Highland Park Tree Lighting Celebrates Start Of Holiday Season

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — The holiday season kicks off Saturday in Highland Park with the "Light Up the Night" tree lighting featuring music, dance and family-friendly fun. Downtown businesses will show off newly decorated storefronts and the city will illuminate more than 200 decorated trees at the climax of the event, which runs from 3 to 5 p.m. in Port Clinton Square.

Santa Claus will make a special appearance – his sleigh replaced temporarily by a Highland Park Fire Department vehicle – to open festivities. Local sponsoring area businesses will provide horse-drawn carriage rides, hot chocolate, hot cider, holiday cards, a box of crayons and more.

The event was formerly known as the Holiday Tree Lighting. Participating businesses are offering additional refreshments, activities and treats, according to the city. Attendees will receive raffle tickets for a chance to win prizes donated by local businesses.

Other planned events include a scavenger hunt, carolers and live entertainment from local music, song and dance groups. Scheduled entertainers include Irina Makkai Classical Ballet and Dance School, Lake Forest Country Day School Choir and The Performer’s School A Cappella Group.

Two local charitable groups will also be on hand to collect donations to give back to those in need during the holiday season.

Zac's Zoo was founded in memory of a Highland Park resident who started a charity to supply first responders with stuffed animals for children in crisis situations at the age of 7. Zac Cohen died recently at the age of 20 and his family is continuing his legacy.

Also, the Moraine Township Food Pantry is collecting sealed, non-expired food and toiletries for local families and individuals in need of assistance. It said cereal, coffee, hot chocolate, rice, tea and cleaning supplies were especially in demand.

City officials encouraged residents to make the choice to shop and dine locally during the holiday season. Extended hours in public parking lots in downtown Highland Park run from Nov. 17 to Dec. 22.

Complete schedule of Nov. 17, 2018 Light Up The Night:

• 2:45 p.m. — Arrival of Santa
• 3 p.m. — Lake Forest Country Day School Choir
• 4:15 p.m. — The Performer’s School
• 4:30 p.m. — Raffle Giveaways
• 4:50 p.m. — Holiday Tree Lighting Countdown with Mayor Rotering

For more information contact the Highland Park City Manager's Office at 847-926-1000