The beauty of Starved Rock Country is on full display during the winter. From the natural wonders of Starved Rock State Park to the great dining, lodging & shopping, be sure to Flock to the Rock this winter to experience it for yourself!
Flock to the Rock Winter Challenge The challenge features 100+ stops around LaSalle County, including lodging, shopping, dining, museums and other attractions. Use the app to check in at your favorite destinations and earn prizes* at the Starved Rock Country Welcome Center.
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WHILE You're here 2025 WINTER EVENTS
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Winter has a special feeling to it.
A sense of wonder, quiet. You can’t miss the warmth that goes so much deeper than what you feel from the fireside or the cocoa in your hands. Across Northern Illinois, every unique town has its own way of evoking the magic of the holiday season.
In this issue of Neighborhood Tourist, we’ve highlighted some of our favorite ways to make winter a little brighter, and a lot more fun! From cross-country skiing at the Pilcher Park Center in Joliet to snowboarding down Villa Olivia in Bartlett, seize the chance to enjoy snowy winter sports before spring comes knocking (page 9).
Still searching for the perfect gift? Check out downtown Batavia for an array of boutiques and treasure-filled storefronts for your holiday shopping needs (page 16). And if your idea of a perfect winter day involves lights, music and a bit of nostalgia, flip to page 12 and save the date for concerts, community traditions and live theater performances.
We’ve made sure to include a few stories to incite that olden-days glow that can only be captured during the holidays. Learn more about small-town traditions (page 22), get cozy with local holiday magic (page 18) or creating that perfect “snow globe” Christmas (page 26).
I hope this issue inspires you to enjoy everything Northern Illinois has to offer this season.
Stay warm, stay kind and have a wonderful winter!
Kelley White Editor
on the COVER
Hometown holiday celebrations are some of the most festive events of the year. Check out more on pages 12 and 18!
Photo by Drew Pertl
LAURA SHAW Publisher Northwest Herald & Kane County Chronicle
JULIE BARICHELLO Designer
STAFF
OUR CONTRIBUTORS
¢ KEVIN DRULEY is a St. Louis transplant who lives in the western suburbs with his wife, Shannon. What Chicagoans call “pop,” he calls “soda,” although it’s really rather moot since he gave up such carbonated beverages for Lent in 1999. Kevin enjoys day tripping, reading, moviegoing and playing pickup sports. He recently encountered recreational pickleball and is over the moon.
¢ VICKI MARTINKA PETERSEN loves playing tourist right here in the Chicago area. Vicki juggles being a mom with her full-time job as a digital copywriter for a regional hospital system and her side hustle as a freelance writer for local niche publications. When she’s not negotiating with her son to go to bed, Vicki can be found meditating, practicing yoga, cooking and reading. She also volunteers at her son’s school and serves on the board of the AAUW Aurora Area Branch and Moms & More of Oswego.
¢ GRACE ROSATI is a creative, through and through. Whether it’s writing, making music or crocheting, Grace loves to express herself and learn new things. When she’s not creating, you can find her trying to catch up with her evergrowing list of books to read, or binging the latest hot TV show.
¢ PAT SZPEKOWSKI is president of PR Strategies & Communications, Inc. in Elgin, a full-service advertising agency/public relations firm she founded in 1987. Pat enjoys storytelling and capturing the essence of people, places, businesses and nonprofits. She enjoys wearing two hats as an award-winning accredited public relations professional and freelance journalist. Pat strongly believes in community outreach and is involved in active participation, support, membership, volunteerism and leadership.
¢ CHRIS WALKER loves stories. He’ll tell you how seeing Jane’s Addiction at The Riv in 1989 changed him, why Noah Baumbach’s “Kicking & Screaming” is his favorite film and why being a dad is one of the coolest things. He has plenty of great stories, but it’s writing and sharing yours that he loves doing most. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him parenting, watching or umpiring baseball, listening to music or reminiscing about his whiffle ball field.
STARVED ROCK COUNTRY WELCOME CENTER
AN ILLINOIS MADE GIFT SHOPPE
Featuring gifts from Illinois artisans, makers and attractions
248 W. Canal Street, North Utica, IL • Open 12:00PM - 6:00PM every day! Located in Village Hall, between Downtown Utica and Clarks Run Antiques.
WHAT'S INSIDE
9 WINTER ADVENTURES AWAIT
From ski hills to skating rinks, explore cool sporty fun
12 HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
Save the date for concerts, classics and community traditions
16 DISCOVER DOWNTOWN BATAVIA
Check out some highlights for wintertime shopping and dining
18 BY CANDLELIGHT & FIRELIGHT
Discover cozy holiday magic across Northern Illinois
22 SMALL-TOWN TRADITIONS
These communities come alive for the holidays
26 A SNOW GLOBE HOLIDAY
Make memories and magic this holiday season
Be bold and embrace the cold with a new winter activity such as hiking, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, eagle watching, ice skating and more. Don’t simply endure the cold, short days of winter when you can go outside, soak up some sunlight and truly enjoy these activities in a winter wonderland.
WINTER
From Ski Hills to Skating Rinks, Explore Sporty Fun
By
AWAIT ADVENTURES
Chris Walker n Photos by Larry Kmiecik, Kyle Russell, Bartlett Park District and Batavia Park District
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
The Pilcher Park Nature Center, 2501 Highland Park Drive, Joliet, sits on more than 640 acres of land, making it the perfect environment for this wintertime recreation. Cross-country ski rentals are available during business hours. Rentals include skis, poles and boots, with children’s sizes also available. Adults $20 for two hours; children $10. www.jolietpark.org
DOWNHILL SKIING, SNOWBOARDING AND SNOW TUBING
Whether you’ve tried some of these popular winter sports or have been eagerly waiting for the opportunity, now’s your chance at Villa Olivia in Bartlett.
Villa Olivia can make its own snow, ensuring plenty of the slippery white stuff for outdoor fun. The hill features seven runs, a chairlift, six rope tows and a tubing hill.
“A lot of people learn to ski with us,” says Stephanie Fairbanks, marketing manager
for the Bartlett Park District. “Because we offer group lessons and private lessons there are a lot of different options to learn, and our ski patrol is onsite to keep people safe. We have plenty of free parking and we’re an easy location where you can come in the evening for a couple hours without having to travel to Wisconsin or Minnesota.”
For those squeamish about skiing or snowboarding, snow tubing can be an absolute blast for ages 6 to 60 and beyond, while kids as young as 4 can ride with a paying adult age 18 or older. www.bartlettparks.org
EAGLE WATCHING
The Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center, Starved Rock Lodge, Illinois Waterway Visitor Center and Utica Village Hall are collaborating for Eagle Watch Weekend on Jan. 24-25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The free, family-friendly event includes live bird-of-prey programs, educational stations, spotting scopes and birdwatching, children’s programming and more. www.starvedrocklodge.com
ELECTRIC ILLUMINATION
For adults ages 18 years and older, this is a unique way to experience The Morton Arboretum’s annual Illumination holiday light show with friends and family. Enjoy themed music, food and drinks, a live DJ and immersive light displays, including the colorful Vivid Creatures animal sculptures synchronized to music. Dec. 5, 12 and 19 from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. www.mortonarb.org
GUIDED WINTER HIKES
See how beautiful and peaceful Starved Rock State Park can be in winter by signing up for a guided hike for $20. Hikes are offered by Starved Rock Lodge. The fee includes a Starved Rock backpack, bottled water, snack and a voucher for a small hot chocolate or coffee upon return to the lodge’s hotel lobby.
Hikes are held weekends only from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reservations are required as space is limited. www.starvedrocklodge.com
ICE SKATING
n Batavia Park District: Depot Pond. www.bataviaparks.org
n Crystal Lake Park District: Ice rinks at Main Beach and West Beach. www.crystallakeparks.org
n Sterling Park District: Outdoor skating area at Thomas Park. www.sterlingparks.org
n Dixon Park District: Page Park ice rink offers complimentary skates (subject to availability). www. dixonparkdistrict.com
n Geneva Park District: Wheeler Park skating rink includes one sheet for skating and another for hockey, plus an additional rink next to the Mill Creek pool.
n Forest Preserve District of Will County: Pond available for skating at Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve. www.reconnectwithnature.org
n City of Morris: Free skating at Goold Park. www.morrisil.org
n New Lenox Community Park District: Rink at Haines Wayside Park. www.newlenoxparks.org
n Plainfield Park District: Outdoor rink at Eaton Preserve. www.plfdparks.org
n Village of Orland Park: Winter Wonderland Ice Rink, $3 per person with reservation required. Skaters must bring their own skates; free skate aides/walkers available whenever the warming house is open. www.orlandpark.org
SWIMMING IN SLEET, SNOW AND SUBZERO CONDITIONS
Can you imagine swimming outside with snow on the ground? Make it happen at Sky Spa Sauna, 1901 Busch Parkway, Buffalo Grove. The resort-style outdoor pool is heated to 84 degrees and open year-round. www.skyspasauna.com
Holiday Happenings
Concerts, Classics & Community Traditions are on the Calendar
By Kevin Druley
“The Nutcracker” is tough to break as a holiday classic given its timeless appeal to the heart.
“I don’t know about you, but I remember a holiday tradition in my house was watching ‘The Nutcracker’ on TV,” said Aelsa Woods, general manager of the Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra, which performs concerts in La Salle, Peru, Ottawa and Princeton. “I felt so lucky one year to attend one in person.”
Visitors to Matthiessen Auditorium at La Salle-Peru High School can join the club this winter as IVSO stages productions of the classic ballet at 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14. Tickets cost $10 for students through college and $22 for adults.
“Having this kind of cultural opportunity in our community is something we shouldn’t take for granted,” Woods said.
The IVSO production of “The Nutcracker” will include dancers from three dance studios across
the region: The Dance Center (La Salle), Dancenter (Streator), and Gray’s School of Dance (Ottawa).
With area vocal students and those from the Illinois Valley Youth Choir comprising the Snowflake Chorus, “so it really is a whole-community affair,” Woods said.
Photos provided by Egyptian Theatre, Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra, Geneva Chamber of Commerce and Raue Center for the Arts
“The Nutcracker” by Beth Fowler Dance Company
“The Nutcracker” by Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra
Here’s a look at other holiday-themed shows, performances and activities throughout the Neighborhood Tourist coverage area. Rest assured, you’ll find other productions of “The Nutcracker.”
GENEVA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CHRISTMAS WALK & HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR
The Christmas Walk 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5; Holiday House Tour 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5 and 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6 Downtown Geneva
From Snow Globes to Sleigh Bells… Your Holiday Advent ure Starts Here
Each location is packed with twinkling lights, holiday treats, and merry surprises Plus - you’ll f ind awesome photo spots and Instagramworthy backdrops to capture the magic
nown for its Farmers’ Market, scenic riverwalk and unique Boardwalk Shops, downtown Batavia is a destination worth visiting all year. As the air turns crisp and lights begin to twinkle, stroll across the Peace on Earth bridge to enjoy sparkling river views and festive downtown charm — there’s no better way to experience the warmth and wonder of Batavia’s downtown.
COMFORT FOOD
Cozy up with comfort food to brighten a winter day. Enjoy gooey gourmet sandwiches at Everdine’s Grilled Cheese Co. (227 W. Wilson St.), wings and a cold brew at JT’s Tavern & Tap (113 S. Batavia Ave.) or signature burgers and craft cocktails at The GOAT Burger + Cocktail Bar (107 E. Wilson St.). For something sweet, indulge in cupcakes, dessert bars and ice cream with year-round seasonal flavors from Haylie B’s Bakery (109 E. Wilson St.) and Batavia Creamery (4 N. Island Ave.).
INDOOR MARKET
The Farmers’ Market moves indoors for the season at Sturdy Shelter Brewing (10 S. Shumway Ave.) every Saturday, 9 a.m.–noon. Shop 20-plus local vendors for seasonal produce, meats, eggs, baked goods and ready-to-eat breakfast items, then stop next door at Urban Apothecary (104 1st St.) and Fat Sam’s for Pets (102 1st St.) for wellness finds for humans and pets alike.
BATAVIA BOARDWALK SHOPS
Find handmade goods, home décor, clothing and gifts at the Batavia Boardwalk Shops (114 E. Wilson St.), open Fridays 11 a.m.- 5 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Dec. 21. Don’t miss Sundays with Santa, Nov. 30 through Dec. 21, from noon–2 p.m. — bring your wish list, snap photos and shop small!
Sturdy Shelter Brewing is home to the Indoor Market this winter.
Photos by April Duda Photography
BocaditosArgentineCafé
UNIQUE FINDS & TRENDS
Downtown Batavia is full of distinctive treasures and one-of-a-kind style. Explore Warehouse 55 (160 1st St.), a nearly 8,000-square-foot marketplace brimming with vintage finds, repurposed furnishings and eclectic accessories. Hop on this year’s Western trend at Gifts & Amor (103 E. Wilson St.), offering authentic boots, hats, belts and accessories.
INTERNATIONAL CUISINE
Taste the world without leaving Batavia. Savor Thai at Thai Village (4 N. Batavia Ave.) or Tusk Thai (102 N. River St.), enjoy South American flavors at Bocaditos Argentine Café (11 N. Batavia Ave.), grab a cup at Giron Guatemalan Coffee (114 E. Wilson St.) or explore local Mexican favorites at Taqueria El Sazon (8 N. Island Ave.).
Families will love the Wilson Street Mercantile (222 E. Wilson St.), featuring vibrant 3D-printed toys, trendy Swiftie and pop-culture apparel, and fun gifts that capture the latest trends. For game enthusiasts, visit Tabletop Game Shop (24 S. Van Buren St.), specializing in trading card games like Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, and Yu-Gi-Oh!, and stocking a wide selection of board games perfect for winter gatherings. Whether you’re hunting for handmade
home décor, stylish accessories or whimsical gifts, downtown Batavia offers treasures you won’t find anywhere else.
Seapeak Style is located inside the Wilson Street Mercantile.
n FOR RESTAURANT AND SHOPPING GUIDES, EVENT DETAILS AND MORE, visit www.downtownbatavia.com and plan your visit today.
Candlelight & Firelight
Discover cozy holiday magic across Northern Illinois
By Vicki Martinka Petersen
Photos provided by Morton Arboretum, Cantigny, Chris Kringle Market and Christkindlmarket Aurora
Winter might bring shorter days and longer, colder nights. Yet in the midst of the literal and figurative darkness are opportunities to experience cozy moments.
n o n
Take the fireplace in downtown Geneva, where visitors can enjoy the magic of gathering around the fire year-round. Located on Third Street across from the historic courthouse, it’s the perfect spot to warm up while waiting to see Santa and enjoying the other festivities of Christmas Walk Weekend, held Dec. 5-7 in downtown Geneva.
The annual Christmas Walk begins with the arrival of carolers, Santa Lucia and Santa Claus. The courthouse lawn becomes illuminated with lights and serves as home to the great tree and North Pole post office for the season. Get a start on holiday shopping as you stroll from shop to shop on the twinkling, lighted streets. Or grab a hot chocolate and take in the holiday magic with a carriage ride. For more details, visit genevachamber.com/ events/christmas-walk.
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After Thanksgiving, the historic Square in downtown Woodstock becomes a sparkling winter wonderland as tens of thousands of twinkling lights are illuminated on park trees and square buildings, ushering in holiday magic in a Victorian-era setting. The lighting ceremony begins at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, complete with a visit from Santa to greet children and pose for pictures. Learn more at woodstockil.gov.
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Christmas at Cantigny brightens up the park’s natural surroundings with twinkling lights, including a new light display in the rose garden this year. Afterward, check out the Cocoa Cabanas for a fun and festive way to gather around the fire. Located near Cantigny’s ice rink, each cabana has a fire table and heated seating area to keep your group cozy and warm. Packages include full bar service and tasty eats such as gourmet pizzas, warm pretzel bites and chili. Be sure to reserve a cabana before your visit at cantigny.org/christmas-atcantigny/ice-rink-cocoa-cabanas.
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Another option for outdoor dining in winter is the popular igloos found outside many establishments, including the Drake igloos in Oak Brook. These private, heated outdoor dining globes offer a cozy experience perfect for a date night or outing with friends. Reservations are available for dinner Wednesdays through Sundays. Book your igloo by visiting thedrakeoakbrookhotel. com/igloos.
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Many winter events, like Christmas at Cantigny, bring a glow into the darkness of the season through light displays and fire pits. One of the area’s most popular light
festivals is Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum in Lisle. Illumination returns for its 13th year of innovative light shows and music along a paved path. New this year is “Vivid Creatures,” featuring four colorful animal sculptures.
Step inside a warming and concession tent for a quick bite and to pick up your s’mores kit. Then head over to the fire pit to warm up again while roasting marshmallows. Illumination runs through Jan. 3. For tickets and more information, visit mortonarb. org/explore/activities/exhibitions/ illumination.
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The glow of lights guides visitors as they stroll through Christkindlmarket
at RiverEdge Park in downtown Aurora. Experience a touch of German and European holiday traditions at this outdoor marketplace featuring unique gifts. Last year, youngsters took part in a Lantern Parade where they met Christkind, a fairy-like being who brings presents to children in German-speaking countries. Be sure to take a break from the festivities to enjoy food and beverages, including mulled wine.
Christkindlmarket will be open through Dec. 24. Plan your visit at christkindlmarket.com/aurora.
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Another popular market is the Chris Kringle Market in downtown Ottawa. The tree-lighting ceremony
kicks off this festive tradition, which opens Friday, Nov. 28.
Grab a market mug of Belgian hot cocoa to sip while you stroll under the twinkling lights, making your way among sparkling boutique windows filled with soft sweaters, brightly colored ornaments, fresh greens and new novels. Or grab a bite to eat while enjoying live entertainment or stopping by a
holiday-themed workshop. The Chris Kringle Market is open Fridays through Sundays from now through Dec. 21. Learn more at chriskringlemarket.com.
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Outdoor winter fun doesn’t end after the holiday season. Winter Beer Festival 2026 returns Saturday, Feb. 14, in Westmont. Craft brewers from the
Chicagoland area will gather at Ty Warner Park. Participants will receive 20 4-ounce pours of a variety of craft beer selections.
The event will feature heated and lighted tents, bonfires and outdoor seating. Be sure to stop by the food trucks for a bite to eat. Get your tickets at westmontparks.org/event/winter-beerfestival-2026.
Antiques & Collectibles VINTAGE
TUESDAY-SATURDAY
November
December 5th
HOLIDAY
Traditions Small-town
By Patricia Szpekowski
Traditions Communities Come Alive for the Holidays
No matter where you call home, the holidays come alive in the heart of your own hometown. Whether it’s twinkling lights shining on the official Christmas tree, Santa parades with festive floats, or sipping warm cocoa while shopping for holiday gifts, take time to enjoy the unique community gatherings that make the season magical and unforgettable.
Holiday parades have really taken an exciting turn. The Electric Christmas Parade in St. Charles celebrates its 25th year of lighting up the streets and bringing smiles to everyone on Nov. 29 at 5:30 p.m. Everyone gets involved — businesses, nonprofits and children — to decorate and light up their finest floats, cars and trucks.
“We are thrilled to have the Service Sanitation’s Jingle Johns in our parade this year,” says Susan Stark, events manager, St. Charles Business Alliance. “You’ll see Porta Paul, Carl Can, Buddy Blue, and Linda Loo and they are ready to spread holiday cheer.”
St. Charles also kicks off the holidays with live bands, and this year Santa Claus has a brand-new Santa’s Cottage to welcome kids and hear their wish lists. Visit him during the holidays starting Nov. 28 on Saturdays and Sundays. He’s happy to show off a new walk-in room and a warm fireplace amid an inviting and festive look.
“Bring the family to the historic Arcada Theatre for a free screening of the beloved holiday film ‘Elf,’” adds Stark. “The movie starts at 10 a.m., but the doors will open at 9 a.m. for guests to grab a seat and get snacks from the lobby.”
The Geneva Chamber of Commerce is also proud to announce the return of two of the community’s most beloved holiday traditions: the Geneva Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour, presented by Little Red Barn Door, Little Barn Baby and the City of Geneva.
“The celebration begins in downtown Geneva on Dec. 5 at 6 p.m.,” said Johanna Patterson, communications director, Geneva Chamber of Commerce, “with the ever-popular Bob’s Candy Cane Parade, leading up to the presentation of the first candy cane of the season by Graham’s Chocolates. The enchanting Santa Lucia, a symbol of Swedish tradition, will also make a special appearance, distributing cookies to attendees.”
The annual Holiday House Tour on Dec. 5-6 is a beloved custom and quickly sells out, so get your tickets at the Geneva Chamber website. Enjoy a self-guided tour of five stunning homes professionally decorated for the holiday season by local designers. You’ll see a modern contemporary, a traditional beauty, a Cape Cod holiday classic, a timeless Greek Revival and an elegant farmhouse — all festooned in holiday glory.
Be a little adventurous this holiday season and see something new. “There’s so much to do for the holidays in DeKalb County,” says Katherine McLaughlin, marketing director, DeKalb County Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Visit the historic Egyptian Theatre in downtown DeKalb for live music, film and performances that fill the stage for the holidays.”
Highlights at the Egyptian Theatre include viewing the beloved holiday movie “It’s a Wonderful Life” on its 35-foot-wide by 22-foot-tall movie screen on Nov. 30. Another annual tradition is the magical Nutcracker, presented by the Beth Fowler Dance Company on Dec. 6-7.
Just over the border in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, take a ride and enjoy the popular 44th Annual Christmas Card Town Parade on Dec. 6. Its name has a bit of history. It all started in the 1950s with a series of watercolor paintings created by artist Cecil Johnson for Ford Motor Co. They later were used as Christmas cards, and their popularity grew over the decades. The tradition continued with the late Jane Castle Reed and now with artist T. James Carson, whose Christmas card captures the hometown holiday spirit.
Wherever you turn, holiday hometown celebrations burst with pride. Their beloved traditions and new twists brighten the holidays and highlight the unique legacies they call their own.
Photos by Drew Pertl and the Geneva Chamber of Commerce
SEASONAL
WINTER FUN
Located less than two hours from most Chicagoland locations, Starved Rock Lodge offers the perfect escape to celebrate the magic of the season. Whether you’re planning a holiday party, a casual dinner, or a multigenerational family getaway, this historic lodge provides a warm, welcoming setting surrounded by the natural beauty of Starved Rock State Park.
This year, the Lodge is hosting a variety of festive experiences designed to bring people together. The popular Trolley Trio Progressive Dinners return on Dec. 4 and Jan. 22. Guests board the Starved Rock Trolley for a delicious three-course adventure. The evening begins with a flight of wine and appetizers at August Hill Winery, continues with dinner and drinks at Camp Aramoni and concludes in the Main Dining Room of Starved Rock Lodge with dessert and after-dinner drinks. Guests must be 21 or older to attend.
Families can share in the wonder of the season with the Polar Express Trolley Adventure. Guests are invited to put on their coziest pajamas and board the trolley at the Lodge for a journey to Rotary Park, where they’ll travel through the Celebration of Lights. During the ride, a live reading of The Polar Express adds to the magic. Upon returning to the Lodge, children can meet Santa Claus, share their Christmas wishes and take a photo with the jolly man himself. The trolleys are enclosed and heated, but guests are welcome to bring a blanket for extra comfort. This event takes place on select Fridays and Saturdays at 5 p.m.; reservations are required.
Another can’t-miss tradition is Breakfast with Santa, happening on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. in the Main Dining Room. Families will enjoy a festive breakfast buffet alongside Santa and the Grinch. Kids can decorate cookies, make a memorable Christmas ornament and sit on Santa’s lap to share their holiday wishes. Prices are $20 for adults, $15 for children ages 4 to 12 years, and $5 for children younger than 4 years.
The holiday spirit continues with the Christmas Trolley Lights Tours, scheduled for Dec. 7, 8, 10, 14, 15 and 17 from 6–8 p.m. Guests can relax and let the Lodge staff do the driving while they
enjoy some of the area’s most stunning holiday light displays. During the ride, the guide will share fun holiday trivia, jokes and riddles while Christmas music fills the air. The trolleys are heated, though an extra blanket is always a cozy touch. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for children 10 and younger.
For those looking to cross a few names off their gift list, the Starved Rock Gift Shop offers an excellent selection of holiday treasures. From coffee mugs and ornaments to books, jewelry, toys and cozy apparel, there’s something for everyone. Gift cards are also available at www.shopstarvedrock.com — a great way to share the experience of Starved Rock with friends and family. Reservations are required for most special events, and the Lodge’s Activities Department is happy to assist with booking your experience, whether it’s a festive dinner, guided hike or historic trolley tour. To reserve your spot, call 815-220-7386 or visit starvedrocklodge.com.
This holiday season, create new memories and celebrate timeless traditions at Starved Rock Lodge, where the charm of the past meets the joy of the present in the heart of nature.
Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center
One Lodge Lane, Oglesby 815-667-4211 | www.starvedrocklodge.com
Snow globe Holiday A
Make memories and magic
By Grace Rosati • Photos provided by Cantigny
As the snow begins to fall, magic fills the air. Step into your own personal snow globe and celebrate the holidays your way at these timeless locations in Northern Illinois!
Located on the historic estate of Robert R. McCormick, Cantigny Park in Wheaton knows how to bring the Christmas spirit to the community. Their Christmas at Cantigny event is full of dazzling light shows and family-friendly activities; from an outdoor ice-skating rink to their beautiful poinsettias nurtured by resident horticulturists, Cantigny is the perfect place to begin a new family tradition.
The main event is their fantastic outdoor lightshow, where guests can marvel at brilliant displays as they walk through the half-mile experience on ADA-certified pathways. And don’t worry, you won’t be outside for too long, because this stroll also includes an indoor look at the intricately decorated historic home of Robert R. McCormick. While inside, make sure to keep a sharp eye out for hidden Christmas Easter eggs!
Galyn Piper is Cantigny Park’s Director of Public Programs, and with how elaborate this event is, she and her team are living and breathing Christmas all year long. When speaking with Piper in October, she
had already begun stringing lights around the park. “It is an endeavor, particularly in the house where we have a 20-foot Christmas tree that is expertly decorated. Plus, there’s 35 other rooms to decorate, so it does take a significant amount of time and creativity to complete. We enjoy it, but we talk about Christmas way too much here at the office,” Piper jokes.
An exciting addition this year is their specialty themed lightshows! After a smashing success with their Taylor Swift-inspired light show last year, Piper’s team has worked tirelessly to bring you “A Wickedly Popular Christmas,” featuring music from the hit musical “Wicked,” which can be viewed on Sundays only.
Cantigny will continue the fun well after the holidays with their “Lights, Camera, ACTION” series, which features themes from all your favorite Hollywood blockbusters. Christmas At Cantigny begins Nov. 21 and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m., so gather the whole family for a night you won’t soon forget.
When decorating for the holidays, it goes without saying that your Christmas tree is the focal point of your home, and at Abbey Farms in Aurora, families can work together to find the perfect pine for their living room.
Owned by the monks of Marmion Abbey, Abbey Farms has been in the business of Christmas trees since 1949. What makes Abbey Farms unique, however, is their variety of Christmas tree experiences. Depending on your adventure level, Abbey Farms has both precut trees and U-Cut trees. For those opting for U-Cut, each group is given a map and handsaw before beginning the hunt for the perfect tree. Once a tree is chosen and chopped, an Abbey Farms associate will shake it and bale it to prepare for the ride home.
With so many choices, it can be hard to narrow down which tree is best for you. While it all comes down to preference, Director of Abbey Farms Eric Mott has some tips for what to keep an eye out for. “What I would say is look for a healthy tree. Make sure that it doesn’t look dried out and it’s retaining its needles, that they don’t feel brittle or stiff. And then height, obviously, is a very personal decision based on where you’re going to put that tree.”
One of the most difficult aspects of a live tree is keeping it green long enough
for Santa’s big day. While it may not be easy, it is not impossible! “The biggest thing is to make sure you always have water in your tree stand,” advises Mott. “If your water bowl dries out, the tree will reseal itself and it won’t take up any water, so you’re going to be in trouble. The number one thing is to keep it watered.” Abbey Farms’s most popular weekend is after Thanksgiving, so make sure to visit early in the season to find the best Christmas conifer.
Finally, if you are looking for a full weekend of free family fun, visit Frankfort for their Christkindl Weekend on Dec. 13 and Dec. 14. Don’t be a Scrooge: get in the spirit of the holidays with performances by local musicians and strolling carolers or see if you can find their roaming Christmas characters for a one-of-a-kind experience and a family photo. You can even ride in style on a trackless train or horse-drawn carriage. And don’t miss their annual Lantern Parade led by Kris Kringle himself. No matter what activities you are looking for, Frankfort will put you and your family in good cheer. Because, after all, it’s the most wonderful time of the year!
307 First Ave., Sterling Monday-Sunday 10am-4pm
THE ART OF GIVING
FOR THE MOMENTS THAT SHINE LONG AFTER THE SEASON ENDS
DEC. 7 - 13 TH TH SAVE ON ALL COLORED STONE JEWELRY
DEC. 14 - 20 TH TH SAVE ON ALL DIAMOND FASHION JEWELRY
DEC. 21 - 31 ST ST BUY A PAIR OF .75CTW DIAMOND STUDS OR LARGER AND GET A .25CTW PAIR FOR FREE!
