As the chill of December settles in, the spirit of the holiday season comes alive in Pekin, Illinois, with the much-anticipated Winter Wonderland Festival. The streets of Mineral Springs Park will be lined with beautifully decorated Christmas trees. This year’s festival promises a delightful blend of activities, entertainment, and community spirit, perfect for families and friends looking to embrace the magic of the season. With the arrival of Santa Claus and a thrilling Christmas Vacation themed parade, attendees can expect an unforgettable day filled with joy and festivities.

Schedule of Events: The festival kicks off at 1:00 pm with events designed for children of all ages. Below is a breakdown of the schedule:

Candy Cane Hunt at Ball Diamond #1 – 1:00pm
In this lively event, children aged 3-12 can join in a free candy cane hunt, organized in three age-appropriate rounds: Ages 3-6, Ages 7-9, and Ages 10-12. This engaging activity not only fuels the excitement of younger attendees but also builds a sense of community as families gather to watch the fun unfold.

Balloon Art by The Unique Twist & Twisting Crew at the Pavilion – 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm 
Children can enjoy mesmerizing balloon sculptures, allowing imaginations to run wild.

Christmas Vacation Themed Parade – 3:30 pm
Route: Broadway Street starting at 10th Street, ending at the Pavilion in Mineral Springs Park 

The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the Christmas Vacation themed parade, which will kick off at 3:30 pm. Expect floats, festive costumes, and a vibrant atmosphere as the community comes together to celebrate the season. Parade enthusiasts should arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the route.

Visit Santa – Post-Parade at the Pavilion until 6:00 pm
After the parade, children can meet Santa Claus in the Pavilion until 6:00 pm. This is a wonderful opportunity for little ones to share their Christmas wishes and take memorable photos.

Raffle Tickets and Prize Table at the Pavilion – Open until 5:30 pm 
Don’t miss your chance to participate in the festival raffle. Tickets can be purchased near the prize table, offering exciting prizes and a fun way to support local festivities.

Christmas Carol Sing-a-long at the Pavilion Porch facing Lagoon – 5:15 pm 
Gather around for a joyful Christmas carol sing-a-long. Feel the warmth of holiday cheer as community members come together to sing beloved carols, creating a sense of togetherness and celebration.

Fireworks Display across the Lagoon – 5:30 pm 
To cap off the day, spectators can enjoy a stunning fireworks display at 5:30 pm. The display will illuminate the night sky, leaving attendees spellbound and in high spirits.

The Pekin Winter Wonderland Festival stands as a testament to the community spirit that thrives in Pekin. Residents and visitors alike come together to celebrate, fostering camaraderie, and creating lasting memories. Events like the Candy Cane Hunt and the Christmas Carol Sing-a-long encourage participation among all age groups, reinforcing the importance of family and community during the festive season.

The Pekin Winter Wonderland Festival is not just an event; it is a celebration of cultural traditions and community bonds. With activities catering to all ages, including the thrilling Christmas Vacation themed parade, this festival promises to be a highlight of the holiday season. Whether you’re hunting for candy canes, creating balloon art, or enjoying a festive fireworks display, there is something for everyone. So mark your calendars and join us in welcoming Santa and celebrating the joy of the holidays in Pekin. It’s an opportunity to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

For more information on being a Tree sponsor, Parade entries or Parade sponsorship contact the Winter Wonderland Committee at pekinwinterwonderland.info/index.html or www.facebook.com/PekinWinterWonderlandFestival.