Lighting of the Square
A Magical Night of Giving, Celebration, and Tradition

Visit the beautiful and historic Square on the Friday after Thanksgiving and help the City of Woodstock usher in the official start to the holiday season.  With the flip of a switch, tens of thousands of twinkling lights are illuminated on Park trees and Square buildings, ushering in the magic of Christmas in a Victorian-era setting.

While the lighting ceremony begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Park-in-the-Square, there are many wonderful holiday activities planned from 5:00-9:00 p.m., including holiday carolers, children’s activities, charitable opportunities, shopping at downtown boutiques and dining at local restaurants.  But, best of all, Santa make a grand entrance after the lighting ceremony to greet children and pose for cherished pictures at Santa’s Hut in the Park.

A special treat is the opening of the annual Opera House Christmas Tree Walk featuring dozens of trees beautifully decorated by area organizations.  Then, take a stroll through Friends of the Old Courthouse’s annual Gingerbread House Walk at the Old Courthouse and vote for your favorite edible edifice from 4:00-9:00pm on 11/23/18.   For more information on how to enter your own Gingerbread House, click here:  Gingerbread House Walk

While you’re in Woodstock for the Lighting of the Square, stay for the weekend and enjoy our lovely town Square and brick-lined streets connecting upscale shops, fine dining and live entertainment as well as shopping districts on IL Route 47 and throughout the community.  And, don’t forget the many holiday events and performances at the Woodstock Opera House and free carriage rides on selected days.