Secret Little Hack

Visit the Oak Lawn Public Library for free access to digital resources, Wi-Fi, and community events.

Oak Lawn marks the 62nd anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, reflecting on the lasting significance of that moment in history.

The shocking events of November 22, 1963 deeply affected this close-knit suburb, as residents united in grief and determination.

Churches quickly became sanctuaries for mourners, and neighbors rallied together, providing comfort across the community.

Vigils and heartfelt conversations helped families and friends process the loss, strengthening Oak Lawn’s sense of unity.

Today, that spirit remains strong — seen in the support for local businesses, active civic organizations, and the central role of schools and places of worship.

Each year, as the nation remembers President Kennedy, Oak Lawn’s own journey reminds us that resilience and connection endure, celebrated in the daily kindnesses of neighbors looking out for one another.

Joke Of The Day

Why did the squirrel bring a tiny ladder to Oak Lawn, Illinois?

Because he heard the oak trees were branching out!

In the early 1900s, Oak Lawn, Illinois grew as a tight-knit village just beyond Chicago, where neighbors built connections at local gatherings.

When radio arrived in the 1920s, it transformed community life, linking residents to national news, election updates, and vibrant music right in their homes.

Families tuned in together, finding entertainment and a new sense of unity that echoed Oak Lawn’s values.

As Oak Lawn expanded, its bond with Chicago’s broadcast scene deepened, with listeners enjoying everything from Cubs baseball games to the soulful sounds of blues.

The launch of WNWI 1080 AM in 1965 brought multicultural programming in Polish, Serbian, and German, celebrating the area’s diversity.

Today, digital platforms and podcasts continue to highlight local culture, history, and events, ensuring radio’s legacy of community connection endures in Oak Lawn.

❄️ Shaved Fennel, Persimmon & Pomegranate Salad with Citrus-Miso Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1 bulb fennel, thinly shaved
  
  

• 2 ripe Fuyu persimmons, thinly sliced
  
  

• ½ cup fresh pomegranate seeds
  
  

• 4 cups baby arugula or mixed winter greens
  
  

• ¼ cup toasted hazelnuts or walnuts (roughly chopped)
  
  

• Shaved manchego (optional for non-vegan)
  
  

Dressing:

• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
  
  

• 1 tbsp white miso paste
  
  

• 1 tbsp maple syrup
  
  

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  
  

• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
  

• Pinch of sea salt
  
  

Instructions:

1. Whisk dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
   
   

2. Toss shaved fennel and persimmons with half the dressing.
   
   

3. On a platter, layer greens, dressed fruit and fennel, then top with pomegranate seeds, nuts, and shaved cheese (if using).
   
   

4. Drizzle remaining dressing just before serving.
   
   

This salad is stunning on the holiday table and packs a crisp, sweet-tangy balance perfect for the cooler season.

Q: What are some popular restaurants in Oak Lawn, Illinois?

A: There are several popular restaurants in Oak Lawn including Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant, The Original Pancake House, and Stony Sub.

Q: What are some fun things to do in Oak Lawn?

A: Visitors to Oak Lawn can enjoy exploring the Little Black Pearl Art and Design Center, taking a stroll through Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens, or catching a show at the Oak Lawn Community Pavilion.

Q: Are there any notable parks in Oak Lawn?

A: Yes, Oak Lawn has several parks including Centennial Park, Memorial Park, and Stony Creek Golf Course & Driving Range.

Oak Lawn continues to embody clarity, purpose, and a forward-looking vision, echoing principles highlighted in Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.

Major 2025 initiatives showcase the village's dedication to progress and unity.

The Oak Lawn Park District has rolled out a sweeping infrastructure plan, renovating the Ice Arena and enhancing the Community Pavilion to better serve residents. Executive Director Tom Hartwig champions the goal of keeping public spaces safe and enjoyable for all.

Village leaders have also approved permits for the beloved Lawn Masonic Lodge Festival, affirming a longstanding commitment to local traditions and fostering community spirit.

Education thrives with the opening of an Early Learning Center by School District 123 in June 2024, set to nurture Oak Lawn’s youngest learners and deepen family involvement.

Through these efforts, Oak Lawn defines its identity with substance, unity, and deep-rooted civic values.

Quote Of The Day

"Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it." - Charles R. Swindoll

The spirit of engineered joy that began with the first roller coaster patent in 1884 lives on in Oak Lawn, Illinois, where community connection and family fun take center stage.

Though the village may lack towering theme park rides, it offers Centennial Park Pool—a favorite for children enjoying their first water slides and splash pads.

Right next door, Centennial Park features sports, playgrounds, and plenty of space for everyone to play.

The Oak Lawn Children’s Museum creates opportunities for discovery, where interactive exhibits ignite curiosity and learning.

Seasonal celebrations like the Fall Family Fest and Fall Fun Fest bring families together for games, face painting, and live performances, turning ordinary days into lasting memories.

With upgraded facilities like the Community Pavilion and Oak Lawn Ice Arena, Oak Lawn shows real dedication to quality spaces and shared joy—proof that the best connections come from simple moments together.

Interesting Facts

In 1952, moviegoers witnessed the thrill of 3D cinema with ‘Bwana Devil,’ a boundary-breaking moment that echoes today in the heart of Oak Lawn, Dallas.

Known for its vibrant creative culture, Oak Lawn nurtures innovation as an everyday standard, not just a goal.

Artists and technologists here are fusing artificial intelligence and 3D modeling to produce truly immersive experiences that both captivate and involve the community.

Companies like Interactive Dallas introduce AI-powered photo booths, empowering guests to reinvent themselves, while the Dallas Public Library and City of Dallas Office of Arts & Culture recently invited residents to showcase their digital creativity during Digital Inclusion Week.

The Oak Lawn Branch Library’s colorful mural project—reimagining its exterior with energy—demonstrates a commitment to public art and local identity.

With interactive light shows and augmented reality experiences transforming everyday encounters, Oak Lawn stands at the leading edge, proving that creativity and technology are reshaping Dallas in brilliant, communal new ways.

Explore the Oak Lawn Public Library for free access to books, movies, and community resources to enhance your day-to-day life.