Mirë se vini · Welcome to AACI

A home for Albanian Americans in Illinois

Whether your roots are in Albania, Kosovo, or right here in Illinois, you're part of our family. Come connect, celebrate, and belong.

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500+

Members

50+

Events Held

100+

Businesses Listed

10+

Years Serving

Who We Are

A community that feels like home

We are the Albanian-American Community of Illinois — a family of neighbors, friends, and newcomers who look out for one another. We gather to celebrate our culture, support each other, and keep our heritage alive for the next generation.

Wherever you come from and however you found us, there's a place for you here. Our door is always open.

We Come Together

We bring Albanian Americans across Illinois together through events, gatherings, and everyday connection — so no one has to feel far from home.

We Keep Our Heritage Alive

We keep our language, music, food, and traditions alive, and pass them on to our children with pride.

We Look Out for Each Other

We help our neighbors find their voice, lend a hand when it is needed, and take an active part in the life of Illinois.

Ways to Connect

Find your place in our community

Cultural Heritage

Preserving Albanian traditions through festivals, education, and cultural programming.

Events & Gatherings

Festivals, dinners, meet-and-greets, and celebrations all year round.

Business Directory

Albanian-American owned businesses and professionals across Illinois.

Employment Resources

Job postings, career links, and professional development opportunities.

Community Hub

Local Shoqatas, religious organizations, schools, sports clubs, and nonprofits.

Causes & Giving

Support fundraising campaigns and community causes.

Become a Member

Meet the Community

Our Story

Support AACI

Learn About Us

Who Are Albanians?

An ancient people with a rich cultural heritage, deep roots in the Balkans, and a thriving diaspora across the world.

Where do Albanians come from?

Albanians are an ethnic group that trace their origins to the ancient Illyrian tribes of Southeastern Europe. They are mostly concentrated in Albania and Kosovo, but there are millions of Albanians spread throughout Europe and North America, including large communities in Germany, Switzerland, Turkey, and the United States.

What language do Albanians speak?

Albanians speak the Albanian language, an Indo-European language that occupies its own branch in the Indo-European family tree. Standard Albanian, based on the Tosk dialect, is the official language of Albania. Northern dialects are also spoken in Kosovo, Serbia, Montenegro, and Macedonia.

Who are notable Albanian Americans?

Many well-known Albanian Americans have made significant contributions including the Belushi brothers (Jim and John), actress Eliza Dushku, Olympic swimmer Ariana Kukors, and professional dancer Tony Dovolani. These individuals have shaped American culture while celebrating Albanian heritage.

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