Celebrate the Holiday Season with Others in Your Community.

Join us for fun holiday festivities on November 24th, 2024 starting at 5:30 PM!

This is a special time in our community when the City of Loves Park, IL. and the Village of Machesney Park, IL. come together to celebrate the upcoming holidays.

The goal for The Light Up the Parks is for the entire community to come together and join us for celebration! There is truly something for everyone at all ages at the Light of the Parks Celebration, including a fireworks display, 2 Christmas tree lightings, Mr. & Mrs. Clause (children are encouraged to bring letters), and most importantly, there will be an awesome parade with lots of cool floats and candy.

Register To Be In The Parade!

The highlight of the festivities on November 24th is our holiday parade! The Light Up the Parks Parade is an exciting event attended by all ages. Thousands of people come out each year to spectate and receive candy from those in the parade. Please join us by displaying your float in the Parade. To enter your float, please complete the form linked below.

What To Expect.

Join Mayor Jury at Loves Park City Hall at 5:30 PM as he lights our annual Christmas tree and counts down the fireworks display. The parade will start at 5:45 PM at Loves Park City Hall parking lot and will conclude at the Town Center where Mayor Johnson will light the Village’s 30' tree. Mr. & Mrs. Clause will be present, so be sure to bring your letters for Santa. Treats will also be provided by a local church. Check out the list of events below for even more details.

Schedule of Events:

Visit The Vintage Goose for hot beverages and pastries at anytime near the Loves Park Festival Grounds.

5:30 PM - Lighting of the Christmas Tree with a message from Mayor Jury

5:35 PM - Fireworks with Christmas Music

5:47 PM - Parade Begins

*Dim your lights, keep speed consistent and maintain gaps of safe distances, always be aware of children who may dart into the street for candy.

*Driver of float is responsible for all of their participants on their float/vehicle. Do not overload the float and make sure participants enter and exit your parade vehicle in a safe manner.

Concluding of the parade: Stay for the Village of Machesney’s Christmas tree Lighting with Mayor Johnson and visit with Mr. & Mrs. Claus and enjoy treats provided by a local church.

Support the Light Up The Parks Holiday Parade!

We are so thankful for all of our wonderful sponsors! If you are interested in helping us fund the cost of the Loves Park Fireworks Display at City Hall on November 24th, 2024, please fill out the sponsorship form by clicking the “sponsorship” button at the top of this page. You can also contact Alyssa Thompson by emailing alyssathompson@cityoflovespark.com or call 815-654-5033 x 123.

Sponsor