There's an annual event taking place in McHenry, Illinois this autumn that every Illinoisan may want to visit. If you love fall, check out the fall-themed theme park at this farm that features fun activities for all ages.
The eight weekends of fun have already begun. Scroll on for more details.
Stade's Farm & Market in northern Illinois is a 2,200-acre produce farm that has been in business since 1977, and it is known for its U-pick fields and festivals.
Taking place September 7 through October 27, 2019, the Shades of Autumn Fall Festival takes place each weekend and includes a mess of activities for all ages.
One of the most exciting features is the fall-themed theme park that contains many fun wonders like a giant jumping pillow, a Ferris Wheel, slides, zip lines, a petting zoo, pedal cars, and more.
There's not much else like this in the state. This fall-themed attraction is only found at Stade's Farm & Market where you'll also find a wealth of other autumn fun.
Other fun attractions at the farm include apple picking, car shows, train rides, tractor rides, a pumpkin cannon, and many other family-fun activities.
Free parking is available each weekend. General admission for ages 3-64 is $15 and ages 65 and up may enter for $10. Children below the age of 2 are admitted for free.
If you've ever been to this fall-themed theme park, we'd love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us below in the comments.
The day after Thanksgiving there are two things on my mind: "Can I get any holiday shopping done without fighting a crowd?" and "Where are the closest Christmas lights near me?". Being from the northern region of the state, I've always admired the Christmas lights in Illinois. Whether it's a single, over-the-top house, a coordinated neighborhood, a lit-up Main Street, or a drive-through light show, there is no shortage of dazzling displays all over the map. These Illinois light shows will become more popular as Christmas Day draws closer, so be sure to visit them early to avoid the crowds! Nothing gets me more into the holiday spirit than a beautiful holiday light show, and these displays would put anyone in the holiday spirit--even the Grinch!
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Here, I've rounded up some of the best Christmas lights in Illinois — so let's take a look!
Christmas lights at night, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, Dec 2017 like for the last 60 years this public place is decorated by a team of workers
1. ZooLights — Lincoln Park, Chicago
One of the most unique and beloved Christmas light displays in Illinois is found at Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo. Known as ZooLights, the festival showcases millions of lights across the zoo's grounds, with synchronized music, shimmering string lights, glowing shapes, festive fields, and concession stands with sweets and warming beverages. The event runs from November to January (ending Jan. 5, 2025) with tickets ranging from $7-10. And while the lights are exceptionally beautiful, don't forget to visit the animals, too! Check out Lincoln Park Zoo's website to learn more about one of the best Christmas light displays in Chicago, Illinois.
2. Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum — Lisle
Just outside Chicago, there's a one-of-a-kind display of Christmas lights in Lisle, Illinois. The Illumination: Tree Lights show at The Morton Arboretum splashes light throughout its 50 acres of enchanted woodlands, adding color and sound to create a unique, nature-based experience unlike any other. Visitors walk along a 1-mile path while enjoying the sights and serenading sounds of holiday music. Snacks, drinks, and s'mores await you at the end of your journey — or watch the show's finale on Meadow Lake as you dine at the Visitor Center's Ginkgo Restaurant. The event runs through Jan. 4, 2025, and tickets range from $16-44 for the public, with discounts available for members. Visit The Morton Arboretum's website for tickets.
3. Festival of Lights — Rockford
For those seeking drive-through Christmas lights in Illinois, the Festival of Lights display has been a community favorite since 1989. For over 30 years, these spectacular Christmas lights in Rockford, Illinois have illuminated the grounds of Sinnissippi Park. Over 85 pre-fab and handmade displays wow spectators as they cruise through this favorite free event. Tune your radio station to holiday tunes that sync up with the show, and BYOHot chocolate for an extra-cozy experience. Pro tip: If you go on a weekend, you just may see Santa, himself! Get all the details at the Festival of Lights' website.
4. East Peoria Festival of Lights — East Peoria
The Christmas lights in East Peoria, Illinois are in a league of their own. Folepi's Winter Wonderland, put on by the East Peoria Festival of Lights, is a must-see annual tradition that weaves vehicles through an awe-inspiring display that lasts over a mile. It's one of the best drive-through Christmas light shows in Illinois — and it's got the trophy to prove it. In 2020, it won an episode of ABC's Great Christmas Light Fight for its amazingly massive displays. See it while you can — the show ends on New Year's Day. Regular vehicles pay $10, while small buses and motorcoaches pay $30-150. Start planning your visit by checking out the East Peoria Festival of Lights website.
5. Mattoon Lightworks — Mattoon
Each year, thousands of visitors are drawn to the Christmas lights in Mattoon, Illinois. Its famous drive-through lights display is free to the public and showcases an impressive collection of twinkling arches, trees, and shapes that glisten against the night sky. Bright bulbs form snowflakes, reindeer, and Santas that bring joy to the hearts of all who view them. The show is open from 5-9 p.m. on the weekends and runs through Christmas. Get all the latest info from the City of Mattoon, Illinois — Lightworks' Facebook page.
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6. Holiday Lights Fair — Du Quoin
Those adventuring through Christmas lights in Southern Illinois know the Holiday Lights Fair in Du Quoin is a must-see. For over 20 years, the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds have transformed into a winter wonderland filled with fanciful displays in the shapes of gingerbread houses, trees, snowflakes, and more. The first three weekends in December also have food and craft vendors, live music, train rides, door prizes, Santa visits, model train displays, and so much more. The holiday cheer isn't just confined to the outdoors either, the Exhibition Hall also showcases Christmas trees and all the glad tidings one could hope for. Admission is $10 per family vehicle or $1 per person on commercial carriers and tour buses. Check out the Du Quoin Tourism website for more info.
7. Candy Cane Lane — West Frankfort
We also can't mention Christmas lights in Southern Illinois without shining a spotlight on the heartwarming Candy Cane Lane in West Frankfort. The must-see attraction began in 1988 by art teacher Tim Murphy and his father, who put up creative displays at different homes, many handcrafted by him. In fact, the spectacle was so fantastic, it was also featured on ABC's Great Christmas Light Fight.
Sadly, Mr. Murphy passed away in 2021 — although his love for Christmas was so infectious that the community and city of West Frankfort came together to carry on the tradition. Today, the display is over five city blocks long. The drive-through (or walking-friendly) light display features over 30,000 lights and nearly 100 displays. Start planning your visit by checking out the City of West Frankfort website and the Candy Cane Lane public Facebook group.
Now the next time you wonder, "Are there any Christmas lights near me?" you can just pull up this handy map and list to begin your adventure. Are there any other amazing Christmas light displays in Illinois that come to mind? Share this article with someone you can't wait to view these Christmas lights in Illinois with. Don't forget to dress for the weather! Winter in Illinois is known to be cold, and you want to dress warmly. There's a Norwegian saying: There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.
So layer up!
And if this still isn't enough, check out this top-rated nostalgic Christmas treasure hunt downtown Chicago! Of course, winter in Illinois is more than twinkling lights (but we do love them). Check out our ultimate guide to winter activities in Illinois and start planning some epic winter adventures! You might even be inspired to spend a weekend away at this picture-perfect resort that's just perfect in the winter.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
