Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in Jacksonville, IL! Fill your spirit with holiday joy and revel in the magic of the season, from twinkling lights to delicious goodies and can’t-miss bargains. Uncover the fun and festivities in Downtown Jacksonville — check out some of the exciting ways to celebrate this season!
Fun-Filled Events
Mark your calendars — a slate of special events invites all to relish the yuletide spirit all holiday long! Check out these special occasions and plan a festive outing.
- Pinkmas
Friday, Nov. 22
Before heading off to the big-box stores for your holiday shopping, support small businesses around Central Park! Participating businesses will feature their own specials with plenty of sales, promotions, stocking stuffer bars, pop-up vendors, and refreshments! - Jacksonville Festival of Lights
5-8 p.m. Thursdays and Sundays, 5-9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays from Friday, Nov. 29, through Sunday, Dec. 29
Come see the Morgan County Fairgrounds aglow during this annual event! Drive through the festive displays full of dazzling lights. - Jacksonville’s Santa Claus Parade
6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29
Welcome jolly old St. Nick back to Jacksonville! Sponsored by WJVO, the annual Christmas parade starts at the Municipal Building and completes two laps around the Square, ending at Santa’s House. - Small Business Saturday
Saturday, Nov. 30
Shop small this holiday season! Support local businesses around Jacksonville and discover a wide range of gifts for everyone in your family. And don’t miss the special Holiday Market from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., a joint effort by Central Park Market and Jacksonville Main Street! - The Farmers State Bank & Trust Co. Nightly Advent Calendar Lighting
5 p.m. nightly through December
Enjoy an annual holiday tradition like none other! Every year, the historic 1913 Farmers State Bank & Trust building transforms into the self-proclaimed World’s Tallest Advent Calendar, revealing a unique holiday image each night in a larger-than-life countdown to Christmas! - Santa Run
9 a.m. (registration) and 10 a.m. (run) Saturday, Dec. 7
Hustle — or walk — alongside Kris Kringle, his elves, and Rudolph during this Christmas-themed walk/run, presented by Fitness World Health Club and Jacksonville Main Street. - Light Up the Inn at Blessings on State
6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7
Watch the bed and breakfast on State Street light up with holiday spirit! Blessings on State will host its annual lighting ceremony, inviting all to enjoy the festivities at this historic home. - WJVO Breakfast with Santa
9-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14
Join Santa Claus for a hearty breakfast at the AMVETS (210 E. Court St.)! - 39th Annual Pilot Club Holiday Home Tour & Tea
1-5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8
Join the Pilot Club and tour beautiful homes decked in brilliant displays in a tradition showcasing the beauty of our community! Afterward, stop at Twisted Tree Music Hall for tea and fellowship.
Late-Night Shopping
Need a little extra time to get your holiday shopping in? Locally owned shops around the Jacksonville Downtown are open late on Thursdays throughout the season, providing plenty of additional opportunities to track down the perfect gift!
Visit with Santa
Santa’s home — and visitors are welcome! Stop by the Santa Claus House starting Friday, Nov. 29, and share your Christmas wish with St. Nick!
Giddy Up, Jingle Horse!
Take in the holiday sights in style! Carriage rides will be available Downtown on Thursdays and Saturdays throughout the season, offering an old-fashioned way to enjoy the festivities around the Square.
Bottoms Up!
Talk about getting into the spirit! The Vault will feature a menu of holiday-themed cocktails through December. Have a cup of cheer and enjoy some axe throwing or their state-of-the-art VR escape room!
Make your spirits bright this holiday season! Check out our calendar of events for more seasonal fun and plan your trip today!