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Winter Lights
The Merriest & Cheeriest of Seasons Starts with Winter Lights
When: 6:00 p.m., Friday, November 21st, 2025
Parade steps-off at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Downer Place, from Water Street to River Street, in downtown Aurora
Parking: Free parking available in all public Downtown lots
Tips: Be sure to arrive early, as streets will begin to close at 6:00 p.m. The tree lighting and Firework show are best viewed from the East end of the Downer Place bridge.
Santa’s New Location: Paramount School of the Arts (20 S. Stolp Avenue)
You Won’t Want to Miss this Year’s Winter Lights
As the City of Aurora’s official kick-off to the holiday season, this free family-friendly event will be filled with merry-making moments and a sleigh full of fun for the entire family.
Stepping off at 6:30 p.m., Santa and Mrs. Claus will usher in the holiday season with an illuminated parade filled with reindeer, elves, special guests and other holiday favorites!
Following the Parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with Mayor Laesch will lead the crowd in a countdown to flip the magic switch and illuminate the City’s holiday tree!
After the tree lighting, the downtown Aurora sky will be brightened by a Firework show along the banks of the Fox River, sponsored by the Chicago Premium Outlets!
After the drone show, Stolp Avenue, between Downer Place and Galena Boulevard, will be filled with food vendors, roaming costumed characters, and musical entertainment at Millennium Plaza!
Join us for photos with Santa! This year Santa will be at a NEW LOCATION: Paramount School of the Arts (20 S. Stolp Avenue). He will be there ready for photos immediately following the Firework show.
For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Holiday Walks and Tree Lighting Ceremonies.
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