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Start the Season with a Community Tree Lighting
The ultimate kickoff to the holidays is the moment the switch is flipped! Join your community for a traditional Tree Lighting Ceremony, often featuring:
Christmas Parades: Many lightings are the dazzling finale to a festive parade.
Visits with Santa: A chance for the kids (and the young at heart) to share their wish lists with the Big Guy!
Prefer a different kind of glow? McHenry County is home to several spectacular holiday light displays! From luminary displays to decorated Christmas trees and more, there’s sure to be a lighting event that puts a twinkle in your eye.
With so many options, we’ve arranged our event list below by event date.
Tips for Attending a Christmas Tree Lighting
Attending a Christmas tree lighting is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Plan ahead and check the event schedule. Many tree lightings have other activities, such as a parade, live entertainment, caroling, Santa, and more before and after the tree lighting ceremony. Knowing what to expect will help you plan your time and make the most of the event.
- Dress warmly. Tree lightings are held outdoors, so it’s important to dress warmly. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. You may also want to bring a blanket or hat. And remember, the evening may get colder as the night goes on.
- Get there early. Tree lightings can be crowded, especially if they are part of other activities, so it’s a good idea to get there early. This will give you time to find a good spot to watch the ceremony and participate in any activities that are happening.
- Be patient. There will likely be a lot of people at the tree lighting, so be patient and understanding. It may take some time to get through the crowd and find a good spot to watch the ceremony.
- Have a separation plan. Critical for those with small children, but for anyone attending with others. Have your “meet-up plan” worked out ahead of time and make sure everyone knows it.
- Bring your camera. The Christmas tree lighting is a great photo opportunity. Be sure to bring your camera and take some pictures of the tree, the crowd, family & friends, and the activities.
- Have fun! Christmas tree lightings are a fun and festive way to celebrate the holidays. Relax, enjoy the atmosphere, and make some memories.
- Bring a snack or drink. There may be food vendors at the event, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks just in case.
President and Founder of Identity Developments, LLC, the parent company of the McHenry Life website. My hope for McHenry Life is to create a resource and destination for the residents and businesses of McHenry County alike. A place where residents can discover new places to explore, fun events and ways to spend time, and then share those experiences with others. A place where businesses can connect with existing and potential customers, and not simply market their businesses, but share their own unique stories.
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