Vidalia onion sale is back in Arlington Heights

The popular annual "onion sale" has returned to Arlington Heights Road and Magnolia Street in Arlington Heights today, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more than 25 years the corner, just south of Central Road, has been the site of the Arlington Heights Masonic Lodge's Vidalia Onion Sale, where 10-pound bags of Georgia Vidalias are sold.

Last year, the People's Bank of Arlington Heights bought the property and demolished the Masonic Lodge to build a new bank.

However, bank President Frank Appleby promised to allow the onion sale to return. The sale began Friday.

"When we purchased the property we made a commitment to allow the Masonic Lodge to use the site as they always have for their sale," said Appleby. "And we always keep our word."

The Onion Sale has evolved into a major fundraiser for the Lodge and the Northwest Suburban Shrine Club, of which it is a member.

Despite the ongoing construction of the new bank, there is room for the trucks and tents.

"We are thrilled to be able to return to the site," said Pat Moore, secretary of the Masonic Lodge.

"The onions are literally pulled from the ground in Georgia, put on a truck and brought directly to the site," Moore said. "They couldn't be any fresher."