Holiday happenings

Friday’s annual Christmas Parade kicks off Burlington events

Area residents are invited to welcome the Christmas season to Burlington Friday evening as they revisit Christmases past during the annual Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade.

“Christmas Down Memory Lane” is the theme for this year’s event, which begins at 6:30 p.m. and winds its way through downtown Burlington.

Bands, live reindeer, sled dogs, carolers and numerous local groups and businesses will contribute to the Christmas cheer that will culminate with the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The parade steps off from the Kane Street and Chandler Boulevard intersection, and will travel down Kane Street to Milwaukee Avenue, then turn right onto Chestnut Street through the Loop, and then south onto Pine Street.

The parade will continue down Pine Street and then turn onto Chandler Boulevard to finish.

Santa’s Chalet

Immediately following the parade, Santa will set up shop in his Chalet in Wehmhoff Square adjacent to the Burlington Library. Children are invited to stop by for a visit and share their Christmas wish lists with Santa.

Santa’s Chalet will be open for visitors on weekends until Dec. 23. Friday hours are 6-8 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday hours are 2-4 p.m.

Music and a movie

Also following Friday’s parade, the Plaza Theater is hosting live music and a free movie.

The Burlington High School A Cappella Choir will perform Christmas Carols followed by a showing of the 1966 animated holiday classic “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” The movie is 30 minutes in length.

For more information on local holiday events, contact the Burlington Area Chamber of Commerce at (262) 763-6044.