The Lombard Lilac Ledger
Latest News
|The Lombard Lilac Ledger
Latest News

Subscribe

The Lombard Lilac Ledger

The Lombard Lilac Ledger

Archives

March 24th 2026

March 24th 2026
Lombard Area Community Newsletter

Author

Mar 24, 2026

Did you know Lombard’s village flag was designed by a local student?

 
In 1963, a community contest was held to create an official village flag. Out of 135 entries, the winning design was created by Susan Mills, a 17-year-old Lombard resident and student at Willowbrook High School.
Her design featured the village seal, the words β€œThe Lilac Village,” and a beautiful spray of lilacs. On March 18, her entry was announced as the grand prize winner, and the village board soon passed an ordinance officially adopting it as Lombard’s flag.
A hometown design that’s been part of the village ever since!

Helen Plum Library Announces Seed Library!

Helen Plum Library couldn't be more excited to announce their new Seed Library! You better beleaf it - amateur and experienced gardeners alike can β€œborrow” seeds to take home, grow, and enjoy. Just turnip on the 2nd Floor to take up to five packets from our collection of natives, herbs, fruits, veggies, or ornamentals. At the end of the growing season, participants can save some seeds from their plants and share them by donating them to the Library for others to grow. 

To learn more about inventory, how to donate, and more, visit the link in the comments. We're rooting for you to start growing! https://www.helenplum.org/seed-library 

Glen Ellyn Library Opens Sensory Light Wall

The Glen Ellyn library is excited to unveil a new interactive sensory light wall and play area structure in the Youth department! The play area's current theme is a pet clinic, and the theme will be refreshed every few weeks to keep things fun and engaging.

Free Fire and Police Academy Program

Calling all First Responder enthusiast!
Check out our new Fire and Police Academy Program brought to you by the Addison Fire Protection District and the Addison Police Department.
Thursdays
April 9 - May 14
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Pick up and Drop off info listed in Flyer
Cost: FREE!
Please read eligibility requirements for the program and click below to register today!

Community Opportunity: Serve on Glenbard District 87 Committee

Glenbard Township High School District 87 is inviting community members to get involved by serving on the Board of Education’s Finance & Facility Committee.

Selected participants will serve a two-year term, working alongside Board of Education members, district administrators, and fellow community representatives.

This committee plays an important role in shaping the district’s futureβ€”providing guidance on financial decisions and facility planning, reviewing proposals and bids, and discussing major expenses before they are presented to the full Board for approval.

 

πŸ“… Deadline to apply: Monday, March 23 at noon
πŸ’» Apply online: glenbard87.org
πŸ“ž Questions? Contact Board Secretary Donna Gastel at 630-942-7670 or donna_gastel@glenbard.org

 

Interviews will be held virtually on the afternoon of Wednesday, March 25.

The committee meets twice a month, ahead of Board of Education meetings, offering a meaningful way for residents to have a voice in local school operations.

Paradise Bay Water Park Passes On Sale

 

Paradise Bay Water Park is an award-winning facility of the Lombard Park District that offers refreshing summertime fun for residents and guests. Paradise Bay Water Park features something fun for everyone! Hurricane Cove, a zero-depth entry leisure pool with spouts, fountains, water sprays, and whirlpool. Hurricane Cove also hosts Sidewinder (body slide), Wipeout (bowl slide), Pipeline (speed slide), and Alligator Crossing water walk. Splashdown, a 12-foot dive well, boasts both a 3-meter and 1-meter dive board and drop slide. Dolphin Cove, the 8-lane lap pool can be set up to encourage lap swim, water basketball, and volleyball.

 

 Younger visitors enjoy the zero-depth entry of Turtle Cove in addition to its fountains, island, and water slide that is just their size.

 

 Paradise Bay Water Park offers a full-service concession stand, locker room facilities, swimming lessons, water fitness classes, Lombard Waves Swim and Dive Team, and special events throughout the summer. Looking for the perfect venue for birthday parties or other celebrations? Enjoy a private rental at Paradise Bay Water Park! Buy passes here https://bit.ly/4sZhHRb 

Afternoon of Music & Community Join Diane Lindsay Piano & Voice for the Spring Concert 2026

Spring Concert 2026 – An Afternoon of Music & Community Join Diane Lindsay Piano & Voice for the Spring Concert 2026 on

Saturday, March 21, at 3 p.m. at Lombard Mennonite Church (528 E. Madison, Lombard). 

 

This special performance showcases talented local students while supporting an important cause

 

 Admission is $5, with proceeds benefiting The Outreach House Food Pantry. Guests are also encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations to help support families in our community. After the concert, guests are invited to a Meet & Greet Reception in the Fellowship Hall hosted by local realtor Carlos Robles. It’s a great opportunity to connect with neighbors and celebrate the afternoon’s performances.

Lombard Garden Club Presents: Fixing Climate Change in Your Backyard and Frontyard by Mike Nowak

The decisions we make in our yards can make a huge difference in saving plants and animal species and
reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Mike walks you through the basic native plants (especially oaks),
harvesting rainwater, reducing lawn area, composting and other gardening decisions. All designed to
help your yard conserve rather than deplete natural resources.

 

DATE: Friday -MARCH 27th

Time: 12:30 p.m

 

Key Details of the Event & Club Focus:
  • Topic: Addressing climate change through sustainable, local gardening practices.
  • Speaker: Mike Nowak, providing strategies for residential landscapes.
  • Location: Lombard Community Building, 433 E. St. Charles Road.

 

The club regularly holds meetings on the fourth Friday of the month, featuring programs on conservation, pollinators, and climate resilience, as described on the meetings page of their website

πŸ•πŸ° Pizza with the Bunny – Family Fun Night!

Looking for a fun (and easy!) family night out? The Lombard Park District is hosting its first-ever β€œPizza with the Bunny” eventβ€”and it’s packed with activities kids will love.

Enjoy pizza, games, crafts, and a special visit with the Bunny in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season and make some sweet spring memories right here in Lombard.

 

Date: Friday, March 27

Location: Lombard Community Building
Time: 5:30 – 7:00 PM

 

Spots are limited, so be sure to register in advance to save your seat.

πŸ‘‰ Register here: lombardparks.com/bunny-pizza/

Flash Light Egg Hunt in Villa Park

Glow up your night of surprises as you search for hidden treats scattered outside! But wait, there's more! Keep your eyes peeled for golden eggs containing extra prizes. Bring your own flashlight and bag or basket to hold your eggs. And be early, the event starts at 7:30 pm sharp. Register today.

 

Ages: 11-16

Date: March 27, 2026
Time:  7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Location: Villa Park Recreation Center (VPRC)
Address:320 E. Wildwood Ave, Villa Park, IL 60181

Lombard Park District Egg Hunt

Hop into spring with a FREE Egg Hunt! Bring a basket and get ready to seek eggs, prizes, and candy. Mr. Bunny may even make a guest appearance. Please note: registration is not required for this event. Parents may accompany children, but may not assist in the collection of eggs.

DATE: Saturday, March 28

Egg Hunt Times:

Under 3   |   10:40 am

Ages 3-4   |    10:40 am

Ages 5-7   |   11:00 am

Ages 8-10   |   11:00 am

Location  |  Lombard Common, Field East of Paradise Bay Water Park

Villa Park Egg Hunt

Hop over to the Villa Park Recreation Center for a fun outdoor egg hunt! A special prize will be awarded in each age group to the child who finds the golden egg. Parents may assist children ages 2-3. Bring a basket or bag to collect your eggs. 

 

Pre-registration is encouraged; day of registration is subject to availability. Each age group will start their hunt promptly at their assigned time. Head to our website to register for your appropriate timeslot.

 

Date: Saturday March 28, 2026
Time:10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: Villa Park Recreation Center (VPRC)
Address: 320 E. Wildwood Ave Villa Park, IL 60181

Bozo Buckets @ Chicago Harley

Step right up! The circus is in town. 
Sink the shot. Score the prize.
 Test your aim at our Bozo’s Buckets challenge and see what you walk away with.
We’re bringing full circus vibes with pizza, popcorn, drinks, and a lineup of prizes worth showing off! 
No clowns required… just steady hands, good laughs, and a little luck. Miss or make, it’s all a part of the show! 
 
DATE: March 28th
Time:1 pm - 3 pm
Location:120 W North Ave Villa Park

πŸŒ™ Adult Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt Returns for Lilac Festival Fun

Looking for a unique way to celebrate the seasonβ€”and support a great local tradition? The Lombard Lilac Festival Parade Committee is hosting an Adult Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt Fundraiser on Saturday, March 28, 2026β€”and it’s shaping up to be a fun night out for the community.

This 21+ event puts a grown-up twist on a childhood favorite. Participants will hunt for eggs under the night sky, adding a little adventure (and competition!) to the evening.

 Event Details:

 

Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026

Location: Madison Meadows (by the gazebo)

Registration: 7:00 – 7:45 PM

Hunt Begins: 8:00 PM

Tickets: $25 (purchase at LombardLilacParade.com)

 

Participants are encouraged to bring a flashlight and a bag to collect their eggs.

🍻 After-Party Celebration

The fun doesn’t stop when the hunt ends! Attendees can head over to Manny’s Ale House in Elmhurst (683 St. Charles Rd.) for an after-party featuring great food, drinks, and a chance to connect with fellow participants.

 

Supporting a Local Tradition

This fundraiser helps support the beloved Lombard Lilac Festival Parade, a cherished community event that celebrates Lombard’s rich lilac heritage each spring.

Whether you're in it to win it or just looking for a fun night out with friends, this event offers a great way to get involved and give back.

πŸ“§ Questions?

Email: laurasasinkalilacparade@yahoo.com

Lov'd Vintage Fest - Spring Edition

LOV’D is back! South Park Avenue will once again come alive with vintage items, music, and a whole lot of community spiritβ€”bringing together shoppers, vendors, and neighbors for a fun and welcoming downtown experience.

Join us for the LOV’D March Event on Sunday, March 29, 2026, co-hosted by the Lombard Chamber of Commerce and JL Vintage Odds & Ends. This spring edition of LOV’D will feature vintage vendors, great entertainment, and the vibrant atmosphere that makes downtown Lombard a destination.

 Save the date, bring your friends, and get ready for a day of shopping, music, and community cheer as we welcome spring in Lombard.

Location - Park Street between St. Charles Road and Michael McGwire Dr.
Day - Sunday, March 29, 2026
Time - 10am to 4pm

Fundraiser for Dionte

 Together for Dionte: A Benefit at Roadhouse 38 
​Let’s turn Awareness into Action! March is Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, and we’re coming together to support an amazing young man.
Join us at Roadhouse 38 as we raise funds for Dionte, who is navigating life with mixed-tone quadriplegic cerebral palsy.
​Your presence helps provide the support and resources Dionte needs to thrive!
 
​ THE DETAILS:
β€’ ​WHEN: Sunday, March 29th
β€’ ​TIME: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
β€’ ​WHERE: Roadhouse 38 | 275 W Roosevelt Rd, Lombard
 
​ WHAT’S HAPPENING:
​We’re packing the day with fun for a great cause:
β€’ ​ Live DJ keeping the vibes high
β€’ ​ 50/50 Raffle (Your chance to win big while giving back!)
β€’ ​ Silent Auction with incredible items
β€’ ​ Photo Booth to capture the memories
β€’ ​ CP Awareness Merchandise available for purchase
​Whether you’re coming for the food, the music, or the community spirit, every dollar counts. Let’s show Dionte and his family the power of the Lombard community!

Margarita and Sangria Festival

Summon springtime with tastings of 10 different locally crafted tangy margaritas and fruity sangrias at your favorite Downtown Wheaton businesses! Enjoy live mariachi music, shop the freshest styles for spring, and stop into one of Downtown Wheaton’s many restaurants for a bite to eat.
 
DATE: March 28th
Time: 1:00 to 4:00 P.M.,
Location: at the "W" Tent on Front Street (next to the Naperville Running Co.).
 
 All attendees must bring their driver's license or state ID to be age-verified at check-in. Upon age verification, guests will receive a wristband and a punch card map of tasting locations with space for 10 punches (tastings).
 
 Generously sponsored by The Babe Bodega and Alloy Fitness. Drinks provided by Bien Trucha and Altiro Latin Fusion.

Glen Ellyn Egg Hunt

Have an egg-cellent egg hunting time this spring at Maryknoll Park! Children (ages 5 and under) are invited to join us for a springtime egg hunt with a chance to meet (and take a picture with) Hopper Cottontail, the Glen Ellyn Park District Bunny. Adults must accompany children; only children need to register. Prior to the hunt, the Bunny will be available for photos. Don’t forget to bring your basket and dress for the weather – this event will be held rain, snow, or shine. Please check in with the egg hunt staff when you arrive. Egg hunt begins at 10 am and 11:30 am exactly, so please plan to come early.

 

Ages: 5 and under
Date: Friday, April 3
Time: Two time slots are available, 10-10:30 am or 11:30 am-12 pm
Location: Maryknoll Park, 845 Pershing Avenue
R/NR Registration Fee: $10/$14


Register Β»

 

Special Notes:
Event may be full. Check the online registration system by clicking the "Register" link above for the most current status or to add yourself to the waiting list.

 

Weather Permitting:
This event will be held rain, snow, or shine; however, in case of dangerous conditions (lightning, etc.) the event may be canceled. Check gepark.org/hotline on the day of the event for updates or your inbox for an email from the event supervisor.

🎢 Free Summer Concert Series Returns to COD

The McAninch Arts Center (MAC) is bringing back its popular Lakeside Pavilion Free Outdoor Summer Seriesβ€”running July 8 through August 6 on Wednesday and Thursday evenings at 7:30 PM.

This year’s lineup celebrates both American artists (ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary) and throwback 80s favorites as the MAC gears up for its 40th anniversary season.

 

🎀 Highlights Include:

  • Chicago Brass Band (July 8)

  • New Philharmonic pops concert (July 9)

  • Electric Avenue – 80s MTV tribute (July 16)

  • The Barricade Boys (July 23)

  • Uptown Soul (July 30)

  • Rhinestone Cowgirls (Aug. 6)

 

🎷 Plus two live jazz nights featuring Zydeco, blues, and world-class saxophonists on July 15 and July 22.


πŸŽ‰ 40th Anniversary Festival – Aug. 23

The celebration wraps up with a free, family-friendly festival on Sunday, August 23 (Noon–5 PM), headlined by 80s tribute band Sixteen Candles. Expect:

  • Food trucks

  • Art activities

  • Face painting

  • Live entertainment

 


🧺 What to Know Before You Go:

  • All events are FREE

  • Lawn seating only (designated picnic areas available)

  • Food donations encouraged for local pantries

  • ΠΊΠΎΠ½Ρ†Π΅Ρ€ts move indoors if the weather requires


πŸ‘‰ This is one of the best ways to enjoy live music under the stars right here in our local areaβ€”perfect for summer nights with friends and family.

Glenbard East’s Michael Nee Earns All-State Honors

Glenbard East senior Michael Nee has been named to the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA) Class 4A Third Team All-State, recognizing an outstanding final season with the Rams.

 

Nee played a key role in leading Glenbard East to a historic 30–4 record, setting a new program record for wins in a single season. The Rams captured the IHSA Class 4A Regional Championship on their home court and advanced to the Bartlett Sectional.

 

After a strong postseason runβ€”including a sectional semifinal win over Wheaton Warrenville Southβ€”the team’s season came to a close in a hard-fought 37–36 loss to York in the sectional final on March 6.

 

A four-year varsity player, Nee leaves behind an impressive legacy at Glenbard East and will continue both his academic and basketball career at the University of South Dakota.

Willowbrook Wrestler Makes Program History

Willowbrook sophomore Angie Manlapaz made school history by becoming the first state qualifier in the girls wrestling program.

Competing in the 115-pound division at the IHSA Girls Wrestling State Tournament in Bloomington, Manlapaz capped off an impressive season with a 17–6 record.

 

Her milestone achievement marks an exciting step forward for Willowbrook’s growing girls wrestling program. Angie was celebrated ahead of the state tournament with a special sendoff alongside assistant coach Molly Salerno and head coach Mary Doro. Manlapaz (center) is pictured with Willowbrook assistant coach Molly Salerno (left) and Willowbrook head coach Mary Doro (right) at a sendoff celebration before the state meet.

Glen Ellyn on Ice Exhibit at Glen Ellyn Historical Society

Now through April | 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Celebrate Glen Ellyn’s rich winter traditions with Glen Ellyn on Ice, a special exhibit showcasing the fun and fascinating history of skating in our community. Explore decades of stories, memories, and photographs from the Historical Society’s collection, highlighting how skating has brought generations together.

 

The exhibit opens in January and will remain on display through April. It features historic images, local legends, and the joyful winter moments that shaped Glen Ellyn’s past.

 

Admission

FREE for all visitors
Open during regular operating hours: 10 AM–5 PM

 

Have a GE ice skating story you want to share?

If you have pictures, videos, or other memorabilia you would like to share, please send them to this email: info@gehs.org

 

Location:

Glen Ellyn Historical Society
800 N. Main Street, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

Have a Glen Ellyn ice skating story you want to share?

Lilac Emporium - Gift Shop Shop Early for Lilac Time

Located in the Lombard Historical Society's Carriage House the Lilac Emporium Gift Shop features uniquely Lombard items for every occasion. From t-shirts, coasters, coffee mugs, and all things Lilac Time - find a gift for everyone.

 

https://www.lombardhistory.org/shop-lombard 

GRAND OPENING- Villa Park Quiroz Auto Heroes

 
Join Quiroz Auto Heroes March 28th from 11AM–3PM for our Grand Opening!
We’ll have FREE food, raffles, and a fun day for everyone
 
 RAFFLE GIVEAWAY:
We’re picking 3 winners to receive
FREE brakes & rotors (front + rear)
β€’ More winners will get car wash buckets
βΈ»
How to enter:
Follow us on Instagram @quirozautoheroes
Follow us on Facebook @quirozautoheroes
 
Winners will be announced on March 28th at the event!
201 W North Ave, Villa Park, IL
630-276-0478
Come celebrate with us! Your Car’s Hero Starts Here

Grand Opening: Sip & Shop at The Joy Bar in Glen Ellyn

Something fresh β€” and a little unexpected β€” is coming to downtown Glen Ellyn!

 

Starting Thursday, March 26, The Joy Bar is expanding its experience by adding vintage shopping right inside the shop.

 

Known for its refreshing lineup of cold-pressed juices, smoothies, coffee, and nourishing bowls, The Joy Bar is now blending wellness with style β€” offering a curated selection of vintage apparel, jerseys, and Chicago sports gear.

 

It’s a unique mix of good drinks, good vibes, and something new to discover every time you stop in.

 

Whether you’re grabbing your favorite smoothie or browsing for your next vintage find, this is one spot you’ll want to check out.

πŸ‘‰ Come sip, shop, and see what’s new!

πŸ“ The Joy Bar
548 Crescent Blvd, Glen Ellyn
πŸ—“οΈ Grand Opening: Thursday, March 26

Maplewood Brewery in Glen Ellyn is Hiring

We’re building our team in Glen Ellyn!
If you love great food, great beer, and great people, we’d love to meet you. Apply at https://www.indeed.com/.../Maplewood-Brewery-and.../job

Lombard Creamery is Hiring

Want to join the Creamery Crew? They are hiring at our Lombard location with multiple positions available!
*See all available positions at ourcreamery.com

Meet Arvo

Hi, I'm Arvo! I'm a roly-poly pup who is looking for my forever home! My personality is playful, sweet, cuddly, and fun! I love other dogs and am young enough to learn my cat manners. I do well with people of all ages and participate regularly in the WSHS Humane Education programs where I get to spend time with kids who visit the shelter! I share nicely with my brothers and love going out for playtime with the volunteers here at WSHS! If you are looking for a well-rounded guy to raise into the perfect dog, look no further! Apply to meet me today!

Special Requirements: Cannot be left alone for more than 4 hours at a time for socialization or housetraining purposes

 

Located at West Suburban Humane Society

 

https://www.wshs-dg.org/adopt/adopt-a-dog 

RelyLocal Lombard Area helps connect residents with trusted local businesses while keeping dollars circulating in our community. We partner with locally owned shops, restaurants, and service providers to offer exclusive rewards, digital coupons, and community-based promotions that benefit both businesses and customers. Through our RelyLocal Rewards Card and local fundraising programs, we help schools, teams, and organizations raise money while supporting small businesses. Our mission is simple: strengthen the local economy, support neighborhood businesses, and make it easy to shop local in Lombard and surrounding communities.

/>
The Lombard Lilac Ledger

Β© 2026 The Lombard Lilac Ledger.

The Lombard Lilac Ledger is a local online newsletter for the Lombard community. It shares news, events, and fun things happening around town, along with highlights of local businesses and neighbors. Our goal is to help people stay connected and support the small businesses that make Lombard a great place to live. Each issue is positive, easy to read, and focused on bringing our community together. Because when we support local, Lombard grows stronger.

Β© 2026 The Lombard Lilac Ledger.