Batavia's Celebration Of Lights Festival Kicks Off Holiday Season

BATAVIA, IL --- Roasted chestnuts, hayrides, two dozen Christmas trees, and Santa Claus await families in downtown Batavia for the city's annual Celebration of Lights Festival. Mark your calendars for the festival, which kicks off on the Batavia Riverwalk on Nov. 25 at 5 p.m. and heralds the start of the winter holiday season.

Throughout the event, you can take free hayrides, sip hot chocolate, and make your own old-fashioned holiday ornaments on the main level of the Depot Museum. Batavia Community Band will set the mood with live music and guests can participate in a sing-along at 5:15 p.m.

Be sure to get there before 5:30 p.m. because that's when Santa Claus arrives from his trek from the North Pole. Mayor Schielke will give Santa a warm welcome and then light the city's Christmas tree.

Santa will settle into his warming house at 5:45 p.m. at the Peg Bond Center to visit with kids and hear what they want for Christmas.

See the gazebo at Depot Museum light up and admire the 25 sparkling Christmas trees before heading to holiday story time in the lower level of the Depot Museum.

What: Batavia Celebration of Lights

When: Nov. 25 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Where: Batavia Riverwalk

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