Holiday Events in the Crystal Lake Area
A calendar of 7 recurring events in the Crystal Lake area — with schedules, locations, and links to event websites.
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Holiday kickoff event with tree lighting, Santa, hot cocoa, caroling, and downtown shopping.
🗓️ Friday after Thanksgiving (annually)
📍 Downtown Crystal Lake · Crystal Lake
Luminaria Walk
Thousands of luminaria bags line the trails at Veteran Acres Park for a magical evening walk through the woods. One of Crystal Lake's most beloved and unique traditions — free or low-cost admission.
🗓️ Late November or early December (annually)
📍 Veteran Acres Park, Crystal Lake · Crystal Lake
Holiday in the Park — Cary
Tree lighting ceremony, visit with Santa, horse-drawn carriage rides, and holiday crafts.
🗓️ First Saturday in December (annually)
📍 Lions Park, Cary · Cary
Holiday Tree Lighting — Algonquin
Community tree lighting with caroling, hot chocolate, a visit from Santa, and holiday shopping downtown.
🗓️ Late November (annually)
📍 Village Hall, Algonquin · Algonquin
Holiday Lights Parade — LITH
Lighted parade through town with floats, marching bands, fire trucks, and a visit from Santa.
🗓️ First Friday in December (annually)
📍 Algonquin Rd to Sunset Park, Lake in the Hills · Lake in the Hills
Holiday Open House — Huntley
Santa arrival, tree lighting, horse-drawn carriage rides, caroling, and downtown shop specials.
🗓️ First Saturday in December (annually)
📍 Downtown Huntley, Town Square · Huntley
Light the Night
Annual holiday-themed community event listed by Naturally McHenry County.
🗓️ Annually (holiday season)
📍 1202 Riverside Drive · McHenry