The holiday season in Champaign-Urbana is one of the best times of the year, and the area offers plenty of opportunities for adults to take in the highlights of the season.
Here is our list of 10 holiday experiences that promise to be memorable:
The Virginia Theater (203 West Park) in downtown Champaign offers a photo op for your holiday cards in one of Champaign’s most talked about historic spots. It’s free but you must reserve a 15-minute spot; the ticket office at (217) 356-9063. Nov. 25 and Dec. 2, 5-8 p.m.
Bundle up with a parka, hat, scarf, and gloves, and possibly snow boots, and enjoy the holiday parade in downtown Champaign, Nov. 30 at 6 p.m.
The Messiah Sing-Along is Dec. 1 from 4-6 p.m. at the Savoy Baptist Church (1602 South Prospect Avenue, Champaign; ample free parking.) Donations are welcome. Music is available to borrow while there or bring your own. You can even sit with your voice part, soprano, alto, tenor or bass. Learn more here.
The Station Theatre (222 N. Broadway Ave., Urbana) performs the holiday classic “It’s a Wonderful Life” Dec. 5-21. This quaint theater-in-the-round with a long history from its days as a train depot is an absolute must. The Station has consistently top-notch performances; you definitely don’t want to miss this one.
Evening and matinee performances are offered for the classic holiday ballet, The Nutcracker, at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts (300 S. Goodwin Ave., Urbana). Shows are Dec. 5, 7 and 8. It’s a perfect opportunity to bring the aspiring ballet dancers in your family. Call (217) 333-6280 or visit the website for tickets.
The Mistletoe Market at Lincoln Square features local artisans, markers, growers and creators with their best locally made goods in one space. Grab a glass of wine or beer from Common Ground Food Co-op. Dec. 6 from 4-10 p.m. in the downtown Urbana mall. Admission is free.
Krannert Center hosts its annual Carol Concert on Dec. 8 from 4-6 p.m. Tickets are available online, by phone or at the ticket office.
A Magical Cirque Christmas allows you to experience the magic of Christmas with dazzling performances and breathtaking cirque artists from all corners of the world, accompanied by your favorite holiday music performed live. At the Virginia Theatre on Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $41.50.
The famous Candlestick Lane in southwest Urbana — a neighborhood of lights like you’ve never seen — lights up starting Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. Drive through the neighborhood to experience a dazzling display of lights.
And don’t forget about sledding anytime there is snow on the ground at the famed Centennial Park hill in Champaign’s Morrissey Park. It’s fun, free and a perfect activity to enjoy with grandchildren.
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