A local resident, Carolyn Corner, had a tradition of sewing matching outfits for her children for their annual Christmas card. She and her husband, Mac, also enjoyed taking photos for the card.
Crystal Lake News & Updates
Stay informed about the latest events and activities in Crystal Lake
Thursday, January 15, 2026
Thursday, January 8, 2026
Curbside Christmas tree pickup services are currently underway in Crystal Lake. Residents can arrange for their trees to be collected as part of the ongoing holiday services.
Wednesday, January 7, 2026
Crystal Lake residents can now have their Christmas trees picked up curbside for free. This service is available for disposal over the coming weeks.
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
The Crystal Lake Park District has released its holiday hours of operation for the Christmas and New Year season. Residents can plan their visits accordingly during the festive period.
Saturday, December 20, 2025
A free webinar titled "A Renaissance Christmas - Remix" is being presented by Dr. Rocky Ruggiero. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, December 23, 2025.
Thursday, December 18, 2025
The Lake County Forest Preserves District has released its list of Christmas tree recycling drop-off sites. Residents can bring their trees to designated locations for proper disposal.
Luminary Nights in Crystal Lake are among the festive events happening in McHenry County. Other holiday activities include performances of 'The Nutcracker' and New Year's Eve celebrations.
Friday, December 12, 2025
Children ages 3-10 can enjoy a cozy bonding experience at the Mom & Mini Pajama Party. This event encourages wearing favorite pajamas for a night of fun activities.
Thursday, December 11, 2025
Dennis "Buck" Ahrens, born October 29, 1944, passed away on December 8, 2025, in Crystal Lake, IL. The obituary mentions "Crystal Lake Christmas" in its details.
Friday, December 5, 2025
Snow has blanketed northern Illinois, inspiring residents to build snowmen and enjoy winter wonderland walks. Patch.com readers have shared photos capturing the festive, snowy scenes around Crystal Lake.
Hope Church in Crystal Lake is holding its Christmas Closet Event on Saturday, December 6th, starting at 9:00 AM. This event is located at 451 Ackman Rd, Crystal Lake, IL.
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Residents are embracing the winter season with impressive displays, including a towering 7-foot snowman. The spirit of Christmas is evident throughout northern Illinois as the area transforms into a winter wonderland.
The Crystal Lake Park District is hosting a barn dance event at the Main Beach Pavilion. This event is listed alongside upcoming holiday dates like Christmas Eve.
Tuesday, December 2, 2025
This GriefShare program helps individuals navigate the difficult weeks around Thanksgiving and Christmas after losing a loved one or friend. It offers support for those struggling during the holiday season.
Monday, December 1, 2025
This service offers a time for remembrance of loved ones during the holiday season. It is being held in the Crystal Lake-Cary, IL area.
Friday, November 28, 2025
The Festival of Lights Parade and Christmas Tree Lane will be held in Crystal Lake on November 28th. This event is part of the holiday festivities kicking off in McHenry County.
Thursday, November 27, 2025
Rigg's Christmas Market, a tribute to music, is happening at The Lake House in Crystal Lake Park, IL. The event includes a race starting at 9:00 a.m. after an 8:00 a.m. check-in.
Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Join a Holiday Card Buffet class in Crystal Lake to create festive cards using various crafting techniques. Participants can choose their three favorite designs to make.
Monday, November 24, 2025
Enjoy a beautiful time of worship and Scripture as you celebrate Christmas Eve. The event will be held in a cozy living room setting.
Friday, November 21, 2025
This event is for Christmas Eve in Algonquin, IL. It is a local event for the holiday.
Thursday, November 20, 2025
Steve Connell is starring as Ebenezer Scrooge in the holiday production of "A Christmas Carol." The Metropolis Performing Arts Centre is running this holiday tradition from November 15 through December 24.
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
The Raue Center for the Arts will be presenting "A Cripple Creek Christmas Carol." This timeless story promises music, magic, and holiday cheer for all.
A community member has posted about the upcoming 2025 Island Lake Holiday Craft Fair. This event is a featured event for Crystal Lake-Cary.
Friday, November 14, 2025
Downtown Crystal Lake officially welcomed the holiday season with the lighting of the Christmas tree. The event marks the start of festive celebrations in the area.
The Crystal Lake Park District is assisting children in writing letters to Santa Claus this Christmas season. Letters can be mailed or dropped off at a special location for Santa.
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Operation Christmas Child is collecting gifts for children in need. Drop-off locations in northern Illinois include Calvary Chapel Cardunal in Algonquin and Calvary Church in Crystal Lake.
The Cary Winter Farmers Market will be held at the Algonquin Township Building in Crystal Lake. The market features vendors like The Cheese People and Garden Fresh.
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Raue Center for the Arts in Crystal Lake, IL will present 'A Cripple Creek Christmas Carol.' This holiday show is set during the Colorado Gold Rush.
Saturday, November 8, 2025
The Crystal Lake's Festival of Lights Parade is coming soon. Following the parade, join the community for the lighting of the Christmas tree.
The Holiday Homecoming event in St. Charles will feature an Electric Christmas Parade. The parade is scheduled to step off at 5:30 p.m.
The Chain O' Lakes chamber is inviting the community to kick off the holiday season with a festive Christmas Market. This event will take place in Lakemoor on Black Friday.
A Crystal Lake resident is starring in "It's A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play" at the Oil Lamp Theater. Previews for this holiday production begin November 20th.