Tree Lighting, Christmas Parade, More To Brighten Downtown Wheaton

WHEATON, IL — Downtown Wheaton will sparkle with a new Christmas tree, a holiday parade, and 55,000 twinkling lights at Adams Park for the 2022 holiday season.

The festivities, which kick off Nov. 25, also include 50 decorated trees on display as of Dec. 1, a Jolly Trolley that will ferry you through the downtown area and...of course...visits with Santa Claus himself.

Shops throughout downtown Wheaton will get into the holiday spirit as well by offering discounts and specials Dec. 1 through Dec. 25 for the 25 Days of Christmas event. On Dec. 2 and Dec. 16, the Canterbury Carollers singers will stroll past the city's shops and restaurants singing seasonal favorites.

Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting

Head to downtown Wheaton to see the city's 22-foot Christmas tree illuminated to herald the start of the season. This year's tree, which will grace the city's new south pavilion, is sponsored by the McCarthy Schwager Group. The parade will step off at 6 p.m. and the tree lighting is set for 7 p.m.

Night of Lights at Adams Park

More than 55,000 holiday lights will brighten Adams Park during the holiday season. The official lighting ceremony at Adams Park will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 25. This season marks the third year for the Night of Lights event, which features animated displays and promises even more lights in 2022.

Visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Letters to Santa

Kids can share their holiday wishes and get their photos taken with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus at the W Tent, which will be located on Front Street. The festive pair will be available during the following dates and times:

• Nov. 26: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
• Dec. 3: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Dec. 10: 10 a.m. to 12 pm.
• Dec. 17: 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

A mailbox will be set up at the tent through Dec. 22, so kids can drop off their letters to Old St. Nick. If you include an email address, Santa just might reply via video!

“This holiday season is going to be spectacular Downtown Wheaton and we are thrilled to be able to help offer memorable experiences and events in our community with the Downtown Wheaton Association,” Wheaton Mayor Phil Suess said in a statement.

He added, “Whether you’re looking forward to the annual traditions like the lighted Christmas Parade or something brand new to make holiday memories you will find it here in Wheaton. We look forward to seeing our Wheaton families and residents making Downtown Wheaton part of their holiday celebrations this year.”