Lombard’s Lilac Time returns with concerts, parade and family events
From tastings to tours and concerts to coronation, there is something for everyone during Lilac Time 2026 on May 2-17.
The Lombard Park District’s Lilacia Park is a 7-acre horticultural showcase featuring 700 lilacs and 25,000 tulips. All ages can enjoy a stroll through the park or one of the many special events. It is open year-round, daily from dawn to dusk. There is no fee for entrance into the park.
Lilac Queen coronation
On Saturday, May 2, the 2026 Lilac Queen is crowned, celebrating a Lilac Village tradition of more than 90 years. It will be at 1 p.m. in Lilacia Park. Since 2001, the Lombard Junior Women’s Club has been the sponsor of the Lilac Princess program, a Lombard Lilac Time tradition since 1930. Learn more at lombardjrs.com.
Concerts
After the Lilac Queen has been crowned, stick around for a fun concert with Generation from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, May 2, in Lilacia Park. The band brings an electrifying experience to the stage, delivering a rock show that transcends decades with a setlist of iconic, groundbreaking hits. From the Beatles to the Rolling Stones, David Bowie to Led Zeppelin, and Aretha Franklin to Sly Stone, their performances are a celebration of some of the most influential music of the time.
Join the Mother’s Day concert with women who rock! Get ready to set sail on a voyage of velvety vocals and sultry saxophone solos with The Yacht Rock-ettes from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, May 10, in Lilacia Park. They will be bringing you all the smooth rock hits from the 1970s and early ‘80s. Ice cream from Rainbow Cone will be available for purchase.
Art & craft fair
On Sunday, May 3, the Lombard Chamber of Commerce is hosting the annual Lilac Time Art & Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy a variety of art and craft vendors, as well as food, entertainment, free Kids Zone, and more on St. Charles Road between Main Street and Elizabeth in downtown Lombard. Visit lombardchamber.com.
Lilacia Park Storytime
Helen Plum Library is hosting the Lilacia Park Storytime at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Mondays, May 4 and 11; Tuesdays, May 5 and 12. Bring a blanket or chair and celebrate Lilac Time in Lilacia Park with stories and songs hosted by the Helen Plum Library. Storytime will be held on the west side of the park, under the picnic shelter — weather permitting.
Lilac sale
A little bit of Lilac Time of your very own! The Lombard Garden Club, which is celebrating its 100th year, is hosting its annual lilac sale featuring at least 15 different varieties of bushes and two kinds of lilac trees, offering a large select of sizes, colors, and scents. Lilacs are $38 for bushes, $55 for trees. It will begin at noon Thursday, May 7, and continue until sold out. The sale will be held under the pavilion on the north side of Lilacia Park, near the Park District Administration building at 227 W. Parkside.
Perennial Plant Sale
A variety of perennials will be available for sale near the Lilacia Park Green House from noon to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 7, or 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, May 8, near the Lilacia Park Green House.
Lilac Ball
On Friday, May 8, enjoy an elegant evening of fun from 6 to 10 p.m. at The Carlisle Lombard for this annual celebration — dinner, open bar, dancing, and raffles. This year’s theme, “My Beloved Lombard | Then & Now,” weaves together Lombard’s rich history with the energy and spirit of the present day. Tickets are $125. Reservations are required via lombardchamber.com.
Kids Day
Bring the family for Kids Day from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 9, in Lilacia Park. Nanny Nikki, a Grammy nominated artist, loves to bring life to classic children’s songs as well as her original music. Join her for an interactive musical show including sing-along songs, dancing, puppets, and more! Nanny Nikki’s show is sure to have the audience shouting for joy! Activities in the park begin at 2 p.m. with Nanny Nikki taking the stage at 3 p.m. They also will have games, arts and crafts, and some special guests.
Mutt Strut
The Lombard Park District presents the 21st annual Mutt Strut 5K and 1 mile race in conjunction with Lilac Time at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 16, in Lilacia Park. Participate with or without your dog in either of these events. Registration includes a dry fit race T-shirt, bib number, and pancake breakfast ticket.
The race starts on Parkside Avenue in front of the park district administration building, 227 W. Parkside Ave. Cost is $34.60 by May 14. Packet pickup will be held at Madison Meadow Athletic Center, 500 E. Wilson Ave. Race-day registration will be available in-person at an additional fee. For information and registration, visit lombardparks.com/mutt-strut. Then enjoy a pancake breakfast from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Tickets are $5.
Wine tasting
Join the Lombard Park District and Lynfred Winery for an educational sampling of wine from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 16. Tasters, age 21 or older, will have the chance to sample wines chosen by the host and hear from the experts on what makes each wine delicious and unique. Participants will receive a tasting glass, raffle ticket for fun prizes, and a free glass of wine of their choice. Cost is $42 or $51 for nonresidents. Pre-registration is required for this event at lombardparks.com. If unfavorable weather, the event will be held at the Lombard Community Building.
Lilac Parade
On Sunday, May 17, the annual Lilac Parade steps off at 1:30 p.m. at Main Street and Wilson Avenue. The theme for this year is “Happy 250th Birthday, America!” Visit lombardlilacparade.com.
Lilac Heritage Tours
Explore the rich history and horticultural beauty of Lilacia Park on a guided Lilac Heritage Tour led by an expert from the Lombard Historical Society. Learn about the park’s unique design, the origins of Lombard’s lilac tradition, and the people who helped make Lilacia Park a beloved community landmark.
Whether you have a passion for history or a deep appreciation for lilacs, this journey promises to be a delightful experience for all.
Registration is strongly recommended before arriving. Tickets can be purchased at lombardhistory.org. Tours are $9 per person, with group sizes limited to 16 individuals. The public tour begins at 11 a.m. from the Carriage House, 23 W. Maple St. Arrive 15 minutes before the tour.
Carriage House and the Lilac Emporium
Located across from Lilacia Park, the Carriage House invites visitors to explore Lombard’s history through engaging exhibits. Learn about the arrival of lilacs in Lombard, the beginnings of Lilac Time, and the stories of past Lilac Princesses and Queens. Admission to the exhibits is free; donations are appreciated.
While visiting, stop by the Lilac Emporium Gift Shop, located inside the Carriage House. Discover Lombard-themed keepsakes including T-shirts, coasters, magnets, coffee mugs, and a variety of Lilac Time gifts — perfect souvenirs or thoughtful presents.
Victorian Cottage Tours
Step back in time at the Victorian Cottage, open for tours on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. Tours are offered throughout the afternoon, allowing visitors to explore what daily life was like in Lombard at the turn of the 20th century.
Learn about the families who lived in the home and the broader community that shaped Lombard’s past. No registration is required. For more details about the Victorian Cottage, visit lombardhistory.org.
The Country Store
While visiting beautiful Lilacia Park, come visit the historic Coach House located on the southeast corner of Lilacia Park. Handcrafted Lilac Time items will be on display and available for purchase. The store will be open May 2-17. Weather permitting, hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends.