Lake Forest Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration To Feature Music, Dance

LAKE FOREST, IL — The 39th annual Lake Forest holiday tree-lighting celebration is due to brighten Market Square with a festive lineup of activities, performances and the traditional lighting ceremony on the Friday following Thanksgiving, which this year falls on Nov. 24.

The events begin at 1 p.m. with a screening of the holiday classic "Home Alone" at the Gorton Community Center.

At 3 p.m., kids activities kick off, with a variety of activities including cookie decorating and arts and crafts, with donuts and coffee available.

Santa Claus is scheduled to make a special appearance from 3:15 to 6 p.m., promising to offer opportunities for visits and photos.

The Lake Forest Civic Orchestra and Lake Forest High School Festival Brass Ensemble will perform from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m., followed by a caroling concert by the Lake Forest High School Choristers at 4:40 p.m.

The Lake Forest Dance Academy is set to deliver a Rockette-style performance at 5 p.m., immediately before a speech from Mayor Randy Tack and the beloved tree lighting ceremony. The festivities are due to conclude with holiday music from 5:30 to 6 p.m.

Attendees should be aware of road closures affecting Market Square and Western Avenue between Deerpath and Westminster Avenue, starting at noon on the day of the event. Vehicles remaining in the area after the closure will be blocked in until the event's conclusion. All city parking lots will be open and free to the public.