Kick off the holidays with Festival of Lights Parade
The Festival of Lights Parade is the traditional start to the holiday season, as Santa Claus comes to town. The annual Festival of Lights Parade kicks off the holiday season at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25. The streets of historic downtown Crystal Lake will be illuminated by more than 50 vintage decorated floats.
Come see the honorary guest - Santa Claus in his horse-drawn sleigh. "When Santa's sleigh arrives at Crystal Lake Avenue and Williams Street, kids will be delighted to watch Santa go by throwing magic dust, and watch the downtown Christmas tree magically light," said Diana Kenney, executive director of Downtown Crystal Lake.
Kenney said the annual Festival of Lights Parade draws thousands of spectators each year. "You will be astounded by the crowds, and mesmerized by the holiday spectacle" she said.
After the festivities, Santa will begin visiting with children and hear their wish lists from his cozy little house in the Brink Street Market, off Williams Street.
The Festival of Lights Parade begins at Crystal Lake City Hall, travels south on North Caroline Street, east on Crystal Lake Avenue, north on Grant Street, east on Woodstock Street, south on Williams Street; the same route as previous year.
Visit www.crystallake.org.