Food trucks, live music and a 50/50 raffle roll into downtown Lombard on Saturday, Sept. 5, when the Lombard Historical Society hosts its 5th Annual Food Truck Social on Maple Street.
The event runs 4 to 9 p.m. at 23 W. Maple St., the society's home base. This year's edition carries an America 250 theme, tying the block party to the nation's 250th anniversary. It is the society's largest annual fundraiser, with proceeds supporting its mission to preserve and share Lombard history. The event is co-produced with Brew Avenue Events.
Executive director Alison Costanzo has pitched the society's programming as something neighbors shouldn't overlook. "There is a lot to come and see at a local museum … It is in your backyard," Costanzo said in a July 17 Shaw Local profile of the society's Civil War exhibit. "You go on vacation and visit museums, but sometimes you don't think about visiting ones in your backyard."
What to expect
Confirmed food trucks include The Happy Lobster and Buddy Mac & Funnel Cake Truck, with more vendors to be announced. Live music comes from Tautologic and the Southside Blues Brothers Tribute Band.
For families, a Red, White & Bluey Meet and Greet runs from 4 to 6 p.m. Kids can also hit up face painting, bubbles and a new addition this year: Hoops Chicago's arcade experience featuring four basketball games.
The 50/50 Split the Pot Raffle drawing takes place during the event. The winner does not need to be present. Last year's winner took home more than $3,000.
Tickets and details
Day-of admission is $10 per person; children 12 and under get in free. The first 150 early-bird buyers save $3 and pay no ticketing fees, according to the event listing on Patch.
Attendees can also explore the society's "Power of Place: America 250 Outdoor Art Installation," a communitywide exhibit on view at Lilacia Park and the Maple Street campus through Sept. 6. The installation, presented with the Lombard Park District and the Village of Lombard, wraps up its final weekend the same day as the Food Truck Social. A related Carriage House exhibition continues through Dec. 23.
The society encourages visitors to download the Historic Downtown Lombard app for self-guided historic tours of the area.
Upcoming community events
- Sept. 5 — 5th Annual Food Truck Social, 4–9 p.m., 23 W. Maple St., Lombard. $10 admission; kids 12 and under free.
- Through Sept. 6 — "Power of Place" outdoor art installation, Lilacia Park and Lombard Historical Society.
- Through Dec. 23 — "Power of Place" Carriage House exhibition, 23 W. Maple St., Lombard.
