Elburn Christmas Stroll gets families in the holiday spirit

Families gathered in downtown Elburn to celebrate the beginning of the Christmas season at the 21st annual Elburn Christmas Stroll Saturday.

Some made sure to get in line early to see Santa Claus, like the Fann family of St. Charles. Liam, 3, was all smiles as he sat on the jolly fellow's lap, but his brother Judah, 1, wanted no part of it - so Liam held Judah's hand to comfort him as he cried. Their parents, Kristina and Brad, joked how they knew the moment for photos wouldn't last long, so Kristina took them as fast as she could.

Across the street in the Elburn Village Hall parking lot, Boy Scout Troop 7 roasted marshmallows over a fire and served up free s'mores fresh to visitors. Free hayrides were also available nearby.

After sunset, the Christmas light display atop the library was set aglow. The lights were designed by Brian Larsen, the award-winning designer of the Larsen Light Show. It features a 12-foot mega tree, 10 mini trees, a talking Santa, and an FM transmitter that plays Christmas music synchronized to the lights. The design also includes a 7-foot inflatable penguin in honor of the Stroll's new mascot.

Along Route 47, merchants offered free samples of food and drinks. Raffle tickets were sold to raise money for the Elburn Chamber of Commerce's annual Kaneland Scholarship.

Raffle prizes include a helicopter tour of Chicago, BMX bicycle, $200 gift certificate for the Turf Room, one-night stay at the Herrington and many other items.

For a complete list of raffle prizes, check out the Elburn Christmas Stroll on Facebook at facebook.com/ElburnChristmasStroll, or call the Elburn Chamber of Commerce at (630) 365-2295.