Itasca’s annual Winter Wonderland to feature a new holiday market

Kick off the holiday season with family and friends at Itasca’s Winter Wonderland in the newly upgraded Usher Park from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30. It is presented by the Itasca Park District and the village of Itasca.

Come early and check out the new Holiday Market for handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats and family fun starting at 2 p.m.

Due to recent park improvements, the lighting ceremony, the new holiday market, and entertainment will take place along South Walnut Street, between Wes Grove Street and West Bloomingdale Road.

Friends from the North Pole will arrive at 4 p.m., followed by the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus at 4:45 p.m. and the Holiday Lighting Countdown at 5 p.m.

Enjoy festive performances by the Holiday Dickens Carolers at 4:30 and 5:10 p.m. and the Inner Prestige Dance Team at 4:15 p.m.

Warm up with hot chocolate and cookies, snap a photo with Santa, and take in the glow of thousands of twinkling lights and dazzling displays, which will illuminate the park nightly through Jan. 15.

Admission is free, and no tickets are required. In the spirit of giving, guests are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys For Tots or a nonperishable food item for the Itasca Food Pantry. Learn more at itascaparkdistrict.com/1247/Winter-Wonderland.