Excited for the holidays in Champaign? Our guide has all the festive events you need to know! From hometown residents to holiday guests, our guide reveals the best of Champaign's festive season.
The Parade of Lights illuminates downtown with brilliant floats and holiday cheer, making it a must-see event. Discover unique gifts and seasonal treats at the Holiday Market, renowned for its charming local vendors and festive atmosphere. And the Champaign-Urbana Ballet's "The Nutcracker" is something you definitely don't want to miss, transporting audiences with its timeless music and enchanting performances. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Champaign
- Parade of Lights
- Champaign-Urbana Ballet "The Nutcracker"
- Winter Lights at the Prairie Farm
- Children's Holiday Shop
Champaign Holiday Light Displays
Parade of Lights
What to Expect:
Illuminated floats and marching bands
Description:
Champaign's Parade of Lights transforms downtown into a glowing spectacle. Illuminated floats and marching bands wind through the streets, creating a dazzling procession. Spectators can join in the fun by decorating themselves with glow sticks and light-up accessories. This beloved tradition began in 2001 as a way to bring the community together during the holiday season. The parade showcases local businesses and organizations, highlighting the vibrant spirit of Champaign. Bundle up and experience the twinkling sights as you cheer on the creative displays.
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Winter Lights at the Prairie Farm
What to Expect:
Light displays integrated with farm animals and agriculture
Description:
Winter Lights at the Prairie Farm illuminates Champaign's agricultural heritage. Twinkling displays weave through barns and pastures, creating a unique blend of rural charm and holiday cheer. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about sustainable farming practices while enjoying the lights. The event pays homage to the region's farming roots, with displays featuring illuminated tractors and crop-themed light sculptures. Children delight in seeing the farm animals nestled among the glowing scenery. The gentle lowing of cows adds a touch of authenticity to this countryside spectacle.
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Winter Lights at the Prairie Farm
Champaign Holiday Markets and Shopping
Children's Holiday Shop
What to Expect:
Kid-run holiday market
Description:
The Children's Holiday Shop in Champaign empowers young entrepreneurs. Kids set up booths to sell their handmade crafts, artwork, and baked goods to holiday shoppers. This unique event teaches children about business basics while fostering creativity and community involvement. Shoppers can find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting budding local talent. The shop originated from a school fundraiser in the 1990s and has since grown into a beloved community tradition. Young vendors beam with pride as they explain their creations to curious customers, creating a heartwarming atmosphere of youthful enthusiasm.
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Champaign Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Champaign-Urbana Ballet "The Nutcracker"
What to Expect:
Local dancers performing a classic ballet
Description:
The Champaign-Urbana Ballet brings Tchaikovsky's timeless tale to life with grace and precision. Local dancers, from young students to seasoned performers, take the stage in elaborate costumes. This production stands out for its community involvement, with many roles filled by area residents. You can marvel at the intricate set designs, crafted by local artists. The ballet has been a staple of Champaign's cultural scene for over two decades, growing in scale and artistry each year. The familiar melodies transport the audience to a world of sugar plum fairies and toy soldiers.
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Champaign-Urbana Ballet "The Nutcracker"
Nearby Events
Holiday Market (Urbana)
What to Expect:
Artisanal and locally-made gifts
Description:
Urbana's Holiday Market bustles with the energy of local artisans and makers. Stalls overflow with handcrafted jewelry, pottery, textiles, and gourmet treats. This market emphasizes sustainability, featuring many eco-friendly and upcycled items. Visitors can chat with creators and learn the stories behind their unique wares. The market's roots trace back to Urbana's agricultural heritage, evolving from a simple farmer's market to today's diverse showcase. As you browse, the aroma of freshly baked goods and spiced cider fills the air, enticing you to sample local flavors.
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Santa Train (Monticello)
What to Expect:
Vintage train ride with Santa
Description:
Monticello's Santa Train offers a journey through time on vintage railcars. Passengers embark on a festive ride alongside Santa himself, traveling through the picturesque Illinois countryside. The train, part of the Monticello Railway Museum, features meticulously restored cars from the early 20th century. Children can participate in onboard activities and receive a small gift from Santa. This unique experience combines the nostalgia of rail travel with the joy of the season. The clickety-clack of wheels on tracks provides a soothing backdrop to the merry atmosphere inside the train.
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Light Up Monticello (Monticello)
What to Expect:
Community-wide decorating competition
Description:
Light Up Monticello ignites community spirit through friendly competition. Residents and businesses vie for the title of best-decorated property, transforming the town into a kaleidoscope of lights and colors. Visitors can take self-guided tours to admire the creative displays, from classic elegance to whimsical themes. This tradition began in the 1950s as a way to boost local morale during the winter months. You'll find unique installations that reflect Monticello's history, including tributes to its railway heritage and agricultural roots. The event culminates in a community gathering to announce the winners and celebrate together.
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Christmas at Allerton Park (Monticello)
What to Expect:
Historic mansion and gardens decorated for the holidays
Description:
Christmas at Allerton Park showcases the grandeur of a Gilded Age estate adorned for the season. The historic mansion, built in 1900, opens its doors for guided tours featuring period decorations and local art installations. Visitors can stroll through the formal gardens, transformed with tasteful light displays that complement the sculptural elements. The event highlights the park's unique blend of art, nature, and history. You'll discover the story of Robert Allerton, the estate's original owner and an influential patron of the arts. The mansion's grand rooms echo with live performances of classical holiday music, adding to the refined ambiance.