Batavia's Celebration of Lights Festival

Start the holiday season off right at the Celebration of Lights Festival, a family-oriented event featuring sparkling lights, festive decorations and a visit from Santa.

Families will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of entertainment from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 28, at the Batavia Riverwalk.

“This is a family-friendly event featuring Santa Claus, the ceremonial lighting of the tree, traditional holiday treats and a charming story hour,” said Allison Niemela, director of marketing and public relations for the park district.

Batavia business owner Craig Foltos will play the master of ceremonies, while the Batavia High School Madrigal Choir leads a community singalong until Santa arrives at 6 p.m. Mayor Jeff Schielke will greet Santa and together they will light the community Christmas tree.

After the tree-lighting, Santa's Warming House (located at the Peg Bond Center) will open and children up to age 10 who visit with Santa will receive a special gift, while supplies last.

Other activities include free tractor-pulled hay rides, a family photo opportunity and hot dogs and hot chocolate for sale by the Batavia Teen Center. In order to receive a free hay ride, we ask that you give a food or cash donation to benefit the Batavia Food Pantry.

Families are also invited to take a trip down Christmas Tree Lane featuring trees decorated by local Scout troops, businesses and civic organizations. Across the pond at the Depot Museum, the Batavia Public Library will host holiday stories from 6:15 to 7 p.m. at the Gustafson Research Center, located at the lower level of the museum. Holiday merchant gift bags will be distributed while supplies last.

The festival is presented by the Batavia Park District, in partnership with the Batavia Chamber of Commerce, Batavia MainStreet, the City of Batavia and the Batavia Police Department. For details, call the Batavia Park District office at (630) 879-5235 or view the schedule of events at bataviaparks.org.