Holiday Guide: December in Williamson County
December in Williamson County is one of the most magical times of the year. From twinkling lights and Christmas markets to Santa sightings, concerts, and cozy small-town traditions, the entire month is packed with activities for families, couples, friends, and visitors looking to embrace the holiday spirit. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking for a fun local event to enjoy with the kids, this guide brings together all the best ways to celebrate the season right here in Southern Illinois.
Family-Friendly Holiday Fun
December in Williamson County is overflowing with events perfect for kids, families, and anyone who still loves the magic of Christmas.
Santa Sightings & Kids’ Activities:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Dec 4 | Santa’s Workshop Bingo — Lincoln Elementary |
| Dec 6 | Santa Meet & Greet — McKinney’s Western Store |
| Dec 6 | Pancakes & Pajamas — Marion Senior Citizens’ Center |
| Dec 7 | Breakfast with Santa — Zion United Church of Christ |
| Dec 7 | Scuba with Santa — The HUB |
| Dec 13 | Pictures with Mr. Mean Green — Stevens |
| Dec 14 | Pictures with Santa — Jack & Josie’s |
| Dec 20 | Polar Express Brunch with Santa — 618 Taphouse |
If your little ones can’t get enough of Santa, you won’t run out of opportunities to grab photos, enjoy treats, or participate in themed crafts and games!
Festive Family Events:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Dec 6 | Jingle Bell Jog — The HUB |
| Dec 6 | Sports Cards & Collectibles Show: Holiday Edition — John A. Logan College |
| Dec 6 & Dec 13 | Christmas with the Alpacas — Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch |
| Dec 10 | Nailed It! — Anne West Lindsey District Library |
From alpaca greetings to holiday baking competitions, there are tons of memory-making opportunities all month long.
Seasonal Performances for All Ages:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Dec 7 | Carols for Choir & Congregation: A Moravian Lovefeast — Market Street Music Conservatory |
| Dec 19, 20 & 21 | A Christmas Carol — Marion Cultural & Civic Center (matinee & evening) |
These classic holiday shows offer a perfect way to slow down and enjoy the traditions of the season.
Holiday Shopping, Markets & Makers:
If you love supporting local shops and finding unique handmade gifts, December is one of the best months to explore Williamson County.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Dec 5 | Let’s Jingle & Mingle — Cricket & Red Brick Antique Mall |
| Dec 5, 6 & 7 | Very Merry Market — Downtown Marion |
| Dec 5 | First Friday Farmers Market — The HUB |
| Dec 6 | Grand Reopening — Marion Antique Mall |
| Dec 8 | Christmas Tree Showdown — Steven’s |
These festive markets, antique shops, and small-business pop-ups offer a diverse range of items from handmade ornaments and crafts to vintage finds, baked goods, home décor, and more.
Holiday Workshops & Crafting:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Dec 6 | Christmas Ornament Class — CottingTree Beads |
| Dec 6 | Build for a Cause: Gingerbread Social — Boys & Girls Club |
It’s a great chance to create something memorable while also supporting community programs.
Festive Nights Out for Adults:
Looking for a date night, an evening with friends, or a fun place to unwind during the holidays? Williamson County delivers. Check out these holiday parties & social events!
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Dec 3 | Book Club & Cocktail Hour — Milkweed Provisions |
| Dec 4 | Cheveux’s Holiday Party — Cheveux Salon |
| Dec 4 | Ugly Christmas Sweater Party — Little Nashville Café |
Live Entertainment & Concerts:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Dec 5 | Wheel of Fortune Live — Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort |
| Dec 12 | Norbert Leo Butz: Broadway My Way — Marion Cultural & Civic Center |
| Dec 12 | NewSong’s Very Merry Christmas Tour — Marion Cultural & Civic Center |
Late-Night Holiday Fun:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Dec 11 | Holiday Karaoke — Sanctuary Lounge |
| Dec 13 | Drag You Into the Holiday Season — Sanctuary Lounge |
| Dec 13 | Season’s Beatings Roller Derby — The Pavilion |
| Dec 20 | Family Soul — Little Nashville Café |
Whether you’re in the mood for holiday music, comedy, karaoke, cocktails, or even roller derby, something is happening almost every night.
Seasonal Outdoor Charm: Carriage Rides & Winter Atmosphere:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Dec 5, 7, 11, 12, 13 & 14 | Holiday Carriage Rides — Downtown Marion (5pm–8pm) |
Bundle up, sip on something warm, and enjoy a magical ride through the festive downtown streets. Perfect for photos or a romantic date night.
You can also soak in the holiday atmosphere at the Very Merry Market, with decorated storefronts, vendors, food trucks, lights, music, and plenty of festive sights!
Cozy Places to Warm Up
Between events, markets, and shopping, December is the perfect time to explore local cafés, bakeries, and restaurants. Grab a latte, enjoy holiday pastries, or settle in with a comforting winter meal.
Don’t forget to stop by Ally’s Bake Shop for the Holiday Cookie Exchange on December 11th!
Our local favorites, such as The Turn Restaurant & Lounge, Little Nashville Café, as well as numerous wineries and breweries throughout the region, offer the perfect places to relax, warm up, and recharge between holiday outings.
Tips for Exploring December Events:
– Dress warmly! Many events take place outdoors or partially outdoors.
– Arrive early for Downtown Marion events and carriage rides.
– Bring some cash for markets, local vendors, and pop-up booths.
– Many events are family-friendly and free to attend.
– Keep an eye out for New Year’s Eve events, which will be announced soon!
🎄 Wrapping-Up
December in Williamson County is truly a special time. With holiday markets, Santa visits, cozy cafés, carriage rides, concerts, theater productions, and festive events nearly every single day, there’s no better place to enjoy the magic of the season. Whether you’re a lifelong local or visiting for the first time, we invite you to explore, shop local, make memories, and celebrate all month long.
📍 Plan Your Visit
Check out visitSI.com for more things to do in Williamson County, Illinois!
