Santa, Reindeer to Usher in Holiday Season in the Heights

PALOS HEIGHTS, IL — The city of Palos Heights will kick off the holiday season earlier this year, and in a new spot.

The Palos Area Chamber of Commerce and city will host their annual holiday tree-lighting ceremony Friday, Nov. 25 at Lake Katherine Nature Center, 7400 W. College Drive.

The tree lighting had previously been held outside the Palos Heights Fire Protection District station, usually the first Friday in December. It was moved to Lake Katherine for the center's extra space to accommodate a larger crowd, the first Friday in December outside the Palos Heights Fire Protection District station, 12300 S. Harlem Ave.

The celebration will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., with Santa Claus arriving on a Palos Heights Fire Protection truck. Children can hop on Santa's lap for a free photo, and also pet two reindeer, visiting from Summerfield Farm and Zoo in Belvidere.

“The day after Thanksgiving is the traditional start of the holiday-shopping season," Chamber board member Tom Mintle told the Regional News. "We will now be leading off, with the first of the local celebrations. It won’t conflict with any of the others either. Many of us have family and business connections in Palos Park, Worth, Orland Park and other communities, and we try to go to all the holiday celebrations.”

Don't miss some favorite festivities, including a live performance by the St. Alexander School Choral Ensemble, as well as Stagg and Shepard High Schools. Enjoy free refreshments including hot chocolate, juice, cookies, and popcorn. Face-painting and crafts will also be offered in the auditorium.

Photo Courtesy of Summerfield Farm and Zoo