Lombard officials get ready for month of activities for Lilac Time
The princesses are selected, flowers in Lilacia Park are starting to bloom and planning is nearly complete for the many Lilac Time celebrations happening this May in Lombard.
"It's really easy to participate in," said Meri Niehaus, program manager for the Lombard Park District.
More than a dozen events are scheduled, from concerts and historic tours to beer and wine tastings and a plant sale. Niehaus said there's enough variety to appeal to people of all ages and interests.
Many activities carry a long tradition in the Lilac Village, including the Lilac Queen Coronation this weekend, the Lilac Ball on Friday, May 8, and the Lilac Parade, which concludes Lilac Time Sunday, May 17.
One new event is the Historic Lombard Hotel Tour on Saturday, May 9. For the first time in about 40 years, residents will get a chance to peek inside the old hotel building on the southwest corner of St. Charles Road and Park Avenue.
A few new bands also will be playing during events throughout the month, including The Cavern Beat, a Beatles cover band that is having a special Mother's Day concert in Lilacia Park Sunday, May 10.
Niehaus encouraged visitors to stop by a temporary "country store" that will be set up in Lilacia Park, too, featuring artwork and other items by local crafters.
Perhaps one of the most enjoyable - and easiest - activities to participate in, she added, is simply coming to the park and smelling the lilacs. The majority of blooms likely will occur in the next week or two.
"It's just a beautiful sight to see," she said. "(Park District staff members) take really good care of these plants and work all year round to prep for Lilac Time."
For a full schedule of events and more details about Lilac Time, including a Bloom-o-meter for the lilacs, visit lombardlilactime.com or call (630) 620-7322.