The holiday season in Chicagoland’s Fox River Valley is nothing short of magical. Anchored by marquee attractions such as Christkindlmarket Aurora and White Christmas at Paramount Theatre, the region comes alive with festive lights, boutique shopping, and cultural experiences, all just a short road trip from St. Louis.
For both locals and visitors, the appeal goes beyond the main attractions. It’s the combination of long-standing traditions, hidden gems, and a welcoming, affordable atmosphere that makes the Fox River Valley the perfect place to celebrate the season.
“The holidays at Paramount are always such a special time,” says Tim Rater, president and CEO of Aurora Civic Center Authority. “White Christmas on our stage really captures the spirit of the season. Add in Christkindlmarket, and downtown comes alive with festive traditions. There really is something for everyone. It makes Aurora the perfect holiday destination.”
Christkindlmarket Aurora: A Holiday Tradition
Drawing on the tradition of Europe’s open-air holiday markets, Christkindlmarket Aurora sets up along RiverEdge Park with rows of wooden huts offering handmade gifts, mulled wine, and seasonal food. The Fox River location gives the market a different character than its downtown Chicago counterpart, and the layout provides more space to move, easier parking options, and better accessibility for families and visitors with mobility needs.
Aurora’s market invites a slower pace where visitors can take in the riverfront lights, shop from regional artisans, and spend time outdoors in a festive environment.
A Broadway Holiday in Aurora
Just a short walk from RiverEdge Park, the historic Paramount Theatre is presenting Irving Berlin’s White Christmas this season as part of its Broadway Series. The 1,800-seat theater is known for producing its shows in-house, with sets and costumes built locally, as well as casts assembled through national auditions. That model has helped Paramount build one of the largest subscription bases of any theater in the nation.
“Here’s a focused group of superb actors and musicians, with top-notch production and design crews, collaborating on the team’s unified vision to serve and honor our patrons,” says Jim Corti, artistic director of Paramount Theatre and an eight-time Jeff Award winner. “Applauding together, audiences are moved to laughter, tears, and cheers. And suddenly, for all of their differences, the crowd becomes one. I love the exhilaration of all this and invite everyone to come out and join Paramount’s ever-growing audience to experience the dynamic community we share on both sides of the stage in creating great theatre.”
The holidays have become a signature time for the venue, when classic productions such as White Christmas fill the stage and draw audiences from across the region. For many, attending a Paramount show has become a seasonal tradition.
Holiday Traditions Across the Valley
Fox River Valley extends beyond Aurora, with each nearby town adding its own holiday character. Through local events, traditions, and seasonal activities, the region offers many ways to celebrate the season.
- Geneva: The annual Christmas Walk features a holiday house tour in historic downtown Genova, and nearby Peck Farm Park is lit with seasonal lights during the new Lights and Flights craft brew festival.
- Oswego: A weeklong Christmas Walk celebration fills December with parades, shopping, and family-friendly fun.
- Yorkville: Known for its lively spirit, Yorkville kicks off the season with a holiday weekend in November, complete with fireworks over Fox River.
- North Aurora: On December 6, Making Spirits Bright brings holiday cheer to North Aurora Riverfront Park with twinkling light displays, festive crafts, Santa visits, and seasonal fun for the whole family.
Shop Local, Find Treasures
Holiday shopping shines in the region. Bargain hunters can score deals at Chicago Premium Outlets, Fox Valley Mall, and Geneva Commons, while boutique lovers will adore small businesses in Geneva, Batavia, and Oswego.
For unique finds, The Rustic Fox hosts its own Christkindlmarket-style weekend market, while Illinois Made attractions add local flavor, including Ms. Jana’s Candy, artisan candles at Illuminate Space, and decadent French pastries at Atrevéte Cafe 1888.
The Illinois Made program highlights locally produced foods, crafts, and goods, giving visitors a chance to support small businesses and discover one-of-a-kind items.
Culture and Culinary Delights
Cultural attractions add another layer to the season beyond shopping. The Edith Farnsworth House, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, transforms into a mid-century modern holiday showcase with decorated interiors and cocktail events. Museums across the region, from the Geneva History Museum to the Aurora Regional Fire Museum, offer festive programming and a mobile passport challenge for families.
“The Geneva History Museum is an important cultural organization in our community to help preserve and document our city’s rich history,” says Terry Emma, a fourth-generation Genevan and executive director of the Geneva History Museum, which achieved national accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums in 2022. “This information assists when making decisions to continue to progress with the changing times, while maintaining our unique character and charm.”
Dining is another highlight. Visitors can enjoy locally sourced cuisine at Hardware, sip wine at Fox Valley Winery, or indulge at Crusade Burger Bar in Yorkville, where sky-high burgers and over-the-top milkshakes make for unforgettable meals. After dinner, nightlife options such as Aurora’s French 75 Gallery and Lounge or underground speakeasies keep the holiday spirit alive.
A Getaway That Fits Every Budget
With direct rail access to downtown Chicago, affordable lodging options, and a wide range of activities, Fox River Valley is both convenient and budget-friendly. Whether planning a family trip, a holiday date night, or a friends’ weekend getaway, visitors can explore seasonal markets, local museums, boutique shops, and a variety of dining and nightlife options. The region’s mix of accessible entertainment and small-town charm makes it easy to enjoy a full itinerary without overspending.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of Aurora Area CVB. For more events, check out its holiday travel guide and fall guide to Chicagoland’s Fox River Valley.
