The Lombard Lilac Ledger
Archives
May 19th 2026


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The Lombard Lilac Ledger
Archives
May 19th 2026

Author
May 19, 2026
May is Mental Health Awareness Month |
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the Village of Lombard is partnering with the DuPage County Health Department to help raise awareness about the DuPage County Crisis Recovery Center (CRC).
As part of this effort, CRC yard signs are now displayed at several Village facilities throughout Lombard to help connect residents with information and support.
The DuPage County Crisis Recovery Center is a 24/7 walk-in facility, located in Wheaton, that provides immediate mental health and substance use care for adults and youth. The CRC offers crisis stabilization, counseling, assessments and support regardless of insurance or ability to pay.
If you or someone you know needs help, support is available. Learn more about the Crisis Recovery Center and other mental health resources at
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🎸 LOMBARD ROCK HISTORY T-SHIRT CONTEST 🎸 |
Remember BOARD DOG SKATEBOARDS in downtown Lombard? 🛹 Now’s your chance to help bring a piece of Lombard history back to life! EGXBH is looking for creative designs and taglines inspired by Lombard’s local rock music scene and the legendary Board Dog Skateboards era. The winning design will be featured on a special tribute shirt sold during the upcoming local showcase show at Shannon's Deli on July 24!
🎨 Create a design PLUS — attendees at the July 24 showcase will have a chance to WIN tickets to see: Eve 6 & Story of the Year 📅 SHIRT RELEASE & SHOWCASE EVENT: July 24 Presented in connection with the Lombard Historical Society and Village of Lombard. |
🎨 PHOTO & POSTER CONTEST – CELEBRATE AMERICA’S 250TH BIRTHDAY! ❤️🤍💙 |
The Villa Park Community FUN Commission is inviting local residents to get creative and take part in a special community art celebration honoring America’s 250th Birthday!
Participants can stop by the Villa Park Recreation Center to pick up an official poster board and contest rules at the front desk. Selected entries will be featured in a public art display for the community to enjoy!
📅 DEADLINE TO SUBMIT: May 27 Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting community celebration — grab your materials and start creating! |
America's 250th Anniversary Shirts and Flags Available |
T-shirts and commemorative flags celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary are now available for purchase through Sunday, June 7! Villa Park VFW Post 2801 Independence Day Parade t-shirt pickup will take place at the VFW, located at 39 E. St. Charles Rd., from Tuesday, June 23, through Sunday, June 28. Pickup hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Shipping is also available. Purchase here: https://ow.ly/lEqJ50Z0pNx Limited-edition 3x5 Village commemorative flags have also been created to honor this historic milestone. Please note that all sales are final, and purchasers will be contacted with pickup details once orders are processed. Purchase here: https://ow.ly/2jzT50Z0pNz Celebrate America's rich history and be part of this memorable anniversary celebration! |
🏛️ Glen Ellyn VILLAGE CIVIC CENTER SUMMER HOURS BEGIN MAY 22 ☀️ |
Beginning May 22, the Civic Center will transition to summer business hours through September 4. Residents are encouraged to plan visits accordingly. 📅 SUMMER HOURS: Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Regular business hours will resume following Labor Day. |
💐 BEAUTIFUL BOUQUETS CLASS in Villa Park 💐 |
There’s still time to register for next week’s Beautiful Bouquets class! Create your own fresh floral arrangement to take home or gift to someone special while enjoying a fun and creative experience with the community. Perfect for beginners, flower lovers, or anyone looking for a relaxing night out! 🌸 Design your own bouquet Reserve your spot today: |
WINES & FINDS – Downtown Glen Ellyn Wine Walk 🍷 |
🍷 WINES & FINDS – Downtown Glen Ellyn Wine Walk 🍷 Spend a beautiful summer afternoon sipping fine wines, enjoying delicious paired bites, and exploring the charming shops and boutiques of Downtown Glen Ellyn during Wines & Finds on Saturday, June 20! Guests will enjoy curated wine tastings at 15 unique locations throughout downtown, featuring selections from Marché, Cabernet & Company, and kō-zē Wine Room. Many participating shops will also offer special discounts and promotions exclusively for ticket holders.
📅 DATE: Saturday, June 20, 2026
Your ticket includes:
Check-in begins at 1:15 PM with staggered registration times to help avoid lines. Guests may choose to check in at either the kō-zē Wine Room or the Cabernet & Company during ticket purchase.
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/allianceofdowntownglenellyn/2212484
Tickets are limited and expected to sell out! Support local businesses while enjoying an unforgettable afternoon in one of the western suburbs’ favorite downtown districts. 🍷🛍️ |
🎨 SIP & PAINT NIGHT RETURNS TO LOMBARD! 🍷 |
🎨 SIP & PAINT NIGHT RETURNS TO LOMBARD! 🍷 Join Cliff Harman and Chicagoland’s #1-rated SIP & Paint Experience as SIP Parties returns to Shannon's Deli for a fun night of painting, music, laughs, and creativity!
This isn’t your typical paint night — guests can choose from 80+ pre-drawn designs on wood or canvas while enjoying personalized guidance from Cliff throughout the evening.
🐾 Paint Your Pet is now available at every event! Perfect for: 📅 DATE: Thursday, May 21 Click here for tickets Pre-registration is required and spots fill quickly, so reserve yours soon! |
Murder at Mystic Manor |
MURDER AT MYSTIC MANOR
Step inside an immersive 1920’s wedding mystery where YOU are part of the story!
Guests won’t just watch the mystery… you’ll feel like you’re attending a real glamorous wedding reception complete with:
One lucky guest couple will be selected as the Wedding Couple for the evening! Step into the spotlight and become part of the mystery in a truly unforgettable way.
As secrets unravel and suspicions rise, you’ll question suspects, uncover clues, and help solve the mystery before the night is over!
HALF-PRICED TICKETS through MAY 20TH!
Dress Formal • 1920’s Attire Encouraged
Saturday, May 23rd @ 7:45PM
Get tickets now before the guest list fills up!
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Auditions for Percy Jackson |
Calling all young performers! Auditions for Percy Jackson: The Lightning Thief are coming up with Upstart Performing Arts.
Register now: form.jotform.com/ |
🌙 EID AL ADHA BAZAAR – LOMBARD 🌙 |
Celebrate Eid Al Adha with a festive weekend bazaar full of shopping, food, culture, and community fun in Lombard! Guests can explore a wide variety of vendors offering: This family-friendly event is free to attend and offers a great opportunity to support local businesses while enjoying a vibrant cultural marketplace. 📅 DATES: Saturday, May 23 & Sunday, May 24, 2026 Bring your friends and family and enjoy a weekend of shopping, food, and celebration in the community! |
🚴 ZOOM & BLOOM BIKE RIDE 🌿 |
🚴 ZOOM & BLOOM BIKE RIDE 🌿 Grab your bike and join the Go Green crew for the Zoom & Bloom Bike Ride on Friday, May 23!
The group will meet at the Ruggard Gazebo before cruising along the Prairie Path toward Phase Three Brewing Company for post-ride refreshments and good company. Along the way, riders will take part in a few small acts of green living while enjoying a fun evening outdoors. Good vibes, community fun, and a little eco-friendly action — don’t miss it! 📅 DATE: Friday, May 23 Registration is required to participate. Save your spot here: |
⛪ MAPLE STREET CHAPEL OPEN HOUSE 2026 ⛪ |
Step inside one of Lombard’s most beautiful historic landmarks during the 2026 Open House at Maple Street Chapel!
Visitors are invited to tour the stunning chapel, explore its rich history, and admire the beautiful architecture and peaceful interior spaces that have made Maple Street Chapel a treasured part of Lombard for generations.
Whether you love local history, historic buildings, photography, or simply want to experience one of Lombard’s iconic landmarks up close, this is a wonderful community event to attend. 📅 DATE: Saturday, May 23 Walk through history. Take in the breathtaking architecture. Feel the stories that have lived here since 1870. For more information, visit: |
Autograph session in Yorktown |
Public Autograph appearance with Chicago Bears WR Luther Burden III at Sports N More, Yorktown Center, Lombard, IL on Saturday, May 23, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 2 pm.
Autographs are priced:
https://bit.ly/494iclE |
Spring Landscape Contest 2026 🌸 |
Do you have the best curb appeal in Lombard? Show off your beautiful spring landscaping for a chance to win prizes and support a great local cause! From colorful tulips and blooming flowers to perfectly manicured lawns and creative garden designs — we want to see how you celebrate spring in your neighborhood. 🏡 Judging Criteria: 🏆 Prize Package: 📸 One photo entry per household. Sponsored by Hacker’s Glenbard Gardens with judges from the Lombard Garden Club and local community representatives. Scan the QR code on the flyer to enter and show off your spring beauty this season! 🌷 |
Dig Into Summer Reading at Helen Plum Library
Mon, May 11-Sat, Aug 1 |
Monday - May 11th - Saturday August 1st
Sow the seeds of a great summer! Readers of all ages are invited to branch out into new stories, grow their imagination, and bloom into lifelong learners—while having fun and earning rewards along the way. HPL cardholders or students attending a Lombard school can participate. You can sign up and track your reading online at helenplum.beanstack.org, or stop by in person to grab a paper reading log.
Learn more at helenplum.org/evets/reading- |
🎉 Lombard's Farmers Market May 19th |
Fresh flavors, local favorites, and Lilac Season vibes are coming together in Downtown Lombard!
Join the community under the Lombard Arch as the Lombard Farmers Market kicks off another amazing season filled with fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, coffee, local treats, live music, and so much more.
📍 Under the Lombard Arch Shop and support incredible local vendors featuring:
Bring the family, meet local makers, and enjoy one of Lombard’s favorite summer traditions. Tag a friend you want to visit the market with! |
List of Area Farmers Markets |
DUPAGE COUNTY
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Memorial Day Events in Area |
Communities across DuPage County will gather on Monday, May 25, 2026, to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. 📍 LOMBARD MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY The Village of Lombard invites residents and visitors to attend its annual Memorial Day Ceremony featuring patriotic tributes, cannon fire, a gun salute, and wreath-laying ceremony honoring America’s fallen heroes. Additional parking is available at Barean Bible Church, 535 E. Maple Street. 📍 GLEN ELLYN MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATION Date: Monday, May 25, 2026 The Glen Ellyn American Legion invites the community to attend its annual Memorial Day Celebration Program honoring the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country. 📍 VILLA PARK MEMORIAL DAY SERVICES Date: Monday, May 25, 2026 Villa Park VFW Post 2801 will hold Memorial Day services honoring America’s fallen heroes. The ceremony will also include a balloon release tied to Steuerle Funeral Home as part of the community remembrance activities.
Residents are encouraged to attend and pay tribute to the brave servicemen and women who gave their lives in defense of our nation. Memorial Day is more than the unofficial start of summer — it is a day of remembrance, gratitude, and reflection. Please take a moment to honor the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who served our nation. |
BBQ & Bazaar – Eid al-Adha Kickoff 🌙 |
Join the community for two evenings of food, shopping, family fun, and cultural celebration at the BBQ & Bazaar Eid al-Adha Kickoff in Downers Grove! Enjoy: ✨ Vendor Spotlight: Crescent Hijama ✨ 📅 Event Dates & Times: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 📍 Location: 🎟 Admission: Hosted by SKS Events, Chitown Desi, and Muslim Ladies of Chicagoland. Bring your family and friends for an exciting Eid celebration filled with delicious food, shopping, community, and entertainment! |
Hot Dog Party in Glen Ellyn Save the DATE |
HOT DIGGITY DOG — Glen Ellyn Hot Dog Party 🌭 Join us Saturday, May 30th from 11AM-2PM at M and Em’s Glen Ellyn for a special event to kickoff summer! We’re so excited to partner with Joe Snellgrove from the iconic hot dog cart! ❤️ The details: • Meet Joe + book signing • Hot dog cart with hot dogs, chips & drinks • Coloring pages • Balloon & banner backdrop for photo ops • First 10 customers who spend $30+ at M and Em’s receive a FREE hot dog coupon! |
Lombard Brew Fest Tickets are on Sale |
📣TICKETS ARE OFFICIALLY ON SALE! Lombard's BREWFEST 2026 |
2026 Fourth of July Boat Dock Fireworks Show at beautiful Lake Ellyn, On Sale NOW |
GLEN ELLYN, IL — Tickets are now on sale for the 2026 Fourth of July Boat Dock Fireworks Show at beautiful Lake Ellyn.
The celebration takes place Saturday, July 4, from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the Lake Ellyn Boat Dock, 645 Lenox Rd., Glen Ellyn.
Guests can enjoy an evening of community fun, lakeside views, and a spectacular fireworks display. General admission tickets are $50 per person, with proceeds benefiting the Glen Ellyn Parks Foundation. Click the link to purchase tickets for the 2026 Fourth of July Boat Dock Fireworks Show. https://www.tickettailor.com/events/glenellyn4thofjuly/2186034 |
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. |
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. |
Amber's Wonderland Birthday Bash |
Don’t be late for a very important date! We are celebrating this birthday in Wonderland, and you’re invited to join the madness! We’re turning Roadhouse 38 into a whimsical world of tea parties, Cheshire smiles, and curiouser surprises. THE DETAILS: • WHEN: May 30th @ 7:00 PM • WHERE: Roadhouse 38 (275 W Roosevelt Rd, Lombard) • THE VIBE: Wonderland Realness DRESS CODE: Come dressed as your favorite character! Whether you’re a Mad Hatter, a Queen of Hearts, or a curious Alice, costumes are highly encouraged. "We’re all mad here," so let’s party like it! Cheshire cat grin, anyone? |
Local Sports Roundup: Big Comebacks, State Qualifiers & Winning Streaks |
Glenbard East RamsThe biggest headline of the week belonged to the Glenbard East baseball team, which pulled off an incredible comeback victory over Riverside Brookfield. After falling behind 10-1 early, the Rams exploded offensively to rally for a dramatic 12-10 conference win. Senior Lucas Calderin led the charge with three hits and two RBIs, while sophomore Jackson Turko and senior Carson Pignato also delivered key offensive performances. The Rams followed with wins over Elmwood Park and Elgin before falling to Naperville North, bringing their overall record to 15-10-1 and an impressive 13-2 conference mark. Glenbard East badminton also celebrated a major accomplishment as senior Samantha King captured a sectional championship to qualify for the IHSA State Meet. Juniors Betsy Facchini and Daniela Romero also earned state berths in doubles competition. On the volleyball court, the Rams boys volleyball team continued its strong season with conference wins over West Chicago and Elmwood Park. Sophomore Max Waldschmidt and senior Gabe Polyak helped lead the offense as Glenbard East improved to 17-9 overall.
Willowbrook WarriorsThe Willowbrook baseball team continues to dominate the West Suburban Gold Conference. The Warriors extended their winning streak to 22 straight games after sweeping Proviso East and defeating Downers Grove North on Senior Day. Now sitting at 23-4 overall and a perfect 15-0 in conference play, Willowbrook has already clinched the West Suburban Gold title and is aiming to complete an undefeated conference season.
Montini Catholic BroncosMontini Catholic baseball had a historic week highlighted by a combined no-hitter against Saint Ignatius College Prep. Senior Blake Heyer dominated on the mound with 14 strikeouts over 6⅔ innings before senior Drake Palmer closed out the game to secure the no-hitter in a 2-0 victory. The Broncos also picked up victories over Saint Ignatius and Leo Academy as they continue building momentum for the postseason.
Glenbard West HilltoppersGlenbard West continued its strong spring campaign across multiple sports programs. The Hilltoppers boys lacrosse team improved to 16-2 overall after a dominant 20-7 victory over Oak Park and River Forest. Girls lacrosse also earned an impressive 16-10 victory over Palatine as Glenbard West prepares for postseason competition across baseball, soccer, volleyball, track, and lacrosse. The Hilltoppers boys volleyball program remains one of the top-ranked teams in Illinois entering postseason play.
Glenbard South RaidersGlenbard South teams stayed busy throughout the week with conference action across baseball, softball, volleyball, lacrosse, and soccer. The Raiders boys volleyball team earned a conference win over Elmwood Park, while baseball, softball, lacrosse, and soccer programs continued preparing for the upcoming postseason stretch.
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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 |
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. |
Step back into Revolutionary America with Abigail Adams! |
Join the Glen Ellyn Historical Society for a fascinating living history presentation featuring award-winning actress and scholar Leslie Goddard, PhD, portraying one of America’s most influential First Ladies. More than simply the wife of President John Adams and mother of President John Quincy Adams, Abigail Adams was a sharp-minded patriot, political thinker, and outspoken advocate for women’s rights. Hear her famous plea to “remember the Ladies,” discover her thoughts on the Founding Fathers, and experience the wit, wisdom, and remarkable love story that helped shape a nation. DATE: Saturday, May 30, 2026 Admission: Speaker: Leslie Goddard, PhD A wonderful afternoon for history lovers, families, and anyone interested in America’s founding story. |
🍀 NOW HIRING AT SHANNON’S IRISH PUB – GLEN ELLYN! 🍀 |
Shannon's Irish Pub is looking to add bartenders and servers to their fun and friendly team! If you enjoy working in a lively atmosphere with great people, this could be the perfect opportunity. Flexible hours and a fantastic patio environment make Shannon’s a great place to work this summer! ✨ Now Hiring: Why Join the Team? 📞 To apply or learn more, call Jennifer at 630-290-9080. |
Mighty Halal is Now Open off Roosevelt Rd. |
Big news, Lombard 👀 Mighty Halal is officially OPEN 🔥 Come get your halal fix — bold flavors, fresh food, and good vibes are now serving daily. Beautiful Outdoor Patio! 1300 S Main St unit v, Lombard, IL 60148 |
AL Manakeesh Taste of Palestine |
Lombard, we’re so excited to join your community! |
Dog Adoption Fees Waived |
Open your hearts and not your wallet! Adoption fees have been waived for all dogs, no matter the age, size, or breed, from May 16 to May 23. Click the link to take a peek at who could be your new BFF by the end of the week! bit.ly/DCASadoptions |
🎉 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 |
HEY LOMBARD AREA BUSINESS OWNERS!! YOUR AD COULD BE HERE! |
Want to get your brand in front of hundreds of engaged locals—every single week?
📬 The Lombard Lilac Ledger is the Lombard Area's go-to source for local news, events, and insider updates on the restaurant and small business scene. Our readership is growing fast, with over 100 new subscribers joining us weekly!
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.
Ready to grow with us? Email us at lilacrootsmarketing@gmail.com |
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 |
RelyLocal Lombard Area connects local businesses with the community through affordable marketing, local promotions, and relationship-driven support. Through the Lombard Lilac Ledger newsletter and RelyLocal network, we help businesses get seen, supported, and chosen while keeping residents informed about local events, shops, dining, and community happenings. Sponsorship helps strengthen local connections and increases visibility for businesses that care about supporting the communities they serve. |