving of the intersection at Plainfield Road and Linden Avenue, with road closures expected until July 4, weather permitting. The city’s road rehabilitation program is also underway, involving grinding, binder application, and a final bituminous surface. Residents are advised to use caution during construction and contact the Municipal Services Department with questions.
Other announcements included the 2026 Concrete Replacement Program, with a participation deadline of June 30, and the upcoming National Night Out event hosted by the Darien Police Department on August 4 at Prairieview Elementary School. The newsletter also recognized local students for creating a mural celebrating America’s 250th anniversary and promoted community events such as movies in the park and the Darien Arts Council Musical Review.
The city encouraged residents to sign up for the Direct Connect E-Newsletter to stay informed about local news and events. Contact information for city officials and departments was provided, along with links to the city’s website and social media platforms.