Good morning, Aurora.

On Sunday, August 3, Nigerian food, music, and culture enlivened St. Joseph Catholic Church during an international taste fest that raised funds for ImaBridge Africa—supporting projects for education, clean water, and health care.

Father Godwin N. Asuquo hosted the event with activities including a Nigerian-style mass, live music, drum making, kids' games, and a cooking contest.

Oak Park is expected to keep its 1% grocery tax to avoid a $1.4 million revenue loss when Illinois stops collecting the state tax; lawmakers will vote Tuesday night to continue the levy starting in January + Aurora recently postponed its vote on the measure.

Illinois Tollway officials released a 20-year strategic plan in July that may introduce congestion pricing and express lanes to ease traffic and improve air quality.

The plan outlines 45 initiatives—using real-time toll adjustments—and began infrastructure investments at the end of 2024.

Laurel Canyon Collective Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Venue — Ticket prices vary — Experience the sounds of the Laurel Canyon Collective and enjoy a night of music.

Om Chamber: Group Mantra Chanting

6:30-8:30 p.m. — 1222 Private Events — Sliding scale donations — Experience the transformative power of group mantra chanting to elevate consciousness and promote wellness.

Free Outdoor Show Featuring Soundstar

7-9 p.m. — the PIAZZA - Aurora — Free admission — Enjoy a night of rock covers from top artists in an outdoor setting.

Taste the Maze at Abbey Farms

4-9 p.m. — Abbey Farms — $65 general admission, $45 designated driver — Experience craft beer tastings and a hearty farm-fresh dinner in a giant corn maze with live music.

Summer Reggae Beach Party

12-5 p.m. — The Town Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy island rhythms with DJ Fyre and tantalizing food and drinks in a tropical vibe.

Alley Art Festival

12-5 p.m. — Water Street Mall — Free entry — Celebrate local art, music, and food at this vibrant festival for 15 years running.

Cruise Night

5-7 p.m. — Maurices — Free entry — Start your engines for an exciting evening of classic cars and community fun in North Aurora.