Seasonal Sights and Sounds

In partnership with our friends at the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, Seasonal Sights & Sounds is our our kick off to the holiday season in Downtown Sterling! The downtown Christmas Walk is held annually on the 1st Friday of December.

SAVE THE DATE

Friday, December 1, 2023

Planning is underway…..

2023 Event Highlights (details still being finalized)

Festivities begin at 5 PM for late night shopping, tree lighting, horse & carriage rides, fireworks, entertainment, kids activities & more!

Timeline of Activities:

Watch Santa’s arrival on Locust Street beginning at 5:15 PM followed by the official lighting of the Library Plaza Christmas Tree at 5:30 PM at Locust & 4th Streets, across from the Sterling Theater.

Enjoy holiday music provided by 3D Sound.

Horse & Carriage rides throughout the downtown will be available from 5:30 until 7:30 PM. Pick-up and Drop-off are will be in the municipal parking lot behind Grummert’s Hardware.

Santa’s Workshop full of FREE Children’s Activities opens immediately following the Tree Lighting and continues until 7:30 PM. Santa’s Workshop will take place on 4th Street between 1st Avenue & Locust Street, alongside the Sterling Theater. Get your photo taken and visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus while you are there!

Santa’s Workshop games and activities provided by: To come. Contact the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and see how YOU can be involved!

With Special Thanks to the Sterling Fire Department for the lighting!!

Inflatable Wonderland Selfie Stations

Wander Dale Park and explore a variety of Holiday Inflatables and our giant lit peace sign, perfect for capturing some shareable selfies for the season! Dale Park is a great spot to watch the fireworks from as well! Entertainment schedule for the park to come!

Late night shopping & dining options throughout the evening!

Fireworks will light up the sky over the Downtown Riverfront to end the evening at 8:00 PM.

Find all the happenings…

Other Holiday Happenings

Annual Healthy & Bright Virtual Holiday Lighting

Courtesy of CGH Medical Center

Community Concert

The Big Red Church plays host to this holiday tradition the Thursday before our Christmas Walk. Join us for this FREE evening of music provide by local talent, great fellowship and a great array of treats.