Batavia ushers in holidays with Celebration of Lights Festival

Posted November 06, 2011 10:00 pm

Kari Miller

Start the holiday season off right at the Celebration of Lights Festival, a free, family-oriented event featuring a myriad of sparkling lights, festive decorations and a visit from Santa. Families will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of entertainment from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27 at the Batavia Riverwalk.

Batavia business owner Craig Foltos will play the master of ceremonies until Santa arrives at 6 p.m. Mayor Jeff Schielke will greet Santa and together they will light the community Christmas tree. After the tree lighting, Santa's Warming House (located at the Peg Bond Center) will open, and children up to age 10 who visit with Santa will receive a special gift while supplies last.

The festival is presented by the Batavia Park District in partnership with the Batavia Chamber of Commerce, Batavia MainStreet, the City of Batavia and the Batavia Police Department. For more information, please contact the Batavia Park District office at (630) 879-5235 or view the schedule of events at www.bataviaparks.org.

Celebration of Lights Festival Events Schedule

5:30 - 7 p.m.

 Free hayrides with food or $1 cash donation (proceeds benefit the Batavia Food Pantry)

 Free roasted chestnuts

 Family photo opportunity - main stage of Peg Bond Center

 Hot dogs and hot chocolate for sale by the Batavia Teen Center

 Batavia High School Madrigal Choir performing carols

5:45 p.m.

 Community sing-along led by Craig Foltos, Foltos Tonsorial Parlor

6:00 p.m.

 Arrival of Santa

 Welcome by Mayor Schielke

 Ceremonial tree lighting

6:15 p.m.

 Santa's Warming House: Visit Santa at the Peg Bond Center warming house and receive a special holiday gift (children under 10 while supplies last)

6:15 - 7 p.m.

 Story time at the Gustafson Research Center, located in the lower level of the Batavia Depot Museum. Hosted by the Batavia Public Library.

 Batavia Fire Department bake sale fundraiser and “Koats for Kids” drive

Special Features:

 Holiday gift bags - stuffed full of festive surprises (while supplies last)

 Christmas tree lane (trees decorated by local organizations)

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