Each year, the night after Thanksgiving, Woodstock, Illinois welcomes the Christmas season with the cherished Lighting of the Square event. During this event, tens of thousands of beautiful lights are turned on downtown, surrounding the central park. The event also hosts a variety of other activities, including an appearance by Santa himself!
East Peoria’s annual Festival of Lights is a staple of their holiday season, delighting families for nearly 40 years. The event’s centerpiece is the Parade of Lights, where creatively lit floats glide through town, including a massive lighted steam engine and the beloved “E.P. Noel” Riverboat. Visitors can also enjoy the Winter Wonderland drive-through light display, which features over 40 stunning installations. It’s a perfect evening out for families looking to soak up the holiday glow.
Nestled in northwest Illinois, Galena feels like a snow globe come to life during the holidays. The historic downtown, lined with 19th-century buildings, is filled with festive lights and garlands. Visitors can enjoy a variety of seasonal activities, from the annual tree lighting ceremony to festive fireworks. Galena also offers holiday home tours, showcasing beautifully decorated historic homes that bring a sense of nostalgia to the season.
For more than 60 years, Urbana’s Candlestick Lane has been a must-see holiday destination. This beloved tradition began in the early 1960s, when neighbors on Grant Place and surrounding streets came together to create magical light displays. Today, these homes sparkle with intricate decorations, and the glow of thousands of lights draws visitors from across the state. Families can enjoy driving or strolling through the neighborhood to take in the festive sights.
Effingham offers its own holiday magic with Wonderland in Lights, a drive-through light display at Community Park. Each year, the park transforms into a glittering spectacle with themed installations, including a lighted nativity scene, reindeer, and even Santa himself. Visitors can tune into a holiday radio station while driving through, enhancing the festive experience with music to match the glowing scenes.
The community of St. Charles pulls out all the stops for its annual Holiday Homecoming. The two-day celebration kicks off with a tree-lighting ceremony in the town square, followed by a magical Electric Christmas Parade. Families can enjoy carolers, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and plenty of holiday treats from local vendors.
Alton, located along the Mississippi River, becomes a holiday hotspot with its Christmas Wonderland at Rock Spring Park. Over four million lights brighten the park, and visitors can either drive through or walk to take in the scenes. Highlights include light tunnels, candy canes, and whimsical holiday characters. Proceeds from the display benefit local charities, adding an extra layer of goodwill to the festive fun.
Aurora’s Phillips Park is a favorite holiday destination with its Holiday Magic light display. This free event features beautifully lit trees, whimsical displays, and a festive atmosphere that draws families from near and far. The park also hosts special events throughout December, including live music, visits from Santa, and holiday crafts for kids.
Rockford kicks off the holiday season with its Stroll on State celebration, held the Saturday after Thanksgiving. This free event features a dazzling parade, an outdoor ice rink, and Santa’s Workshop. The downtown area comes alive with twinkling lights and holiday décor, while food vendors and pop-up shops offer festive treats and unique gifts. The night ends with a fireworks display, filling the sky with holiday cheer.
In Mount Carroll, the annual Christmas Walk transforms the town into a winter wonderland. This charming celebration includes horse-drawn wagon rides, caroling, and a special visit from Santa. Local businesses participate by decorating their storefronts and offering special holiday deals, making it a perfect event for shopping and spreading holiday cheer.
Hanukkah Celebrations
As the Festival of Lights approaches, Illinois communities come together to celebrate Hanukkah with a variety of events that honor Jewish traditions and foster community. In Chicago, Mishkan Chicago, a Jewish congregation, hosts dynamic experiences of prayer, learning, and social activism during Hanukkah, engaging over 5,000 people annually.
Also, the Chicago Botanic Garden features Hanukkah concerts, such as performances by the Maxwell Street Klezmer Band, offering festive music in a beautiful setting.
In the suburbs, Skokie's Kaufman's Deli, one of the Chicago area's oldest Jewish delis, celebrates Hanukkah by offering special menu items like zucchini or kosher bacon and pea latkes, providing a delicious way for families to enjoy traditional foods.
Giving Back
Beyond the lights and festivities, Illinois communities use the holiday season as an opportunity to give back. Many events support local charities, food drives, and toy collections. For example, the Festival of Lights in East Peoria raises funds for community projects, while Alton’s Christmas Wonderland donates proceeds to local causes. These acts of generosity put the spotlight on the true meaning of the season.
Illinois’ holiday events are a reflection of the connections that make each community special. These celebrations remind us of the warmth and togetherness that define this time of year. So, grab your loved ones, bundle up, and experience the festive spirit that Illinois has to offer this season.