Holiday Guide: Tree Lighting Starts Season

The lighting of Christmas trees in towns across the world signifies the official start of the holiday season.

Start the season nearby with some hometown cheer. Here are some area celebrations:

• The Village of Libertyville tree lighting takes place at 6:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 25, at . The event includes singing of traditional carols, and a visit from Santa. Local shops will offer extended hours, along with special treats and holiday decorations.
• Market Square in Lake Forest will mark its 28th annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5:15 p.m., Friday, Nov. 25, in the historic district, on Western Avenue between Deerpath and Westminster. The event, sponsored by Lake Forest Bank & Trust, includes an ice sculpting performance by Art Below Zero at 3 p.m., a visit by Santa Claus at 4 p.m., and a caroling concert by the Lake Forest High School Choristers, at 4 p.m. There will be complimentary hot chocolate, donut holes and cider provided by Aramark.
• Downtown Grayslake holds its tree lighting ceremony, 5 to 8 p.m., Friday, Nov. 25. The tree will be lit at 5:30 p.m. at Center Street and Seymour Avenue. Festivities include a Holiday Market, horse-drawn wagon rides and visits with Santa at the Oasis. The Grayslake High School carolers will perform. Tree lighting sponsors are Advocate Condell Medical Center and Baxter & Woodman. Horse-drawn wagon sponsors are ATC Wegge Ltd. and Drs. Sellke and Reily Ltd.

Lake Bluff offers a gazebo lighting on the Village Green as part of a day-long celebration, Dec. 3. The day includes horse-drawn carriage rides courtesy of Lake Forest Bank & Trust, the Annual Christmas House Walk sponsored by Vliet Center, photos with Santa at the Lake Bluff History Museum, live reindeer and elves and strolling carolers from Lake Forest High School. The gazebo lighting is at 5 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy decorated storefronts, seasonal banners with vintage photos designed by resident Lynne Grenier, light displays, and bows and greenery provide

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