It’s starting to look a lot like Christmas – well, a lot in these towns, anyway. These are the best Christmas towns in Illinois, with decorations, activities, and a certain something to get you in the holiday spirit. Here are a few of the best Christmas towns in Illinois.
1. St. Charles, IL
St. Charles, a beautiful and historic downtown, looks fantastic this time of year with Christmas lights strung across the streets. It began with a visit from Santa, a parade, and free horse-drawn carriage rides. Stroll around downtown and look through the shops to find the perfect gift for someone.
2. Chicago, IL
Visiting Chicago during the holidays will immediately put you in the holiday spirit. There are so many things to do, such as seeing the big tree (now in Millennium Park), eating some German specialties at Christkindlmarket, eating at Macy’s Walnut Room, and looking at the decorated store windows.
3. Galena, IL
Do you want something magical? Then proceed to Galena’s Main Street. Enjoy “Old Fashioned Christmas Weekends” and don’t miss the “Night of the Luminaria,” where over 5,000 luminaries will be lit and windows will come alive. You don’t want to miss out on this. This Illinois Christmas town will become a yearly tradition for you!
4. Monticello, IL
Monticello has been in the Christmas spirit all season, but the Christmas Parade really got things started. Don’t worry if you missed it, because Santa will be at the Depot. On the train, your child can have lunch with Santa! It’s a step up from the Polar Express. This will appeal to children of all ages.
5. Effingham
You have to believe that Effingham, home to the World’s Largest Cross, will be all about Christmas. They are, indeed. You’ll enjoy Wonderland in Lights. Every Saturday, Santa arrives with special gifts for the children. You’ll be inspired to sing Christmas carols if you drive through to see the lights.
6. Elburn
You should go to Elburn just to see one house. You mean a house? A house, yes. But not any old house. Larsen’s Light Show is a spectacular light show that won the 2013 competition “Light Fight.” There are videos and photos available online, but nothing beats seeing it in person. Santa comes to visit on Saturday nights! This adorable Christmas light display in Illinois is ideal for a night of family fun.
7. Rochelle, IL
The Downtown Christmas walk, which includes food, contests, and carriage rides, kicks off the holiday season in Rochelle every year. Many homes are decorated and will put you in the holiday spirit.
8. Canton, IL
Canton, Illinois knows how to get into the holiday spirit, with hundreds of lighted trees, trolley rides, and an Old Fashioned Christmas Walk. Oh, and don’t forget to stop by the delightful Snowman’s Reindeer Farm while you’re here.
9. Naperville, IL
Downtown Naperville looks fantastic at night. Stroll around downtown and you’ll find plenty of cool shops where you can find one-of-a-kind gifts. The Jingle Bell Jamboree, Naper Lights, and a Holiday Mansion Tour are just a few of the exciting events taking place at Naper Settlement. Christmas in Illinois has never been more enchanting!
10. Alton, IL
Alton is a great place to start the Christmas countdown. Visitors come from all over to see the “Christmas Wonderland” holiday light display. Rock Springs Park in Alton, Illinois, has been transformed into a winter wonderland. More than 2 million lights, cascading waterfalls of lights, lighted trees and displays, and Santa Claus in the Enchanted Forest can be seen as visitors drive through the park.
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