Joliet, Illinois – More than 300 community members gathered at Joliet Central High School last week as students launched what organizers say could become a new holiday tradition for the city.
The inaugural Christmas at the Castle event was held Friday, December 12, inside the historic, castle-style Joliet Central High School building. The event was planned, marketed, and executed entirely by students in the Joliet Township High School Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities (CEO) program, with presenting support from Midland States Bank.
According to student organizers, the event featured family games, local vendor booths, and a visit from Santa Claus, drawing residents from across Joliet and surrounding communities. Students say the goal was to apply real-world business skills while creating a community-centered holiday experience.
Senior Ariel Smith, head of marketing and operations for the event, said the turnout exceeded expectations and reflected months of planning and collaboration. Other students led vendor coordination, sponsorships, entertainment, and décor, managing logistics typically handled by professional event teams.
The event generated nearly $5,000 in sponsorships, according to the student sponsorship team, with proceeds supporting the CEO program and helping fund 16 student-led business ventures.
Community impact extended beyond fundraising. A toy drive held during the event collected donations for the Will County Children’s Advocacy Center and the Spanish Community Center, both Joliet-based organizations serving children and families.
Sponsors included local banks, businesses, elected officials, and nonprofit organizations, highlighting broad community support for the student-run initiative.
Educators say the CEO program emphasizes hands-on entrepreneurship, leadership, and accountability outside a traditional classroom setting. Students involved say the experience demonstrated how youth-led projects can contribute to Joliet’s economic and civic life.
Organizers say plans are already being discussed to bring Christmas at the Castle back next year, potentially establishing it as an annual Joliet holiday event.
