Arlington Heights Tree Lighting
Visitors celebrate the kick-off to the holiday season with the lighting of North School Park and Harmony Park. Trolleys loop between the two parks, featuring Dickens-era characters who share stories about Arlington Heights in the past.
What to Expect
Trolleys feature Dickens-era characters sharing local history stories.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Arlington Heights
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Village of Arlington Heights and Arlington Heights Park District
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and local holiday-season visitors
Vibe
Festive and community-centered
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Trolleys loop from 3:45 - 6:45 p.m.
- Parking: The Vail Street Garage by Harmony Park is under construction and parking is limited. The garage at Eastman and Evergreen across from North School Park can fill up during the event. The page recommends planning ahead to use the underground lot on Evergreen and/or nearby lots offering free parking to event goers.
- Accessibility: A wheelchair accessible trolley bus connects Harmony Park and North School Park for those who require it.
Tips & Advice
- Look at the Tree Lighting Parking Map before you go, since the Vail Street Garage is under construction and the Eastman and Evergreen garage fills up.
- Aim for the underground lot on Evergreen or one of the nearby lots offering free parking to event goers instead of circling the busy garages.
- Ride the trolley between the parks to hear Dickens-era characters tell stories about Arlington Heights in the past.
- If someone in your group uses a wheelchair, email Communications@vah.com by midday November 24, or ask staff at the trolley stops on the night.
- Dress warmly for an evening moving between two outdoor parks, since you'll spend time at trolley stops as well as at the tree lighting.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we get between North School Park and Harmony Park?
Trolleys loop between the two parks. Dickens-era characters ride along and share stories about Arlington Heights in the past.
Where are the trolley stops?
At North School Park, the stop is at Eastman & Evergreen, on the southwest corner of the park. At Harmony Park, it's south of Vail & Campbell, near the Harmony Park Tree.
Is there a wheelchair-accessible option?
Yes. A wheelchair-accessible trolley bus connects Harmony Park and North School Park, reserved for people or families who need it. Staff at the trolley stops can arrange a ride on site. To set it up ahead of time, email Communications@vah.com by midday Tuesday, November 24.
Where should we park?
The Vail Street Garage by Harmony Park is under construction and has limited parking. The garage at Eastman and Evergreen across from North School Park can fill up. Use the underground lot on Evergreen or nearby lots that offer free parking to event goers; the Tree Lighting Parking Map shows your options.
Who puts on the event?
The Village's Special Events Commission and the Arlington Heights Park District host it every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving.
More Christmas Events Near Arlington Heights
More Christmas Events near Arlington Heights
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.