It doesn’t get much better than this. Put on your most comfy pajamas, step out with some friends, shop till you drop, and enjoy refreshments along the way. Add the fact that proceeds from the evening benefit a local fundraiser, and it’s almost too good to believe.

But such was the case on June 12 as the Western Springs Business Association hosted its first pajama night. From 7 to 10 p.m., local participating shops and businesses remained open, offering special promotions and, in some cases, serving wine and cheese and other refreshments. Many merchants and shoppers alike sported their favorite pajamas. Ten percent of proceeds generated that evening went to benefit restoration of the Ekdahl House by the Western Springs Historical Society.

The Ekdahl House, which for many years was the beloved Spaghetti Bowl, was built in 1887 by an early settler of the area. Although the building has historical significance, it was slated for demolition, according to Kimberly Knake, president of the Western Springs Historical Society. Because of the cooperation and support of many, the building was moved from its original location on Burlington Avenue to its new home at 4353 S. Wolf Road. There, the building will be restored and maintained as a museum by the Western Springs Historical Society. Pajama Night was a major official fundraiser to support this project.

Knake said that it was a night of great fun.

“Many residents came downtown for the event,” she said.

While there was no official red carpet, fashion was certainly of great importance.

“Everyone in one of the stores wore matching pajamas,” Knake said. “Some people had wild underwear, and there were a lot of little kid pajamas with fuzzy slippers. It was really fun.”

Knake said that people visited with each other while enjoying the many shops that the Village has to offer.

“It was great for the townspeople who maybe hadn’t been in the new stores downtown yet,” she said.

Knake said that the Western Springs Historical Society took the opportunity to sell bricks, T-shirts and note cards, the proceeds of which all support the museum. Bricks are engraved with the name of the donor and will line the sidewalk leading up to the museum. Note cards of the Ekdahl House were designed by Western Springs resident and artist Peggy Taylor.

“They’re beautiful,” Knake said.

Special T-shirts were also created. Bricks, T-shirts and note cards continue to be available at the Water Tower Museum or by calling the Western Springs Historical Society.

Final numbers for proceeds are not yet in but Knake believes the event was a success. Most importantly, however, she said, “We are just so honored that the Western Springs Business Association supported this. It’s just wonderful. Aside from the money, having the support of the community just meant so much to the Historical Society.”

For further information on the Western Springs Historical Society or to order bricks, note cards or T-shirts, call (630) 246-9230.

Please send Western Springs/Indian Head Park story ideas to wendymfoster@comcast.net.