DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. - s4story -- Downtown Downers Grove invites the community to kick off the holiday season with a weekend full of festive fun, November 28-30, 2025.

The celebration begins Friday, November 28, at 4:30 p.m. with the Village of Downers Grove Tree Lighting Ceremony, featuring a special appearance by Santa to help illuminate the downtown tree and officially start the season of cheer.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can explore dozens of local shops and restaurants while enjoying a variety of family-friendly activities:

Holiday Window Contest
More than 20 downtown businesses are competing in this year's Holiday Window Decorating Contest. Cast your vote for your favorites in three categories: Traditional, Best Use of Product, and Most Original. Voting is open through December 7, 2025, at downtowndg.org.

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Holiday Scavenger Hunt
Search for hidden holiday items in participating storefront windows. Kids who complete the hunt can redeem their forms for a prize, while adults can email a photo of their completed form to info@downtowndg.org for a chance to win a Downtown Downers Grove gift card.

Small Business Saturday - November 29
Support your favorite small businesses during Small Business Saturday! Discover one-of-a-kind gifts, enjoy self-care at local salons and barbers, or take a break at one of downtown's many restaurants.

These local businesses are the heart of our community, owned by your neighbors, supporting local schools, sports teams, and nonprofits.

Visit with Santa
Santa will be greeting visitors in his Gingerbread House (Main & Curtiss) every Saturday and Sunday from November 29 through December 21, 1–4 p.m. Visits are complimentary. Bring your own camera to snap a photo!

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Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides, Sunday, November 30, 1–4 p.m.
Enjoy a complimentary wagon ride through the heart of downtown. Boarding will be available in front of 1028 Curtiss Street.

Strolling Carolers & Holiday Magic
Enjoy performances from local caroling groups weekends through December 21. Don't forget to snap a photo with one of our festive 3D holiday decorations and tag @DowntownDownersGrove on Facebook or Instagram for a chance to win a weekly gift card giveaway!

Candy Cane Cash Rewards
Save your receipts while you shop and dine downtown! Spend at least $100 at three different Downtown Downers Grove businesses this holiday season and earn $10 in Candy Cane Cash, our small way of saying thank you for supporting local.

For full event details and updates on all holiday happenings, visit downtowndg.org.