The City of Carbondale will soon kick-off its Holiday Season with the return of two exciting traditions.
The Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony is planned for Thursday, Dec. 4th from 5 to 6pm at the Town Square Pavilion, featuring hot cocoa, treats, and a visit from Santa.
The Lights Fantastic Parade returns for its 34th year, illuminating the Carbondale Strip with floats, bands, dancers, businesses, nonprofits, and thousands of twinkling lights. Family-friendly activities will take place before and after the parade.
This year’s Grand Marshal is former City Manager and Council Member Jeff Doherty and his family.
The main stage for parade announcements will move from the Town Square Pavilion to in front of the new SIMMS (Southern Illinois Multimodal Station) at Walnut & Illinois.
Traffic Logistics for Saturday, December 6
Street Closures
- Illinois Avenue closed 5–8 PM (Grand Ave. to Main St.)
- Mill Street closed at 3 PM for staging (line-up at 4 PM)
Shuttle service
Free shuttles run from Murdale Shopping Center and University Mall.
- Service begins: 4:30 PM (every ~30 minutes until 6:30 PM)
- Return service begins: after parade
- Last departure from downtown: 8:30 PM
Stops:
- Murdale Shopping Center: Pick up near the Barber Shop → Drop off at Dayemi Center (Oak & Illinois)
- University Mall: Pick up near Maurice’s → Drop off at Veterans Plaza (Washington & Main)
Parade route/detours: https://lightsfantasticparade.com/#safety
Pre & Post Parade Activities
Saturday, December 6 • 4–6 PM
(Except Winter Market, open until 9 PM)
Enjoy a full slate of free family activities across downtown and the Civic Center:
Cookie Walk – Downtown Carbondale Businesses
Pick up a map at Carbondale Main Street (121 S. Illinois Ave) or the Town Square Pavilion.
Businesses interested in participating: eseanti@carbondalemainstreet.com or 618-529-8040.
Cookie Decorating – Carbondale Civic Center Ballrooms
Hosted by Landmark Realty Group. Free cookies, icing, sprinkles, and cheer.
Cocoa Bar – Civic Center Lobby
Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa before the parade.
Letters to Santa – Civic Center Lobby
All supplies provided for kids to send their wish lists straight to Santa.
Santa’s Reindeer – Town Square Pavilion
Visit and take photos with one of Santa’s reindeer!
Winter Market – Town Square Pavilion (Open until 9 PM)
Local vendors, crafts, photo booth, and holiday shopping.
Vendor sign-up: https://forms.gle/3KcGQcoH1tXkRVCo7
More info: eseanti@carbondalemainstreet.com or 618-515-5653.
Window Decorating Contest – Downtown Businesses
Theme: “Elves Gone Wild!”
Judging on Dec. 5; winners announced Dec. 6.
To enter: 618-529-8040 or eseanti@carbondalemainstreet.com.
Float/Band Registration
Register by Nov. 21: https://lightsfantasticparade.com/float-registration/
Volunteers Needed
Help support Carbondale’s largest annual event with nearly 10,000 attendees.
Volunteer sign-up by Nov. 21:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084AABAE29ABFCC61-53540202-lights#/
Stay updated on Facebook and Instagram at Lights Fantastic Parade.
Media Contact
Eva Fisher, Public Relations Officer
City of Carbondale
618-713-0711 | efisher@carbondaleil.gov
“Carbondale prides itself on provid
