Special Winter Events
Santa's Rock N Lights
LOCATION: Kane County Cougars, 34W002 Cherry Lane, Geneva
DATES: November 22 thru December 31, 2024 (times vary by day, please check website)
DETAILS: Chicago’s drive-thru has the largest variety of displays including color-changing light technology, larger-than-life light sculptures, and traditional lights! Must purchase tickets online. No onsite tickets. No cash accepted.
FEE: 29.99 to 36.99/Vehicle with up to 6 people$6.99 extra per person over 6 people
*Processing fee applies
*Tickets are valid for one use and all sales are final.
Geneva
Big & Bright Trail of Lights
LOCATION: Sony Acres Farm, 29W310 North Avenue, West Chicago
DATES: November 22 thru December 30, 2024 from 5pm - 9pm
DETAILS: Immerse yourself in holiday magic at Sonny Acres Farm! From November 22 to December 30, enjoy the "Big & Bright Trail of Lights"—a breathtaking, mile-long trail illuminated by millions of holiday lights and festive displays.
Beginning November 29 and running through December 22, Photos with Santa are available on select times Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays by appointment—perfect for creating a professional holiday keepsake.
PLEASE NOTE: Tickets for the Holiday Light Show and photos with Santa are sold separately!
On select dates, visit our free holiday market featuring unique gifts from over 20 local artisans. Fresh-cut Christmas trees and handmade wreaths are available throughout the season.
FEE: Prices starting at $12
West Chicago
Breakfast with Santa
LOCATION: Courtyard Banquets, Warrenville
DATE: December 7, 2024 from 8:30-10:30am
DETAILS: Santa Claus is coming to town, and he's stopping by for a jolly breakfast and a merry morning of festive fun! We will enjoy a breakfast buffet at Courtyard Banquets, visit with Santa, crafts, musical entertainment, basket raffles and a letters to Santa station. Seating is limited, so be sure to make your reservations early! Children must be accompanied by an adult and everyone attending must register.
FEE: Ages 2 & Under are FREE
Ages 3-10 $19 Resident/$19 Non-Resident
Ages 11+ $27 Residents/$32 Non-Residents
Warrenville
Splashing with Santa
LOCATION: Vaughan Athletic Center, Aurora
DATE: December 14, 2024 from 9am-11am
DETAILS: Splashing with Santa is guaranteed to be a one of a kind experience! Families will enjoy swimming and splashing in the Leisure Pool and watch as Santa makes his grand exit via the water slide! Santa’s elves will be on site helping children make holiday themed craft. Refreshments will be available.
All Ticket Sales are final and nonrefundable. Children under 2 years old (1 or younger) are free. All other participants age 2 or older (including adults) must purchase a ticket to enter the event. Ages under 12 years old must have a companion of 16 years or older.
FEE: Early Bird $13 Resident/$15 Non-Resident, Day of $15 Resident/$17 Non-Resident
Aurora
Flashlight Candy Cane Hike
LOCATION: Hickory Knolls Discovery Center, 3795 Campton Hills Dr, St. Charles
DATE: December 13, 2024 4:30pm - 7:30pm
DETAILS: Explore the woods and prairie on a winter’s eve. Take a hike along a candy cane decorated path as you solve a puzzle to receive a goody bag! Then head inside Hickory Knolls for warm beverages and a make & take craft. This activity will be held at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center.
FEE: $12/person ages 2+
St. Charles
Woodland Santa Holiday Workshop
LOCATION: Hickory Knolls Discovery Center, 3795 Campton Hills Dr, St. Charles
DATE: December 1, 2024 at 10am
DETAILS: Watch Santa arrive pulled by his dashing huskies, and then spend some time helping him get ready for his Big Day. Write a letter to Santa. Make an ornament. Have your picture taken with the Big Guy himself! Santa arrives at 10:15am. For ages 2+. This activity will be held at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center.
FEE: $12/person ages 2+
St. Charles
Christkindlmarket
LOCATION: RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora
DATES: November 22 - December 24, 2024
DETAILS: The Christkindlmarket Chicago is the most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe, offering a unique shopping experience, family-friendly events & intercultural activities.
HOURS:
Christkindlmarket Aurora is open Thursdays to Sundays*
Thursday: 11 am – 7 pm
Friday through Saturday: 11 am – 9 pm
Sunday: 11 am – 6 pm
*See below for special hours
Special Opening Hours:
Thanksgiving (November 28): 11 am – 4 pm
December 16 through December 18: 11 am – 7 pm
December 23: 11 am – 7 pm
Christmas Eve (December 24): 11 am – 4 pm
Aurora
Lightscape
LOCATION: Chicago Botanic Gardens, 1000 County Line Road, Glencoe
DATES: November 15-17, 20-30, December 1, 4-8, 10-15, 17-23, 26-31, 2024 & January 1-5, 2025
DETAILS: Make lasting memories at Lightscape! This popular holiday event sells out each year, so purchase tickets now to secure your preferred date. This year’s illuminated trail for enchanting winter nights created just for the Garden will include an all-new path filled with transformed vistas and dazzling installations debuting in the U.S. for the first time, along with top-requested classics like the Winter Cathedral. Lightscape opens on Friday, November 15 and runs during select dates through Sunday, January 5, 2025.
FEE: Prices vary from advance, day of and member/non-member
2 & Under are FREE
Children 3-12 years $17-$24
Adults #32-$39
Glencoe
Christmas Walk
LOCATION: Downtown Geneva
DATE: December 6, 2024 at 6pm
DETAILS: Tis the season to be jolly… especially in downtown Geneva! Our annual Christmas festival will begin Friday, December 1st at 6 pm with the first candy cane of the season being presented to the mayor, the arrival of Santa Lucia who lights the Great Tree, and the highly anticipated arrival of Santa Claus. The evening’s events continue with roasted chestnuts, strolling carolers, a live nativity and special offerings from Geneva merchants.
FEE: FREE
Geneva
Woodland Santa Holiday Workshop
LOCATION: Hickory Knolls, Discovery Center, 3795 Campton Hills Road, St. Charles
DATE: December 1, 2024 @ 10am
DETAILS: Watch Santa arrive pulled by his dashing huskies, and then spend some time helping him get ready for his Big Day. Write a letter to Santa. Make an ornament. Have your picture taken with the Big Guy himself! Santa arrives at 10:15am. For ages 2+. This activity will be held at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center.
FEE: $18 per person
St. Charles
Stroll to the North Pole
LOCATION: Pottawatomie Community Center, 8 North Avenue, St. Charles
DATE: December 14, 2024 @ 11am, 12pm, 1pm & 2pm
DETAILS: The magic begins when you take a leisurely stroll through Candy Cane Lane into the park's winter wonderland of whimsical decorations and elf interactions. Enjoy a hot cup of cocoa, visit several creation stations and listen to the reading of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Take a selfie with Santa (elves on site to assist). Jingle your way over to Mrs. Claus’ sweet shop to indulge in a festive treat. Dress for the weather. All ages welcome. This activity begins in Pottawatomie Community Center.
FEE: $20/person & Kids 1 and under FREE!
St. Charles
Dinner with The Grinch
LOCATION: Baker Community Center, St. Charles
DATES: December 18, 2024 @6pm
DETAILS: Create magical memories with the WHO-liday’s most lovable villain. Smiles, mischief and laughter guaranteed! Decorate your very own miniature Christmas tree. Enjoy a delightful dinner of pizza, salad, grinch snacks and more. Bring your camera for Grinch selfies. Be warned: Your heart might just grow 3 sizes! All ages welcome.
FEE: $35 per person
St. Charles
Holiday Movie Night: The Polar Express
LOCATION: Playhouse 38, Geneva
DATE: December 20, 2024 @6:30pm
DETAILS: Join us for a special night of holiday magic as we watch The Polar Express on the big screen! Each child will also receive a Golden Ticket! Hot chocolate will be served, and additional snacks and non-alcoholic & alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.
FEE: $15/person
Geneva
Breakfast with Santa at Drury Lane
LOCATION: Drury Lane, Oak Brook
DATE: November 29 & 30, December 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21, 2024 @10am
DETAILS: Our Dining with Santa tradition continues. Before the curtain rises, or after the final bow, create memories during Breakfast with Santa, featuring a buffet of timeless favorites of the past, capture moments of the present in photographs with Santa and Drury Lane’s majestic Christmas Tree, and look forward to new memories in the upcoming seasons.
FEE: Adults $45/person & kids 5-12 $30/person
Oak Brook
Breakfast with Santa
LOCATION: PARC, Plainfield
DATE: December 7, 2024 9am or 10:30am timeslots
DETAILS: Santa is making a special stop at the Plainfield Park District to have breakfast with all the good children! Each participant receives a breakfast ticket, one-on-one visit with Santa, and a goodie bag! Don't forget your camera to capture your meeting with Santa! Each participant must be registered. Do NOT register children younger than 2 years old. Participants are also welcome to take photos inside the magical snow globe, presented by the Friends of the Plainfield Park District Foundation!
Each parent, child, and any additional guest must be registered. Do NOT register children younger than 2 years old.
FEE: $16 Residents/$20 Non-Residents
Plainfield
Breakfast and Lunch with Santa
LOCATION: Village Squire, 480 Randall Road, South Elgin
DATE: November 23, 2024
DETAILS:
Breakfast with Santa:
Saturday, November 23, 2024 • 9-10:30am
Join us for Breakfast with Santa!! We will serve pancakes, eggs, bacon and a beverage. Plus crafts, coloring reindeer food, and of course a visit from Santa! Everyone will have individual time to visit with Santa and a photo op. KM Parents: Please bring your own camera, pictures are not provided.
FEE: $17 R/$25 NR
Section #: 33603-01 To register, click here.
Lunch with Santa:
Saturday, November 23, 2024 • 11:30am-1pm
Join us for Lunch with Santa. Bring down the family and hang out with the big guy himself. Meals are as follows: Kids: Cheeseburger or Chicken Fingers; Adults: Cheeseburger or Chicken Sandwich. All meals will include fries and a beverage. Don’t forget about the individual time every child will get with Santa and of course crafts, coloring and reindeer food. KM Parents: Please bring your own camera, pictures are not provided.
FEE: Child $17 R/$25 NR
Adults $23 R/$29 NR
Section #: 33601-01 To register, click here.
South Elgin
Grinchmas on the Green
LOCATION: Village Green, Chicago Street, Plainfield
DATE: November 30, 2024, 4:30pm - 7:30pm
DETAILS: Celebrate the season and experience Village Green aglow with holiday lights and sights at the annual Grinchmas on the Green November 30.
Schedule:
4:30PM – Free hot cocoa & cookies (while supplies last) under the pavilion
5PM – Santa and the Grinch arrive with transportation provided by the Plainfield Fire Protection District.
5:15PM – Santa and the Grinch light up the giant Village Green Christmas tree
5:30PM – Photo opportunities with Santa and the Grinch in Whoville (tennis court)
FEE: FREE!
Plainfield
An Almost Winter Day
LOCATION: SEBA Park, 151 Water Street, South Elgin
DATE: November 23, 2024 from 2-5pm
DETAILS:
Join South Elgin Parks and Recreation for the 23rd annual An Almost Winter Day at South Elgin's SEBA Park, 151 Water Street, Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 2-5pm. Make s'mores, decorate cookies, enjoy craft projects, get a balloon animal, drop-off a letter to Santa (and get a reply from the North Pole). The afternoon includes an ice sculptor, bonfire, a tree decorating contest and snowball slingshot fun. NEW THIS YEAR - dog sled demos by Free Spirit Siberian Rescue! Plus...Santa arrives at 2pm and will stay until 4:45 for pictures (bring your camera). At 5pm, the event shifts to Panton Mill Park across the street for the Village Tree lighting. *note: concessions available at affordable prices
Parking is available in the North lot, Panton Mill, County Park, and Willard School parking lot.
FEE: FREE
South Elgin
Oswego Holiday Express
LOCATION: 810 Prescott Lane, Oswego
DATES: December 13-15, 2024
DETAILS: Join us for a beloved holiday tradition! Dress in your coziest pajamas and warmest clothes, and embark on a magical journey to the top of the world. Mrs. Claus will welcome you, you’ll savor hot cocoa from the Village Grind, and you’ll have the chance to meet Santa! Registration is required for all participants, from Grandma to the baby. Holiday shuttles depart every 20 minutes during your registered session. Please note, there are no refunds for the event after December 1.
Wheelchair-accessible shuttles are available only on Friday evenings.
FEE: $25 Resdients/$35 Non-Residents
Oswego
Woodridge Winterfest 2024
LOCATION: 5 Plaza Drive, Woodridge
DATE: November 23, 2024 from 4:30-9:30pm
DETAILS: Join The Village of Woodridge, Curated Collections Events, the Woodridge Public Library, the Woodridge Park District, and the Woodridge Special Events Committee for a spectacular evening featuring:
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A dazzling tree-lighting ceremony with a 20 Ft. Christmas tree
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Photos with Santa
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A vibrant maker’s market showcasing over 20 local vendors selling a variety of handcrafted/sourced goods
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Delicious offerings from food trucks
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Festive holiday music
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A children’s craft area
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Meet-and-greet opportunities with beloved characters like Anna and Elsa from Frozen and Rudolph!
FEE: FREE
Woodridge
A Very Taylor Christmas
LOCATION: Cantigny Park, Wheaton
DATES: Sundays starting November 24, 2024 - January 5, 2025 from 5-9pm
DETAILS:
Explore a dazzling array of experiences as you stroll through a ½-mile, fully ADA- and stroller-accessible path. Along the way, music-orchestrated light shows, festive decorations, larger-than-life flower sculptures, and a towering 28-foot Christmas tree will enchant you.
You can also step inside the beautifully adorned McCormick House, a unique opportunity to explore this historically preserved home, blending history with holiday charm for a special addition to your visit.
Historic Splendor and a Hidden Bar
The beautifully renovated McCormick House is open again this season, with even more rooms adorned in festive splendor. Take in the display of hundreds of iconic Cantigny poinsettias and enjoy a moment together at the hidden bar, where you can sip hot cocoa or a festive cocktail.
Savor the moments
Cantigny’s holiday light show sets the stage for memorable experiences with loved ones. Stroll through the gardens as the lighting enhances traditional holiday decorations, creating moments of wonder for families and couples alike. This year, the light show expands into upper and lower display gardens, offering new features that invite you to share and cherish the holiday spirit together.
FEE:
Tickets in Advance: $15/child & $19/adult
Day of tickets: $25/child & $30/adult
Wheaton
Christmas Light Show
LOCATION: Cantigny Park, Wheaton
DATES: Various Days starting November 22, 2024 thru January 4, 2025 from 5pm - 9pm
DETAILS:
A Holiday Wonderland Awaits
Explore a dazzling array of experiences as you stroll through a ½-mile, fully ADA- and stroller-accessible path. Along the way, music-orchestrated light shows, festive decorations, larger-than-life flower sculptures, and a towering 28-foot Christmas tree will enchant you.
You can also step inside the beautifully adorned McCormick House, a unique opportunity to explore this historically preserved home, blending history with holiday charm for a special addition to your visit.
Historic Splendor and a Hidden Bar
The beautifully renovated McCormick House is open again this season, with even more rooms adorned in festive splendor. Take in the display of hundreds of iconic Cantigny poinsettias and enjoy a moment together at the hidden bar, where you can sip hot cocoa or a festive cocktail.
Savor the moments
Cantigny’s holiday light show sets the stage for memorable experiences with loved ones. Stroll through the gardens as the lighting enhances traditional holiday decorations, creating moments of wonder for families and couples alike. This year, the light show expands into upper and lower display gardens, offering new features that invite you to share and cherish the holiday spirit together.
FEE:
Tickets in Advance: $15/child & $19/adult
Day of tickets: $25/child & $30/adult
Wheaton
Polar Express Storytime Train
LOCATION: Geneva Train Station
DATES: December 7 & 8, 2024, 9:30am-12pm & 1:30-4pm
DETAILS: All aboard the Polar Express Storytime Train! Travel to the North Pole to pick up Santa & his friends. Then travel back with us to Geneva and have lunch/dinner. After we eat, each child will have the opportunity to sit on Santa’s lap, give him their wish list, and have a picture taken. Families are encouraged to wear their pajamas and bring their holiday spirit!. Please note: this event is listed in the Fall brochure, which is out in late July. Pre-registration is required and space is limited.
FEE:
Ages Newborn - 11 months are FREE
Ages 1-17 years: $40 Res/ $47 Non-Resident
Ages 18+ years: $45 Res/ $53 Non-Resident
Geneva
Winter Wonder Lights
LOCATION: Peck Farm, Geneva
DATES: Decmber 1 thru January 1, 2025 from 5pm -10pm
DETAILS: Bring your family and friends to Peck Farm Park starting December 14 to take in the beautiful holiday lights at Peck Farm Park. Visitors can stroll through the illuminated pathways, and take in the twinkling splendor. No registration or fees required to walk the Winter Wonder Lights.
FEE: FREE
Geneva
Breakfast with Santa
LOCATION: Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main Street St. Charles
DATE: Decmber 15, 2024 from 10am-1pm
DETAILS: Experience the magic of the holiday season at The Arcada Theatre with our Breakfast with Santa Claus event. Guests will indulge in a delightful breakfast in Rock n Ravioli before entering the theatre for a memorable visit with Santa Claus. Enjoy festive music, capture special moments with beloved holiday characters, and share your wishes with Santa himself. Each child will receive a special gift, making this an unforgettable experience for families.
FEE: FREE for kids 2 & under, $30 children 2-11 years old & $40 for ages 12+
St. Charles
Santa's Naperville Workshop 2024
LOCATION: 441 Aurora Avenue, Naperville
DATES: Decmber 2-22, 2024, Mon-Fri 5-8pm and weekends 12pm-8pm.
DETAILS: Little ones and family members of all ages will enjoy a unique visit with Santa inside his magical workshop! Reservations are required; walk-ups will not be accommodated. One family at a time will be inside the workshop to experience a brief, conversation with Santa. Families are welcome to take their own photos and/or video as professional photos will not be provided. The line to visit with Santa will queue outdoors, so please dress for the weather!
FEE: will be on website on registration date, 10/22/24
Naperville
Santa's Hotline
LOCATION: phone call
DATE: Calls are made on December 4, 2024 from 6-8pm
DETAILS: Make this holiday season even more special for your child with a personal phone call from Santa Claus or Mrs. Claus! Santa or Mrs. Claus will address each child by name, ask for gift ideas and have a magical and memorable conversation. Registration is free. Registration is per family. Please make your reservation early as limited spots are available!
FEE: will be on website on registration date, 10/22/24
Naperville
North Pole Adventure
LOCATION: West Chicago Metra Train Station
DATES: December 14 & 15, 2024 @ 1:15pm & 5:15pm
DETAILS: Your journey to the North Pole is about to begin! Riders will enjoy a journey to the “North Pole” aboard West Chicago’s own holiday train to pick up Santa. The ride will be filled with music, stories, snacks and surprises! Make sure you’re on the nice list, as Santa will jump onboard to check his list twice and give each child a special gift.
FEE: Resident $25/ Non-Resident $30
West Chicago
A Grinchmas Gathering Breakfast
LOCATION: West Chicago Park District
DATES: December 21, 2024 from 8-10am
DETAILS: Celebrate the holiday season with a Grinchmas Gathering Breakfast! Enjoy a festive morning with a delicious breakfast, meet and greet with the Grinch and Santa Claus, and fun holiday crafts for kids. Register by November 27 to save! Don’t miss out on this magical holiday experience! Children must be accompanied by a guardian. All participants, adult and child must be registered. Participants under the age of 1 are free.
FEE: Resident $20/Non-Resident $24 by November 27
Resident $25/Non-Resident $30 after November 27
West Chicago
Candyland Carnival
LOCATION: West Chicago Park District
DATES: Februrary 1, 2025 from 1-3pm
DETAILS: Candyland comes to life when you step into a world of sweetness and adventure at our Candyland Carnival! This whimsical event will transport you to a magical land where sugary treats and fun-filled activities await the entire family. Stroll through Lollipop Lane, test your skills at the Gumdrop Games, and indulge in a variety of candy-themed activities and beloved character meet & greets.
FEE: Resident $12/Non-Resident $12 by January 15
Resident $15/Non-Resident $18 after January 15
West Chicago
Journey to the North Pole
LOCATION: Eaton Preserve, Plainfield
DATES: December 13 & 14, 2024 from 5-9pm
DETAILS: Bundle up for a wagon ride to the North Pole! Sing along to seasonal songs while sipping hot chocolate, and enjoy a visit with Santa and his Elf. Each child receives a snack and bell for the event.
FEE: $15/person
Plainfield
Sugar Plum Tea
LOCATION: Prisco Community Center, Aurora
DATE: December 17, 2024 from 11am-12:30pm
DETAILS: Our Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party is the perfect way to kick off the season. Dress in your holiday best and enjoy an elegant tea party with delectable treats from the Land of Sweets, holiday music, crafts, entertainment and photo opportunities with the Sugar Plum Fairy and Nutcracker dancers! Both child and adult need to register.
FEE: Resident $20/Non-Resident $25
Aurora
Holiday Fun with the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who
LOCATION: Vaughan Athletic Center, Aurora
DATE: December 21, 2024 from 10am-11:30am
DETAILS: Join the Grinch and Cindy Lou for cocoa & cookies, singing and story time, crafts, and Whoville Bingo! Fun for the whole family at the Vaughan Center. All ages welcome. All attendees must purchase a ticket. and all children must be accompanied by and adult during the event. Children under 2 are free. All ticket sales are final.
FEE: $34/person
Aurora
Pizza & PJs with Santa
LOCATION: Warrenville Park District
DATE: December 13, 2024 from 5:30pm-7pm
DETAILS: Dress in your favorite holiday jammies and join us to celebrate the holiday season! Enjoy pizza, drinks and dessert along with a holiday themed craft and a visit with Santa. Children must be accompanied by an adult and everyone attending must register.
FEE: $12-$22
Warrenville
Elburn Christmas Stroll
LOCATION: IL Route 47, Elburn
DATE: December 7, 2024 from 4-7pm
DETAILS: Please join us on Dec. 7th, from 4-7 pm in Downtown Elburn, IL for the 30th Annual Elburn Chamber of Commerce Christmas Stroll! Santa will kick off the Stroll at 4 pm with the lighting of the Christmas Tree followed by holiday themed activities throughout the town! Enjoy the downtown lights, shops on Main Street, events at the Community Center and Library, the Kris Kringle Market at Obscurity Brewing and live reindeer at the Pound 4 Pound Fitness/Obscurity Mead Hall parking lot!
FEE: FREE
Elburn
Dickens in Dundee 2024
LOCATION: Dundee Depot Market and Visitor's Center, Dundee
DATES: December 6 from 5:30pm - 9pm and December 7, 2024 starting at 6:30pm
DETAILS:
Dickens in Dundee was formed in 1988. It began as a small community gathering, with caroling and the search for Tiny Tim’s crutch in local stores. With the support of local businesses, this event has grown significantly and attracts people from all over the Dundee area.
This year’s Dickens in Dundee will take place on Friday, December 6th from 5:30-9:00 pm, with a Holiday Lights Parade to follow on Saturday, December 7th at 6:30 pm.
𝐃𝐈𝐂𝐊𝐄𝐍𝐒 𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐋𝐔𝐃𝐄:
𝟓:𝟑𝟎 𝐏𝐌:
Dundee-Crown Chamber and Varsity Treble Choirs perform
𝟓:𝟒𝟓 𝐏𝐌:
Tree Lighting Ceremony by The Christmas Schooner Cast of the Dundee Township Park District Theater
Then.........Santa Arrives!!
𝟔-𝟖 𝐏𝐌:
Those Funny Little People Toy Making Elves
Living Windows (along River St. and Main St.)
𝟔-𝟗 𝐏𝐌:
* Visits with Santa (FREE apple cider and cookies will be served)
* The Frozen Robins Caroling Quartet
* The Frozen Fab Four (Elsa, Anna, Kristoff and Olaf)
* FREE Horse-drawn Carriage Rides
* LIVE Reindeer Display by Santa's Village
* Eastside Cafe will offer warm, adult beverages for purchase on site in the white tent. (FREE hot chocolate will be served as well)
𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆:
In addition to street parking, there are parking lots located:
- At 311 Barrington Ave (behind the building)
- At Main St/Rt 72 next to Dairy Queen/Dundee Music
- Behind Duke's BBQ/the Caboose - 112 Railroad St. (Use Hill Street Entrance)
- At the AT&T parking lot at the northwest corner of Jackson & Water Streets
HANDICAPPED/ACCESSIBLE Parking will be available in front of 220 N. River St. where marked with signage.
******************************************************************
𝐒𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐃𝐀𝐘, 𝐃𝐄𝐂𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐄𝐑 7
𝟔:𝟑𝟎 𝐏𝐌 - Riverside Parade of Lights
Please join us for a magical night along the riverfront for our 3rd Annual Riverside Parade of Lights Presented by:
- The Northern Kane County Chamber of Commerce
- The Village of Carpentersville
- The Village of East Dundee
- The Village of West Dundee
The 2024 Parade Marshall for the Riverside Parade of Lights is Joe Minoso from the hit TV show Chicago Fire!
The Parade kicks off in West Dundee on S. Lincoln Ave. (just south of N. 6th St.), travel north to, and across, the Main St. bridge in Carpentersville, then south on Washington/Water St. to East Dundee (ending at Railroad St.)
𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗗𝗘 𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗩𝗘𝗟 𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘𝗦: (These are approx. times based off of previous years)
6:30 PM - Kicks off in West Dundee
6:45 PM - Travels down the Main St. bridge in Carpentersville
7:00 PM - Approaches East Dundee
**** 𝗔𝗗𝗗𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚 ****
𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗗𝗨𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗘:
In addition to street parking, there are parking lots located:
- At 311 Barrington Ave (behind the building)
- At Main St/Rt 72 next to Dairy Queen/Dundee Music
- Behind Duke's BBQ/the Caboose - 112 Railroad St.
- At the AT&T parking lot at the northwest corner of Jackson & Water Streets
𝐇𝐎𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐂𝐎𝐀 𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓:
Hot cocoa will be offered by Eastside Cafe for purchase at $2 a cup (Cash only) at the BIG WHITE TENT at the corner of Water St. and Barrington Avenue.
Also, Donations will graciously be accepted for the D300 Food Pantry. Eastside Cafe will match all donations received.
FEE: FREE
East Dundee
Downtown Lockport Cookie Crawl
LOCATION: Commerce Public Parking Lot, 925 S. State Street, Lockport
DATE: December 7, 2024 from 11:30am - 3:30pm
DETAILS: Spend an afternoon strolling into businesses throughout downtown Lockport collecting holiday cookies and viewing holiday window murals. Ticket price includes Cookie Tote, 20+ cookies from participating businesses, business map & free mug at the Lockport Park District's Jingle Bell Jam (12/7, 4:30pm at Dellwood Park)!
Be the first to see artist Kevin Traynor's festive artwork take over downtown Lockport's storefront windows! View all the storefront window murals as you stroll along the Cookie Walk!
Bring your Cookie Walk punch card to the Lockport Park District's Jingle Bell Jam to receive a *free* holiday mug sponsored by All American Recycling! Kick off the holiday season at the Jingle Bell Jam featuring music from American Pie at Dellwood Park (199 E. Woods Dr.) from 4:30-6:00pm!
FEE: Tickets go on sale Nov. 2
Lockport
Breakfast w/Santa & the Grinch
LOCATION: DPCC Gymnasium, 1811 Lawrence Avenue, Lockport
DATE: December 7, 2024 from 8:30am - 10am & 11am - 12:30pm
DETAILS: What do Santa and the Grinch eat for breakfast? Find out with a delicious holiday meal catered by Louie’s Waffle House! Enjoy holiday activities, story time, Cocoa Corner, cookie decorating, and fun for the little ones in the Reindeer Play Pen.
Pre-registration is required, so sign up now to reserve your spot!
FEE:
12+ : $20 Residents
$25 Non-residents2-11: $15 Residents
$20 Non-residents1 & Under: Free
Lockport
Downtown Frankfort Hot Chocolate Crawl
LOCATION: Downtown Frankfort
DATE: November 14, 2024 from 5pm - 8pm
DETAILS: Purchase your ticket for the 2024 Hot Chocolate Walk at shopdowntownfrankfort.com. Your ticket includes a commemorative mug and gift bag, and access to each participating business that will be providing a sip or snack!
You do need a ticket to attend this event. Tickets are limited, nonrefundable and nontransferable. This event will be hosted rain or shine, presented by the Downtown Frankfort Business Alliance.
FEE: $20/person
Frankfort
Cantigny Santa Brunch
LOCATION: Cantigny Golf Clubhouse, 27W270 Mack Road, Wheaton
DATES: November 30, December 1, 14 & 15, 2024 from 9am - 1pm
DETAILS:
𝗕𝗨𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗧 𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗨
Classic breakfast:
Mixed berry martini with honey yogurt sauce
Cinnamon buns
Thick-cut smoked bacon
Sausage links
Brioche French toast with fresh berries and pure maple syrup
Italian breakfast strata
Made-to-order omelet station
Delicious lunch:
Chicken Farfalle with lemon cream sauce
Grilled beef medallions with Argentinian chimichurri sauce
Chef blend of roasted vegetables
Herb-roasted fingerling potatoes
Just for kids:
Mac ‘n’ cheese
Chicken tenders
Hot dogs
Santa’s favorite desserts and Hot Cocoa!
All reservations require a $50 deposit. (Applied to final bill)
*Photos with Santa will be taken by a staff member using your mobile device or camera*
FEE: Adults $34, Ages 5-12 are $26 and Kids under 5 are $10
There will be a $50 deposit when reserving your time an dprice does not include tax or gratuity
Wheaton
Holly Jolly Days
LOCATION: Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster, Naperville
DATES: December 6-8, 13-15, & 19-20, 2024
Fridays: 3pm - 7pm
Saturays & Sundays: 1pm - 6pm
DETAILS:
Celebrate the wonder and joy of the holiday season with holiday crafts, stories, and more! Learn how reindeer shoes are made with a special story-time and demonstration by the blacksmith at the forge. Create your own holiday crafts to take home in the Meeting House. Listen to holiday stories in the museum’s one-room Schoolhouse. And end your visit with a special family photo at our Victorian Christmas photo stop at the Paw Paw Post Office. Don't forget to send a letter to Santa while you're there for an extra touch of holiday magic! New this year, several of our historic buildings will be lit for the holiday season.
Please note: All children must be accompanied by an adult. All adults must be accompanying a child. Santa will not be at Naper Settlement for this event. No food or beverages will be for sale.
FEE: $5/person and children under 4 are FREE
Naperville