June 04, 2023
Things to DoWhere to EatPlaces to StayLocal EventsDealsDirectoryNewsletter

Experience Holiday Fun In Starved Rock Country

Two fan-favorite holiday events return to SRC!

By Ryan Searl
The Chris Kringle Market has been extended. The market will reopen at 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, and run through the weekend until Sunday, Dec. 20, with huts on Jackson Street to the south of Washington Square, then three blocks south at the Jordan Block.

Looking for some fun, family-friendly events to start your holiday festivities? Plan a trip to Starved Rock Country, where you’ll find elaborate light shows, artisan vendor markets and many more seasonal events sure to put you in the spirit of the season.

Ottawa’s Chris Kringle Market Returns!

Get into the seasonal spirit with the sixth annual Chris Kringle Market in downtown Ottawa. The popular market features artisan gift vendors, tasty holiday treats, traditional German-style beer, and memorable activities for the whole family to enjoy.

(Scott Anderson)

This year’s Chris Kringle Market, which runs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 19, will feature more than 70 curated vendors each weekend. Spread across two locations in downtown Ottawa, you’ll find vendor huts at both the Jordan Block event space and Washington Square Park. These talented vendors include returning fan favorites like Albo Acres, specializing in alpaca wool accessories and real wool toys, alongside exciting newcomers like Bob’s Hot Chocolate, which will serve up an authentic Bavarian take on the warm and festive drink.

Each weekend of the Chris Kringle Market also will feature special seasonal activities and free performances. From children’s crafts and carriage rides, to free Christmas movie screenings and photos with Santa, there is no shortage of exciting family-friendly events happening during the market. To see a full list of vendors and activities for each weekend, be sure to follow Chris Kringle Market on Facebook.


A aerial view of the Celebration of Lights on Tuesday Nov. 16, 2021 at Rotary Park in La Salle. (Scott Anderson)

La Salle’s Celebration Of Lights Is Back!

The city of La Salle’s spectacular Celebration of Lights has made its triumphant return to Rotary Park. One of the largest holiday attractions in north central Illinois, the massive collection of illuminated displays is back and bigger than ever before. Conveniently located near I-39, the astounding drive-thru light show will run every night from now through New Year’s Day.

The entrance to the City of La Salle's Celebration of Lights illuminates from the air on Nov. 16, 2021 at Rotary Park in La Salle. (Scott Anderson)

The Celebration of Lights is free to view, however, donations are encouraged to continue to grow this community-led project. The drive-thru display will be open to the public from 5 to 9 p.m. on weekdays and Sundays, as well as from 5 to 10 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and the week of the Christmas holiday.

The winding path through the park features well over 300 themed holiday displays, each sponsored by an area business. The Celebration of Lights at Rotary Park is at 2837 E. Fifth Road in La Salle.