Second annual Festival of Cultures highlights Palatine's diverse community

Posted September 13, 2026 4:42 pm

Daily Herald report

Michelle Jiang of Hoffman Estates goes airborne Sunday while performing with the Xilin Northwest Chinese School during the Festival of Cultures at the Fred P. Hall Amphitheater in Palatine. (Karie Angell Luc/for the Daily Herald)

Palatine celebrated all the differences that bring its community together on Sunday at the second annual Festival of Cultures.

The second annual event featured a host of performances from diverse groups, family activities and opportunities to sample authentic ethnic cuisine.

Minna Shao, 6, of Glenview blows a bubble Sunday during the Festival of Cultures at the Fred P. Hall Amphitheater in Palatine. (Karie Angell Luc/for the Daily Herald)

Visitors to the Fred P. Hall Amphitheater also had a chance to connect with local organizations that support the community.

“We’re looking to really highlight all of the differences that make our community special and unique, by inviting community organizations as well as performances to come out here and really showcase what Palatine’s about and all of the vibrant, beautiful differences that make up our community,” said Laney Haupert, cultural arts manager with the Palatine Park District.

Emma Kiwala, 3, of Grayslake, at far left, and others learn a dance movement from an instructor with Aloha Chicago Entertainment on Sunday during the Festival of Cultures at the Fred P. Hall Amphitheater in Palatine. (Karie Angell Luc/for the Daily Herald)

Anna Ouyang, 4, of Elk Grove Village learns a dance movement from an instructor with Aloha Chicago Entertainment on Sunday during the Festival of Cultures at the Fred P. Hall Amphitheater in Palatine.