Free Sleigh Rides, Santa, Cocoa Crawl Coming To McHenry

MCHENRY, IL — Downtown McHenry will transform into a holiday destination Nov. 20-22 as the annual Holiday Walk returns with free horse-drawn sleigh rides, Santa visits, a cocoa crawl and a community tree-lighting celebration.

The festivities begin Friday, Nov. 20, with Living Windows and the Cocoa Crawl from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Downtown storefronts will feature festive displays, while participants who purchase Cocoa Crawl mugs can enjoy samples and treats at participating businesses, according to the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce.

On Saturday, Nov. 21, families can visit Veterans Park, 3400 Pearl St., for free horse-drawn sleigh rides from noon to 4 p.m. Visitors must be in line by 3:30 p.m. to guarantee a ride. Santa will greet children at the park during the afternoon, and activities will include crafts, games and children's building kits.

Holiday caroling begins at 4:30 p.m., followed by the city's holiday light switch-on at 5 p.m., when thousands of lights will illuminate the park.

The weekend also includes a Polar Express-themed pub crawl Saturday evening and a Toys for Tots parade Sunday, Nov. 22.

Visit the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce for the complete schedule.