Tom's Place 100-Year Celebration Planned Saturday

LEMONT, IL — Tom's Place in downtown Lemont will celebrate 100 years in business with a celebration on Aug. 10. From 4 to 10 p.m., there will be a block party on Stephen Street in front of the tavern featuring live music, food, giveaways and more.

The business reminded patrons on its Facebook that it only takes cash, so to come prepared.

Tom's Place was founded in 1924 by Thomas Laketa. According to a release from Heritage Corridor Destinations, Laketa paid $250 for a small bar at 105 Stephen St., directly across the street from the current location.

The tavern moved to its current location at 110 Stephen Street in 1948 and has remained in the Laketa family for ten decades. Thomas' grandson, Mark Laketa, currently owns and operates the bar.

Tom's Place is known for its neon sign on the front of the building which includes "Drink Blatz Beer" in blue and in green neon "Tom's Place", a release states. The interior is decorated with nostalgic photos and much of the interior remains intact from its original construction.

The free event will include a music line-up of:

• 4 to 5 p.m., "The M 80's"
• 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Good Jim & Kelly
• 7 to 8 p.m., "Onoleigh"
• 8:30 to 9:30 p.m., Ryan Jesse