Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in a Nutshell:
Chicago kicks off the holiday season with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Daley Plaza on November 23 at 5 p.m. (weather permitting). The city's Christmas tree is usually made from many smaller trees that form a gigantic tree that marvels the enormous tree in New York City's Rockefeller Plaza. However, like last year, due to budget issues, the city will only have one 55-foot tree this year. The tree will be decorated with multi-colored lights and ornaments. The ceremony also includes a visit from Santa and live entertainment.
Location:
Daley Plaza at Washington and Dearborn.
Date and Time:
Wednesday, November 23, 2011; program begins at 4:30 p.m. and the tree lighting ceremony is at 5:00 p.m. (weather permitting)
Visits with Santa:
Santa's Workshop will be in a hut at the base of the tree. Santa is available during the following days and times to take gift requests and photos:
- November 23; 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
- November 24 (Thanksgiving Day); 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
- November 25 - December 23; 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Monday - Friday); 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. (Saturday and Sunday)
- December 24; 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
**Between 3:00 - 4:00 p.m., Santa takes a break and enjoys some cookies.**
