Updated for 2023
Isn’t it wild how the holidays sneak up on you? It hardly seems possible that it is time for all our favorite holiday events near Carlyle, IL. Are you like us and startle at the first signs of Halloween in August? Then the trees and lights appear in the big box stores in September. All of a sudden, BOOM, it’s time! This is your opportunity to start planning your holiday trips and outings now before things get too busy. To help, let us guide you to our favorite holiday events near Carlyle, IL.
Christmas in Carlyle Parade
Date: Day after Thanksgiving, starting at 6:30 pm
Location: 11th and Fairfax, Carlyle IL
What better way to start the season than a parade the day after Thanksgiving? The Christmas in Carlyle Parade route begins at 11th and Fairfax Streets. Following the parade, join us at the park for Santa, music, refreshments, and fireworks. Yes, the fireworks begin at 7:30 pm!
Lights in City Park
Dates: Day after Thanksgiving until early January
Location: Carlyle City Park, 1096 Lake Rd Carlyle IL
At dusk, the day after Thanksgiving, we will turn on the lights in Carlyle City Park. This light display will be around for a while, so plan on visiting more than once. Drive through the lit and dancing trees, animated displays, and much more. Tune your radio to 90.1FM for the dancing trees’ music.
Piper the Penguin
Location: Carlyle City Park, 1096 Lake Rd Carlyle IL
Will Piper be back this year? The cutest illuminated penguin was last seen in December of last year. She was so elusive, roaming around and changing her location every day. Keep your eyes out for her!
Breese Holiday Parade
Date: Saturday after Thanksgiving
Location: Main Street, Breese IL
The weekend after Thanksgiving is full of parades and holiday festivities! The Breese Holiday Parade will start at 6pm on Main Street, and travel a route from Broadway to Northside Park. Make sure you line up for a Santa sighting! If you miss him for some reason, you can visit him at the Santa Hut every weekend before Christmas.
ACIC Christmas Kickoff
Date: November 26
Location: Aviston IL Vintage Hall
What better way to start the holiday season than with a day full of activities with Santa starting at 2 pm, followed by the lineup for the Aviston Holiday Parade. The town will light up, and be filled with caroling, as a parade of ATV’s and golf carts rolls through town.
Festival of Trees
Date: First two weekends in December 1-4, check website for hours
Location: Messiah Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall, 1091 13th St, Carlyle IL
Back again this year is the Festival of Trees! Come and visit Messiah’s Fellowship Hall and see uniquely decorated trees and wreaths. Vote for your favorite; a winner will be picked for a large tree, small tree, and wreath. Prizes awarded for “People’s Choice.” On the last day of the Festival, stay for the auction of all trees and wreaths.
Holiday Shopping
Why not mix a little shopping in with these fun holiday events? The most unique gifts can be found in local shops, and you have the advantage of a helpful owner who can steer you to the perfect selection.
Don’t forget the local wineries! Sometimes unique wines are developed just for the holidays, so stop by and check them out! And, of course, when nothing but a fresh-cut tree will do, Santel Tree Farm will be opening for trees (you choose, they cut, tie and shake) the week before Thanksgiving.
Start planning now for the holiday season! If you are visiting from out of town or need a place for guests to stay, book it now! Don’t be disappointed! Mark your calendar for all of these holiday events near Carlyle, IL.