Mayor’s Message November 6, 2026

Dear Residents,

Halloween is over but this does not mean the fun has to stop.

We’re excited to welcome the community back tomorrow for our 2nd Annual Pumpkin Smash at the South Barrington Conservancy! What began last year as a fun fall activity has become an opportunity to bring our community together while making a positive impact on the environment.

The inspiration for this event came from SCARCE, an organization dedicated to educating communities about environmental preservation and showing how simple actions can make a meaningful difference.

When we learned about their Pumpkin Smash initiative, we knew it was something we wanted to bring to South Barrington. It’s a wonderful way to combine education, community involvement, and a little fall fun!

Bring your pumpkins (with all decorations removed; acrylic paint is okay!) and join us anytime between 9:30 AM and 12:00 PM to smash or toss them for composting. Goebbert’s will be joining us, selling their delicious apple cider donuts, hot apple cider, and coffee. They’ll also be bringing their famous Candy Cannon for one final fall hurrah! The cannon is scheduled to go off around 11:00 AM, so be sure to stick around!

Additionally, the East Dundee Fire Protection District and Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District will be bringing fire equipment and giving attendees an opportunity to meet some of our local heroes.

Thank you to SCARCE, Goebbert’s, our local fire districts, and everyone who helped make this event possible. We will see you tomorrow!

Smash Site Prep was underway today! Thanks to Goebbert’s for your donation of extra Pumpkins for smashing and hay bails!

THANK YOU VETERANS

As we approach Veterans Day, we pause to recognize and honor the brave men and women who have served our country. Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to protecting our freedoms have helped shape the nation we are proud to call home.

We are especially proud to recognize the veterans who call South Barrington home. You are our neighbors, friends, and fellow community members, and we are grateful for the sacrifices you and your families have made in service to our country. Your stories, experiences, and continued contributions are an important part of what makes our community special.

As we continue to grow and strengthen our local veteran community, we encourage all South Barrington veterans to consider registering with the Village. While participation is completely voluntary, registering helps us build connections among those who have served, create opportunities for recognition, and find meaningful ways to celebrate and honor the hometown heroes who call South Barrington home throughout the year.
REGISTER YOUR VETERAN STATUS

To all who have worn the uniform, thank you for your service, your courage, and your dedication. Your sacrifices will never be forgotten.

DEAD TREE REMOVAL BEGINNING NOVEMBER 9TH
Beginning next week, the Village will start removing previously identified dead parkway trees throughout the community. The work will include tree removal, stump grinding, and restoration, with all three steps anticipated to be completed within the same week.

Residents with questions about the removal process may contact Ryan Murphy at rmurphy@southbarrington.org.

ARGONNE LECTURE SERIES

Argonne National Laboratory invites you to attend its OutLoud Lecture Series: The Future Starts Now – Early-Career Scientists at Argonne on Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 7:15 PM.

Learn more about the innovative research, ideas, and discoveries shaping our future as early-career scientists share their work and perspectives. Residents have the opportunity to participate either in person or virtually.

Please see the information below for additional event details and registration opportunities.

BARRINGTON GIVING DAY RED BOX
One of my favorite holiday traditions in South Barrington is being an official Red Box Donation Site in conjunction with Barrington Giving Day.

While the donation box says now through November 26th, we have extended it passed Thanksgiving and will accept donations through November 30th, community members are invited to drop off donations in the red collection box located inside Village Hall. From warm winter essentials to toys for kids – every contribution makes a real difference in the lives of those in need.

Items Needed Include:

• Coats and snow pants
• Winter boots, hats, and gloves
• New toys and books for all ages (this year squishies are all the rage)
• Bedding and blankets
• Diapers and baby wipes
• And other essential items for local families

Donation Location: Village Hall, Red Donation Box inside
Drop-Off Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM

Let’s make this year the best year yet. Please consider making a donation.

ARBORETUM TREE LIGHTING 
Kick off the Holidays with a parade and live entertainment and, of course, Santa on Saturday, November 14, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, at the Arboretum of South Barrington!

Families are invited to enjoy an evening of holiday magic featuring dazzling lights, live entertainment, festive activities, and the spectacular 52-foot Christmas tree, complete with a state-of-the-art light and music show.

The celebration kicks off at 5:00 PM with the Holiday Parade, featuring Santa, dancing elves, stilt walkers, the Gingerbread Man, and other holiday favorites. Throughout the evening, guests can enjoy live performances, balloon artists, face painting, strolling magicians, holiday character meet-and-greets, and a festive dance party hosted by Tina Bree from Star 105.5.

Visitors can also warm up with Georgio’s signature hot chocolate, enjoy holiday treats, and explore The Arboretum’s shops and restaurants.

The Village of South Barrington is proud to sponsor this community celebration alongside Rickey Rockets Fuel Centers and Goldrush Gaming.

Bring your family and friends and kick off the holiday season with a festive evening of music, food, and Christmas magic!

As always, I am here to listen to your thoughts and concerns. Feel free to email me at pmccombie@southbarrington.org, or use the anonymous comment boxes located in the lobbies of Village Hall and the Police Department. I review these messages privately and value your input.

Have an enjoyable weekend!

Paula McCombie, Mayor