The Grove project, Makers Market and library meetings lead Bloomingdale news

The Grove project keeps moving

Work at the former Stratford Square Mall site continues to set the tone for Bloomingdale’s economic future. With demolition now complete, the Village is steering infrastructure work and inviting residents to follow regular updates on The Grove, a new mixed‑use district planned for the property.

Plans call for lakeside dining, a central event lawn, walking paths and new housing, all designed to shift the old mall footprint into a walkable town center. The first confirmed anchor, Bloomingdale Yard, is a 100,000‑square‑foot indoor sports and family recreation complex that is expected to break ground this spring and open in 2027, drawing an estimated quarter‑million visits a year.

Makers Market sets 2026 dates

Local small businesses are already circling their calendars. Organizers of the Bloomingdale Maker’s Market have posted the full 2026 schedule, with markets set for May 31, June 28, July 26, August 30, September 27, October 25, November 29 and December 20.

The market, launched during 2020 as a safe outdoor option, has grown into a regional draw, typically hosting 60 to 90 makers, food trucks and live music. Most events will again take place in the Old Town Bloomingdale parking lot across from the post office, with late‑season dates moving indoors to Bloomingdale Park District space. It remains free to attend, offering a low‑cost way to support homegrown vendors.

On the Village calendar this month, a smaller “mini” makers event hosted by a local pet bakery helped preview the coming season, while a “Love Our Vets” collection drive will continue through February 27, giving residents a chance to donate items for veterans’ groups.

Library planning sessions and creative space today

At the Bloomingdale Public Library, today is largely about planning and projects. Trustees are holding an annual board planning meeting this morning, followed by a personnel subcommittee session late in the morning, both at the library.

For patrons, the makerspace will be open from noon to 4 p.m. for drop‑in use by cardholders ages 12 and up. The space offers equipment such as 3D printers and crafting tools, giving residents a chance to prototype ideas, learn new skills or simply work on personal projects during open hours.

Between the progress at The Grove, a full season of markets and accessible creative spaces, Bloomingdale’s weekend news is heavy on community‑building rather than crisis — a welcome way to start February.

Sources

• https://www.villageofbloomingdale.org/1/Home
• https://www.villageofbloomingdale.org/909/The-Grove
• https://www.thegrovebloomingdale.com/
• https://www.bloomingdalemakersmarket.com/
• https://bloomingdale.librarycalendar.com/events/list
• https://chicago.suntimes.com/real-estate/2026/01/10/bloomingdale-grove-redevelopment-stratford-square-mall