Glenview’s Holiday in the Park and Parade, which was held for the 23rd year in a row on Saturday, is considered by the Glenview Chamber of Commerce to be a gift to residents each year during the holiday season.
“We love kicking off the holiday season with our friends, neighbors, and customers,” said Jerry Doetsch, the event’s chairman. “It’s one way to thank folks for shopping local, and it’s a happy time all around.”
Organizers say that while Santa may be the star of the parade, he is also joined by bands and marchers from Glenview’s businesses, schools and organizations.
The holiday parade route ran west along Glenview Road, between Waukegan Road and Lehigh, culminating in a celebration and tree lighting in Jackman Park.
.
The festivities also included hay rides, a snow-making machine, train rides for kids and a caroling performance by the Glenbrook South Choir.
Betsy Baer, executive director of the chamber, said the event reminds residents of the importance of shopping locally.
“It’s the Chamber’s way of thanking residents for shopping locally, and encouraging residents that when they do, it’s sort of like taking their own money and investing it in their community,” she said.
According to Baer, the holiday tradition also supports Glenview’s annual “Win with The Bear” contest, a program where shops and services offer ways for patrons to win prizes for shopping local during the holiday season.
More Top Picks Best Kitchen Trash Cans
Gina Grillo is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.