Operation North Pole returns to Donald E. Stephens Convention Center Dec. 20

The village of Rosemont welcomes the return of Operation North Pole to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center on Saturday, Dec. 20, marking the beloved event’s first appearance since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Founded in 2009, Operation North Pole is a volunteer-based public charity that provides a magical holiday experience for families with children battling life-threatening illnesses. This year’s event will once again transform 28,000 square feet of the convention center into a winter wonderland filled with joy, laughter and the true spirit of the season.

“Operation North Pole is more than an event. It’s a reminder of what compassion and community can do when we come together,” said Barb Dabler, president of Operation North Pole. “We’re beyond thrilled to bring this special day back to Rosemont and to once again give these incredible families the chance to experience a little holiday magic and a lot of love.”

Nearly 70 local families with 140 eligible children will take part in this year’s celebration. Upon arrival in Rosemont, participating families will be transported into a world of pure holiday wonder. The winter wonderland features multiple themed activity zones, including a “Pink Room” where little girls can be pampered, a floor hockey rink where kids can take their best shot, and a dazzling Candyland stocked with thousands of pounds of donated candy. Families can also enjoy a variety of other festive games, delicious food and beverages, superhero meet-and-greets and a heartwarming visit with Santa. At the conclusion of the event, each family will depart with specially selected gifts chosen from their holiday wish lists.

“We’re honored to welcome Operation North Pole back to Rosemont,” Rosemont Mayor Brad Stephens said. “This partnership truly captures the heart of our community, creating joy for families who need it most and bringing people together in the spirit of giving.”

Each year, Operation North Pole partners with Metra, which donates and operates a specially wrapped “North Pole Express” train on the Union Pacific Northwest Line, safely transporting participating families to their unforgettable day of holiday cheer. The train is adorned in festive holiday designs featuring this year’s Operation North Pole sponsors: the village of Rosemont, Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont Chamber of Commerce, State Rep. Brad Stephens, the Allstate Arena, the Chicago Wolves and Jewel-Osco. In addition to serving as private transportation for Operation North Pole families during the event on Dec. 20, the specially wrapped train will also appear on all of the Union Pacific rail lines operating out of Ogilvie Transportation Center from Nov. 28 through Dec. 31.

A variety of volunteer and donation opportunities are available leading up to and during the event. More information is available at operationnorthpole.com.

Founded in 2009, Operation North Pole is a volunteer-based, nonprofit organization that provides a day of holiday magic for children battling life-threatening illnesses and their families. Through partnerships with local organizations, volunteers and community sponsors, ONP transforms a day in December into an unforgettable journey filled with joy, compassion and hope. For more information, visit operationnorthpole.com.

For more information about the village of Rosemont, visit Rosemont.com.