Homewood's Holiday Events Mix New Additions With Old Favorites

HOMEWOOD, IL — Now that Halloween is in everyone's rear view, attention turns to the remaining holidays rounding out the year. Homewood's popular signature events will continue this holiday season, and the village will build on its annual traditions with new activities.

As in years past, the bright star at the center of the village's seasonal celebrations is Holiday Lights in Homewood. Festivities begin Dec. 1 with the opening of the Martin Avenue Outdoor Market at 5 p.m. in downtown Homewood. An antique car parade will follow and lead up to Santa Claus's arrival by fire engine so he can flip the switch for the annual tree lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. at Irwin Park, 1900 Ridge Road.

The Homewood Science Center, 18022 Dixie Hwy., will be hosting a special "Polar Express" party during the holiday lights celebration. The 2004 family film will be playing in the center's Michael Wexler Theater, and for $5, participants can create their own laser-cut ornaments, cardboard garlands or candy trains in the STEAM Studio, which will become Santa's workshop for the evening. Finally, the Christmas classic "A Visit From St. Nicholas" will receive a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics makeover during a reading by the poem's star.

The holiday lights event won't be Santa's only scheduled appearance in Homewood this season. Ol' St. Nick also will be a part of Miracle on Martin Avenue, an inaugural event that will run from 2 to 6 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Homewood Science Center. Horse-drawn carriage rides through downtown and a special "I Spy" treasure hunt for kids will be among the highlights, which will include s'mores and beverages around a bonfire.

But before enjoying these activities, residents can do their gift shopping during Small Business Saturday on Nov. 25. Progressive discounts will be available throughout the day thanks to the Homewood Business Association.

Go to Homewood's website for more information about these events.

Holiday Lights in Homewood (Photo via Patch archive)