The City of Harvard, Illinois

The City of Harvard, Illinois The official page of the City of Harvard, Illinois for residents and visitors to connect with our community.

The City of Harvard is home to 9.447 (2010 Census) residents. The City is located near the Illinois and Wisconsin border in Northwest McHenry County. A rural community that embraces its roots in agriculture is host to one of the longest continuous running festivals in the State of Illinois - Harvard Milk Days always held the first weekend in June. Established in 1856, the City provides small town

living with easy access to Metro Chicago via Metra commuter rail or by highway. Harvard hosts a very successful art show 9 months of the year - 4th Fridays is held at the historic Starline Building. Each Labor Day weekend, the City of Harvard brings the Harvard Balloon Fest to Illinois, one of the largest hot air balloon festivals in the Midwest. Our famous Swiss Made Bakery and soon to be famous Rush Creek Distillery are just a couple of highlights of our business district. Come visit for a day, or build your home here where you know your neighbor.

06/17/2026
06/17/2026

🥶 Brrrr! It's cold in here...there must be low temperatures in the atmosphere!

Due to today's weather, the Harvard Aquatic Center will be closed. Stay warm, stay dry, and we'll see you soon! ☔🏊‍♀️💙

06/17/2026

🚧 TRAFFIC ALERT – TEMPORARY DETOUR ON WEST DIGGINS STREET TODAY 🚧

Please be advised that a temporary traffic detour will be in place on West Diggins Street today, from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM due to a special event being held at Rush Creek Distillery, 1501 West Diggins Street.

Eastbound through traffic will be directed to:
➡️ Potawatomi Way
➡️ Comanche Circle
➡️ Chippewa Road
➡️ Back to West Diggins Street

Westbound through traffic will follow the same route in reverse.

Local traffic will still have access to the area; however, motorists can expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes when possible.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to ensure the safety of event attendees and the traveling public.

06/12/2026
06/11/2026

🚧 TRAFFIC ALERT – TEMPORARY DETOUR ON WEST DIGGINS STREET 🚧

Please be advised that a temporary traffic detour will be in place on West Diggins Street on Wednesday, June 17, from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM due to a special event being held at Rush Creek Distillery, 1501 West Diggins Street.

Eastbound through traffic will be directed to:
➡️ Potawatomi Way
➡️ Comanche Circle
➡️ Chippewa Road
➡️ Back to West Diggins Street

Westbound through traffic will follow the same route in reverse.

Local traffic will still have access to the area; however, motorists can expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes when possible.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to ensure the safety of event attendees and the traveling public.

06/10/2026

Mark your calendars.......National Night Out 2026!

Get ready to come together with the Harvard Police Department for a night full of fun, food, and community connection!

📍 Where: Harvard Moose Lodge, 22500 Route 173, Harvard
🗓 When: Tuesday, August 4, 2026
🕕 Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Meet your local first responders, enjoy free food, games, giveaways, and plenty of family-friendly fun—all while helping build a stronger, safer Harvard!

This is YOUR night—don’t miss it!

06/10/2026

📣 Swim Lessons at the Harvard Aquatic Center!

Whether you're introducing a little one to the water or helping a swimmer improve their skills, we have a session for you.

🏊 Lessons begin the week of June 22
✅ Taught by our lifeguard staff
✅ Multiple levels available

Check out the options and register today!☀️ https://forms.gle/zj2ojPtu6r2pvpqx7

06/06/2026

🚨 Traffic Alert – Expect Heavy Delays 🚨

Due to road closures and the main Milk Days Parade moving through Harvard today, drivers should expect significant traffic delays throughout the area.

🚧 Roads Affected Include:

Ayer Street

Diggins Street

North Hart Street

Thompson Street
…and surrounding intersections.

Parade activities will continue throughout the day, and roads will remain closed until the event concludes.

📍Please plan alternate routes and allow extra travel time.
We encourage residents and visitors to be patient, and stay alert for pedestrians.

Thank you for helping keep our community safe during this special weekend!

✨ We carved out a little extra space for community in the heart of downtown.Grab a coffee ☕, a tamale 🫔, a treat 🍪, or l...
06/04/2026

✨ We carved out a little extra space for community in the heart of downtown.

Grab a coffee ☕, a tamale 🫔, a treat 🍪, or lunch 🥪 from your favorite Harvard spot and enjoy it in our new Ayer Street gathering space. Bring your favorite people or meet new friends and relax, connect, and enjoy downtown.

Bonus: There's a giant "250" waiting for its close-up. 📸 Tag us in your photos as we celebrate America's 250th birthday all year long.

See you at The Lot soon! ✨

❤️ Big thanks to Illinois Realtors for the generous support and to our friends at Harvard Public Works for bringing the 250 to life! ❤️

Address

201 W. Diggins Street
Harvard, IL
60033

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

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