ANTIOCH, Ill. (November 17, 2021) — The Village of Antioch Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony will return as an in-person event next week. This will be the 46th year the village has hosted a version of the tree lighting and parade. Last year’s parade and tree lighting were held virtually.
Mayor Scott Gartner is excited to see the festivities return to Downtown Antioch.
“The atmosphere of the parade and tree lighting is like something out of a movie,” said Mayor Gartner. “The people, the sights, the sounds, it all is magical fun for the entire family!”
The parade will step off at 6:30 p.m. from Main Street and Park Avenue, heading north to Depot Street. Parade entries feature numerous community groups and elected officials, followed by Santa Claus in a horse-drawn carriage. Santa’s carriage is sponsored by the State Bank of the Lakes.
Following the parade, Santa and the Antioch Pageant Queens will lead the Tree Lighting festivities in front of Antioch Village Hall. The community-themed event will also feature, free hot chocolate and a performance by the Antioch Community High School Chorus. Santa will be around to mingle and remind residents that he’ll be hosting visits with children during December at the Saw Mill. A mailbox will also be set up to accept letters to Santa. Santa’s mailbox will be in front of Village Hall starting on November 26, 2021, and will be in place until December 20, 2021. Anyone who writes Santa are reminded to include their return address on their letter, so Santa can respond!
During December, the Village Parks Department will host Santa at the Saw Mill visits and Storytime with Santa events. Santa at the Saw Mill is a free event and open to the public without the need for registration. Storytime with Santa requires registration and a $10 per person fee. More information is available on the Parks Department page on the Village website, www.antioch.il.gov.
WHAT: Village of Antioch Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade
WHEN: Friday, November 26, 2021, 6:30 p.m.
WHERE: Downtown Antioch, IL 60002
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Contact: Jim Moran, Village of Antioch Communication Specialist
jmoran@antioch.il.gov