At 6 p.m. floats draped in thousands of lights parade down 8th and High Streets. As the last float goes by, the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will commence beside City Hall followed by pictures with Santa Claus.

You’re invited to help create history at Baldwin’s First Annual Family Photo after the tree lighting. This special moment harkens back to the days when townsfolk would gather for a group picture to celebrate community events.

Thank you to Mediacom Communications Corp. for sponsoring the parade!

See list of 2023 Float Winners

Float registration for the Festival of Lights parade is now open! Floats are to be in line by 5:15 p.m. Registration deadline: Friday, December 6th. There is no fee to enter. Cash prizes are awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each category.

Windows must be completed by the evening of Tuesday, December 10th, 2024.

Winners will be announced Thursday, December 12th, 2024 at the Chamber's Holiday Open House.

Baldwin City Community Center

Session 1: 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Session 2: 9:45 a.m.- 10:45 a.m.

Ignite the holiday magic by enjoying Breakfast with Santa!

This traditional breakfast with the man in red brings out the kid in us all. Gather the family to enjoy an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast before heading out to enjoy other offerings in our community prior to Santa’s evening arrival at the Festival of Lights. In addition to breakfast, there will be a craft and time to visit with Santa. We offer two morning time slots, so whether you're an early riser or prefer to sleep in, we've got time with Kris Kringle for you. You won't want to miss it!

Don’t delay - space is limited and tickets are required for this event!

Lumberyard Arts Center

We are grateful that, once again, this event is offered FREE to the USD 348 community through generous sponsorship by Xtream powered by Mediacom.

This event is one of Baldwin City's holiday traditions and a highlight of the Festival of Lights evening. We cannot wait to see this year's creations that will be on display during the Festival of Lights Parade, December 7, 5-7 pm.

118 5th Street | 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Come and enjoy the special feelings of the Christmas season! Enjoy cookies and hot cider while shopping handmade crafts for that special gift. We will be serving lunch this year!
Santa will make a special appearance at 1:00 p.m. so the kids can visit while you shop!

Baldwin City Library

800 7th Street | 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.

Let us help you get into the holiday spirit with our Holiday Crafternoon. During this FREE event, we’ll decorate a small Christmas tree with all kinds of fun, homemade ornaments. Keep it for yourself or give it as a gift!

Baldwin City Creative Arts

711 High Street | 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Free fun for kids!

Pictures with Nutcracker’s Maple Sugar Fairy, Crafts, Winter Wonderland Obstacle Course, and Hot Cider.

Baldwin First United Methodist Church

704 Eighth Street

4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Baldwin First United Methodist Church

704 Eighth Street

5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.