It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Cantigny Park. The Wheaton site is bringing you a historic experience with a twist.
Christmas at Cantigny offers something for everyone in the family. Walkways are illuminated with bright lights, some of which follow the beat of accompanying music. Each section plays different types of music to match the area you’re in, helping set the tone.
An ice skating rink and scented bubbles fill the air with a cinnamon aroma. To put the icing on the fruit cake, Cantigny has you covered with hot cocoa stops that offer popcorn and s’mores kits. Don’t worry Mom and Dad–spiked cocoa and a bar can be found inside the McCormick residence.
Cantigny’s light show and McCormick house will be open to the public until Jan. 4, so you have plenty of time to grab tickets for the next family outing.
If you want to beat the crowds, a staff member recommends coming at around 4-5 p.m. when it’s getting dark but everyone in the family can still enjoy themselves.
Near the entrance, a warmly lit 28-foot Christmas tree towers over everyone, like a giant looking down. Past this is a candy cane tunnel that leads into the first cocoa station. From there, the path will bring you to the subtle home of Col. Robert R. McCormick himself.
The first floor of the McCormick House is open to the public, decorated in a way that brings warmth and nostalgia to life. The second floor invites adults to an intimate dinner for that Hallmark movie date night feel. Here, food is served in smaller portions and wine is encouraged. Due to the limited space and no children’s menu, bringing kids is not recommended.
This year in the Rose Garden, Cantigny is recreating the northern lights and incorporating a hint of “Wicked” into Christmas, getting on board with trends.
If you are already in the Christmas spirit, looking to experience something new with your family or you’re in desperate need of a festive date night idea, Christmas at Cantigny may be a perfect match for you this holiday season.
The park is located at 1S151 Winfield Road in Wheaton. Tickets for Christmas at Cantigny are $25 for adults and $15 for kids ages 4-15; entry is free for kids under 3. This holiday experience is a 1.4-mile walk which is ADA and stroller accessible.
Christmas at Cantigny offers festive surprises around every corner.
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