Downtown Wheaton Unveils Festive Halloween and Holiday Lineup

Downtown Wheaton is set to become a hub of community engagement and festive celebrations this season, featuring a diverse array of events designed for families and friends of all ages. The activities include everything from chili tastings to holiday parades, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. According to Allison Orr, executive director of the Downtown Wheaton Association, these events create lasting memories while supporting local businesses.

“Fall and the holidays are such a special time to come together in downtown Wheaton,” Orr stated in a recent news release. “From the cozy flavors of the Chili Cookoff to the sparkle of Nights of Lights and the joy of our Christmas Parade, there’s something here for every age and every interest.”

October Festivities Include Family-Friendly Events

The month of October kicks off with a series of engaging events aimed at families. One of the highlights is the Touch-A-Truck event on Saturday, October 18, from 11:00 to 14:00. Families can explore various vehicles, including construction trucks and emergency services, during this free, interactive experience located at Willow Avenue, between Main Street and Hale Street.

Also taking place throughout October, the I-Spy Scavenger Hunt invites families to search for hidden spooky signs in downtown Wheaton businesses. Completed scavenger hunt maps can be submitted to the Wheaton Public Library for a chance to win a $20 gift certificate for downtown Wheaton.

On October 23 and October 30, the community can participate in the Murder Mystery evenings from 17:30 to 22:00. Participants will enjoy light refreshments before embarking on a mystery-solving adventure that takes them to various local businesses.

The month concludes with a Trick-or-Treating event on Saturday, October 25, from 11:00 to 14:00, allowing children to gather Halloween treats throughout the downtown area.

Holiday Highlights to Spark Joy in November and December

As the holiday season approaches, downtown Wheaton will feature a series of festive events starting with the Nights of Lights in Adams Park, which opens on November 28 at 16:30. This popular holiday light display will feature over 55,000 bulbs and an animated fountain, creating a magical experience for families throughout the season.

The Christmas Parade will follow on the same evening at 18:00, showcasing a vibrant mix of lights, music, and community spirit. The parade route runs from Wheaton Avenue and Wesley Street to Cross Street, culminating in a Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the south pavilion at 19:00.

On November 29, local entrepreneurs will be celebrated during the Small Business Spotlights. Additionally, children can drop off letters to Santa at the “W” Tent on Front Street from November 29 to December 20 for a special reply.

Families can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus at the “W” Tent on Saturdays, December 6, December 13, and December 20. The community will also have the opportunity to enjoy a Christmas Tree Walk throughout December and January, showcasing 50 beautifully decorated trees displayed by local shops and restaurants.

For tickets, updates, and more information on these events, visit VisitDowntownWheaton.org/events.