LOCATION: Courtyard Banquets, Warrenville

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DATE: December 7, 2024 from 8:30-10:30am

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DETAILS:   Santa Claus is coming to town, and he's stopping by for a jolly breakfast and a merry morning of festive fun! We will enjoy a breakfast buffet at Courtyard Banquets, visit with Santa, crafts, musical entertainment, basket raffles and a letters to Santa station. Seating is limited, so be sure to make your reservations early! Children must be accompanied by an adult and everyone attending must register. 

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FEE: Ages 2 & Under are FREE

Ages 3-10 $19 Resident/$19 Non-Resident

Ages 11+ $27 Residents/$32 Non-Residents 

LOCATION: Vaughan Athletic Center, Aurora

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DATE: December 14, 2024 from 9am-11am

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DETAILS:   Splashing with Santa is guaranteed to be a one of a kind experience! Families will enjoy swimming and splashing in the Leisure Pool and watch as Santa makes his grand exit via the water slide! Santa’s elves will be on site helping children make holiday themed craft. Refreshments will be available.

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All Ticket Sales are final and nonrefundable. Children under 2 years old (1 or younger) are free. All other participants age 2 or older (including adults) must purchase a ticket to enter the event. Ages under 12 years old must have a companion of 16 years or older.

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FEE: Early Bird $13 Resident/$15 Non-Resident, Day of $15 Resident/$17 Non-Resident 

LOCATION: Hickory Knolls Discovery Center, 3795 Campton Hills Dr, St. Charles

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DATE: December 13, 2024  4:30pm - 7:30pm

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DETAILS:   Explore the woods and prairie on a winter’s eve. Take a hike along a candy cane decorated path as you solve a puzzle to receive a goody bag! Then head inside Hickory Knolls for warm beverages and a make & take craft. This activity will be held at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center.

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FEE: $12/person ages 2+

LOCATION: Hickory Knolls Discovery Center, 3795 Campton Hills Dr, St. Charles

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DATE: December 1, 2024 at 10am

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DETAILS:   Watch Santa arrive pulled by his dashing huskies, and then spend some time helping him get ready for his Big Day. Write a letter to Santa. Make an ornament. Have your picture taken with the Big Guy himself! Santa arrives at 10:15am. For ages 2+. This activity will be held at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center.

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FEE: $12/person ages 2+

LOCATION: RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora

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DATES: November 22 - December 24, 2024

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DETAILS:   The Christkindlmarket Chicago is the most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe, offering a unique shopping experience, family-friendly events & intercultural activities.

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HOURS: 

Christkindlmarket Aurora is open Thursdays to Sundays*

Thursday: 11 am – 7 pm

Friday through Saturday: 11 am – 9 pm

Sunday: 11 am – 6 pm

*See below for special hours

 

Special Opening Hours: 

Thanksgiving (November 28): 11 am – 4 pm

December 16 through December 18: 11 am – 7 pm

December 23: 11 am – 7 pm

Christmas Eve (December 24): 11 am – 4 pm

LOCATION:  Chicago Botanic Gardens, 1000 County Line Road, Glencoe

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DATES:  November 15-17, 20-30, December 1, 4-8, 10-15, 17-23, 26-31, 2024 & January 1-5, 2025

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DETAILS:   Make lasting memories at Lightscape! This popular holiday event sells out each year, so purchase tickets now to secure your preferred date.  This year’s illuminated trail for enchanting winter nights created just for the Garden will include an all-new path filled with transformed vistas and dazzling installations debuting in the U.S. for the first time, along with top-requested classics like the Winter Cathedral.  Lightscape opens on Friday, November 15 and runs during select dates through Sunday, January 5, 2025.

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FEE: Prices vary from advance, day of and member/non-member

2 & Under are FREE

Children 3-12 years $17-$24

Adults #32-$39

LOCATION:  Downtown Geneva

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DATE: December 6, 2024 at 6pm

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DETAILS: Tis the season to be jolly… especially in downtown Geneva!   Our annual Christmas festival will begin Friday, December 1st at 6 pm with the first candy cane of the season being presented to the mayor, the arrival of Santa Lucia who lights the Great Tree, and the highly anticipated arrival of Santa Claus. The evening’s events continue with roasted chestnuts, strolling carolers, a live nativity and special offerings from Geneva merchants.

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FEE: FREE

​DATES: November 18 thru December 9, 2024 

 

DETAILS: Ho! Ho! Ho! Add to the excitement of Christmastime’s holiday magic with a letter from Santa Claus, all the way from his workshop at the North Pole. Letters will be mailed after December 10.

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FEE: $5/person

LOCATION:  Hickory Knolls, Discovery Center, 3795 Campton Hills Road, St. Charles 

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DATE:  December 1, 2024 @ 10am

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DETAILS: Watch Santa arrive pulled by his dashing huskies, and then spend some time helping him get ready for his Big Day. Write a letter to Santa. Make an ornament. Have your picture taken with the Big Guy himself! Santa arrives at 10:15am. For ages 2+. This activity will be held at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center.

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FEE: $18 per person

LOCATION:  Pottawatomie Community Center, 8 North Avenue, St. Charles 

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DATE:  December 14, 2024 @ 11am, 12pm, 1pm & 2pm

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DETAILS:   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. All ages welcome. This activity begins in Pottawatomie Community Center.

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FEE: $20/person & Kids 1 and under FREE!

LOCATION:  Baker Community Center, St. Charles

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DATES:  December 18, 2024 @6pm 

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DETAILS:  Create magical memories with the WHO-liday’s most lovable villain. Smiles, mischief and laughter guaranteed! Decorate your very own miniature Christmas tree. Enjoy a delightful dinner of pizza, salad, grinch snacks and more. Bring your camera for Grinch selfies. Be warned: Your heart might just grow 3 sizes! All ages welcome. 

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FEE: $35 per person 

LOCATION:  Playhouse 38, Geneva 

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DATE:  December 20, 2024 @6:30pm

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DETAILS:  Join us for a special night of holiday magic as we watch The Polar Express on the big screen! Each child will also receive a Golden Ticket! Hot chocolate will be served, and additional snacks and non-alcoholic & alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. 

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FEE: $15/person

LOCATION:  Drury Lane, Oak Brook​

 

DATE:  November 29 & 30, December 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21, 2024 @10am

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DETAILS:   Our Dining with Santa tradition continues. Before the curtain rises, or after the final bow, create memories during Breakfast with Santa, featuring a buffet of timeless favorites of the past, capture moments of the present in photographs with Santa and Drury Lane’s majestic Christmas Tree, and look forward to new memories in the upcoming seasons.

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FEE:  Adults $45/person & kids 5-12 $30/person

LOCATION:  PARC, Plainfield 

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DATE: December 7, 2024 9am or 10:30am timeslots

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DETAILS: Santa is making a special stop at the Plainfield Park District to have breakfast with all the good children! Each participant receives a breakfast ticket, one-on-one visit with Santa, and a goodie bag! Don't forget your camera to capture your meeting with Santa! Each participant must be registered. Do NOT register children younger than 2 years old. Participants are also welcome to take photos inside the magical snow globe, presented by the Friends of the Plainfield Park District Foundation!

Each parent, child, and any additional guest must be registered. Do NOT register children younger than 2 years old.

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FEE: $16 Residents/$20 Non-Residents

LOCATION:  Village Squire, 480 Randall Road, South Elgin

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DATE:  November 23, 2024 

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DETAILS: 

Breakfast with Santa:

Saturday, November 23, 2024 • 9-10:30am

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Join us for Breakfast with Santa!! We will serve pancakes, eggs, bacon and a beverage. Plus crafts, coloring reindeer food, and of course a visit from Santa! Everyone will have individual time to visit with Santa and a photo op. KM Parents: Please bring your own camera, pictures are not provided.
 

FEE: $17 R/$25 NR
Section #: 33603-01  To register, click here.

 

Lunch with Santa:

Saturday, November 23, 2024 • 11:30am-1pm
 

Join us for Lunch with Santa. Bring down the family and hang out with the big guy himself. Meals are as follows: Kids: Cheeseburger or Chicken Fingers; Adults: Cheeseburger or Chicken Sandwich. All meals will include fries and a beverage. Don’t forget about the individual time every child will get with Santa and of course crafts, coloring and reindeer food. KM Parents: Please bring your own camera, pictures are not provided.
 

FEE: Child $17 R/$25 NR

         Adults $23 R/$29 NR

Section #: 33601-01  To register, click here.

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LOCATION:  Village Green, Chicago Street, Plainfield

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DATE: November 30, 2024, 4:30pm - 7:30pm

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DETAILS:   Celebrate the season and experience Village Green aglow with holiday lights and sights at the annual Grinchmas on the Green November 30.

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Schedule:

4:30PM – Free hot cocoa & cookies (while supplies last) under the pavilion

5PM – Santa and the Grinch arrive with transportation provided by the Plainfield Fire Protection District.

5:15PM – Santa and the Grinch light up the giant Village Green Christmas tree

5:30PM – Photo opportunities with Santa and the Grinch in Whoville (tennis court)

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FEE: FREE!

LOCATION:  SEBA Park, 151 Water Street, South Elgin

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DATE:  November 23, 2024 from 2-5pm

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DETAILS:   

Join South Elgin Parks and Recreation for the 23rd annual An Almost Winter Day at South Elgin's SEBA Park, 151 Water Street, Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 2-5pm. Make s'mores, decorate cookies, enjoy craft projects, get a balloon animal, drop-off a letter to Santa (and get a reply from the North Pole). The afternoon includes an ice sculptor, bonfire, a tree decorating contest and snowball slingshot fun. NEW THIS YEAR - dog sled demos by Free Spirit Siberian Rescue! Plus...Santa arrives at 2pm and will stay until 4:45 for pictures (bring your camera). At 5pm, the event shifts to Panton Mill Park across the street for the Village Tree lighting. *note: concessions available at affordable prices

 

Parking is available in the North lot, Panton Mill, County Park, and Willard School parking lot.

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FEE: FREE 

LOCATION:  810 Prescott Lane, Oswego 

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DATES:  December 13-15, 2024

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DETAILS:   Join us for a beloved holiday tradition! Dress in your coziest pajamas and warmest clothes, and embark on a magical journey to the top of the world. Mrs. Claus will welcome you, you’ll savor hot cocoa from the Village Grind, and you’ll have the chance to meet Santa! Registration is required for all participants, from Grandma to the baby. Holiday shuttles depart every 20 minutes during your registered session. Please note, there are no refunds for the event after December 1.

 

Wheelchair-accessible shuttles are available only on Friday evenings. 

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FEE:  $25 Resdients/$35 Non-Residents

LOCATION:  5 Plaza Drive, Woodridge

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DATE:  November 23, 2024 from 4:30-9:30pm

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DETAILS:  Join The Village of Woodridge, Curated Collections Events, the Woodridge Public Library, the Woodridge Park District, and the Woodridge Special Events Committee for a spectacular evening featuring:

• A dazzling tree-lighting ceremony with a 20 Ft. Christmas tree 

• Photos with Santa

• A vibrant maker’s market showcasing over 20 local vendors selling a variety of handcrafted/sourced goods

• Delicious offerings from food trucks

• Festive holiday music

• A children’s craft area

•  Meet-and-greet opportunities with beloved characters like Anna and Elsa from Frozen and Rudolph!

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FEE:  FREE

LOCATION:  Cantigny Park, Wheaton

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DATES:  Sundays starting November 24, 2024 - January 5, 2025 from 5-9pm

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DETAILS:  

Explore a dazzling array of experiences as you stroll through a ½-mile, fully ADA- and stroller-accessible path. Along the way, music-orchestrated light shows, festive decorations, larger-than-life flower sculptures, and a towering 28-foot Christmas tree will enchant you.

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You can also step inside the beautifully adorned McCormick House, a unique opportunity to explore this historically preserved home, blending history with holiday charm for a special addition to your visit.

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Historic Splendor and a Hidden Bar

The beautifully renovated McCormick House is open again this season, with even more rooms adorned in festive splendor. Take in the display of hundreds of iconic Cantigny poinsettias and enjoy a moment together at the hidden bar, where you can sip hot cocoa or a festive cocktail.

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Savor the moments

Cantigny’s holiday light show sets the stage for memorable experiences with loved ones. Stroll through the gardens as the lighting enhances traditional holiday decorations, creating moments of wonder for families and couples alike. This year, the light show expands into upper and lower display gardens, offering new features that invite you to share and cherish the holiday spirit together.

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FEE:  

Tickets in Advance: $15/child & $19/adult

Day of tickets: $25/child & $30/adult 

LOCATION:  Cantigny Park, Wheaton

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DATES:  Various Days starting November 22, 2024 thru January 4, 2025 from 5pm - 9pm

 

DETAILS:  

A Holiday Wonderland Awaits

Explore a dazzling array of experiences as you stroll through a ½-mile, fully ADA- and stroller-accessible path. Along the way, music-orchestrated light shows, festive decorations, larger-than-life flower sculptures, and a towering 28-foot Christmas tree will enchant you.

​

You can also step inside the beautifully adorned McCormick House, a unique opportunity to explore this historically preserved home, blending history with holiday charm for a special addition to your visit.

​

Historic Splendor and a Hidden Bar

The beautifully renovated McCormick House is open again this season, with even more rooms adorned in festive splendor. Take in the display of hundreds of iconic Cantigny poinsettias and enjoy a moment together at the hidden bar, where you can sip hot cocoa or a festive cocktail.

​

Savor the moments

Cantigny’s holiday light show sets the stage for memorable experiences with loved ones. Stroll through the gardens as the lighting enhances traditional holiday decorations, creating moments of wonder for families and couples alike. This year, the light show expands into upper and lower display gardens, offering new features that invite you to share and cherish the holiday spirit together.

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FEE:  

Tickets in Advance: $15/child & $19/adult

Day of tickets: $25/child & $30/adult 

LOCATION:  Geneva Train Station

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DATES:  December 7 & 8, 2024, 9:30am-12pm & 1:30-4pm

 

DETAILS:  All aboard the Polar Express Storytime Train! Travel to the North Pole to pick up Santa & his friends. Then travel back with us to Geneva and have lunch/dinner. After we eat, each child will have the opportunity to sit on Santa’s lap, give him their wish list, and have a picture taken. Families are encouraged to wear their pajamas and bring their holiday spirit!. Please note: this event is listed in the Fall brochure, which is out in late July. Pre-registration is required and space is limited.

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FEE:  

Ages Newborn - 11 months are FREE

Ages 1-17 years: $40 Res/ $47 Non-Resident

Ages 18+ years: $45 Res/ $53 Non-Resident

LOCATION:  Peck Farm, Geneva

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DATES:  Decmber 1 thru January 1, 2025 from 5pm -10pm

 

DETAILS:  Bring your family and friends to Peck Farm Park starting December 14 to take in the beautiful holiday lights at Peck Farm Park.  Visitors can stroll through the illuminated pathways, and take in the twinkling splendor. No registration or fees required to walk the Winter Wonder Lights.

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FEE:  FREE

LOCATION:   Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main Street St. Charles  

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DATE:  Decmber 15, 2024 from 10am-1pm

 

DETAILS:  Experience the magic of the holiday season at The Arcada Theatre with our Breakfast with Santa Claus event.  Guests will indulge in a delightful breakfast in Rock n Ravioli before entering the theatre for a memorable visit with Santa Claus. Enjoy festive music, capture special moments with beloved holiday characters, and share your wishes with Santa himself. Each child will receive a special gift, making this an unforgettable experience for families.

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FEE:  FREE for kids 2 & under, $30 children 2-11 years old & $40 for ages 12+

LOCATION:   441 Aurora Avenue, Naperville 

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DATES:  Decmber 2-22, 2024, Mon-Fri 5-8pm and weekends 12pm-8pm.

 

DETAILS:  Little ones and family members of all ages will enjoy a unique visit with Santa inside his magical workshop! Reservations are required; walk-ups will not be accommodated. One family at a time will be inside the workshop to experience a brief, conversation with Santa. Families are welcome to take their own photos and/or video as professional photos will not be provided. The line to visit with Santa will queue outdoors, so please dress for the weather!

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FEE:  will be on website on registration date, 10/22/24

LOCATION:   phone call 

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DATE:  Calls are made on December 4, 2024 from 6-8pm

 

DETAILS:  Make this holiday season even more special for your child with a personal phone call from Santa Claus or Mrs. Claus! Santa or Mrs. Claus will address each child by name, ask for gift ideas and have a magical and memorable conversation. Registration is free.  Registration is per family. Please make your reservation early as limited spots are available! 

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FEE:  will be on website on registration date, 10/22/24

LOCATION:   West Chicago Metra Train Station

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DATES:  December 14 & 15, 2024 @ 1:15pm & 5:15pm

 

DETAILS:  Your journey to the North Pole is about to begin! Riders will enjoy a journey to the “North Pole” aboard West Chicago’s own holiday train to pick up Santa. The ride will be filled with music, stories, snacks and surprises! Make sure you’re on the nice list, as Santa will jump onboard to check his list twice and give each child a special gift.

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FEE:  Resident $25/ Non-Resident $30

LOCATION:   West Chicago Park District 

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DATES:  December 21, 2024 from 8-10am

 

DETAILS:  Celebrate the holiday season with a Grinchmas Gathering Breakfast! Enjoy a festive morning with a delicious breakfast, meet and greet with the Grinch and Santa Claus, and fun holiday crafts for kids. Register by November 27 to save! Don’t miss out on this magical holiday experience! Children must be accompanied by a guardian. All participants, adult and child must be registered. Participants under the age of 1 are free.

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FEE: Resident $20/Non-Resident $24 by November 27 

Resident $25/Non-Resident $30 after November 27

LOCATION:   West Chicago Park District 

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DATES:  Februrary 1, 2025 from 1-3pm

 

DETAILS:  Candyland comes to life when you step into a world of sweetness and adventure at our Candyland Carnival! This whimsical event will transport you to a magical land where sugary treats and fun-filled activities await the entire family. Stroll through Lollipop Lane, test your skills at the Gumdrop Games, and indulge in a variety of candy-themed activities and beloved character meet & greets.

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FEE: Resident $12/Non-Resident $12 by January 15

Resident $15/Non-Resident $18 after January 15

LOCATION:   Eaton Preserve, Plainfield

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DATES:  December 13 & 14, 2024 from 5-9pm

 

DETAILS:  Bundle up for a wagon ride to the North Pole! Sing along to seasonal songs while sipping hot chocolate, and enjoy a visit with Santa and his Elf. Each child receives a snack and bell for the event.

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FEE: $15/person

LOCATION:  Prisco Community Center, Aurora 

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DATE:  December 17, 2024 from 11am-12:30pm

 

DETAILS:  Our Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party is the perfect way to kick off the season. Dress in your holiday best and enjoy an elegant tea party with delectable treats from the Land of Sweets, holiday music, crafts, entertainment and photo opportunities with the Sugar Plum Fairy and Nutcracker dancers! Both child and adult need to register.

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FEE: Resident $20/Non-Resident $25

LOCATION:  Vaughan Athletic Center, Aurora 

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DATE:  December 21, 2024 from 10am-11:30am

 

DETAILS:  Join the Grinch and Cindy Lou for cocoa & cookies, singing and story time, crafts, and Whoville Bingo! Fun for the whole family at the Vaughan Center. All ages welcome. All attendees must purchase a ticket. and all children must be accompanied by and adult during the event. Children under 2 are free. All ticket sales are final.

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FEE: $34/person

LOCATION:  Warrenville Park District

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DATE:  December 13, 2024 from 5:30pm-7pm

 

DETAILS:  Dress in your favorite holiday jammies and join us to celebrate the holiday season! Enjoy pizza, drinks and dessert along with a holiday themed craft and a visit with Santa. Children must be accompanied by an adult and everyone attending must register.

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FEE: $12-$22

LOCATION:  IL Route 47, Elburn

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DATE:  December 7, 2024 from 4-7pm

 

DETAILS:  Please join us on Dec. 7th, from 4-7 pm in Downtown Elburn, IL for the 30th Annual Elburn Chamber of Commerce Christmas Stroll! Santa will kick off the Stroll at 4 pm with the lighting of the Christmas Tree followed by holiday themed activities throughout the town! Enjoy the downtown lights, shops on Main Street, events at the Community Center and Library, the Kris Kringle Market at Obscurity Brewing and live reindeer at the Pound 4 Pound Fitness/Obscurity Mead Hall parking lot!

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FEE: FREE