Geneva Christmas Walk, Holiday House Tour Details Revealed

GENEVA, IL — Geneva will usher in the merriest season of the year with the beloved Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour Dec. 5-6, organizers announced.

"For many, the Christmas Walk and House Tour mark the official start of the holiday season," said Johanna Patterson, communications director for the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, which is presenting the event. "We're thrilled to bring back these joyful experiences that truly showcase the charm, spirit, and sense of community that Geneva is known for."

The Christmas Walk will kick off the weekend at 6 p.m. Dec. 5. The celebration will feature Bob's Candy Cane Parade, leading up to a presentation of the first candy cane of the season by Graham's Chocolates, at 302 S. Third St. Santa Lucia, a Swedish tradition that brings light to the darkest time of the year, will also make an appearance to give cookies to attendees.

The community will gather for the lighting of the city's Christmas tree on the Kane County Courthouse lawn, and Santa Claus will arrive to open his Geneva home at 10 S. Third St. for visits with children.

Reservations are required for visits with Santa. Registration opened Nov. 3 on the Geneva Chamber of Commerce website. Each time slot costs $10 and includes a private visit with Kris Kringle and a festive goodie bag.

For the remainder of the evening, guests can enjoy live carolers, freshly roasted chestnuts and the "sights, sounds, and smells of Geneva's beautifully decorated shops and restaurants," organizers said.

The Christmas Walk will coincide with the Holiday House Tour, which will operate from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 5 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 6.

"We invite visitors from near and far to experience the warmth, beauty, and community spirit that make Geneva so special this time of year," Patterson said.

Take a look at the five-house lineup for this year's tour:

• Stunning Modern Contemporary: A circa 1957 home that blends mid-century design with sophisticated luxury.
• Traditional Beauty: A traditional-style, 4,100-square-foot Augustine Custom Home built in 2002. "This is a place where 'home for the holidays' rings especially true," the Chamber said.
• Cape Cod Holiday Classic: Set on one of Geneva's prestigious tree-lined streets, this 3,600-square-foot house, circa 1947 and upgraded in 2024, blends timeless charm, thoughtful design and festive cheer.
• Timeless Greek Revival: One of the oldest homes in Geneva, built between 1846 and 1853, this house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The 3,200-square-foot residence was renovated in 2020 to combine old-world craftsmanship with modern amenities.
• Elegant Farmhouse: With roots dating back to the 19th century, this house is the former home of Martin Thompson, the caretaker of Island Park for more than 20 years. "Every room feels like it has a story to tell, especially during the holidays," tour organizers said.

Tickets, which include a holiday tea and a candle from Inluro, while supplies last, cost $42. Proceeds will be used to decorate the city for the holidays. Purchases can be made at the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, 8 S. Third St.; through the Chamber's website; at various locations throughout the city; or over the phone, 630-232-6060.

The Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour will coincide with the Steeple Walk, an event that takes participants to four historic churches to hear 20-minute concerts. It's planned from 2-4:10 p.m. Dec. 7.

RELATED: 2025 Geneva Steeple Walk: 20-Minute Concerts Planned At 4 Historic Churches