Now that Thanksgiving has come and gone, Lake County’s holiday season has truly kicked into high gear! If you missed any of the spectacular tree lighting ceremonies last week, don’t fret: plenty more opportunities exist to help get us all into the holiday spirit!
Highlights from Recent Festivities
The past week saw some spectacular holiday celebrations, including memorable tree-lighting events in Lake Forest, Libertyville, Antioch, and Grayslake. Downtown areas came alive with music, performances, and the magical moment of illuminating community Christmas trees.
Exciting Events Coming Up
This Week’s Must-Attend Celebrations
- Luminaria Walk at Veteran Acres Park (December 4-7):
- Located at 431 N. Walkup Avenue in Crystal Lake
- The trail will be beautifully lit through Veteran Acres Park
- December 7th promises special extras like campfires, hot cocoa, cookies, and a Candy Cane Forest
- Donations are appreciated
- Santa Visit at Foxford Hills Golf Club (December 4, 5:30-7:30 p.m.):
- Free event for families
- Perfect opportunity for holiday photos
Upcoming Weekend Highlights
- Bass Pro Shop Yuletide Breakfast (December 7):
- Located in Hoffman Estates and Gurnee
- Advance registration is required seven days before the event
- Algonquin’s “Miracle on Main” (December 7, 4-7 p.m.):
- Live music and holiday performances
- Santa Claus’s arrival and tree-lighting
- Live reindeer
- Trackless train rides
- Ice sculptures
- MainStreet Libertyville’s Dickens of a Holiday (December 7, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.):
- Photos with Santa in Cook Park
- Children’s Holiday Shoppe at Petranek’s Pharmacy
- Victorian Tea
Mark Your Calendar
- Merry Cary Parade (December 8, 12:30-3:30 p.m.):
- Downtown Cary celebration
- Pony rides
- Horse-drawn sleigh rides
- Petting zoo
- Caroling by Caring Hearts & Voices
- Santa Letter Deadline (December 8):
- Last day to drop off or mail letters to Santa at Crystal Lake Park District
- Address: 1 E. Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Looking Ahead
Don’t miss these additional upcoming holiday events:
- The Christmas Tree Ship Holiday Tea at Colonel Palmer House (December 14, 2-4 p.m.)
- Bass Pro Shop/Cabela’s Yuletide Breakfast (December 17 at 5 p.m.)
Tip: Many events require advance registration or specific time windows, so check details and plan ahead!
Community Note: This event guide is a living document. Residents are encouraged to share their favorite holiday events to make our community celebration even more complete.
