Antioch's Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting are back

The village of Antioch Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony will return as an in-person event on Friday, Nov. 26. This will be the 46th year the village has hosted a version of the tree lighting and parade. Last year's festivities were held virtually.

Mayor Scott Gartner is excited to see the celebration return to downtown Antioch.

"The atmosphere of the parade and tree lighting is like something out of a movie," Gartner said. "The people, the sights, the sounds, it all is magical fun for the entire family."

The parade will step off at 6:30 p.m. from Main Street and Park Avenue, heading north to Depot Street. Parade entries feature numerous community groups and elected officials, followed by Santa Claus in a horse-drawn carriage. Santa's carriage is sponsored by the State Bank of the Lakes.

Following the parade, Santa and the Antioch Pageant Queens will lead the tree lighting festivities in front of the Antioch village hall. The community-themed event will also feature free hot chocolate and a performance by the Antioch Community High School Chorus.

Santa will be around to mingle and remind residents that he'll be hosting visits with children during December at the Saw Mill. A mailbox will also be set up to accept letters to Santa.

Santa's mailbox will be in front of the village hall Nov. 26 to Dec. 20. Anyone who writes Santa is reminded to include their return address so Santa can respond.

During December, the village parks department will host Santa at the Saw Mill visits and Storytime with Santa events. Santa at the Saw Mill is a free event; no registration is required.

Storytime with Santa requires registration and a $10 fee per person. More information is available on the parks department page on the village website, www.antioch.il.gov.