The pandemic put 26th Street’s annual Villapalooza music festival on hold for a few years — but on Saturday, it’s back with more space than ever for young local artists to showcase their community and culture.

“You can find a range of different genres of performers, live music,” said Claudia Rangel, one of the festival’s organizers. “We also have activities for families, and we highlight a lot of local talented artists. We also have a lot of artists that do crochet projects, original paintings, digital art, stickers — all local talent from the neighborhood.”

Rangel said the festival’s playground section will feature activities for children and include a sparring event with Chicago Youth Boxing Club.

“We encourage people to explore and walk down the street from Central Park all the way to Homan and … enjoy what we have to offer,” Rangel said.

Villapalooza kicks off at noon Saturday, Aug. 26, with music and activities along 26th Street from Central Park to Homan avenues. It’s free to attend.