Early this morning several Naperville Park District employees were preparing the area at the Dandelion Fountain for the holiday tree, expected to arrive about 9:30AM.
Heather Grossgut donated a large spruce tree to be placed at the Riverwalk for the 2014 holiday season, just east of the Santa House which was set up last week on Nov. 12 along Jackson Ave. at Webster St.,opposite Nichols Library in downtown Naperville.
The Naperville resident thinks the tree was planted in 1964 when her house was built.
“I have been a lifelong resident of Naperville and over the years have enjoyed the brilliant glow of the downtown holiday lights,” said Grossgut. “It is an honor to have my big, beautiful tree memorialized on the Riverwalk to represent the spirit of Christmas.”
Following securing of the tree, Park District staff will place other holiday decorations near the Dandelion Fountain, including a menorah and a nativity scene.
Santa House on the Riverwalk
The Santa House opens 5-8PM Dec. 2-4 for Special Needs Nights by advance reservation. The Santa visits will be hosted by WDSRA and sponsored by the Evening Kiwanis. For information and advance reservations, call the Naperville Park District at (630) 848-5000.
Another special night has been reserved for military and first responders on Wed., Dec. 10 as well as Pet Night on Thurs., Dec. 11. Hours are 5-8PM.
General hours when the Santa House is open to the public begin Sat., Dec. 6. Weekend hours will be noon to 6PM.
On weekdays, Monday through Friday, hours will be 4-8PM Dec. 13-22.
Admission is free. Photos with Santa will be available for $8 each, two for $15 or three for $20.
Photo of the spruce tree courtesy of the Naperville Park District