Santa, trains highlight Bensenville Holiday Magic & Tree Lighting Sunday

Santa is expected to take an express train to Bensenville Sunday, Dec. 1, chugging into town just in time for the village's Holiday Magic and Tree Lighting event.

Mr. Claus will arrive around 3 p.m. and stay until 6 p.m. when the village tree is lighted, said Steve Skurski, the village's community liaison.

Santa will be available to listen to children's dreams and wishes and pose for photos in the downtown area at Center and Green streets.

While Santa is greeting children, visitors will be treated to free horse-drawn sleigh rides around the village center.

There also will be face painting and, new this year, a petting zoo featuring a llama.

“They'll be handing out commemorative ornaments from the village,” Skurski said. “They're free while supplies last. All of this takes place in downtown Bensenville. There's a grassy area right next to village hall.”

Skurski said free screenings of holiday movies will be available at the Bensenville Theatre and downtown visitors will find free kettle corn and hot chocolate.

He said the village is conducting a toy drive while the Bensenville Wood Dale Rotary Club is running a coat drive.

“We encourage people to bring holiday toys, coats or food. People can put food, unwrapped toys and coats all in the same box,” he said.

For the second year, Bensenville will follow the tree lighting with a visit from the CP Rail Holiday Train at 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2.

Skurski said the Canadian Pacific Rail will travel north to Canada, collecting donations for food pantries at each stop.

“This is one of two stops in Illinois. It starts in Bensenville and goes up into Wisconsin and up into Canada. It's a 1,000-foot train covered in LED lighting. It's pretty cool to see, “ he said.

Skurski said one of the train cars becomes a stage for musical performances. This year's featured performers are Meghan Patrick, Tanika Charles and Kelly Prescott.

Last year the train appearance raised a total of $10,000 for the Bensenville Wood Dale Food Pantry, he said. Visitors may donate food or cash.

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Holiday Magic and Tree Lighting

When: 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1

Where: Center and Green streets, Bensenville

Admission: Free

Info: Bensenville.il.us