HAVE A HOLLY JOLLY SEASON WITH THESE EVENTS + ATTRACTIONS
‘Tis the season to be jolly and this means surrounding yourself with all things that make you feel happy inside and out! Why not start by making plans to attend fun, festive and unique holiday-themed events and attractions that are happening locally– we promise HAPPINESS throughout!
#1 | Seasons Greetings - A Feisty Christmas Comedy
GLEN ELLYN–Season’s Greetings offers a seriously entertaining look at the anxiety and high jinks of an average family during the holidays as friends and family gather at Neville and Belinda’s home to celebrate the holidays. Hilarious mayhem is quickly unleashed due to a tryst under the Christmas Tree, an unforgettable puppet show and maybe even a murder.
#2 | ChristkindMarket
AURORA–The Christkindlmarket Chicago is the most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe, offering a unique shopping experience, family-friendly events and intercultural activities right here in the west suburbs at RiversEdge Park.
#3 | Barley & Grapes Train Hop Holiday House Tour
GENEVA–Take a tour of five exquisite Geneva homes decorated in holiday splendor. Homes will be open to visitors for self-guided tours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on December 2 and 10am to 5pm on December 3.
#4 | Holiday Homecoming
ST. CHARLES–Kick off the holiday happiness on November 25 at the Lighting of the Lights in the 1st Street Plaza. The fun continues on November 26 when the Electric Christmas Parade illuminates Main Street with bands, parade floats, and a special guest, Santa Claus. Also be sure to take in the Holiday Tree Trail, with approximately 50 real, decorated trees displayed around Downtown St. Charles; and visit Santa's House in the 1st Street Plaza.
#5 | Oswego Christmas Walk
OSWEGO–Don’t miss the Christmas walk on Main Street Friday, December 2 with festive food, games, and songs of the season, as well as a visit with Santa and the Silent Light Parade. Then join the Cookie Walk and buy a tin to collect a cookie from each participating business. Kids will love the Careavan while watching a magical display of police, fire and public works trucks decked out in bright holiday lights, glitter and greens.
#6 | Handmade Ornaments for Tree Lighting Ceremony
DOWNERS GROVE–Be a part of the holiday community and make your own handmade ornaments to help decorate the Downers Grove Main Street Tree this year! Submit your handiwork and watch it shine at The Tree Lighting Ceremony to be held on Friday, November 25 at 430pm at the Main Street Train Station.
#7 | Celebrate the Season Holiday Festival and Mistletoe Market
WHEATON–Shop the cheery displays of local crafters and small businesses offering one-of-a-kind items for holiday gift giving on November 17th. The marketplace coincides with Cantigny’s festive Shades of Crimson poinsettia sale and display at the park’s greenhouse. Food Trucks will also be on site: Taco Fiesta, Aunt Tina’s Sound Bytes, Grumpy Gaucho. Then on December 3, enjoy the family friendly holiday festival.
#8 | FarmHer’s a Very Merry Christmas Market
YORKVILLE–FarmHer’s Very Merry Christmas Market is a handmade, vintage, and boutique style market presented by Olde Farm Creek on November 18 and 19. Visit an array of artisans featuring holiday inspired handmade treasures, vintage collections, and boutique style decor. Enjoy the beautiful atmosphere of the indoor and outdoor market while sipping on bloody marys, wine, or beer. Plus food from local vendors.
#9 | Pet Pictures with Santa
DOWNERS GROVE–Come join Bentley’s Pet Stuff and the big man in red for some holiday photos on December 3rd and 4th! Every dollar raised from donations and pictures will go to the care and rescue of more cats and kitties in need through Chicagoland Animal Rescue, NFP in Downers Grove.
#10 | Santa Express
WHEATON–Celebrate the holiday season with a train ride with Santa that includes a story, holiday music and treats from the Downtown Wheaton Metra Station at 402 W. Front Street in Wheaton.
