Frosty Fest transformed West Chicago downtown into Winter Wonderland

Despite the below-normal temperatures, parents bundled-up their children to enjoy a magical evening under the twinkling lights and watchful eye of Santa Claus during Frosty Fest, West Chicago's annual celebration ushering in winter and the holiday season. Those that attended enjoyed a spectacular tree lighting, holiday crafts, an ice sculptor, live reindeer and the sound of jingle bells while riding on a horse-drawn trolley through the luminaria-lit historic district.

The City of West Chicago wishes to thank the entire Frosty Fest committee, all of the groups that performed, volunteered or donated to the event. They include:

West Chicago Park District • West Chicago Public Library • West Chicago Chamber of Commerce • West Chicago Fire Protection District • Fox Community Center • American Legion Post 300 • VFW Post 6791 • West Chicago Sister Cities • West Chicago Rotary Club • West Chicago Lions Club • Community High School Chamber Choir • Wheaton Academy Kantorei • Friends of the City Museum • St. Vincent DePaul Thrift Store • Kramer Tree Specialists • State Bank of Illinois • Parra's Bakery • Bond, Dickson & Associates • Marquardt & Belmonte • ESDA • Boy Scout Troop 33 • Community Volunteers

Thanks to all those who helped, children and their families delighted in live music, free refreshments and so much more. In addition, the cookie decorating activity not only provided a culinary treat for children, but generated $191 in donations for the area food pantry. The donation will be matched by a local business, doubling the amount earmarked for families in need.

A slideshow may be viewed on the City's YouTube site at www.YouTube.com/CityofWestChicago for the enjoyment of those that were unable to attend the event as well as for those that may wish to re-live the magic!