First-Ever End Of Summer Party At The Shops At Elm Place Happening Next Month

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — The Shops on Elm Place in downtown Highland Park is hosting its first-ever "End of Summer Party" next month,with family activities in the afternoon and an adults-only after-party in the evening.

The free event will run from 3 to 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 26 and is being hosted by businesses at the shopping center. The celebration will include a live DJ and dancing, food, family-friendly activities and prize giveaways. The evening will continue from 6 to 8 p.m. with an adults-only after-party hosted by ABC Design Jewelers and supported by Gabby & Summer Classics, with bites and beverages.

The party is also tied to milestone anniversaries for several businesses, including 10 years for Gilbert Orthodontics and five years for ABC Design Jewelers. The event is designed to bring the community together while highlighting the businesses at The Shops on Elm Place as a local destination.

“As I was planning Gilbert Orthodontics’ 10-year anniversary, I realized it was an opportunity to celebrate not only our milestone, but also the businesses that make The Shops on Elm Place such a special destination in downtown Highland Park,” said Josh Gilbert, owner of Gilbert Orthodontics. “Bringing everyone together for an end-of-summer party felt like a great way to thank our patients and celebrate our shopping center community.”

Attendees can expect free activities including a bounce house, face painting, balloon art and free samples from The BBQ Pit. Visitors will also be able to check out familiar businesses such as The BBQ Pit and Love’s Yogurt, along with other shops and services at the center including ABC Design Jewelers, Joan Barry Hair Designers, The Custom Framer and TREVI Longevity & Aesthetics Institute.

Participating businesses are also planning their own activities during the event. Gilbert Orthodontics will offer complimentary digital scans, prize giveaways and discounts on orthodontic treatment. ABC Design Jewelers plans complimentary jewelry cleaning, ear piercing, a diamond stud special on new purchases and a children’s jewelry trunk show before its evening after-party.

Other planned activities include temporary hair color spray from Joan Barry Hair Designers, sidewalk chalking from Love’s Yogurt, circus games from My Sister’s Circus, group class giveaways from Studio Lagree and a selfie station from The Custom Framer. TREVI Longevity & Aesthetics Institute is also expected to offer free B-12 shots, IV bags and hydrating snacks.

Admission is free and open to the public. Additional event details and activity announcements will be shared by participating businesses and community channels as the date approaches.