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The holiday season officially kicks off downtown the day after Thanksgiving. The Joliet City Center Partnership's Light Up the Holidays festival and parade is Friday, November 27th, 2026, in Downtown Joliet.
Light Up the Holidays at a Glance
- What: Light Up the Holidays festival and parade
- When: Friday, November 27th, 2026, 12:00 to 5:30 PM
- Where: Downtown Joliet
- Hosted by: Joliet City Center Partnership
- Details: Joliet City Center Partnership: Light Up the Holidays
The Schedule
- 12:00 PM: Festival day begins downtown
- 5:00 PM: Tree lighting and fireworks
- 5:30 PM: Light Up the Holidays parade
The organizers say more festival details are coming, so check their page for updates and the parade route map before you head out.
Ride with Santa
Kids 11 and under can enter a free raffle for a chance to ride on Santa's float in the parade. Entry details are on the Joliet City Center Partnership's page.
Tips for Parade Night
- Dress warm. Late November evenings in Joliet get cold fast.
- Get there early for the 5 PM tree lighting and a good spot along the route.
- Check the official page for the route map and any schedule changes.
Stop by Card Pop
Make a day of it. Our Jefferson St. store is a short drive west of downtown, and our Route 30 store is easy to reach from Plainfield and Shorewood. Card Pop has two locations: 1114 W Jefferson St. and 2543 Plainfield Rd. (Route 30), serving Joliet, Plainfield and Will County. Holiday weekend hours can change, so call ahead: Jefferson (779) 707-5872, Route 30 (815) 641-8251. Visiting Route 30? Grab a drink at 7 Brew right next door.