Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at Metropolitan Square

Join the City of Des Plaines for live entertainment, a special appearance by Santa, and admire the trees decorated by local community groups. Don’t forget to drop off your letter to the North Pole at our mailbox!

The mitten tree will be available for donations of new hats, gloves, mittens and scarves of all sizes.

Nonperishable food donations for the Des Plaines Self Help Closet and Pantry are welcome.
Please visit their website for a list of current most needed items.

Featured fun and entertainment:

Say hi and snap a photo with Santa (and the Grinch!)

Roasted Chestnuts provided by the History Center

Name a Des Plaines snowplow contest (2024 winner: Clearopatha)

Hot Chocolate from the Salvation Army

Drop off your letter at Santa’s mailbox

Variety of activities sponsored by local organizations

Glow products will be available for purchase

Food

Takito Grill, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Giordano's, KOW Korean BBQ, and 5th Ave Sushi have restaurants in Metropolitan Square.
There will also be Food Trucks.

Schedule of events:

4 p.m. Students and community groups decorate holiday trees in the Square

4 - 6:30 p.m. Food Trucks will have food available for purchase

4:30 – 6:15 p.m. Live performances on stage

4:45 p.m. Santa arrives in grand style

6:30 p.m. The tree is lit for the season by elected officials

Parking

Free parking is available in the Metropolitan Square Parking Garage (entrances off Lee St. and Miner St.) and the Civic Center Garage (behind City Hall).