Illustration of Santa waving from a log cabin porch in a snowy forest with a lantern path leading families to him (Holidays in Downtown DeKalb)

Holidays in Downtown DeKalb

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Celebrate the holiday season in Downtown DeKalb with a charming collection of free events. Visitors can enjoy the festive 'Lights on Lincoln' display, meet Santa Claus in his special house for photos, and participate in the 'Adventures with Elfie' scavenger hunt for a chance to win local gift cards. The festivities kick off with a Christmas tree lighting, caroling, and hot chocolate.

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Plan Your Visit

Last listed

Tickets

FREE

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown DeKalb

Food & Drink

Hot chocolate and caroling are mentioned for the tree lighting.

Parking

Free bus rides to and from Downtown DeKalb are offered by City of DeKalb Public Transit.

Going?

Location

Downtown DeKalb · DeKalb, IL Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and children

Vibe

Festive and joyful

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Check the special Santa bus schedule provided by DeKalb Public Transit for convenient, free transportation to and from the downtown events.
  • Arrive early for the 'Lights on Lincoln & Santa Comes to Town' event on December 5th to secure a good spot for Santa's parade and the tree lighting.
  • Bring your own camera to capture photos with Santa at his house; there is no fee for entry or photos.
  • Participate in the 'Adventures with Elfie' scavenger hunt by December 16th for a chance to win local gift cards, making it a fun way to explore local businesses.
  • Dress warmly for the outdoor tree lighting and caroling event, and consider bringing a thermos for hot chocolate.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Free bus rides to downtown events
  • Chance to win local gift cards through 'Adventures with Elfie' contest

Links & Contact

Run by DeKalb Chamber of Commerce

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main events during Holidays in Downtown DeKalb?

The main events include 'Lights on Lincoln & Santa Comes to Town' on December 5th, featuring a parade, tree lighting, caroling, and Santa's arrival, followed by 'Visits with Santa' on December 7th, 14th, and 21st. The 'Adventures with Elfie' scavenger hunt runs until December 16th.

Are there any costs associated with these events?

No, all events mentioned, including visits with Santa and the 'Lights on Lincoln' celebration, are free of charge.

How can I get to Downtown DeKalb for the events?

City of DeKalb Public Transit is offering free bus rides to and from Downtown DeKalb for the 'Lights on Lincoln & Santa Comes to Town' event. Check the provided schedule for details.

Where is Santa's house located?

Santa's House is located in Van Buer Plaza, at the corner of 2nd and Locust Street.

What is the 'Adventures with Elfie' contest?

It's a scavenger hunt where you find Elfie cutouts at participating local businesses, scan a QR code, and enter to win local gift cards. The deadline to submit is December 16th.

Browse Christmas in DeKalb

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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