LOMBARD | Lilac Time in Lombard 2025: Your Guide to the Best Flower Festival in Illinois
- Glancer Magazine
- 5 hours ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 6 minutes ago

Welcome to Lilac Time in Lombard 2025 - Your Ultimate Festival Guide
Discover Lilac Time in Lombard, Illinois! Enjoy fragrant lilacs, guided tours, live music, and the Lilac Parade. Plan your visit from May 3–18, 2025.
Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes one of Illinois’ most breathtaking traditions: Lilac Time in Lombard. This annual festival, held in the charming village of Lombard, celebrates the beauty and fragrance of lilacs while offering a variety of fun activities for all ages. Whether you’re a flower enthusiast, a festival-goer, or a local family looking for a memorable outing, Lilac Time is an event you don’t want to miss.
From May 3–18, 2025, Lilacia Park, the heart of the festival, will transform into a vibrant display of lilac blooms, welcoming everyone to indulge in a celebration of nature, community, and art.
Join us as we explore the history of this cherished event, highlight its main attractions, and share everything you need to know to plan your visit.
A Brief History of Lilac Time
The roots of Lilac Time date back to 1927 when Colonel William R. Plum donated Lilacia Park and its iconic lilac collection to the village of Lombard. His vision was to create a public space that captured the stunning beauty of lilacs and allowed the community to enjoy it together.
Over the decades, what started as a simple celebration of flowers has grown into Lombard’s signature event, attracting visitors from across Illinois and beyond. Each spring, Lilacia Park features more than 700 lilacs and 25,000 colorful tulips, becoming a vibrant hub for family-friendly activities, local traditions, and a true festival of sights and scents.

Festival Highlights
Lilac Time offers something for everyone, from horticulture lovers to festival enthusiasts. Here are the must-see events and attractions that await at this year’s celebration:
1. Lilacia Park’s Bloom-O-Meter
One of the most iconic features of Lilac Time is the Bloom-O-Meter! Updated regularly, it tracks the progress of lilac blooms in real-time, so you’ll know exactly when to visit for peak beauty. Follow the updates on social media to plan your visit wisely.
2. Guided Tours and Tasting Events
Enhance your park experience by joining one of the expert-led tours of Lilacia Park. Learn about the history, care, and varieties of lilacs while strolling through a fragrant wonderland. For something extra special, don’t miss exclusive tasting events that pair gorgeous views with local wines.
3. The Country Store
Stop by the Lilac Time Country Store to browse unique lilac-themed merchandise, from scented candles to home décor. Open daily, the Country Store is a great place to pick up a souvenir or a thoughtful gift for someone special.
4. Lombard Park District Plant Sale
Get inspired to bring a touch of Lilac Time to your home by visiting the Plant Sale on May 8 and 9 at the Garden Shed. Shop a wide selection of perennials, succulents, and hanging baskets, and add a bit of Lombard’s floral charm to your backyard.
5. Family Fun Activities
Lilac Time is perfect for families! Enjoy live music, kid-friendly crafts, and interactive workshops that will keep the little ones entertained.
6. The Lilac Parade
The festival wraps up with the highly anticipated Lilac Parade, complete with spectacular floats, lively marching bands, and more. This community-focused tradition is the perfect way to close out the celebration.
For a full list of events and times, check out the Lilac Time Event Calendar.
Plan Your Visit
Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your time at Lilac Time in Lombard.
Dates: May 3–18, 2025
Location: Lilacia Park (150 S. Park Ave., Lombard, IL 60148)
Hours: Daily from dawn to dusk (free entry)
Parking: Ample parking is available near Lilacia Park. Arrive early to secure a spot during peak hours.
Don’t forget comfortable footwear, sunscreen, and a camera to capture all the Instagram-worthy moments among the lilacs!
More Things to Do in Lombard
While visiting Lombard for Lilac Time, why not explore other attractions in the area? Here are our top picks for a memorable day out in “The Lilac Village”:
Yorktown Shopping Center: A shopper’s paradise with everything from high-end stores to charming boutiques.
Paradise Bay Water Park (seasonal): A perfect spot for families to relax and cool off during your visit.
Maple Street Chapel: Take a step back in time and visit this historic 19th-century church, a landmark of Lombard’s heritage.
Great Dining Spots: Known for its cozy cafes and diverse dining, Lombard boasts a variety of options, from artisanal pizza to authentic international cuisine.
Experience the Magic of Lilac Time
Lilac Time in Lombard is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of our collective love for nature, flowers, and community. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, the vibrant blooms and bustling activities will remind you why this event is so special.
Mark your calendars now and bring your family, friends, or even solo curiosity to Lilacia Park between May 3–18, 2025, for vibrant lilacs, unmissable events, and lasting memories.
For more details and updates, visit the official Lilac Time website at lombardlilactime.com. We look forward to seeing you there!