Here are a few Geneva event dates to keep in mind, so you do not miss out on loads of fun planned in November and December. The holidays can bring a fair amount of running around but in Geneva, you can experience the wonder of the season and shop. 

When you make your way to Geneva Commons to check some things off your list, be sure to visit the new 4,000-pound sculpture that was unveiled Oct. 29. Designed by Chicago-based artist Matthew Hoffman, the sculpture showcases the phrase “Be Uncommon” and was a collaboration between the artist and the Rising Lights Project, a non-profit organization with a mission to “encourage, include, and support individuals impacted by disability.” From now through the end of the year, Geneva Commons will donate $2 to the non-profit with every selfie taken with the hashtag #beuncommongeneva. Make your way to Geneva Commons to see this exciting new public art, strike a pose, and get a jump start on holiday shopping.

Participating downtown shops/restaurants will be open late and offer exciting specials and giveaways during the next First Fridays event Nov. 5. Thanksgiving is around the corner, so it will be a great night to pick out a clever hostess gift at one of the boutiques. You might also find that perfect outfit to look your best for the holidays. As an added bonus, you will get an early look at new winter merchandise and shop displays that are quickly being unboxed for the gifting season. Follow Experience Geneva IL for First Fridays news.

Small Business Saturday, Nov. 27, is another great day to reserve for a Geneva visit. Shopping small helps sustain independent businesses, but it is also a convenient local alternative to crowded stores and shipping delays. We hope you will stop by downtown Geneva Nov. 27 to join us in celebrating our many independent shops and restaurants that make our community a special place. Many of the shops will celebrate all weekend long. The photo below is Laura, owner of GROW Geneva. Mayor Kevin Burns also issued a proclamation in recognition of Small Business Saturday at a recent City Council meeting.

The shops are busy making magic for the holidays and cannot wait to see you. Here is a peak at a display at Little Red Barn Door. To find all our local shops and restaurants, check out Geneva's Downtown Map.

Geneva’s annual Christmas Walk will bring in the season on Friday, Dec. 3 with the arrival of Santa Lucia and Santa Claus, a tree lighting, a candy cane parade, carolers, roasting chestnuts, and much more. The event begins at 6 p.m., but it helps to arrive early to park. The boutiques will be open and many will offer holiday refreshments. Carolers will bring holiday cheer back to the downtown on the afternoon of Saturday, Dec. 4. More information about Christmas Walk is on the Geneva Chamber of Commerce website, where you can also learn about their Holiday House Tour on Dec. 3-4.

The Geneva Cultural Arts Commission invites you to attend the Steeple Walk, which features four musical performances at downtown Geneva churches on Sunday, Dec. 5. Tickets will go on sale Monday, Nov. 15 from the City website and in person at City Hall and the Geneva Chamber of Commerce.

Downtown festivities will continue the following weekend on Saturday, Dec. 11 with an opportunity to taste creations at Geneva’s shops and restaurants during the Cocoa Crawl. You also can sing your favorite carols seated under an outdoor tent during Carols on Campbell. These heartwarming events are a great way to spend quality time with family and friends before the new year.

Please follow CDC guidelines for gathering, distancing, and masking when visiting Geneva to keep everyone safe.