HOMETOWN 2024 Holiday H APPENINGS
Holiday Happenings
BATAVIA
Celebration of Lights Festival
Where: Batavia Riverwalk
When: December 1, 5-7 p.m.
The celebration of the season kicks off with themed activities for the whole family, including music from the Batavia Community Band and crafts for kids to enjoy while they await Santa’s arrival and the tree lighting. Visitors can spend time with live reindeer or the Big Man himself, stroll along Christmas Tree Lane, or cozy up in a hayride.
Holiday Story Time
Where: Batavia Depot Museum
When: December 1, 5:45 p.m.
“Celebrity” readers from throughout the community read a festive tale or two in this offering from the Batavia Public Library.
Holiday House Decorating Contest
Where: Throughout Batavia
When: Registration due by December 9, Judging December 15
Batavians who love lights, Santa and everything holiday shouldn’t miss their chance to dazzle in this annual house decorating contest. Prizes are awarded in four categories: Most Original, Best Theme, Best Use of Lights and People’s Choice. Registration is at bataviaparks.org.
Christmas in the Air
Where: Batavia Fine Arts Centre
When: December 13, 7:30 p.m.
This Broadway-style song and dance revue finds toes tapping with a mix of holiday classics, modern songs and original music.
Holiday Heist
Where: The Comedy Vault
When: December 15, 2 p.m.
Get the whole family laughing with this all-ages improv show featuring BABS Comedy Club.
Under the Mistletoe: Nostalgic Holiday Favorites
Where: Batavia Public Library
When: December 15, 2 p.m.
This bright and bubbly cabaret performance by husband-and-wife team Matt and Cynthia Gruel delivers time-honored holiday hits.
Sundays with Santa
Where: Batavia Boardwalk Shops
When: Sundays from 12-2 p.m. December 1- 22
Bring the family to the Batavia Boardwalk Shops (114 E. Wilson St.) on Sundays from 12-2pm December 1- 22 for a free visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus. Share your holiday wishes, take photos, and shop!
Gifts & Baskets Available
An Olive Oil Experience
Christkindlmarket
AURORA
Where: RiverEdge Park
When: November 22 through December 24
The iconic open-air market features handcrafted items ranging from ornaments and decor to cold weather apparel such as hats and sweaters. Shoppers can enjoy German specialties like bratwurst, pretzels and mulled wine as well as live performances from musicians, area choirs and dance companies.
The Good, The Bad and The Ugly Sweater
Where: Copley Theatre
When: November 22 through December 23
Second City’s annual holiday revue is ready to roast the many trappings of the season, be they tired traditions, awkward family gatherings or the obligatory office party.
The quick-witted performers of this famed comedy troupe take to the stage with songs, sketches and improv. This show is recommended for those 18 years and older; children under 11 will not be permitted.
Jolly Trolley
Where: Downtown Aurora
When: Fridays and Saturdays, November 29 through December 21, 6 to 9 p.m.
This new “hop on/hop off” trolley makes six stops between Two Brothers Roundhouse and various downtown locations, allowing visitors to better enjoy holiday window scenes and shop small businesses and the Christkindlmarket. Those interested should look for special trolley stop signs.
Cocoa Crawl
Where: December 6, 5 to 9 p.m.
When: Downtown Auror a Part of Aurora’s First Fridays—a collective downtown open house— the Cocoa Crawl is an opportunity to explore local businesses while enjoying samples of hot chocolate in a souvenir mug available for purchase.
Holiday Express
Where: Blackberry Farm
When: December 13 and 20, 5 to 8 p.m.
December 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 2 to 7 p.m.
Festooned in lights, the train at Blackberry Farm takes passengers through an illuminated landscape. Wagon rides, story time, crafts and festive music round out the enchanted experience. A reindeer food bar allows visitors to create feed bags to put out on Christmas Eve.
The Nutcracker
Where: Prisco Community Center
When: December 13, 7:30 p.m.
Dancers with the Fox Valley Dance Academy perform in this holiday classic.
Holiday Fun with the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who
Where: Vaughan Athletic Center
When: December 21, 10 a.m
Munch on cookies and sip cocoa with everyone’s favorite green grouch and pint-sized friend, Cindy Lou. All ages are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult.
ST. CHARLES
Holiday Homecoming
Where: Downtown St. Charles
When: Starts November 29, 5 p.m. and continues November 30
The downtown sparkles and shines as the city hosts its annual Lighting of the Lights Ceremony featuring music, visits with Santa, complimentary roasted nuts, and more. The St. Charles Shop Crawl, which supports patronage of local businesses, takes place all day Saturday. The festivities conclude with the colorful Electric Christmas Parade along Main Street at 5:30 p.m.
A Very Sketchy Christmas
Where: Steel Beam Theatre
When: Sundays through December 22, 7 p.m . Players from Well This is Awkward lampoon the holidays
with fast-paced sketches that zero in on dysfunctional family dynamics, Christmas party antics, and more.
Caroling with the Cows
Where: Primrose Farm
When: December 7, time slots at 3 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Sing carols to the farm’s own cows, enjoy cocoa and sweet treats and explore the farmyard during this unique event.
Candlelight
Where: Durant House
When: December 7 and December 8, 3 to 7 p.m.
The soft glow of candlelight illuminates the Durant House as visitors stroll its historic rooms. This annual event marks the only time the home is open after dark. Nearby Sholes School presents a Christmas pageant in the style of the 1800s.
5-Minute Makes: Snowman Luminaries
Where: St. Charles Public Library
When: December 7, 2 p.m.
Create festive snowman using coconut flakes, decoupage and fabric. All materials are provided.
Flashlight Candy Cane Hike
Where: Hickory Knolls Discovery Center
When: December 13, time slots from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Meander a candy cane-lined path through the wintry woods before heading into the discovery center for warm beverages and a make-and-take craft project.
Gingerbread House Creations
Where: Baker Community Center
When: December 14, time slots at 9 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.
Take part in a holiday tradition by building your own gingerbread masterpiece. All materials are provided.
Luminare Christmas
Where: Arcada Theatre
When: December 14, 8 p.m.
This cinematic concert experience fuses reimagined holiday hits with high-octane rock music.
Dinner with the Grinch
Where: Baker Community Center
When: December 17 and December 18, 6 p.m.
Decorate a miniature Christmas tree alongside Whoville’s own before dining on pizza, salad and special Grinch snacks.
Christmas Wizards
Where: Arcada Theatre
When: December 22, 3 p.m.
Spirited choir music and cuttingedge light displays come together in this all-ages show featuring the music of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
A Christmas Carol
Where: Arcada Theatre
When: December 23, 7 p.m.
This twist on the Dickens classic spotlights Ebb Scrooge, a present-day American businessman with no room in his heart for Christmas, that is, until past, present and future show up to change everything. Funny and heartfelt, this production is geared to all ages.
GENEVA
Holiday House Tour
Where: Throughout Geneva
When: December 6, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and December 7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Interior and green-scape designers have teamed up to create swoon-worthy holiday looks at five homes throughout Geneva. Tours are self-guided and ticket-holders are invited to enjoy tea at First Congregational Church as part of the offering.
Christmas Walk
Where: Downtown Geneva
When: December 6, 6 p.m.
Geneva heralds the beginning of the Christmas season with the arrival of Santa Lucia, the Swedish symbol of the holiday, as she lights the great tree. Festivities also include Santa Claus, roaming carolers, a live nativity and specials at shops and restaurants throughout the downtown area.
DePAW Pet Resort - Howl-a-day Pack Walks
Where: Meeting Downtown Geneva in the Grass area in front of Egg Harbor Geneva, next to the Parking lot on South Street.
When: Friday, Dec 6, 6 p.m-7:30 p.m.
Where: Meeting Downtown Naperville in the Egg Harbor Naperville Parking Lot.
When: Saturday, Dec 14, 4:45 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Registration Required. Call 630.232.8663
Polar Express Storytime Train
Where: Geneva Train Station
When: December 7 and December 8
time slots at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
The “Polar Express” whisks passengers to the North Pole to pick up Santa and his friends before traveling back to Geneva for a bite to eat and a chance to visit with the man in the red suit.
Winter Wonder Lights
Where: Peck Farm
When: December 14, 5 p.m.
Holiday cheer is on full display as Peck Farm hosts its first Winter Wonder Lights with an illumination of its courtyard, cookie decorating, crafts, music, and cocoa and s’mores by the fire pit. Those who register in advance can visit and take photos with Santa.
Holiday Movie Night: The Polar Express
Where: Playhouse 38 Theatre
When: December 20, 6:30 p.m.
Find merriment and magic on the big screen with a showing of “The Polar Express” and provided hot chocolate. Additional snacks and beverages available for purchase.
ELGIN
Elgin Tree Lighting Ceremony
Where: DuPage Court
When: November 30, 5 p.m.
The ceremony illuminates the city’s tree and includes free holiday activities and entertainment for all ages. Select days feature a synchronized light show.
Holiday Cheers Beverage Crawl
Where: Downtown Elgin
When: November 30, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sample beverages from more than 20 downtown Elgin businesses while shopping on Small Business Saturday. Cocoa, cider, mocha and more are available for tasting with the purchase of a commemorative cup. The offering also includes beverage add-ins at select locations.
Holiday Spectacular
Where: Hemmens Cultural Center
When: December 15, 2:30 p.m.
The Elgin Symphony Orchestra partners with the Elgin Master Chorale and Integrity School of Dance for a performance featuring well-loved carols, fresh twists on modern tunes, breathtaking dancing and an appearance by Santa.
ELBURN
Christmas Stroll
Where: Downtown Elburn
When: December 7, 4 to 7 p.m.
Celebrate the season with themed activities, downtown lights, activities at the library and shopping at the Kris Kringle Market located at Obscurity Brewing.
Ugly Sweater Bingo
Where: T own and Country Public Library District
When: December 16, 6:30 p.m.
Bust out that hideous holiday sweater for a lively game of Bingo. Snacks are provided.
EAST DUNDEE
Magical Christmas Drive-Thru
Where: Santa’s Village
When: Nov. 29 through Dec. 29, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
More than three millions lights in festive displays will shine bright to synchronized music during this drive-thru experience. After winding their way through the show, families can visit with Santa, whiz down slides and enjoy concessions like funnel cake and cocoa. Online advance registration is required.
Winter Wonder Lights
Bring your family and friends to Peck Farm Park starting December 14 to take in this beautiful experience. Lights will remain on daily from 5-10pm December 14-January 1. Visitors can stroll through the illuminated pathways and take in the twinkling splendor. No registration or fees required to walk the Winter Wonder Lights.
Saturday, Dec. 14 at Peck Farm Park
COURTYARD ILLUMINATION & FREE ACTIVITIES!
The Winter Wonder Lights Kickoff event is a magical celebration that transforms the beautiful Peck Farm Park into a dazzling display of lights and seasonal cheer. This free event features an array of activities, including: • Courtyard illumination (5:00pm sharp) • Cookie decorating
• Crafts • Hot cocoa & s’mores by the fire pit • Holiday music • Tree decorating (registration required, fee applies)
Learn more & plan your visit today: GenevaParks.org/Winter
About Peck Farm Park
Owned and operated by Geneva Park District, Peck Farm is a unique park found in an urban environment that offers residents and visitors a place to slow down and enjoy quality time surrounded by nature.
HA PPY NEW YEAR & MERR Y
Nearly as magical as the day itself is the lead-up to Christmas. Make it a season of joy and time-honored traditions with these offerings.
Old-Fashioned Fun
Royal Carriage Ltd. will offer complimentary horsedrawn carriage rides in downtown Geneva from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday beginning December 7 through December 22. The pick-up spot is located at the corner of Third and James Streets in downtown Geneva.
Four to six passengers fit in the ornate open-air carriage, which is decorated for the season.
“The horses are so into what they do,” said owner and operator Lyla Blanchard, who owns six horses in total, all either full or part draft horse. Draft horses are known to be among the strongest of all breeds, able to pull six times their weight.
“They love going out and being around people and we allow kids to pet and feed the animals,” Blanchard said.
Additionally, Royal Carriage can be booked for private events. Learn more at royalcarriageltd.com.
Also available for private events throughout the area is Candlelight Horse and Carriage in Yorkville. The company is hired for big events like weddings and surprise proposals but other times, it may be a group of people looking to take a unique trip through a neighborhood to see holiday lights and decor, said owner and operator Tom White, who owns two Tennessee Walking horses.
Those interested can get a quote online at candlelighthorseandcarriage.com.
The Season of Santa
There will be several opportunities for kids to visit with Santa and share their Christmas wishes ahead of the big day.
Santa’s House
1 to 4 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays from November 30 through December 22 29 S. 1st St., St. Charles stcholidayhomecoming.com
Kids can drop off letters, share their wish list and take pictures with Santa. Friendly dogs are invited too. Santa’s House is offered free of charge.
Sundays with Santa Noon to 2 p.m., December 1, 8, 15 and 22
Boardwalk Shops, 114 E. Wilson St., Batavia downtownbatavia.com
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and shop the small businesses of the Batavia Boardwalk during this event. Woodland Santa’s Holiday Workshop 10 to 11:30 a.m., December 1
Hickory Knolls Discovery Center
3795 Campton Hills Drive, St. Charles
Santa will arrive pulled by helpers in the form of dashing huskies. The workshop will offer the chance to make an ornament, write a letter to Santa and take pictures with the certain red-suited someone. This program is for kids age 2 and older.
Breakfast with Santa 8 to 11 a.m., December 1
Elburn Lions Park, 500 Filmore St., Elburn elburnlions.com
Enjoy an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet of pancakes, eggs, and more with Santa. Reservations are not required.
Sundaes with Santa 8:45 a.m. or 5:15 p.m., December 9
Primrose Farm, 5N726 Crane Road, St. Charles stcparks.org
Children 6 and younger can build ice cream sundaes heaped with toppings, make paper chains to count down the days til Christmas and even play a game of Freeze Dance with Santa. The event will include opportunities to interact and take pictures with St. Nick, and all kids will take home a goody bag.
Splashing with Santa 9 to 11 a.m., December 14
Vaughan Athletic Center
2121 W. Indian Trail Road, Aurora foxvalleyparkdistrict.org
Even Kris Kringle loves a pool party. Swim and splash in the center’s leisure pool and watch as Santa shoots down the water slide. Elves will be on hand to help kids with themed crafts. Participants must be 2 or older and accompanied by an adult ticketholder.
Stroll to the North Pole 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., December 14
Pottawatomie Park and Community Center 8 North Ave., St. Charles stcparks.org
Participants can walk along a whimsical outdoor wonderland and enjoy hot cocoa, creation stations, a trip to Mrs. Claus’ sweet shop, a reading of Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer, and photo opportunities with Santa and his elves.
Special Delivery
Get a letter from Santa by stopping by the North Pole mailbox located at the Edward Schock Centre of Elgin, 100 Symphony Way, through December 18. No postage is required, though a sealed envelope with a return address is needed to receive a response.
Out on the Ice
Glide and spin at one of the spots this winter.
Always check weather conditions and follow posted signs or colored safety flags before setting foot on the ice.
Batavia
Depot Pond, located west of the Peg Bond Center, 151 N. Island Ave.
Aurora
Oakhurst Forest Preserve, 1680 5th Ave.
Geneva
Wheeler Park, 410 Wheeler Drive Mill Creek Pool, 39W125 S. Mill Creek Drive
St. Charles Lincoln Park, 450 W. Main St. (ice skating only) Langum Park, 50 Devereaux Way (hockey only)
trend + relic
If time (or creativity) is in short supply this holiday season, check out these local retailers for something that’s unique and still handcrafted.
trend + relic
1501 Indiana Ave., St. Charles trendandrelic.com
There’s something for everyone at this enormous 11,000-square-foot store, which brims with home furnishings, antiques and decor, including many seasonal items. Shoppers can also find art, jewelry and apparel as well as artisanal food items.
MADE at Side Street Studio Arts
13 Spring St., Elgin sidestreetstudioarts.org/made
Art in its many forms fills this space. Those who stop in can peruse paintings, prints, stained and blown glass pieces, ceramics, and more. Purchases support local artists. Not sure what to get? Gift cards are also available.
This year, take gift giving to the next level with a custom-made present. Studios and businesses throughout the Tri-Cities offer plenty of opportunities to create something made just for that special someone.
Wasco Nursery & Garden Center
41W781 Route 64, St. Charles wasconursery.com
Give a gift that highlights the beauty of the season with the Holiday Wreath Make-and-Take on December 4. Or opt for a stunning standing arrangement with the Porch Pot Plant & Sip offered December 5 and December 11. No experience is needed and all materials will be provided.
Pinot’s Palette
3823 E. Main St., St. Charles pinotspalette.com
Grab a paintbrush and transform a blank canvas into a festive scene with a beginner-friendly class. Pinot’s Palette offers a wide range of choices, from a
Everything You Need in One Place
dreamy Vincent Van Gogh-inspired Christmas tree on December 5 to a rosy-cheeked St. Nick in the Jolly Peekaboo Santa class taking place December 12. A snowy and serene landscape is the focus of December 14’s workshop, A White Winter.
All Things Art Studio
1106 W. Main St., St. Charles allthingsartstudio.com
Browse this studio’s collection of colored glass to make an ornament and decorative tree design. The December 12 Glass Mosaic workshop will cover basic mosaic techniques, methods and applications.
Tinker Belz Art
227 S. Third St., Suite 108, Geneva tinkerbelzart.com
Twist and spiral molten glass into icicles that will never melt. These timeless holiday ornaments will be featured in the Glass Icicles Class taking place December 14. Beginners are welcome.
Water Street Studios
Experience preventive health and wellness programs and more at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Health & Fitness Center. As a medically integrated fitness center we have a variety of services and offerings:
• MyFitRx® medical fitness pathways
• Personal training
• Group exercise
• MOVE virtual programming
• Rock Steady Boxing
• Swim instruction
• Massage therapy
• Nutritional counseling
• Café, Pro Shop and more
Visit us or call 630.938.9000 for more information about membership.
160 S. Water St., Batavia waterstreetstudios.org
Make a one-of-a-kind stamp block with the studio’s Lino Holiday Printing workshop. This three-session course is offered December 3, through December 17.
Fine Line Creative Arts Center
37W570 Bolcum Road, St. Charles fineline.org
Create a one-of-a-kind accessory for the stylish person in your life. The studio’s Bead Earrings class on December 16 will introduce participants to jewelrymaking techniques and provide all of the necessary materials.
Christkindlmarket
RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway St., Aurora christkindlmarket.com/aurora
Kids can get in on the fun with the special Holiday Ornament Making workshop on December 18. Participants ages 5 to 9 can select from the iconic pickle ornament, icicles, leaves or teardrop shape. Experts will provide hands-on guidance with safety top of mind.
Saturday December 14 11am-4pm
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.
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