On November 29th, 2024, the Light Up the Holidays Parade shined its way onto the streets of Downtown Joliet. The remarkable traditional parade that has been held annually since 2021 has sparked interest in many Joliet civilians for its vibrant and fun energy.
The parade is held at Downtown Joliet Chicago St, and provided by the University of Saint Francis. The parade consists of the lighting of the long-awaited tree held outside the Joliet Public Library. The lighting of the tree is a unique symbol of the start of the upcoming holidays. Many of the holiday lovers reunite to start the anticipated countdown to the lighting of the tree.
As many wait for the countdown, attendees are welcome to purchase hot chocolate from the many vendors near the area to keep themselves warm. Once time hits, the tree finds itself with vibrant lights and smiles from the rest of the attendees. Right after the tree brightens, the sky begins to fill itself with fluorescent fireworks, delighting the noisy crowd and announcing a start to the rest of the spectators and performers. As the parade rolls into action the sirens from fire trucks start off the parade. From there, flouts follow along onto the street cheering the crowd and lighting the road with their jolly decorations. As the parade begins to go farther the crowd is met with the Joliet Central and Joliet West high schools bands, echoing the sound of carols into the ears of many.
As the parade meets the enclosure the crowd begins to vanish and the lights of nearby stores begin to dim, symbolizing a near end to the parade. Once the parade was finished a spectator who wished to stay anonymous said, “Although it was freezing I still enjoyed everything there was to see. It was lovely”
As mentioned before the parade is annual, meaning that this festive parade is expected to occur next year. Overall, this gathering was successful and enjoyed by many.