60 decorated trees welcome season in Elmhurst
Visitors can chat with Santa, meet Elsa and Anna, and enjoy 60 holiday trees decorated by families, organizations and local clubs when Elmhurst celebrates its 25th annual tree lighting Thursday in Wilder Park.
Organizers say it's a chance to celebrate an old-fashioned Christmas - and perhaps to pick up some new decorating ideas.
The festival runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the park at 175 S. Prospect Ave. near downtown.
Things will get under way with a Holiday Singalong that leads up to the tree lighting.
There also will be plenty of time to check out all those 60 other trees, many of which are decorated in conjunction with a theme and some of which may truly surprise you.
One tree in particular is adorned with medals and running shoes, courtesy of the Elmhurst Running Club. Member John McKoane has been garnishing the club's tree for almost 15 years and he said this year's is covered in race numbers from different places around the country.
"People like to see it when the walk by," McKoane said. "The club does a Christmas Day run, and it passes by the tree."
McKoane loves decorating so much he bought another tree for his family. He said the beauty of the trees adds a lot to Elmhurst.
"It's very picturesque on a winter night," McKoane said. "It adds so much continuity and texture."
While families are exploring the uniquely decorated trees, children can line up for the moment they wait for all year - the arrival of Santa Claus.
Mr. Claus, who has a close personal connection to Gary Foiles, has been coming to the event for seven years. Foiles said Christmas has always been his favorite holiday, and he looks forward to the tree lighting.
"It's a magical and innocent time for kids," Foiles said. "I enjoy finding out what the newest toys are. I just like to see the smiles on their faces."
Children can line up to meet Santa and take photos, or watch Elsa and Anna perform.
Meanwhile, inside Wilder Mansion, kids can write letters to Santa and drop them in the mailbox - and they are guaranteed a response from the Jolly Old Elf himself.
Other indoor activities include face painting, cookie decorating and crafts. The Elmhurst Public Library is presenting holiday themed story times at 6, 6:30 and 7 p.m., along with a bookmark craft.
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Elmhurst Tree Lighting
When: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5
Where: Wilder Park and Wilder Mansion, 175 S. Prospect Ave.
Admission: Free
Info: epd.org