2026 Elgin Fringe Special Events
ELGIN ARTS HAPPY HOUR PERFORMANCE
MONDAY 8/31 • 5pm–7pm
Chip Shots Golf & Whiskey Bar • 21+
COST: FREE • RSVP HERE
Kick off a month of Fringe events with a special performance at Elgin Arts Happy Hour. Connect with local artists and creatives in a casual, welcoming space while getting an early taste of the 2026 Elgin Fringe Festival.
VISUAL ART OPENING RECEPTION
FRIDAY 9/4 • 6pm–9pm
FRINGE CENTRAL / SSSA Gallery • All Ages
COST: $4 Festival Entry Button
Join us for a special reception where you can mingle with our visual artists, see their remarkable work, and enjoy an exhibition featuring painting, photography, sculpture, mixed media, and more.​
SECOND THURSDAY IMPROV
THURSDAY 9/10 • 7pm–9pm
SSSA Back Space • Rated PG-13
COST: Pay What You Can ($10 suggested)
Improv teams take the stage for an evening of spontaneous scenes, unexpected characters, and plenty of laughs. A portion of the door goes directly to every participating team.
DRAG ME TO ELGIN DRAG SHOW!
SATURDAY 9/19 • 7pm–9:30pm
SSSA Back Space • Ages 18+
COST: Pay What You Can ($20 suggested)
Join host Linda “The Lunch Lady” and a fabulous lineup of performers for a drag show packed with big hair, high glamour, runway-worthy looks, and unapologetic drag magic.
ELGIN FRINGE PREVIEW PARTY
WEDNESDAY 9/23 • 5pm–7pm
Martini Room • Ages 21+
COST: $4 Festival Entry Button
2026 Elgin Fringe artists will preform short previews to lure you to their shows! We’ll also have Fringetinis, games, and plenty of silliness.
ALMOST CLOSING PARTY
SATURDAY 9/26 • 10:30pm
EPH Pub 217 • Ages 21+
COST: FREE
Join Fringe artists and crew for a toast, some laughs, and a night of fun before the finale curtain!
CLOSING PARTY
SUNDAY 9/26 • 5pm–7pm
Martini Room • Ages 21+
COST: FREE
Join Fringe artists and crew for a toast, some laughs, and a night of fun before the finale curtain!
