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2026 St. Charles Holiday Homecoming - Your Festive Guide

2 days ago
3 min read

The most magical time of year is upon us in St. Charles! With the annual Holiday Homecoming celebration just around the corner on November 27th and 28th, sponsored by St. Charles Chrylser Dodge Jeep Ram, we're here to help you make the most of this festive season. Keep reading below to learn more!


Lighting of the Lights Ceremony

Kicking-off the two day celebration is the Lighting of the Lights Ceremony on the 1st Street Plaza. Starting at 5 PM, this is your opportunity to come together as a community as we flip the switch to illuminate our beautiful downtown. Featuring carols, visits with Santa, complimentary caramel corn, and more - this annual tradition is the best way to begin the holiday season. This is also a great chance to support local this holiday season, as there are many amazing businesses right around where the ceremony takes place! Grab a bite to eat, do some shopping, and make the ceremony a yearly tradition.


Santa's Tip: Get there early to try and grab a bell! These will be used to help bring out a very special guest on stage. (While supplies last)


Free Holiday Movie


The next morning, feel free to stay in your pajamas and make your way down to the historic Arcada Theatre for a FREE screening of the fan-favorite holiday movie: Elf. The movie starts 10 AM, but the doors will open at 9 AM to give you a chance to purchase some popcorn and to find a good place to sit.


Santa's Tip: Make sure to stop by McNally's Heating & Cooling's table before the movie start for some goodies! (While supplies last)


Visits with Santa

If you didn't get a chance to tell Santa what you want this year at the Lighting of the Lights Ceremony, there's no need to worry. Santa has taken some time away from the North Pole to visit with you at his cottage on the 1st Street Plaza every Saturday and Sunday from 1 PM to 4 PM, beginning November 28th through December 20th. He cannot wait to meet and take photos with you!


Santa's Tip: Did you miss Santa? Feel free to drop off your letter in his mailbox! Don't worry, Santa makes sure to read each and every letter he receives.


What Cuisine Will You Try During St. Charles Restaurant Week?

  • American

  • Mexican

  • Asian

  • Italian


Photo Opportunities

Holiday Homecoming is also the perfect time to snap that amazing festive photo! On the 1st Street Plaza you'll find both our illuminated "Joy" and "Ornament" photo opportunities. Both of these backdrops are ideal for capturing your time at this year's community event and to use to share with friends and family on your holiday cards!


Santa's Tip: Both of these festive photo opportunites are located on the 1st Street Plaza, with plenty of local businesses near by to visit after you're done!


Holiday Shop Crawl

Photo 1 Courtesy of Nicole Gail Photography

The holiday season means holiday shopping - and Small Business Saturday is the perfect chance to check that off your list. On Saturday, November 28th, be sure to support local and visit some of the many amazing retailers we have in town for the St. Charles Holiday Shop Crawl. With each purchase you make, you can submit your receipt for a chance to win a relaxation giveaway valued at $150!


Santa's Tip: Visit our website to take advantage of some amazing promotions that local shops are having for the season.


Electric Christmas Parade

And then, the moment you've all been waiting for: The Electric Christmas Parade. Taking place at 5:30 PM on November 28th, the parade will start on 6th Street to conclude at 4th Avenue. This holiday spectacle allows visitors to admire over 60 illuminated entries lighting up downtown St. Charles. Trust us when we say that you do not want to miss this community tradition that has been bringing joy to St. Charles for over 25 years.


Santa's Tip: Many people love to watch thise annual parade! Get there early to find a great spot along Main Street.


St. Charles Restaurant Week is back February 1st - February 5th, and it's the perfect time to explore new dining options throughout town. When you dine at a particpating restaurant and mention St. Charles Restaurant Week, you'll receive 20% off your bill (exclusions apply). Click above to learn more!

 
 
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