Aurora Kicks Off Holiday Season With Nov. 16 Winter Lights Parade, Fireworks
The 2018 Aurora Winter Lights Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony will kick off the holiday season in the City of Lights this week.
Hosted by the city of Aurora and Aurora Downtown, the popular annual tradition will be held on Friday, Nov. 16, with festivities centered on Downer Place in downtown Aurora.
Parade
The parade will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Downer Place and travel from Water Street (adjacent to City Hall) to River Street.
Leading the parade with Mayor Richard C. Irvin will be newly-crowned Little Mr. and Little Miss Aurora, the Winter Lights Court, Santa and Mrs. Claus and an exciting array of costumed characters, community groups, performers and public safety vehicles.
Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Tree Lighting Ceremony will commence after the parade at the GAR Memorial Museum, 23 E. Downer Place.
The ceremony includes a special performance by local teen singer Nathaniel Mojica, an award presentation for the winner of the Downtown Window Decorating Contest and the community countdown to the lighting of the city’s official Christmas tree.
Fireworks, Photos With Santa And More
Immediately following the ceremony, the fireworks extravaganza, sponsored by Chicago Premium Outlets, will light up the night sky and then guests can continue to enjoy the evening by visiting stores and pop up shops in the immediate area and taking free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Tredwell Coffee, 14 W. Downer Place.
The event is free and open to the public.
