As the holiday season is upon us, we are often on the hunt for fun, family-friendly festivities that we can experience. Better yet when they are right here in our wonderful communities! Lucky for us, our corner of Chicagoland is packed with unique opportunities to enjoy this time of year. Here are a few of our favorites…
HINSDALE
Friday, December 1, 5:00-7:00 p.m., Downtown Hinsdale
This year marks the 57th annual Hinsdale Christmas Walk! A local tradition, families head over to the downtown business district to welcome Santa, enjoy the holiday tree lighting ceremony, and enjoy mingling with local businesses who are sharing holiday treats and playing games. There is even a traditional carousel and trackless train set up for the enjoyment of the little ones.
Saturday, December 2, 12:00-1:00 p.m., The Lodge at Katherine Legge Memorial Park
Families will enjoy an expansive pizza buffet and dessert. Don’t forget to bring your camera because special guests Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there, too! This event is limited to 80 attendees and requires advanced, paid registration. More information and to register, visit: https://www.villageofhinsdale.org/departments/parks_and_recreation/meals_with_santa.php
Sunday, December 3, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Katherine Legge Memorial Park
Another chance to feel the magic of this festive time of year! Event features include: photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a craft station, train rides, live reindeer, meet and greet Frozen’s Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff…and Sven! Attendees can warm up at the hot chocolate bar and enjoy some sugary treats. The Village of Hinsdale and Hinsdale Police Department will also be on-site collecting toys for a Toys For Tots donation drive.
This event requires paid registration for each member of the family. More information and registration information is located here: https://www.villageofhinsdale.org/departments/parks_and_recreation/winter_wonderland.php
150 Years of Hinsdale for the Holidays
Saturday, December 9 and 16, 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Burlington Park
Another free, family-friendly event in Hinsdale, this offering is celebrating the 150th birthday of Hinsdale! Families can go to Burlington Park on Saturday December 9th or 16th between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. to decorate gingerbread cookies, ride in a horse-drawn carriage, and even visit with Santa.
CLARENDON HILLS
Friday, December 1, 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Presented by the Clarendon Hills Chamber of Commerce, this annual tradition is held in the downtown business district. Attendees can head over to Village Hall at 6:00 p.m. for the tree lighting ceremony and live music.
Enjoy a magical walk through Clarendon Hills’ beautifully decorated downtown area, where businesses have lit up with dazzling holiday lights and decorations. Meet Santa Claus along the way, sing along to your favorite holiday tunes as carolers stroll through the event, explore local shops to find gifts for friends and family, and even enjoy a festive horse-drawn carriage ride!
If you haven’t been to this exciting family-focused event in years past, here’s a video we created of the 2021 event to give you an idea of what you’ve been missing out on!