One of Aurora’s favorite holiday tradition – Winter Lights Aurora – kicks off the holiday season in the City of Lights from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, November 18 in downtown Aurora with a parade, tree lighting ceremony, fireworks, and so much more! 

WINTER LIGHTS PARADE

The parade will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Downer Place and travel from Water Street to River Street. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will lead the parade with an exciting array of costumed characters, community groups, performers, public safety vehicles, and the magical Christkind from the Christkindlmarket Aurora!

TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

The Tree Lighting Ceremony, sponsored by Xfinity, will commence immediately after the parade at the GAR Memorial Museum, 23 E. Downer Place. The ceremony includes an award presentation for the Downtown Window Decorating Contest winner and the community countdown to the lighting of the City's official Christmas tree.

FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA

Immediately following the ceremony, the fireworks extravaganza, sponsored by Chicago Premium Outlets, will light up the night sky. The best viewing location will be on the East Downer Place Bridge near Aurora City Hall, 44 E. Downer Place.

FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA

After the fireworks, free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the G.A.R. Memorial Hall, 23 E. Downer Place.

FOOD TRUCKS, VENDORS, AND MUSIC

After the fireworks, Stolp Avenue, between Downer Place and Galena Boulevard, will be filled with food trucks, artisan vendors, roaming costumed characters, and musical entertainment at Millennium Plaza.