Start a new tradition at these holiday lighted displays

Looking for a festive family-friendly attraction to take part in over Christmas weekend? Plan a trip to Starved Rock Country, where you can experience these three elaborate light shows - all free and designed to joyfully spark imaginations and dazzle the eye.

Celebration of Lights

The city of La Salle’s spectacular Celebration of Lights has made its triumphant return to Rotary Park. One of the largest holiday attractions in north central Illinois, the massive collection of illuminated displays is back and bigger than ever before. Conveniently located near I-39, the astounding drive-thru light show will run every night from now through New Year’s Day.

The Celebration of Lights is free to view, but donations are encouraged to continue to grow the community-led project. The drive-thru display will be open to the public from 5 to 9 p.m. on weekdays and Sunday, as well as from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

The winding path through the park features well over 300 themed holiday displays, each sponsored by an area business. The Celebration of Lights at Rotary Park is at 2837 E. Fifth Road in La Salle. For more information, be sure to follow Celebration of Lights - City of La Salle on Facebook.

Light Up Streator - Streator City Park Lights

Experience four blocks of stunning custom-lighted creations in Streator’s City Park. The open-air event is conveniently located just a short stroll away from Streator’s bustling downtown. Featuring thousands of lights, all hung with care, this walking light show is a can’t-miss event for anyone looking to experience a beautiful collection of illuminated displays.

It’s staged by Light Up Streator, and the volunteer group decorates the park annually – incorporating many custom-made displays crafted by skilled electricians, welders and artisans who donate their time. Available to view after dusk, the light show is free. Streator City Park is at 301 N. Vermillion St., Streator. For more information, be sure to follow Light Up Streator on Facebook.

Home for the Holidays Light Show

Pay a visit to Princeton’s first-ever, drive-thru holiday light show. The Princeton Chamber of Commerce and the Bureau County Fair teamed up to bring this larger-than-life illuminated attraction to the county fairgrounds. The inaugural event features many beautiful lighted Christmas displays, and will be available to tour Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening through Saturday, Jan. 1. Donations are welcomed to ensure the exciting new tradition can continue for many years to come.

Entrance to the event is on the west end of the Bureau County Fairgrounds; visitors enter on South Fairground Avenue. Displays include Santa and his sleigh, a festive Christmas train, a family of snowmen and many other themed light-up visuals.

The Bureau County Fairgrounds can be found at 811 W. Peru St., Princeton, and signage will point you to the entrance to the Home for the Holidays Light Show. For more information, follow the Princeton “Home for the Holidays” Facebook page.