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    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events</loc>
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    <lastmod>2026-03-24</lastmod>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/seven-ways-to-freedom-founding-new-philadelphia-illinois-with-abdul-alkalimat</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-09</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/1773088934985-H258U2QRMY0GSCO74RI3/5.31_NewPhiladelphia_FBEvent-1536x804.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Seven Ways to Freedom: Founding New Philadelphia, Illinois with Abdul Alkalimat - Seven Ways to Freedom: Founding New Philadelphia, Illinois with Abdul Alkalimat</image:title>
      <image:caption>he founding of New Philadelphia, Illinois, was an extraordinary act of courage, strategy, and determination. In this presentation, Abdul Alkalimat—descendant of the town’s founders, Frank and Lucy McWorter—shares the story of how the McWorters built a town, protected their freedom, and shaped Illinois history. The program invites audiences to think more deeply about freedom, community, and legacy. This presentation is in partnership with Illinois Humanities Speakers Bureau Program. FREE admission for all. ABOUT ABDUL ALKALIMAT: Abdul Alkalimat wants to help raise public awareness of African American history, especially in the state of Illinois and the town of New Philadelphia, in which he is a descendant of the town’s founders. Abdul Alkalimat (born Gerald McWorter) is a founder of the field of Black Studies and author of many books and papers about Black liberation. A lifelong scholar-activist, he wrote the first college textbook for the field, Introduction to Afro-American Studies, which has seen seven editions, the last one free and online.</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/elgin-and-the-american-story-museum-gala</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-09</lastmod>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/8442d8da-c076-4b3e-805f-1a42df4425e3/Gala-2026_FBEvent.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Elgin and the American Story – Museum Gala - Elgin and the American Story – Museum Gala</image:title>
      <image:caption>In 2026, our nation reaches an extraordinary milestone—250 years of the American story. The Elgin History Museum invites you to commemorate this once-in-a-generation anniversary at the Museum Gala, an evening of celebration and community pride. Enjoy dinner, drinks and entertainment all while supporting the Museum. Cocktail reception, cash bar, buffet dinner, and a silent auction. Live auction with special guest auctioneer Steve Thoren! The live auction will include fabulous trips, one-of-a-kind Elgin experiences, and dinner and a show package. The evening will feature a stirring performance by the Illinois Brass Band, filling the ballroom with the bold sound of American celebration. Proceeds from the evening directly support the Elgin History Museum’s mission to preserve, share, and celebrate the history of our diverse and vibrant community.</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/memorial-day-ceremony-elgin-veterans-memorial-park</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-24</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/700fecb4-854d-49bd-9d1f-372f5ff26bf3/Veterans+memorial+park.jpeg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Memorial Day Ceremony - Elgin Veterans Memorial Park - Elgin Veterans Memorial Park – Memorial Day Ceremony</image:title>
      <image:caption>9:45 a.m. 274 N. Grove Ave., Elgin, IL Gather at Elgin Veterans Memorial Park for a unique and meaningful Memorial Day ceremony honoring veterans, especially those laid to rest at sea. Organized by the Elgin Navy Club and the Elgin Marine Corps League, this observance offers a powerful tribute to those whose final resting place is the water. Following remarks and a presentation by members of the Elgin Navy Club, the ceremony will conclude with the strewing of flowers into the Fox River, along with a traditional rifle salute and the playing of Taps—creating a moving moment of remembrance and respect. Located adjacent to the Gail Borden Public Library, this riverside setting provides a reflective space for the community to come together in honor and gratitude. All are welcome to attend.</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/memorial-day-ceremony-lakewood-memorial-park</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-24</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/2dd40545-d5bb-4513-8ae5-286dcee5edc4/Memorial+day.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Memorial Day Ceremony - Lakewood Memorial Park - Lakewood Memorial Park – Memorial Day Ceremony 9:15 a.m. 30W730 US 20, Elgin, IL Join the community at Lakewood Memorial Park for a meaningful Memorial Day ceremony held in the peaceful setting of the Garden of Honor. This observance honors the lives and service of those laid to rest here, offering a moment for reflection, remembrance, and gratitude. The program will include a combined color guard, followed by a traditional rifle salute and the playing of Taps—each a powerful tribute to those who served our country. All are welcome to attend and take part in this respectful and commemorative gathering.</image:title>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/memorial-day-bluff-city-cemetery</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-24</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/7db80b05-9c30-4726-9c31-d6a993af9739/Bluff+City+Cemetery+Elgin+IL</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Memorial Day - Bluff City Cemetery - Bluff City Cemetery – Memorial Day Ceremony</image:title>
      <image:caption>11:00 a.m. 945 Bluff City Blvd., Elgin, IL Attend Elgin’s primary Memorial Day ceremony at Bluff City Cemetery, honoring those who served and sacrificed for our country. This year’s program will recognize the 250th Anniversary of the United States and feature keynote speaker Christine Harmon of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The ceremony includes performances by the Elgin Master Chorale and a local high school band, along with traditional readings by the Fox Valley Young Marines, including the Gettysburg Address and General John Logan’s order establishing Memorial Day. Highlights include the laying of wreaths at the Grand Army of the Republic Memorial, a roll call of deceased veterans, a rifle salute, and the playing of Taps. Special Notes: Free shuttle service will be available from the main and east gates. The ceremony will also be broadcast live on WRMN 1410 AM and WRMN Facebook Live, with a recording posted later on the City of Elgin Facebook page.</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/memorial-day-mount-hope-cemetery</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-24</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/7fba345c-f805-464a-a3f6-4037ebb796fe/Mount+Hope.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Memorial Day - Mount Hope Cemetery - Mount Hope Cemetery – Memorial Day Ceremony</image:title>
      <image:caption>8:45 a.m. 1001 Villa Street, Elgin, IL https://www.elginmemorialday.org/mount-hope-cemetery Begin your Memorial Day observance at Mount Hope Cemetery with a solemn and meaningful ceremony honoring those who gave their lives in service to our country. The program includes a Catholic Mass, followed by a combined color guard presentation, a traditional rifle salute, and the playing of Taps—each element paying tribute to the sacrifice and legacy of our nation’s fallen heroes. This ceremony marks the opening of Elgin’s Memorial Day observances and offers a reflective setting for remembrance and gratitude.</image:caption>
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  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/call-for-artist</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-23</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/8e3c21c6-9aaa-45b6-8fbb-76919af65441/Call+for+artist.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Call for Artist - CALL FOR YOUNG ARTISTS America 250: Imagining the Next 250 Years.  A Public Art Opportunity for Elgin Youth</image:title>
      <image:caption>Elgin youth are invited to share their vision for America’s future. Side Street Studio Arts, with community partners, seeks artists under 18 to explore freedom, possibility, and what comes next. One selected design will inspire a permanent downtown Elgin sculpture in 2026. Open to Elgin residents or students. Submit one original artwork (any medium) with a short application. Deadline: April 20, 2026 Drop off or submit digitally through Side Street Studio Arts or Gail Borden Library.</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/hispanic-heritage-celebrating-culture-and-community</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-09</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/dfd8a151-1093-46b0-9fc8-14311c50e9b6/2.18_HHP_Premiere_FBEvent-1536x864.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Hispanic Heritage: Celebrating Culture and Community - Hispanic Heritage: Celebrating Culture and Community</image:title>
      <image:caption>Documentary &amp; Traveling Exhibit Premiere Celebrate the stories, traditions, and lasting contributions of the Hispanic community at the premiere of Hispanic Heritage: Celebrating Culture and Community at the Elgin Community College Blizzard Theater. The afternoon begins with a lively reception featuring food, music, and hands-on activities for kids, followed by the premiere of a powerful documentary that anchors a new traveling exhibit exploring six generations of Hispanic history in the Elgin area. This is a community celebration—bringing families, friends, and neighbors together to honor the past and look toward the future.</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/brown-bag-lunch-entertaining-elgin-with-beth-nawara</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-09</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/b847e507-95da-4fcf-a89d-5e199cb0eb76/2026_BBL_EntertainingElgin_FBEvent.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Brown Bag Lunch: Entertaining Elgin with Beth Nawara - Brown Bag Lunch: Entertaining Elgin with Beth Nawara</image:title>
      <image:caption>Museum Curator Beth Nawara presents Entertaining Elgin. This program will use objects and images from the Elgin History Museum’s collection to show a variety of events that entertained Elginites in the 1800s and 1900s. FREE for Members / $5 for Guests</image:caption>
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  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/abigail-adams-from-colony-to-constitution-presented</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-09</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/d53c734c-b501-41f4-b794-e82cf2af0360/Abigail+Adams.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Abigail Adams: From Colony to Constitution presented - Abigail Adams: From Colony to Constitution presented by Megan Wells</image:title>
      <image:caption>In person event / FREE for Members / $5 Guests (Paid at the door) Storyteller Megan Wells brings Abigail Adams to life in a performance that blends vivid storytelling with historical insight. Through Adams’ own words and experiences, audiences gain a powerful glimpse into the intellect, humor, and resilience of one of America’s most influential First Ladies. Please RSVP so we can plan accordingly.</image:caption>
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  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/stitching-a-nation-the-life-of-betsy-ross</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-02-23</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/c192652d-8514-472e-96a4-d46129d7e8cf/Stitching+a+Nation+The+Life+of+Betsy.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Stitching a Nation: The Life of Betsy Ross - Stitching a Nation: The Life of Betsy Ross</image:title>
      <image:caption>Gail Borden Public Main Library Meadows Community Rooms Monday, June 15 3 – 4 pm Families. Join us as we celebrate America's Semi-quincentennial by reflecting on Betsy Ross's legacy as a symbol of creativity and patriotism. In her captivating portrayal of Betsy Ross, historical presenter Michelle Gibbons brings to life the spirited seamstress credited with creating the first American flag. Gibbons embodies Ross' determination and patriotism, recounting her pivotal role in stitching together a symbol of unity for the fledgling nation. Through engaging storytelling, she highlights Ross' contributions during the Revolutionary era, emphasizing the flag's enduring significance as a beacon of freedom. Weaving historical facts with vivid anecdotes, audiences will be transported to 1776 Philadelphia, where Ross' needlework became a cornerstone of American identity. Please register using this link to attend this program in person -- https://attend.gailborden.info/event/15764029.</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/lost-treasures-of-the-titanic-virtual-program</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-23</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/82ecfd00-a6ea-462e-825b-c93b9645a05a/Lost+Treasures+of+the+Titanic.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Lost Treasures of the Titanic - Virtual Program - Lost Treasures of the Titanic</image:title>
      <image:caption>Virtual Program Monday, April 13 6 – 7 pm Adults. James Cameron’s Titanic imagined the Heart of the Ocean, but what real treasures were lost? This lecture explores fascinating, valuable goods that sank with the ship on April 14, 1912. James Cameron’s Titanic told the invented story of the Heart of the Ocean, a fictional blue diamond necklace lost tragically in the ship’s famous sinking.  But what about the real treasures that were lost when the Titanic sank?  For over a century, the world has been intrigued by the story of the Titanic.  When tragedy struck on April 14, 1912, in addition to the incredible loss of life, a nearly incalculable amount of goods plummeted into the ocean, never to be seen again.  This lecture takes a closer look at and tells the stories of some of the more interesting and valuable treasures lost on that fateful night. Speaker Bio: Mallory Mortillaro is an art historian and educator.  She has a decade of teaching experience and has worked on various art research projects for museums and organizations in the New York metropolitan area. Her discoveries in the art world have garnered her international attention.  She studied at Drew University.   This presentation is in partnership with other area libraries.</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/risking-it-all-the-signers-of-the-declaration-of-independence</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-02-25</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/9e0401f9-e0bb-4002-b2a0-c7d623879fe6/Risking+It+All.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Risking It All - The Signers of the Declaration of Independence - Risking It All - The Signers of the Declaration of Independence</image:title>
      <image:caption>Virtual program Thursday, April 9 7 – 8 pm Adults. In 1776, signing the Declaration of Independence was not an act of patriotism. It was an act of treason against Great Britain. Who were these fifty-six men who risked it all to make the strike for independence? Some of their names are familiar, like Benjamin Franklin and John Adams. Others — like Button Gwinnett — are not. There are some good stories of lesser-known Americans in this talk: who they were, what role they played in independence, and what consequences they suffered after they signed the Declaration. Presented by Joyce Haworth who has a master's degree in history from the University of Chicago. For over twenty years, she has been developing and presenting history lectures for active adults all over the Chicago area. Her talks bring history to life and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of our nation's story.</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/happy-semiquincentennial-america-250-reasons-why-america-is-still-worth-celebrating</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-02-25</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/36d35215-9921-4bed-a6f8-8848521cf767/Happy_Semiquincentennial.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Happy Semiquincentennial, America! - 250 Reasons Why America is Still Worth Celebrating - Happy Semiquincentennial, America! - 250 Reasons Why America is Still Worth Celebrating Hybrid – Gail Borden Public Main Library Elgin Room &amp; Virtual Thursday, April 2 6:30 – 7:30 pm</image:title>
      <image:caption>Adults. In this lively and warm presentation, Jay Payleitner shares readings and reflections inspired by his timely book, Happy Semiquincentennial, America! Topics and readings may include: Route 66, Slinkys, Teddy Bears, drive-in movies, Pearl Harbor, Gettysburg, Old Faithful, Mister Rogers, Johnny Appleseed, Gila monsters, dandelions, Mount Rushmore, Groundhog Day, Sharpies, Chicago-style hot dogs, red Solo cups, and JELL-O with weird stuff in it. The book—and talk—are equal parts travelogue, time capsule, trivia book, owner’s manual, and love letter. Chapters include America’s Soundtrack, Heroes Among Us, American Ingenuity, and Emerging Patriotism. Jay’s Final Word—a surprising reflection on our National Anthem—will remind you that we’ve all got work to do if America is going to remain the home of the free and the land of the brave. You’ll also hear about Jay’s journey to becoming a best-selling author, along with reflections on growing up in the Fox Valley—and how that shaped his love for country. Jay Payleitner is a national speaker and the best-selling author of more than 40 books including 52 Things Kids Need from a Dad, What If God Wrote Your Bucket List?, Hooray for Grandparents!, and Happy Semi quincentennial, America! Event will include Q&amp;A and books available for sale and autograph.</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/the-founding-mothers-unsung-women-of-the-revolution</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-10</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/fb688f90-9f9c-44e9-b7c0-6aed5aeb5bc2/Founding_Mothers.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - The Founding Mothers: Unsung Women of the Revolution - The Founding Mothers: Unsung Women of the Revolution</image:title>
      <image:caption>Hybrid – Gail Borden Public Main Library Elgin Room &amp; Virtual Thursday, March 26 6:30 – 7:30 pm Adults. From battlefield bravery to political protest, discover the powerful stories of the women whose contributions helped shape a new nation. The American Revolution was not won by soldiers and statesmen alone. This lecture highlights the courageous and often overlooked women who played vital roles in the fight for independence—as spies, soldiers, fundraisers, writers, and homefront heroes. From battlefield bravery to political protest, discover the powerful stories of the women whose contributions helped shape a new nation. Please register using this link to attend in person or via Zoom -- https://attend.gailborden.info/event/15381586.</image:caption>
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  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/250-years-of-impactful-women-in-illinois-exhibit</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-09</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/0d8f0d65-969c-440f-a81d-8785b9730a44/Rockford+Peaches</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - 250 Years of Impactful Women in Illinois Exhibit - 250 Years of Impactful Women in Illinois Exhibit</image:title>
      <image:caption>1943 team photo of the Rockford Peaches</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/milk-wagons-exhibit-at-gail-borden</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-10</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/670c6442-9270-47dc-bd73-91d3c8aadfd7/Gail+Borden+Milk+Wagon+Exhibit.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Milk Wagons Exhibit at Gail Borden - Celebrate 250 Years of Elgin: A Commemorative Exhibit</image:title>
      <image:caption>An Elgin Sanitary Milk Co. milk wagon is to be on display at the Gail Borden Public Library in downtown Elgin as part of a “250 Years of Elgin” exhibit. (Gail Borden Public Library)</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/fourth-of-july-concert-and-fireworks</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-02-23</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/90045d0a-ca5a-434e-a649-15f812e2fec7/Elgin+Il+fireworks.jpeg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Fourth of July Concert and Fireworks - Fourth of July Concert and Fireworks</image:title>
      <image:caption>The City of Elgin is gearing up for its annual Fourth of July Concert and Fireworks on Saturday, July 4, 2026. This local favorite brings the community together for an evening of music and fireworks at Festival Park. Stay tuned for details!</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/elgin-fourth-of-parade-2026</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-02-23</lastmod>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/ad9c99d0-8259-463e-b01e-6c416947d520/4th+of+July.jpeg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Elgin Fourth of Parade - Fourth of July Parade</image:title>
      <image:caption>The City of Elgin is gearing up for its annual Fourth of July Parade &amp; Celebration on Saturday, July 4, 2026. This local favorite brings the community together for a morning of patriotic displays, followed by an evening of music and fireworks at Festival Park. Note for Participants: If you are interested in entering a float or participating in the parade, registration typically opens in the spring and closes by early June. Keep an eye on the official City of Elgin website for the 2026 theme announcement!</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://www.elginil250.com/events/log-250-miles-for-americas-250-with-the-fabulous-fox-national-water-trail-thru-kane-county</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2026-03-09</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/69161cc08b27e63cd8c5e4a3/39ebad3b-1e3a-490a-a62c-38639d764e99/Walton+Island+Elgin+IL.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Elgin Il 250 Events - Log 250 Miles for America's 250 with the Fabulous Fox! National Water Trail thru Kane County - Join the Log 250 for America’s 250 Challenge!</image:title>
      <image:caption>Celebrate America’s 250th birthday by exploring one of the Midwest’s most beautiful natural treasures—the Fabulous Fox! National Water Trail thru Kane County. In 2026, you’re invited to hike, bike, run, walk, roll, or paddle your way through 75, 125, or 250 trail miles as part of this once-in-a-generation event. Every mile you move becomes part of a nationwide celebration of adventure, wellness, and American history. The City of Elgin is proud to be one of the communities along the Fox River Trail. This 35 mile paved trail runs from Algonquin down to Aurora, staying close to the Fox River and offers beautiful vistas, and rest areas. Along the way you can visit Walton Island, Tyler Creek Forest Preserve, Voyager's Landing, which features a 2000' shoreline with excellent fishing opportunities or, if you have young children with you, play on the playground and spray park at Festival Park. For more information on this bike path, visit the Fox River Bike Trail website or Kane County Forest Preserve. Download Elgin Area Bike Map</image:caption>
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      <image:caption>You can almost hear the cadence—boots in step, drums rolling, and a city turning out to honor something bigger than itself. Early 1900's - Elgin, Illinois Memorial day parade.</image:caption>
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