Throughout the early years of your child’s life, you have the opportunity to make the holiday season absolutely magical. This is the time to forge new traditions and make memories your child will carry with them once they have a family of their own. If you could use a little help figuring out how to make this season feel a little extra special, I’m here to help! As a Springfield milestone photographer, I am wild about working with parents to make memories that will last for a lifetime. Here are all the best Christmas events around Springfield, IL to make a part of your annual schedule!
Celebrate The Holidays With the Family At These Wonderful Christmas Events In Springfield, IL
Winter Wonderland Launch at The Railyard
2242 S 6th Street, Springfield, Illinois 62703
Winter Wonderland Launch at The Railyard kicks off the season in the middle of November. This four-hour event takes place on a Friday evening and invites you to join in on the magic of Christmas. You can come out with your family and watch as the streets are lit up with Christmas lights. They will have faux snow, live music, and tons of photo opportunities. Throughout the evening, you can stay warm with a mug of hot chocolate and celebrate the happiest season of all!
Story Time Trail with the Gingerbread Man
502 S. Spring St, Springfield, Illinois 62704
Each year, the Illinois State Museum offers the unique chance at their event in Springfield, IL to solve a Christmas mystery. The Gingerbread Man has once again escaped, and now, it’s up to you to find him! Throughout your time here, you will take a trip down the Story Time Trail, where you can find clues while participating in family activities. You will also be spoiled with tons of surprises, as well as some delicious cookies! It’s the best way to celebrate while helping your child fall in love with reading.
Christmas Market at The Brinkerhoff Mansion & Becker Library
1500 N. 5th Street, Springfield, Illinois 62702
If you want to support local businesses this year, be sure to mark your calendar for the Christmas Market at The Brinkerhoff Mansion and Becker Library. For one day each year, local vendors rent out booths where they sell gorgeous, handmade items. You can shop from a huge variety of decor, jewelry, and baked goods. The event lasts for six hours and will feature live music as well as some pretty delicious treats. You will also have the chance to explore the picture-perfect mansion!
Gift of the Magi Holiday Tea
700 N. 4th St., Springfield, Illinois 62702
If you love tea, make sure you buy a ticket for the Christmas event at Edwards Place in Springfield, IL! Each year, they host an event called Gift of the Magi Holiday Tea. During this annual tradition, you can learn about tea customs all across the globe. As you sample different flavors, you will have the chance to dive into the beloved O. Henry story in a brand new way. Food and drinks will be provided courtesy of the Whimsy Tea Company.
Holiday Movie Night at The Railyard
2242 S 6th Street, Springfield, Illinois 62703
Consider The Railyard as your place for holiday fun this year! In addition to their Winter Wonderland Launch, this center hosts an annual movie night on the Friday before Thanksgiving. Before the movie starts, you can enjoy food from different vendors. They encourage you to bundle up and bring a blanket so you can cuddle close with your favorite people and watch a classic film on the big screen! Once the movie wraps up, the vendors will remain open so you can continue to feast and be merry!
Holiday Extravaganza Winter Craft Show
801 E. Sangamon Avenue, Springfield, Illinois 62702
If you are looking for some more ways to shop local this Christmas in Springfield, IL, be sure to check out the Holiday Extravaganza Winter Craft Show hosted at the Orr Building inside the Illinois State Fairgrounds. During this annual event, you will get the chance to shop from over 150 different vendors. There will be live entertainment, a classic cake walk, and chances to win some big prizes. In the afternoon, Santa will make an appearance, offering free visits to the younger guests. All the money raised will go to fund local art and music programs!
Breakfast With Santa
412 E. Adams St, Springfield, Illinois 62701
Every year, Kidzeum welcomes Santa Claus in style! During this annual event, you will be able to swing by with your family and enjoy a fabulous breakfast complete with hot chocolate. Once you’re done with your food, you can create holiday crafts that you can take home and use for decorations. Santa will be there to chat with your little ones and take a pic or two. Tickets are available starting at the beginning of November, and seats fill up fast, so don’t delay!
Holiday Walks In Downtown Springfield
3 W. Old State Capitol Plaza, Suite 15, Springfield, Illinois 62701
If you want the perfect way to celebrate Christmas while taking in this amazing city, Holiday Walks in Downtown Springfield, IL might just be for you! This annual celebration takes place on Old State Capitol Plaza. As you take a stroll beneath the light displays, you’ll get to stop into local shops or sample foods from different restaurants. There will be ice skating and carolers, plus you’ll get to see a special guest or two! It’s the best way to shop local while making memories!
Holiday Lights Parade
Jefferson St, Springfield, Illinois 62701
Is it really the holidays without a parade? Each year, the Springfield Jaycees host a parade starting on Jefferson Street. This event has been happening since 1972 and gives you a tradition your entire family will treasure for years! During that December evening, you can line up along the route and watch as local businesses and organizations show off their best floats. You can enjoy some candy, dance along to live performances, and say hi to Santa as he makes his way to the North Pole!
Your Little Ones Do Not Want To Miss These Christmas Events In Springfield, IL
If you are looking for the very best way to celebrate the holiday season, I think you are really going to adore these local Christmas events in Springfield, IL! Be sure to add them to your schedule so you can be in the Christmas spirit!
Are you looking for more ways to make this season last forever? Then I would love to chat! As a Springfield milestone photographer, I love working with parents to plan sessions so they can celebrate each milestone. If you want to learn more about booking your portraits, let’s connect! Send me a message today to find out more!
