Places to Spot Santa this Weekend
We've packed your Saturday with tree lighting festivities, treats and holiday fun.
We've got your Saturday all planned out, packed with holiday fun and opportunities to hang out with the jolly man himself. If you're not in the holiday spirit by the end of the day....
Acorn Public Library Ribbon Cuttting and Holiday Open House, 9 a.m.
Start off your day by stopping into the library for a visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Grab some treats on your way out the door to the city's Christmas parade and tree lighting. Stake out a spot along Central to watch the parade, which kicks off from Oak Forest High School at 11 a.m.
Oak Forest Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting, 11 a.m.
The parade kicks off at 11 a.m., from Oak Forest High School, and treks down Central Avenue to City Hall. Don't miss out on the city's official tree lighting at the gazebo, and the announcement of the Trim-a-Tree contest winners. From the gazebo, plod on over to the Fire Station 1 for refreshments and another chance to hang out with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Don't forget to bring along your unwrapped toy for the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest, or some non-perishable items for the Marley Project. The event is free.
Battle of the Badges, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Don't skip the Battle of the Badges at Fire Station 1. If you haven't signed up yet for the community blood drive, that's OK. Walk-ins are welcome to the drive, which is sponsored by the Oak Forest Rotary Club, Oak Forest Police and Oak Forest Fire, though appointments will be honored first. Don't forget your photo ID.
Holiday Sounds of Oak Forest High School, 5 p.m.
Santa will probably have already headed home for the day, but you won't want to miss this. The free show at the high school includes performances from the jazz and symphonic bands, in addition to the different choirs. The show starts at 5 p.m., in the main gym, and lasts until about 7 p.m.