Christmas In The Commons Still A Go, With Anticipated Extreme Cold Forcing Some Changes

NEW LENOX, IL — Christmas in the Commons is still on for this weekend, with some updates made in anticipation of dangerously cold temperatures.

More snow is forecasted for this weekend, along with bitter cold. The coldest conditions will be Saturday night, with wind chills of 30 below zero expected, according to the current forecast.

The Village is implementing several safety-focused adjustments, officials said in a release. Although some programming will be modified due to the weather, Christmas in the Commons will remain open, and residents are encouraged to dress warmly and experience the seasonal attractions.

• Visits with Santa — 4 to 8 p.m. Visits with Santa will continue as scheduled and will take place inside the rotunda of Village Hall to ensure a warm and comfortable environment for families. Guests are invited to stop in for a festive indoor visit with Santa.
• Character Visits (heated tent)
  • Saturday: Grinch, 4–8 p.m.)
  • Sunday: Anna & Elsa, 4–8pm)
• Arrowhead Ales Lounge (heated tent): Open 4-8 p.m.
• Light Displays & Concessions: The Christmas in the Commons light displays will remain open throughout the weekend. Visitors can stroll the grounds and enjoy the holiday ambiance while sipping hot cocoa and other warm beverages available at the concession stand.
• Holiday Market: Vendor participation may be limited. The Village encourages residents to continue supporting participating small businesses by visiting their online shops.
• Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides: Rides will continue, with only one wagon operating this weekend. Rides may move more slowly than usual due to the severe temperatures, and the Village appreciates the community’s patience and understanding.
• Performing Groups: Performers will move their shows indoors to Village Hall’s upper-level rotunda.

Another round of accumulating snow is possible Saturday, as bitter cold moves into the area, according to the National Weather Service.

"While there is still some uncertainty with exact amounts, the greatest potential for hazardous travel is near/south of I-80, and particularly south of the Kankakee River," the weather service said on its Facebook page.

Areas south of I-80 could see between 2 and 5 inches of snow; while the Chicago area could see a dusting of snow up to 2 inches.

"Note that with temperatures in the single digits and teens, slippery conditions are likely even with light accumulations," the weather service said. Snow will be very fluffy and slippery.