The holiday season is upon us and the communities near our neighborhoods in McHenry, Poplar Grove and Williams Bay are gearing up for a festive lineup of events. Whether you’re looking to make new memories with your family or connect with your neighbors, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. From holiday parades and tree lightings to winter markets and cozy seasonal celebrations, we’ve rounded up some of the best events happening this holiday season. So, grab your calendar, bundle up and get ready to enjoy the magic of the season right in your own backyard!

McHenry, Il.

The McHenry Downtown Christmas Walk is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit! Happening November 23 and 24, this McHenry tradition invites merriment with horse-drawn sleigh rides, kids’ games and activities, visits from Santa, carols and a Christmas lights showcase!

When the winter air gives you chills, step into the McHenry Recreation Center and browse beautifully decorated Christmas trees while you warm up. Each tree in the Festival of Trees is sponsored by a local business or civic organization and decorated with a unique theme. The community is invited to vote on their favorites by placing non-perishable goods and toiletries under the trees. The tree with the most donations wins free entry for next year! Make sure to stop by between November 22 and December 29 to view this year’s collection and learn more about the benefit organization, Veteran’s Path to Hope.

Riverwalk District is getting ready for its annual Holiday Market, open every Saturday from November 23 to December 7. Bring the whole family for a day of shopping, food trucks and live entertainment at Miller Park and be merry!

The McHenry Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve celebration is another year-end treat for local families. Details will be posted closer to the event.

Poplar Grove, Il.

Embrace tradition at the 11^th annual Christmas Tree Lighting, a can’t-miss celebration that your whole family will enjoy! On November 23 from 4 to 6 p.m., downtown Poplar Grove will come to life with fantastical lights, carriage rides, crafts and food. Santa is also scheduled to make a stop for younger visitors. This event is the pinnacle of holiday cheer and the perfect way to make memories that last a lifetime.

Nearby, Rockford has two Merry Markets this season, one on November 30 from 2 to 9 p.m. and the other on December 13 from 4 to 8 p.m. Join the festive fun inside the Rockford City Market for local vendors and live music.

Williams Bay, Wi.

The Lake Geneva Electric Christmas Parade is a local favorite known for its captivating floats that light up the downtown district. The parade is set to coast down Broad Street on Saturday, December 7 at 5 p.m. Parking will close after 3 p.m., so it is recommended to get there early and explore downtown shops and restaurants while you wait.

There will be fireworks over Geneva Lake again this year, lighting up the sky as you ring in 2025 with family and friends. Stay tuned for updates from the City of Lake Geneva!

As you begin planning your holiday calendar, make plans to visit our communities in Williams Bay, Wisconsin, as well as McHenry and Poplar Grove, Illinois. New home opportunities are available, putting you close to the best seasonal events and festivities across Illinois and Wisconsin.

For further details, reach out to us at 815-385-4495 or visit our online contact page to connect with the Gerstad Builder team!