Albany Park is joining Chicago's summer festival scene with the August debut of World Fest. View Full Caption DNAinfo/Juan Thompson

ALBANY PARK — Long known as one of Chicago's most diverse and eclectic neighborhoods, Albany Park has lacked a signature summer fest along the lines of Retro on Roscoe or North Center's Ribfest.

Until now: Albany Park World Fest is set to debut Aug. 16-17.

"It's the neighborhood that has the most to give," said Ald. Rey Colon (35th), who will pick up a portion of Albany Park next year under the city's new ward map.

Special Events Management — which produces Burger Fest and the L.A.T.E. Ride, among dozens of other events, was brought on board to develop a festival in conjunction with community groups and business owners.

"I want to be able to walk to events in our neighborhood," said Maryam Altena, representing Albany Park Neighbors. "People are starving for this."

St. Jerome Catholic School Assistant Principal Mike Jewell roasts pork kabobs during the 2013 Volika Gospa Festival. View Full Caption DNAinfo/Casey Cora

Special Events Management was charged with creating an event that would showcase the neighborhood's unique characteristics.

"Not cookie cutter," Colon said. "Not the same funnel cakes."

To that end, members of the organizing committee are approaching local restaurants to serve as food vendors — a short list of neighborhood cuisines ranges from Korean to Guatemalan, Filipino to Middle Eastern.

Another goal is to showcase artists and entertainers who live and/or work in Albany Park. The team at Tortuga's Cantina has volunteered to help program the fest's music stage, with an emphasis on world music and ethnic dance groups.

"We want it to reflect the spirit of the neighborhood," Altena said. "It would be a disservice not to tap into the energy that's here."

The festival will take place between the 4600 and 4800 blocks of North Kimball Avenue, at the street's bustling intersection with Lawrence Avenue. Hours will be noon-10 p.m. Aug. 16 and noon-9 p.m. Aug. 17. New Life Community Church will conduct a religious service.

Organizers hope to add a Friday night carnival. Proceeds from the $5 suggested entry donation will benefit Albany Park Neighbors and a nonprofit yet to be determined.