The Lombard Lilac Ledger
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Issue #13


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The Lombard Lilac Ledger
Archives
Issue #13

Author
Apr 28, 2026
Rick Galfano the 2026 Lombard Man of the Year |
The Rotary Club of Lombard awarded Lombard Chamber President & CEO Rick Galfano the 2026 Lombard Man of the Year Award—and this honor could not be more well earned.
Rick’s leadership, heart for the community, and decades of dedication continue to shape Lombard in meaningful ways. From championing local businesses to showing up time and time again for the community, his impact is everywhere.
Huge congratulations, Rick! This recognition is a true reflection of all you’ve given to Lombard.
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Lucky Lombard Win 🍀 |
An Illinois resident hit it big after purchasing a $50 “Millionaire Club” scratch-off at a Lombard gas station. He scratched the ticket during a lunch break and revealed the $1 million top prize.
A regular at the store, he had even joked with staff that he’d be “back with a lot of zeroes”—and it turns out he was right. The winner plans to buy a home, refresh his wardrobe, and invest in his family’s future. |
Stay Connected: Launching the York Township Roads App |
The York Township Highway Department has launched the York Township Roads App, a streamlined tool for residents to request services and report local concerns directly from their smartphones.
Key Features:
Get Started: Download the York Township Roads App today on the App Store or Google Play. For more info, visit www.yorktwsp.com or call 630-624-2200. |
Mini-golf liquor license request in Glen Ellyn |
Glen Ellyn Patch reports that Holes & Knolls Miniature Golf Course has applied for a liquor license, with the village council scheduled to review the request at its April 27 meeting. |
Lombard Garden Club Celebrates 100 Years |
Date: Thursday, April 30th 2026
Time: 9 am Place: Helen Plum Library, 411 S Main St, Lombard
Celebrate the centennial anniversary of the Lombard Garden Club at the Helen Plum Library this month! Now on display on the 2nd Floor is an exhibit highlighting the Club's history and focus on learning, sharing knowledge, and beautifying the community. |
Little Lady Lilac Ball |
Location: Lombard Community Building, 433 E. St. Charles Road, Lombard Date: May 1
Kick off Lilac Time in Lombard with this special evening for dads and their daughters. The Little Lady Lilac Ball is a cherished community tradition featuring dancing, games, desserts, and memorable moments together.
Guests will also enjoy appearances by the Lilac Princesses, adding an extra touch of magic to the night with photo opportunities and dancing. This event is designed for girls ages 3–11 and is a wonderful way to celebrate family, community, and the spirit of Lilac Time. |
Muslim Singles Matrimonial Event |
Muslim Singles Matrimonial Event— Join for a thoughtfully curated experience that blends structure, sincerity, and Islamic values, creating a respectful and welcoming space for meaningful connections to flourish! |
Chicago Mother’s Day Craft & Vendor Market @ Yorktown |
Celebrate Mom with a special weekend dedicated to shopping, local makers, and meaningful gifts!
Dates & Times:
Event Details:
Vendor Information:
Learn More & Register: Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the moms in your life while supporting local businesses! |
Derby Day Fundraiser Event |
It's time to break out the big hats and bowties! The Villa Park VFW 2801 Auxiliary is hosting a Derby Day Fundraiser for the 152nd Run for the Roses, and you won’t want to miss out on the action. Whether you're in it for the spectacular race, the raffles, or just a reason to get dressed up, it’s going to be a fantastic afternoon supporting a great local cause.
Event Details
What’s Happening
ReservationsCall Mary at (630) 621-8541 to make your reservations. For more details, you can also scan the QR code on the flyer or check them out on Facebook. See you at the races! 🐎 |
Pancake Breakfast & Socializing |
Start your Tuesday off right with a delicious breakfast! Whether you’re looking to catch up with old friends or meet some new neighbors, this is the perfect opportunity to get together and enjoy a meal in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Event Details
Join Us!Space is limited, so be sure to secure your spot at the table. It’s a great way to support our local parks' programming while enjoying a hearty morning treat. Registration:Ready to dig in? Register today at the link below: 👉 invillapark.com/registration |
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo early with a Taco Crawl in Downtown Glen Ellyn! |
Glen Ellyn’s Taco Crawl
DATE: Saturday, May 2 |
Time: 1–5 PM
Tickets on sale now – $25
Includes 5 taco tickets to redeem at any of the 13 participating restaurants, each serving up their own creative twist, including everything from global flavors to a fun dessert taco!
It’s a Downtown Taco Takeover and the perfect day of tasting, strolling, sipping, and savoring the best of Glen Ellyn’s dining scene. Along the way, enjoy festive décor and fun photo ops that bring the Cinco de Mayo spirit to life.
Restaurants will also offer specialty drinks and sides for purchase; everything from margaritas & Pacifico to street corn & nachos.
Don’t forget to vote for your favorites like Best Taco, Most Unique, and more!
Grab your friends and come hungry! It’s one delicious day you won’t want to miss!
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Get Ready to Rock the Lilac Village: 27th Season of Cruise Nights & Summer Concerts Return! |
Dust off your lawn chairs and polish up those engines! The Village of Lombard is thrilled to announce the 27th season of its beloved Cruise Nights and Summer Concert Series. Thanks to the support of our presenting sponsor, Tommy’s Express Car Wash, downtown Lombard is the place to be every Saturday night this summer. Starting Saturday, June 13, join your neighbors for ten weeks of classic cars, live music, and that signature small-town summer magic.
Event Essentials
2026 Concert LineupMusic kicks off at 6:00 PM on S. Park Avenue. From soulful blues to high-energy tributes, there is something for every ear:
Note for Cruisers: To ensure safety and space for our massive finale, the classic car display (Cruise Car portion) concludes on August 15. The August 22 finale with Hi Infidelity will be a concert-only event held on St. Charles Road
Fun for the Little LilacsDon't forget to visit the Kids’ Corner, sponsored by Keeley’s Plumbing Company and Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd. Your little ones can enjoy:
A Community EffortThis tradition is made possible by our incredible local sponsors, including Annamarie Moise Realty Team, ComEd, Culver’s, Lombard Bank & Trust, and many more. Their support keeps our downtown vibrant and our summer musical! |
Villa Park Free Summer Concert Series Released |
Get ready for a summer filled with rhythm and flavor! The Villa Park Summer Concert series is officially back, offering great family entertainment and delicious eats for all ages. Grab your blankets and lawn chairs and join your neighbors at our new location for a season of unforgettable music.
When & Where
The Thursday LineupOur Thursday night series features an eclectic mix of genres to keep you dancing all summer long:
June Series
August Series
KIWANIS Wednesday Concerts:Celebrating 46 years of music, the Kiwanis series also takes place at the Ruggard Gazebo at 6:30 PM:
Family Fun & Community SupportKids can get creative at the Children’s Craft Corner, proudly presented by the Friends of the Library!
This series is made possible by the Villa Park Chamber of Commerce and our generous sponsors: Allstate (Newling Insurance), G.M. Smith & Son Realtors, and Atomic Transmissions. For more details, visit invillapark.com/summer-concerts. |
Lilac Time 2026: Two Weeks of Blooming Beauty, Events & Community Fun in Lombard |
LOMBARD, IL — If you’ve ever wandered into Lilacia Park in the spring, you know the magic. Thousands of blooming lilacs and vibrant tulips transform the park into one of the most beautiful spots in the western suburbs.
No need to stumble upon it by accident—Lilac Time 2026 is here, bringing two full weeks of events, traditions, and community celebrations to Lombard.
Here’s your complete guide to everything happening:
Signature Events & Celebrations:Little Lady Lilac Ball
Lilac Queen Coronation
Live Music: Generation (Kaleidoscope Eyes)
Lilac Time Arts & Craft Fair
Annual Lilac Ball 2026 Lilac Ball | Then & Now
DATE: Friday, May 8, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM Location: Carlisle Banquets Honoring the Lilac Court Step into an evening where tradition meets today.
The Lombard Chamber of Commerce invites you to the 2026 Lilac Ball, a signature celebration honoring the Lilac Court and the enduring legacy of our community. This year’s theme, Then & Now, weaves together Lombard’s rich history with the energy and spirit of the present day.
An elegant night of celebration includes:
• Formal recognition of the 2026 Lilac Court • Dinner, dancing, and an unforgettable evening of connection • A nostalgic nod to Lombard’s past paired with modern flair Whether you’re drawn to the timeless traditions or the vibrant future ahead, this is a night designed to celebrate both.
Dress to impress and join us for one of Lombard’s most cherished annual events as we celebrate Then & Now together.
Family-Friendly & Ongoing Activities:Lilacia Park Storytime
Lilac Heritage Tours
Victorian Cottage Tours
Shopping & Garden Favorites:
Perennial Plant Sale
Lombard Garden Club Lilac Sale
Music, Kids & Community Events:
Kids’ Day in Lilacia Park
Mother’s Day Concert: Yacht Rockettes
Final Weekend Highlights:Mutt Strut 5K, Mile & Pancake Breakfast
Wine Tasting (21+)
Grand FinaleLilac Parade
Lilac Time is more than a festival—it’s a celebration of Lombard’s identity, community spirit, and the beauty of spring. Whether you’re attending a single event or planning to experience it all, this is one of the most special times of the year to be in Lombard. |
Lombard Garden Club’s Lilac Sale 2026 |
Don’t miss the area’s largest lilac sale, hosted by the Lombard Garden Club. This one-day event offers a beautiful selection of 16 different lilac varieties in a range of colors, including deep violet, magenta, pink, blue, and white.
Proceeds from the sale support local scholarships, community beautification projects, and environmental and gardening education throughout the Lombard area.
One featured variety is the popular President Lincoln lilac, known for its Wedgewood blue blooms, strong fragrance, and hardy growth. This classic cultivar is just one of many available for purchase.
Hosted at Lilacia Park Pavilion DATE: May 7, 2026 Open to the public.
Tips for Attendees: Browse varieties and pre-order: |
Lilac Times Arts & Crafts Fair |
Celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and community at the Lilac Times Arts & Crafts Fair, a beloved Lombard tradition.
This highly anticipated event features a wide variety of talented artisans and vendors offering unique, handcrafted goods, including home décor, jewelry, artwork, and more. Attendees can also enjoy live entertainment, great food, and family-friendly activities throughout the day. Hosted in Downtown Lombard St. Charles Road
DATE: Sunday- May 3, 2026 Open to the public. Vendor and sponsorship opportunities are available for artists, crafters, and local businesses looking to connect with the community. Learn more: |
Monday Night Pub Trivia at Noon Whistle Brewing |
Kick off your week with a fun and competitive night at Noon Whistle Brewing’s Lombard Brewpub. Monday nights are all about testing your knowledge, enjoying great beer, and spending time with friends.
Join in for free-to-play Pub Trivia where teams can compete for prizes and bragging rights. Whether you’re a trivia expert or just looking for a relaxed night out, this weekly event offers a great mix of entertainment and community.
Hosted at Noon Whistle Brewing Lombard Brewpub DATE: Every Monday Open to the public. Gather your crew, grab a pint, and put your knowledge to the test. |
Trivia Night at O’Neill’s Pub |
Grab your team and join the fun every Tuesday for Trivia Night at O’Neill’s in Lombard!
Every Tuesday Prizes awarded to the Top 3 teams!
Food & Drink Specials: Bring your friends, test your knowledge, and enjoy great food and drinks! |
Open Jam Night Sunday at O’Neill’s Pub |
Local musicians and music lovers are invited to take the stage at Open Jam Night at O’Neill’s Pub in Lombard.
Sign-ups begin anytime after 5:00 PM, with the first performances kicking off at 7:00 PM. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just looking to join in, this is a great opportunity to play, collaborate, and enjoy live music in a welcoming setting.
Bring your own instruments, along with any amps or pedals you prefer. A PA system will be provided, and house drums may be available on select nights.
Hosted at O'Neill's Pub Lombard DATE:Sunday April 20th Open to the public. For questions, contact BCA at (630) 849-3992. |
Team Pub Trivia at Ellyn’s Tap & Grill |
Put your knowledge to the test and enjoy a fun night out at Team Pub Trivia at Ellyn’s Tap & Grill in Glen Ellyn.
Hosted by Pub Trivia USA, this weekly event is free to play and offers great prizes for top teams. Gather your friends, grab a table, and compete in a lively, fast-paced trivia night covering a variety of topics.
Hosted at Ellyn's Tap & Grill DATE: Every Wednesday Free to play.
To reserve your team’s table, call 630-942-0940. Open to the public. By Bring your team, enjoy great food and drinks, and see if you have what it takes to win. |
A Historic Milestone: Seven Local Scouts Achieve Eagle Rank |
The highest honor in Scouting is a rare feat—less than 5% of all Scouts ever reach the prestigious Eagle Rank. This past year, Villa Park’s own Troop 199 didn’t just meet that challenge; they shattered records by awarding the rank to seven dedicated young men.
Among those honored from Troop 199 are Frankie O'Byrne, Riley Cullerton, Vincenzo Ledonne, Mohammed (Sunny) Salman, and Nicholas Danielson. All seven honorees are Villa Park residents and current students or recent graduates of Willowbrook High School.
By the Numbers: A Legacy of ServiceThe dedication of these Scouts is staggering when you look at the impact they've made on our community:
Making a Local Difference
To earn the rank of Eagle, a Scout must complete a major service project. These seven young men chose projects that leave a lasting mark on the organizations we love, providing vital benefits to:
These young leaders are a testament to the power of local programs, and they encourage the next generation of boys and girls to get involved with their local packs and troops. Congratulations to Troop 199 and our newest Eagle Scouts! Photo courtesy of Daily Herald |
Local High School Sports Roundup (April 18-24, 2026) |
Glenbard East Rams (Lombard) Baseball Hot Streak: The Rams swept Glenbard South 9-2 (away) and 11-0 (home) before topping Streamwood 17-2 and West Chicago 13-0 and 9-8. Now 11-5-1 overall, they fell to South Elgin on April 23.
Willowbrook Warriors (Villa Park) Baseball Undefeated in Conference: Willowbrook extended their streak to 12 wins with a 7-1 victory over Downers Grove South on April 20 (Alex Dew 3-for-3, 2 RBIs; Noah Edison 6 strong innings). Perfect in West Suburban Gold play.
Glenbard West Hilltoppers (Glen Ellyn) Volleyball Dominance: Glenbard West stayed undefeated at 10-0 after rallying from an 8-point deficit to beat rival Glenbard East 23-25, 25-19, 25-22 in the Springfest title match (Lukas Wallin 17 kills, 6 blocks). Also beat Jones on April 24.
Glenbard West Baseball Close Call: Dropped a 4-3 heartbreaker to Geneva on April 20 (Blake Kopec struck out the tying run with bases loaded). |
Discover Lombard Like Never Before: New Historic Downtown App Launches This Spring |
The Lombard Historical Society has launched the Historic Downtown Lombard App—just in time for Lilac Time!
Explore self-guided walking tours, discover local shops and restaurants, and stay updated on downtown events—all in one place. Whether you live here or are visiting, it’s your go-to guide for experiencing Lombard.
Developed with support from the Lombard Local Tourism Grant and Pigeon Tech, this app will continue to grow with new stories, tours, and features.
📲 Download the app now and start exploring Lombard today!Apple App Storehttps://apps.apple.com/us/app/historic-downtown-lombard/id6760809194Google Play Store https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.pigeontech.lombardmuseum&hl=en_US |
Glen Ellyn Historical Society’s Vintage and Antique Market in April and May |
The annual Vintage Market Fundraiser for the Glen Ellyn Historical Society is scheduled for Thursday, April 30, through Saturday, May 2.
The hours are 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the location is the Anderson Multi-Purpose Room at the Glen Ellyn History Center, 800 N. Main St. Come check out all the unique finds!
Contribution is accepted for this sale. Vintage and antique items in good condition may be brought to the History Center on April 28th and April 29th from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Small items like jewelry and collectibles may be sold prior to April 28th, but furniture and larger items must be brought to the History Center on April 28th through April 29th.
If there are any questions about this Vintage Market Fundraiser, contact Brandon Trupp at |
Villa Park Historical Museum Now Open |
Villa Park Historical Museum
Hours: April 7 through mid-December; Tuesday through Friday, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday closed. Contact: 630-941-0223. Admission is free, and donations are accepted. |
Historic Rail Car Enhances Prairie Path in Villa Park |
Historic Rail Car Coming to Villa Park: A Community Milestone
A century-old piece of transit history is returning to the Illinois Prairie Path (IPP). Thanks to a collaborative effort led by IPP board member Ralph DiFebo, the Illinois Railway Museum has donated Car 321, a 50-ton, wooden-sided rail car from the Chicago Aurora & Elgin (CA&E) line.
Bringing History to the Path:The 1914 train car will be permanently displayed on a new 60-foot track at Villa Park’s historic Ardmore Station. The project aims to remind trail users that the 62-mile IPP—the oldest rail-to-trail conversion in the U.S.—was once a bustling interurban rail line.
Project Funding & Support:
Enhancing Trail Safety and IdentityBeyond the railcar, significant upgrades are improving the user experience:
Get Involved: Trail Cleanup DayCelebrate Earth Day by checking out the new signage and participating in the annual trail cleanup on Saturday, April 25.
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Grove Tavern & Egg House is hiring: |
Empire Burgers + Brew is hiring! |
Empire Burgers + Brew is hiring! JOIN OUR LOMBARD TEAM. Whether you're hoping to start a career in hospitality or take the next step, fill out the form below to get the conversation started with our team. Our doors are always open. Apply online at empireburgerbar.com/applylomba |
Mighty Halal is now in Lombard |
The secret is out. |
Vintage Charm Now Open in Glen Ellyn |
Vintage Charm has officially opened in downtown Glen Ellyn at
495 N Main Street.Glen Ellyn VC Glen Ellyn opened its doors on Thursday, April 9, and celebrated its Grand Opening and Chamber ribbon cutting on Saturday, April 11, welcoming shoppers to explore the boutique’s newest location |
Blueberry Orange Farro Breakfast Bowl
Make this hearty, low-sugar breakfast salad the night before, and you will be set up with an instant breakfast that’s much more exciting than a bowl of cereal. Farro has a nutty flavor, a slightly crunchy bite and works perfectly with juicy oranges and blueberries. At 350 calories, with 10 grams of fiber and 15 grams of protein, this is a great way to kick off a great day.
Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes Blueberry Orange Farro Breakfast BowlIngredients:
Directions: Cook farro according to package instructions until tender, about 30 minutes. Drain and let cool. In a medium bowl, stir together the yogurt, orange zest, and honey. If desired, cut the orange sections into bite-sized pieces. Combine the farro and the yogurt mixture and stir well to mix. Add the orange sections, spinach, and blueberries and stir to combine. To serve, spoon into two separate bowls and enjoy immediately or store in the fridge for 3 to 5 days.
Serves: 2 | Serving Size: 2 cups Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 350; Total Fat: 2g; Saturated Fat: 0g; Monounsaturated Fat: 0g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g; Cholesterol: 3mg; Sodium: 50mg; Carbohydrate: 72g; Dietary Fiber: 10g; Sugar: 24g; Protein: 15g Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 680mg; Iron: 15%; Vitamin C: 111%; Calcium: 15% |
Meet “Girlfriend” – Your New Best Friend |
Looking for a loyal little companion with a gentle personality? Meet Girlfriend—a sweet, lovable pup ready to find her forever home.
About Girlfriend:
The Perfect Home:
Why You’ll Love Her:
Ready to meet Girlfriend? A.R.F. Pet ID: 18602297 |
🎉 Attention Schools! |
Do you have an exciting fundraiser coming up? We want to help spread the word and make your event a success! 🚀
📢 Let Your Community Know: Simply email us your event details, and we'll share them with our community superheroes.
This is a fantastic opportunity to increase your event's visibility and engage with more supporters. 🤝 Get the word out and watch your school's fundraising efforts soar!
Your success is our priority, and together, we can make a significant impact. |
Our Local Contacts – Lombard • Villa Park • Glen Ellyn🚨 EMERGENCY SERVICES (ALL AREAS)Emergency – Police, Fire & Ambulance
LOMBARD, ILVillage OfficesVillage Hall: (630) 620-5700 CommunityHelen M. Plum Library: (630) 627-0316 Lombard Area Chamber of Commerce Lombard School District 44 Glenbard Township High School District 87 Glenbard East High School VILLA PARK, ILVillage OfficesVillage Hall: (630) 834-8500 CommunityVilla Park Public Library Villa Park Park District Community:Villa Park Chamber of Commerce Schools:Villa Park School District 45 Willowbrook High School
GLEN ELLYN, ILVillage OfficesVillage Hall: (630) 469-5000 CommunityGlen Ellyn Public Library Glen Ellyn Park District Community:Glen Ellyn Chamber of Commerce Schools:Glen Ellyn School District 41 Community Consolidated School District 89 Glenbard Township High School District 87 Glenbard West High School
HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICESDuPage County Health Department Lombard Senior Services DuPage County Community Services York Township Food Pantry
UTILITIESComEd (Electric Service) Nicor Gas
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
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Hey, All Residents and Local Businesses!
Have something to share—an event, business, or story? We’d love to hear from you. Tell us about it here, email us lilacrootsmarketing@gmail.com
We are accepting Local Business Sponsorships for the newsletter. Email us for info. lilacrootsmarketing@gmail.com
We’ll see you next Tuesday morning. |
The Lombard Lilac Ledger is growing, and we’d love your help in making it a true reflection of our community. |
If you have an event or initiative in your town or organization, you can now submit it for consideration for an upcoming issue.
We’re currently accepting:
Event listings are always free, and we review submissions regularly for upcoming newsletters. Have something to share? Send it to:lilacrootsmarketing@gmail.com |
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By becoming a sponsor, you’ll put your business in front of a loyal, community-minded audience that loves supporting local. It’s a smart way to build brand visibility, boost trust, and bring new customers right to your door.
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If you have read this far, you may wonder why there isn't any news about tragic events, hate, and terrible crimes, and it's because there is just too much of that everywhere else. We want this newsletter to bring you a kind awareness and help spread joy and information on your Tuesday Morning! Best.. Jean C. Publisher Lombard Lilac Ledger |