Frosty Fest to usher in holidays
West Chicago will usher in the holiday season on Saturday, Dec. 5, with a slate of events ranging from a children's candy cane hunt to bargains in downtown businesses to visits with Santa.
The day's highlight will be the annual Frosty Fest celebration, an evening that includes the city's tree-lighting as well as Santa's arrival, sleigh rides and even reindeer games.
"It's getting families out together to celebrate the start of Christmas season," said Anna Rosalez, West Chicago Park District's recreation coordinator.
Main Street will be shut down briefly as the Frosty Procession parade opens Frosty Fest at 4 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 5. The parade starts at Carnacias Jimenez, 559 Main St.
Although festival officially runs 4 to 7 p.m., additional events around town will give residents a chance to start the celebration a little early.
Children can will for candy canes starting at 10 a.m. at Reed Keppler Park, 241 W. National St. Then from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., families can find fun activities at the American Legion building on Main Street.
But the main event begins at 4 p.m. when Santa Claus hops aboard an old-fashioned fire truck and leads the procession - including Frost and community groups - through downtown on Main Street. Carolers will be on hand and a dance troupe will perform.
The procession leads to the community tree outside the Fox Community Center, 306 Main St. After Mayor Michael Kwasman makes a few comments, the three winners of the city's student essay contest will help him light the tree. The lighting will take place around 4:30 p.m.
In past years, the ceremony had been earlier in the day, something Rosalez changed when she began four years ago.
"When I came on, I said 'You might want to do the tree-lighting at night,'" she said.
"We're growing and getting better," she said of Frosty Fest. "It's a great time of the year. Christmas is my favorite time of the year."
The event usually draws between 400 and 500 people. And despite the economy, the city hasnt' scaled back the celebration. Ultimately, Rosalez said, it's a way for community members to visit and enjoy downtown.
"Just come out and enjoy the night," Rosalez said. "Just come out and enjoy the start of the holiday season. It's just a wonderful weekend."
If you go
What: Frosty Fest
When: 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5
Where: Downtown West Chicago, with tree-lighting at Fox Community Center, 306 Main St.
Cost: Free
Info: westchicago.org