Dickens in Dundee doesn't disappoint
Christmas music filled the cold December air as Santa was heard checking for his reindeer near the petting zoo during the 26th Dickens in Dundee festival Saturday.
Everyone was wrapped up tight in cold weather gear from head to toe to battle the cold weather, and even a few dogs were seen bundled up in Christmas hats and decorations.
The downtown winter festival never disappoints, whether it's the windows decorated with live characters, a visit with Santa, carolers or the Spirit of Christmas Parade.
The single-digit temperatures Saturday could not keep Sarah Schiltz of Carpentersville from trying to find her children's ornaments on one of the decorated Christmas trees in Grafelman Park. “This is great, even though it's freezing,” Schiltz said with her breath freezing in the cold air.
The Lions Club sold Christmas trees in Grafelman Park, and residents were encouraged to bring canned goods for the FISH food pantry in Carpentersville.
During Saturday's festivities, visitors could make a gingerbread house, stop by Santa's Workshop and the petting zoo, and enjoy the reading of “A Christmas Carol.”
Organizers in East and West Dundee also invited homeowners to put up their lights and decorations and turn on their displays from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday. Displays were to be judged from one of five themes: Best Dickens Theme, Best Use of Characters, Best Use of Lighting, Best Apartment Dweller and Winter Wonderland.