Santa came to Chicago this weekend for the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival and Parade which is one of my favorite holiday traditions.
The parade is held every year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and it always feels like the official kick off to the holiday season. Even though the parade is a little cheesy, and definitely meant for kids, I love watching it every year. There is something magical about watching all of the Christmas lights go live on Michigan Avenue. The walk home after the parade is always so beautiful when you get to see all of the lights turned on for the first time that year. With all of the black Friday sales that are about to start (many already have, so crazy!) the shopping season is truly upon us! I always appreciate that the bright lights give me something pretty to look at when I am grumbling about the crowds clogging up the sidewalks. Not to sound like a grinch, I just always love a pretty distraction, and a pretty and festive distraction is the best! I enjoy the early evenings so much more now that the lights are on, and they create a contagious feeling of holiday cheer!
What are some holiday traditions you look forward to each year? Is there a special moment that marks the start of the season for you?
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