On Saturday, November 30, bring the family out to the Parade of Lights and immerse yourself in the festive spirit along Taylor Street, transformed into “Candy Cane Lane.” This year’s parade theme is all about capturing the magic of the holidays, and Candy Cane Lane will be brimming with fun, holiday-inspired booths, unique vendors, and activities perfect for kicking off the season in style.
Candy Cane Lane is packed with delightful vendors, offering unique gifts and treats to celebrate the season. Ion Grove Cafe will be serving up sweet treats and cozy drinks, perfect for warming up as you explore. Old Tyme Kettle Korn adds to the festive flavors with their classic, freshly popped kettle corn—a timeless snack for all ages. For one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, stop by Dayna’s booth, featuring fascinating 3D-printed items, from ornaments to decorative pieces. Book lovers can meet local author Jodi Short and pick up signed copies of her work, a fantastic gift for readers on your list. For a touch of sparkle, the Champaign County History Museum and Mid America Moonwalks will be selling lighted toys and glowing gadgets that add a festive glow to the night. With so many options, Candy Cane Lane has something special for everyone to enjoy!
Champaign County History Museum is a proud member of Champaign Center Partnership.
Kids can join in a fun adventure with the Gingerbread Man on Candy Cane Lane Scavenger Hunt! Don’t forget to pick up a scavenger hunt card at the start of Candy Cane Lane, which will guide little explorers to businesses throughout Downtown Champaign. As they check off each stop, kids will be led to a special prize once they complete the hunt. Adults can join the fun too with the Passport of Presents—a festive way to kick off Small Business Saturday! Pick up a passport and get a head start on holiday shopping by visiting local shops and collecting stamps. Complete the passport for a chance to enter a raffle with an incredible $500 prize, all while supporting local businesses and finding unique gifts.
As you stroll down Candy Cane Lane, enjoy the enchanting sounds of live holiday music. Stop by Cowboy Monkey from 4:00 to 5:30 pm to experience the soulful harmonies of New Souls, whose modern take on holiday classics will fill the air with warmth and cheer. Adding to the festive spirit, the CUTC Dickensian Carolers will roam along Taylor Street, dressed in traditional Victorian attire and singing beloved carols. Their timeless melodies bring a nostalgic touch to the evening, creating a truly immersive holiday atmosphere that’s perfect for all ages.
Champaign Urbana Theatre Company is a proud member of Champaign Center Partnership.
Don’t forget to capture the magic of the Parade of Lights by stopping for a selfie amidst the stunning holiday decorations along Candy Cane Lane. Whether under twinkling lights or beside festive displays, it’s the perfect backdrop for cherished memories. For a truly special holiday photo, visit Veronica from V. Mullen Media, who will be on hand to help you get a jumpstart on your seasonal photos. With her eye for capturing joyful moments, Veronica’s photos make for beautiful keepsakes and wonderful additions to your holiday cards!
V. Mullen Media is a proud member of Champaign Center Partnership.
Balloon Animals and Face Painting for Extra Holiday Cheer
For even more holiday fun, stop by Aaron’s Party Balloons, where kids and kids-at-heart can marvel at the artistry of balloon animals crafted by the talented team. From reindeer to candy canes, these creative balloon designs will add a whimsical touch to your evening on Candy Cane Lane. Right next door, Kari’s Occasions will be offering festive face painting, transforming little ones into holiday characters with sparkly snowflakes, Rudolph noses, and more. These playful additions bring extra magic to the Parade of Lights and create memories families will cherish all season long.
Holiday Fun with Kids Crafts by the University of Illinois Developmental Psychology Labs
Young parade-goers can get into the holiday spirit with a special Kids Crafts area hosted by the University of Illinois Developmental Psychology Labs. Kids can enjoy an exclusive Parade of Lights coloring page, write their Letters to Santa, and dive into other festive crafts designed to spark creativity and holiday cheer. This interactive space is perfect for children to take a break, make something special, and enjoy hands-on holiday fun while learning and engaging in delightful seasonal activities.
Be sure to step off Candy Cane Lane and head over to Big Grove Tavern to meet the jolly man himself—Santa Claus! From 1:00 to 2:30 pm, Big Grove will offer a special Sensory Friendly session with Santa, giving children who need a quieter, more relaxed environment the chance to share their Christmas wishes with the North Pole’s favorite visitor. Then, from 2:30 to 5:30 pm, Santa will open up his sleigh for all kids to stop by, take photos, and tell him their holiday wishes. It’s a magical opportunity to make cherished memories, so bring your holiday cheer and get ready to say, “Cheese!”
Big Grove Tavern is located at 1 E Main St in Downtown Champaign and is a proud member of Champaign Center Partnership.