For anyone looking for food festivals in DeKalb, Sunday brings a good reason to head downtown.

The 2026 Taste of DeKalb is scheduled for September 27, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Frank Van Buer Plaza.

Admission is free, making it an easy outing for families who want to spend part of the day together without committing to a ticket price.

The event is hosted by the Kishwaukee Sunrise Rotary Club alongside the Corn Classic 10K race.

That pairing gives downtown an appealing mix of race-day energy, food and live entertainment.

InFunktious is set to start the music at 9 a.m., and The PriSSillas are returning to the Taste of DeKalb.

For residents comparing community food events, the downtown setting is part of the draw: visitors can meet up, listen to music and stay as long as their Sunday allows.

There is also a bigger purpose behind the celebration.

Sponsorship funds will support the 2027 Rotary Community Grant for Children, Youth and Families of DeKalb County.

The grant is intended to help local organizations make a lasting difference for children and families facing community needs.

That connection turns a day out into support for work that continues after the plaza clears.

Organizers are still seeking sponsors and donations, so businesses and neighbors who want to contribute have an opportunity to get involved.

Visitors should note that free admission does not necessarily mean food will be free.

For families planning their day, the confirmed details are straightforward: Sunday, September 27, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., in downtown DeKalb.

Among family friendly festivals, Taste of DeKalb offers a simple invitation to show up, enjoy music and spend time with neighbors.