Homewood, IL – Downtown Homewood is set to draw thousands this Friday as the village hosts its annual Holiday Lights celebration, running from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a full schedule of music, treats, activities, and a nighttime parade followed by the official tree lighting.
According to the Village of Homewood, multiple family activities will run throughout the evening, including meet-and-greet performances from holiday characters, carousel and train rides at Ridge Road and Martin Avenue, and cookie decorating near Martin Avenue and Ridge Road. Several activities — including mugs, mulled wine sales, and cookie decorating — are cash only, with limits of two mugs per person.
Music begins early as the H-F Viking Ensemble and Treble Ensemble perform in Martin Square at 5 p.m., followed by strolling carolers from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Live ice sculpting will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., and a brass band will perform near the large tree from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The Santa Parade steps off from the Homewood Fire Department at 6:50 p.m., traveling south on Dixie Highway, east on Ridge Road, and ending at Irwin Center. The evening’s main highlight — the Tree Lighting Ceremony — begins at 7 p.m. at Irwin Park.
Visitors are encouraged to review the village’s updated parking map. Accessible parking is available in the Village Hall Lot, with additional public lots on Harwood Avenue, Park Avenue, Kroner Lane, Dixie Highway, and Hickory Road.
Bundle up, bring the family, and enjoy one of Homewood’s largest annual holiday events this Friday.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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