The Huntley area is ready to be unwrapped! The Holiday season is such a good opportunity to get together with friends and family. But what about some budget friendly activities when it is so chilly outside? Find out how to add even more cheer and magic to this season.
The Larsen Christmas Lights Show. (Photo provided)
1. Grab the hot chocolate! Go for a drive with the family to see the neighborhood lights! Some may have decorations and music too! One location in particular has a drive-through display of it all! Located in Pingree Grove is The Larsen Christmas Lights Show! When discussing the show with Brian Larsen, he said they saw a whopping “3000-5000 a week at [his] old location in Elburn.” He also added that “with the help of Goebberts it has taken 385 days to complete this setup.” Hopefully, the number of visitors continues to rise from all of that work! Tickets can be found here.
2. See a Tree Lighting! Join the “Miracle on Main” in “Old Town Algonquin on December 2nd.” There will be a “Merry Market, ice sculpting displays, live music, Santa,tree-lighting,” and more! Find out all about it here. Another option on the same day is “A Very Merry Huntley” with “a race, Kris Kringle Market, Santa & Mrs. Claus, dinner, tree lighting, fireworks,” and even more! See the whole list of events here.
Lights on display in downtown Crystal Lake. (Photo by Jamie Kayser/My Huntley News)
3. Paint, shop, and sip in Downtown Crystal Lake! Color me Mine is a great indoor activity when it is just too cold outside. Unwind while painting unique pottery with loved ones. When talking with Marika Southwell, their “kiln manager,” she said: “November and December are our busiest months.” She added: “this time of year our most popular pieces are our nostalgic light up trees! A close second would be ornaments and reindeer.” These would make for great gifts or decorations. There is so much more that Downtown Crystal Lake has to offer, like various coffee shops with holiday drinks, clothing and toy stores, holiday decor, lights, and an overall feeling of winter joy! There are many photo opportunities and gift ideas to discover.
4. Watch a feel-good holiday movie! Whether it be Elf or Frosty the Snowman, grab some popcorn and cuddle up to your favorite movie of the season. Bring the holiday cheer to your living room or a movie theater near you!
5. Attend a Craft Fair! The Barrington area is hosting an “Artisan Winter Arts & Crafts Fair” on “December 10th” at the “Wild Onion Brewery and Banquets.” Be inspired and get creative! There will be so much to see with “free admission!” Check it out here.
6. In the season of celebrating with our loved ones, try to reconnect! This could be sending a text, picking up the phone to call someone you love, or simply spending more time with the important people in life. Especially during the season of giving, give thanks to those who you count on. Tell funny Holiday stories, send a card, or even make a snowman with a friend or family member! It can bring warmth and comfort to this already special time.
7. Last but not least, try to show gratitude and help those in need. Whether it be through time or money, it can be so rewarding to donate and give back. There are many food banks nearby that are in need of volunteers and donations. Some options can be crafty too! Such as making fabric-tie blankets, or crocheting hats and mittens for those in need. It could also be as simple as caroling for others, selecting a trustworthy charity, even sharing food or cookies with the elderly and neighbors!
Hopefully this brings even more joy to the Holiday season for many. Enjoy the season and stay well! All information was provided by the websites of the events and credited individuals.
