Lake Forest Community News
This week's edition includes Updated Face Covering Guidance, COVID-19 Vaccines for Kids, Local Eagle Scout Constructs Flag Dedication Area, July 4th Festival and Fireworks, New Stories on Lake Forest Love, and more!
COVID-19 Updates
Updated Face Covering Guidance
Following guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), the City of Lake Forest will no longer require fully vaccinated people to wear face coverings in City facilities. Individuals who are not fully vaccinated should continue to wear a face covering in public settings when maintaining a six-foot distance from others is not practical. View the CDC’s guidance for vaccinated and unvaccinated people.

In alignment with federal and state guidance, face coverings continue to be required for all individuals regardless of vaccination status in health care settings, schools and daycare centers, congregate settings, and on public transportation. Businesses should follow current capacity limits and distancing guidelines provided in the state’s Bridge to Phase 5 plan.

Increased Vaccination Availability in Lake County
COVID-19 vaccinations are free and widely available through a variety of trusted providers, including the Lake County Health Department, local pharmacies, and healthcare providers. All individuals 12 years and older are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, and are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. Appointments may be scheduled through the Lake County AllVax portal. To find a vaccination site near you, click here.

School Spirit Day Vaccination Event
The Lake County Health Department invites youth ages 12 and older and their families to get their COVID-19 vaccine at School Spirit Day, on Sunday, May 23, 2021 from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm at the Lake County Fairgrounds. Show your school spirit by wearing school colors, athletic uniforms, or even prom attire for extra chances at raffle prizes. Schedule an appointment in the AllVax portal or just walk in.
Community Conversation About the COVID-19 Vaccine for Students 
Earlier this week Lake Forest Mayor George Pandaleon and Lake Forest Schools Interim Superintendent Dr. Connie Collins moderated a conversation about vaccinating students with with Pediatrician Dr. Michael Bauer of Northwestern Medicine. Dr. Bauer answered questions parents submitted in advance regarding the COVID-19 vaccine and students. If you missed it live, watch the video here.
Eagle Scout Constructs Flag Retirement Area
On Thursday, May 20, local Eagle Scout Adam Tjarksen conducted the inaugural flag retirement ceremony in the fire box he constructed as part of his Eagle Scout Service Project at the City's Public Safety Building. Boy Scout Troop 48, American Legion representatives, Mayor George Pandaleon, Fire Chief Siebert, City staff including fire fighters and police officers, and others from the community joined the gathering. The flag retirement area provides a respectful receptacle in which to burn retired flags.
CROYA Celebrates 40(+1) Years
Come celebrate CROYA's 40th (+1) Anniversary on Sunday, June 6 from 5-9 pm. at the CROYA Student Union (400 Hastings Rd). This festival will celebrate everything CROYA featuring live music from CROYA alum and current youth, lots of great food, and fun for all. RSVP Today!

Also, join CROYA for a Mural Dedication on Wednesday, May 26 from 4:30-5 pm at the intersection of Illinois Rd and McKinley Rd. Hear the story behind the "U BELONG" mural by Tommy Quinn.
July 4th Festival & Fireworks is back!
Spend your Fourth of July holiday under the stars at the 14th Annual Lake Forest Festival and Fireworks on Sunday, July 4, 2021 at Deerpath Community Park. 

This year’s music lineup includes headliner 16 Candles and opener Hello Weekend. After the show, enjoy the greatest fireworks display on the North Shore set to an amazing playlist of patriotic music. Gates open at 5 pm and the fireworks will begin at approximately 9:40 pm. 

Purchase tickets online starting May 25 at 8am. Buy your tickets early, space is limited. This fun family event is brought to you by the Friends of Lake Forest Parks and Recreation Foundation. Find more info here.
Visit the Lake Forest Station Pop-Up Shop
The Friends of Lake Forest Library will have its book drive at the Lake Forest Station Pop-Up Shop this Saturday, May 22. Stop by to grab some graduation gifts, as well as table setting florals and candles for parties!

The Shop is open every Thursday-Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm until June 19. Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Instagram for store hours and to see the unique gifts.
New Stories on Lake Forest Love
This week on Lake Forest Love - John Sentell answers questions about the Lake Forest Open Lands Association's project to open its first preserve by Lake Michigan!

Lake Forest Love is a blog of the City of Lake Forest that tells the wonderful stories of the people and organizations in the community we love and call home.
Are you interested in having Lake Forest Love in your inbox? Subscribe to the Lake Forest Love newsletter to stay informed of popular stories and content - we look forward to launching this Summer!
Introducing LFLB@Work
Looking for a full or part-time job, internship, project or volunteer opportunity in the Lake Forest and Lake Bluff area? Then the new Facebook Group LFLB@Work is your source! Hosted by the LF/LB Chamber of Commerce, the group is all about the Power of Connection within our community – the goal is to connect residents of all ages with opportunities and our businesses and nonprofits with assistance. Check it out!
Rosati's Pizza Opens in Lake Forest
Welcome to the neighborhood, Rosati's Pizza! This family owned-franchise location is thrilled to open its new location at 630 Western Avenue.
Upcoming City Meetings

  • Zoning Board of Appeals on Monday, May 24 at 6:30 pm

Click here for agendas, minutes, packets and videos. Meetings are held remotely unless noted.
Local COVID Resources


State/Federal COVID Resources

The City of Lake Forest, Illinois | Website