Enjoy Holiday Cheers during Small Business Saturday in downtown Elgin
Holiday Cheers: Sips of the Season is back for the second year on Nov. 25 in conjunction with Small Business Saturday.
The City of Elgin is partnering with the Downtown Neighborhood Association to celebrate the Holly Days events.
Stroll through downtown Elgin and enjoy holiday themed drinks while viewing holiday themed window murals provided by over 20 participating businesses.
Beverage samples will include hot cocoa with festive toppings, warm apple cider, mint mocha, warm tea, and Ponche Navideño (fruit punch made with apples, pears, oranges, and guavas spiced with cinnamon, cloves, tamarind, and hibiscus). Some locations will offer beverage add-ins such as a shot of alcohol or other special treats for a small additional cost. Each business will have its beverage available between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Tickets for this event will be in the form of a commemorative Holiday Cheers insulated cup for $25. Your cup will be your ticket to sip at over 20 locations. A limited number of cups will be available so don't wait to purchase your cup. Complimentary cups for kids will be available at beverage locations.
DNA, 31 S. Grove Ave., Suite 100, is offering cup pickup from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Wednesday, Nov. 20-22. There also will be event-day pickup available on Saturday, Nov. 25, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the DNA office. If possible, have the Universe ticketing receipt available upon request. It is highly recommended to pick up your cup early to avoid lines on the day of the event.
One of the stops is "Holidays at The Haight," featuring a curated collection of over 40 local makers and their goods, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Haight, 166 Symphony Way, Elgin. Entry is free and open to all, not just Holiday Cheer participants. Visit www.facebook.com/thehaight166.
Also, on Saturday, gather at 5 p.m. at Festival Park, 132 S. Grove Ave., to view the annual tree lighting ceremony where Mayor Dave Kaptain, members of Elgin City Council, and Santa turn on the holiday tree lights.
Holly Days continues throughout the month of December. On Saturday, Dec. 9, Krampus Krawl returns at participating bars and restaurants including Martini Room, Elgin Public House, Vern's Tavern, Kubo Sushi & Sake Lounge, and more for food, drink specials, and entertainment. The night will conclude with dancing and authentic German folk music from pop band Alpine Thunder at Martini Room. Wear your Krampus-themed costume to participate in the costume contest for a chance to win a downtown Elgin gift certificate.
Enjoy sips of the season in downtown Elgin while you shop and support our local businesses. For tickets, a map and event updates, visit www.downtownelgin.com/hollydays/.