Watch Winter Lights Parade, tree lighting Nov. 18 in downtown Aurora
Aurora kicks off the holiday season this weekend with Winter Lights 2022, the annual festive, family-friendly, and free experience filled with memory-making moments.
Hosted by the City of Aurora in partnership with Aurora Downtown, Winter Lights 2022 commences on Friday, Nov. 18, from 6 to 9 p.m., with activities centered on Downer Place & Stolp Avenue in downtown Aurora.
Winter Lights Parade
The parade will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Downer Place and travel from Water Street to River Street. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will lead the parade with an exciting array of costumed characters, community groups, performers, public safety vehicles, and the magical Christkind from The Christkindl Market!
Tree-lighting ceremony
The tree-lighting ceremony, sponsored by Xfinity, will commence immediately after the parade at the GAR Memorial Museum, 23 E. Downer Place. The ceremony includes an award presentation for the Downtown Window Decorating Contest winner and the community countdown to the lighting of the City's official Christmas tree.
Fireworks Extravaganza
Immediately following the ceremony, the fireworks extravaganza, sponsored by Chicago Premium Outlets, will light up the night sky. The best viewing location will be on the East Downer Place Bridge near Aurora City Hall, 44 E. Downer Place.
Free Photos with Santa
After the fireworks, free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the G.A.R. Memorial Hall, 23 E. Downer Place.
Food trucks, vendors, music, and more
After the fireworks, Stolp Avenue, between Downer Place and Galena Boulevard, will be filled with food trucks, artisan vendors, roaming costumed characters, and musical entertainment at Millennium Plaza.
Bring the family to downtown Aurora for #WinterLights2022!