About the Winter Tree Lighting Festival

The Winter Tree Lighting Festival is a beloved community celebration that combines two cherished Mundelein traditions: the Village's Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony (held for over 20 years) and Winterfest. Now merged into one spectacular event on the first Saturday of December, this festival brings the community together for an unforgettable holiday celebration.

2026 Festival Details

Date: December 5, 2026 Time: 3:00pm - 6:00pm Location: Courtland Commons Park (Courtland & Seymour Streets)

Festival Activities

The Winter Tree Lighting Festival offers a full afternoon of festive entertainment and activities:

Santa's Cottage opens at 2:00pm - Visit Santa in his cozy cottage
Musical entertainment featuring school choirs and local musicians starting at 3:00pm
Kiddy Train Rides for the little ones
Ice Sculpting demonstrations
Disney Princesses visiting with children
Story-time for kids
Letters to Santa station
Kris Kringle Market with local vendors and artisans
Kids' games and crafts
Food vendors offering tasty treats
Hot chocolate and treats provided by the Mundelein Park and Recreation District
Mayor's Seasonal Message
Mundelein Queens appearances
Lighting of the Village Holiday Tree - the magical moment when the tree illuminates
Fireworks to cap off the celebration
Second session of Santa's Cottage following the fireworks

Kris Kringle Market

The festival features a Kris Kringle Market with local vendors offering unique gifts and handmade items. Past vendors have included:

RiverSide Candles
Lisi Denim
Nothing Bundt Cake
Out of This World Embroidery LLC
Northlake Naturals
Created by Emme
Wendi's Specialty Baked Goods
Luk Designs Boutique
And many more local artisans

Community Partnership

The Winter Tree Lighting Festival is a partnership between:

The Village of Mundelein
Mundelein Community Connection
The Mundelein Park and Recreation District

Admission

Free admission for all

Location

Courtland Commons Park E. Courtland Street & Seymour Avenue Mundelein, IL 60060

Come celebrate the magic of the holiday season with your community at this signature Mundelein event! Don't miss Santa's Cottage, opening the same day. Browse all upcoming events and explore things to do in downtown Mundelein.