Effingham, IL – November 21, 2023 – The Effingham County Chamber, in collaboration with the Downtown Effingham Business Group Committee (DEBG), cordially invites you to embrace the holiday spirit at the Downtown Effingham Hometown Christmas, proudly presented by the McHugh Hospitality Group. This enchanting event marks the commencement of the festive season, promising Christmas traditions, and family-centric fun through a delightful afternoon of activities catering to all ages.
On Saturday, December 2, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Downtown Effingham will undergo a magical transformation into a winter wonderland, offering a plethora of activities for the entire community.
Santa’s Workshop:
This year, Santa’s Workshop has expanded its offerings and will be stationed in the City Parking lot at 4th & Jefferson within a heated and festive tent from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Workshop will feature a range of complimentary activities, including Bulb Planting by the University of Illinois Master Gardeners, a Christmas Activity hosted by C.E.F.S. Economic Opportunity Corp., Christmas Coloring by Effingham Animal Rescue Sanctuary (EARS), Christmas Craft by Effingham County Case Managers, Cookie Decorating by Kirby Foods IGA & HTC Volunteers, Face Painting by StangARTs, and Reindeer Food by The Royal School of Cosmetology.
Entertainment:
Surrounding the Courthouse Lawn, attendees can delight in a photo opportunity with a LIVE reindeer from Dahnke Farms, meet special holiday and Disney characters courtesy of the EHS Drama Club, enjoy a dance performance by Dancelife Studio (4:00 p.m.), and partake in horse-drawn carriage rides and tractor train rides. The air will be filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly popped Macklin Kettle Corn, and Joe Sippers will be serving warm beverages from their beverage truck.
Lighted Christmas Parade and Santa’s Arrival:
The festivities continue with a Lighted Christmas Parade, commencing at 5:00 p.m. down Jefferson Street, welcoming Santa as he joins the parade from Baseball Card Connection and concludes at Santa’s House.
Community Participation:
Effingham County businesses are encouraged to partake in the parade, joining esteemed participants such as the City of Effingham, Dan Hecht Chevrolet-Toyota, Effingham County Fair Queen & Junior Miss, Gabby Goat, St. Anthony Grade School Intermediate Choir, and more.
Santa’s House:
The Santa House opens immediately after the parade until 8:00 p.m., with Layna Bond & Associates distributing cookies to all the good little boys and girls. Make sure to submit those Santa letter requests before December 4, details available on the Chamber Events Calendar.
Event Sponsors:
This joyous event is made possible by the generous contributions of sponsors, including McHugh Hospitality Group/Hampton Inn & Suites/Home2 Suites, City of Effingham, Effingham Convention & Visitors Bureau, Cromwell Media-Effingham, Premier Broadcasting/97.9 XFM/KJ Country 102.3, Tracy Willenborg, Agracel, Inc., Effingham Asphalt, Prudential Financial-Matt Roedl, and SC3F Wealth Management.
Join Us for Merrymaking:
Experience the magic of Downtown Effingham Hometown Christmas – a celebration of community, joy, and festive cheer. For additional information about participating in the Lighted Parade, sponsorship opportunities, volunteering, or event details, please visit EffinghamCountyChamber.com/Events and follow us on Facebook @EffCoChamber or @ExperienceDowntownEffingham.
About the Effingham County Chamber
Since its establishment in 1917, the Effingham County Chamber has emerged as the foremost advocate and supporter of local businesses. With a commitment to fostering growth and prosperity, the Chamber offers leadership opportunities, volunteer programs, and business-building initiatives tailored to the vital needs of Effingham County enterprises. By harnessing the collective support, talent, and resources of its members, the Effingham County Chamber leads the way in driving business success and fostering community growth.