Belleville Santa Parade, Christkindlmarkt, other holiday events on tap in southwest IL
Noon Thursday, Nov. 25, is the deadline to appear in next week’s What’s Happening. We must receive your event in writing with a contact phone number for questions. Due to the large number of submissions, events may run only one time in print, will be edited and appear in the week before the event date. For the week’s full list of events, visit bnd.com.
Email: lifestyle@bnd.com. Mail to: Lifestyle, Belleville News-Democrat, P.O. Box 427, Belleville, IL 62222-0427. Questions, call Jennifer Green at 618-239-2643.
Holiday Festivities
▪ Belleville Santa Parade — 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Nov. 26. Downtown Belleville. Belleville’s annual parade returns. Sponsored by the Optimist Club of Belleville, this tradition began in 1952 and is one of the largest parades in southern Illinois, featuring floats, marching bands, dance groups, and the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
▪ 8th annual Belleville Christkindlmarkt — Friday, Nov. 26, through Sunday, Nov. 28; Thursday, Dec. 2, through Sunday, Dec. 5; Thursday, Dec. 9, through Sunday, Dec. 12; and Thursday, Dec. 16, through Thursday, Dec. 23. Hours are 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 23. The Public Square, Downtown Belleville. The open-air German Christmas Market returns for the holiday season and features unique European and handcrafted gifts. bellevillechristkindlmarkt.com
▪ U.S. Bank Wild Lights at the Saint Louis Zoo — 5-8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 26, through Thursday, Dec. 30. Saint Louis Zoo, 1 Government Drive, St. Louis. This holiday season, escape to a wonderland unlike any other at U.S. Bank Wild Lights. Our dazzling holiday event features brand-new light displays and themed areas. In addition to brilliant light displays, warm up with winter-themed treats, and say hello to the animals at Penguin & Puffin Coast and the Insectarium. Timed-ticket reservations required. For tickets and information: stlzoo.org/wildlights.
▪ Christmas in Carlyle Parade and Fireworks — 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 26. Carlyle City Park, 1096 Lake Road, Carlyle. The parade route begins at 11th and Fairfax streets, east to 5th Street and then north to the City Park. Following the parade, join the crowd at the park for Santa, music, refreshments and fireworks. Christmas Lights in the Park on display through Sunday, Jan. 9. facebook.com/events/4092856137484851
▪ Highland Lighted Christmas Parade — 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 26. Lindendale Park, 2005 Parkhill Drive, Highland. The Parade will start on Lindenthal going west, then north on Washington and cross Broadway and ending at the Downtown Square for the lighting ceremony. highlandillinois.com/2021-christmas-parade.html
▪ Village of Millstadt Lighted Christmas Parade — 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 26. West Washington Avenue, Millstadt. The annual lighted parade will start at Frontier Park and end at the VFW. This year is parade only; there will be no festivities at the VFW after. Tentative rain date: Saturday, Nov. 27. facebook.com/events/585599902597435
▪ Christmas Wonderland — Friday, Nov. 26, through Monday, Dec. 27. 6-9 p.m. Monday-Friday and 5-9 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Rock Spring Park, 2100 College Ave., Alton. More than 4 million lights will twinkle against the beautiful backdrop of Rock Spring Park, lighting the way toward another illuminating holiday season. Returning this year to Christmas Wonderland will be the annual walk-through event set for Monday, Nov. 29. People are allowed to walk through the park during the evening to enjoy the lights. Admission for the walk through is $1 per person. Admission to Christmas Wonderland is a suggested donation of $7 for cars and small vans or $1 per person for vehicles holding more than 10 people. 800-258-6645 or riversandroutes.com.
▪ Swansea Cozy Winter Wonderland — Saturday, Nov. 27, through Thursday, Dec. 23. Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday and 5-8 p.m. Monday-Friday. 1501 Caseyville Ave., Swansea. Visit and take photos with Santa, take photos at one of the indoor settings. Each child will receive a gift, candy cane and ornament from Santa’s tree. Admission: $10 per family, includes free scene pics and one photo with Santa. Additional photos with Santa are $5 each. Hot chocolate, bottled water and cookies available for a $1 donation. Presented by the Swansea Park Board and Patriots. COVID restrictions apply.
▪ Christmas Candlelight: Ghosts of Christmas Past — 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27. 1820 Col. Benjamin Stephenson House, 409 S. Buchanan St., Edwardsville. The Stephenson household ushers in the holiday season in early 19th-century style as guests take a guided tour of the historic home. ‘Ghost’ guides (dressed in white) lead small groups through six different vignettes showcasing the rich history of the house during the holidays in 1821. Visitors get to see homemade gingerbread being baked in the kitchen hearth, learn a simple country dance in the dining room, sing carols around the pianoforte in the parlor, as well as view scenes in the servant’s cabin, master bedroom, and children’s bedroom. For tickets (must be purchased in advance) and information: stephensonhouse.org.
▪ GLOW in the Dark Lighted Holiday Parade — 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27. Downtown Waterloo. The parade route starts at Gibault High School, travels up Columbia Avenue, turns south on Main Street and then right onto Mill Street, ending at Library Street. waterloo.il.us
▪ O’Fallon Illuminated Holiday Parade — 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27. Downtown O’Fallon. This Lighted Parade is a joy for all ages and an ongoing O’Fallon community tradition. Sing along with the many lighted floats, cars, and community members as we bring the Christmas Cheer. Free and open to the public. No grinches allowed. For parking, route details and other information: ofallonholidayparade.com.
Events
▪ Red Cross Blood Drive — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 26. Enjoy Church, 251 Regency Park, O’Fallon. Appointments are recommended but not required. To make an appointment for the upcoming blood drive visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-2767.
▪ 19th annual Green Gift Bazaar — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27. Jacoby Arts Center, 627 E. Broadway, and Post Commons, 300 Alby St., Alton. Featuring a variety of environmentally-friendly gift ideas made from recycled/upcycled materials, Fair Trade, or hand-crafted in the USA. Shoppers will be provided with sale info from downtown retailers and restaurants. Sponsored by the Sierra Club and Alton main Street. For information: Christine Favilla, christine.favilla@sierraclub.org.
▪ St. Louis Comic Book Show — 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 28. Shrewsbury American Legion Post, 7300 Lansdowne Ave., St. Louis. Buy, sell, trade collectible comics, cards, toys and action figures. Meet other hobbyists and explore more than 40 tables. Refreshments available. Admission: $2. 314-544-2812.
▪ Red Cross Blood Drive — 1-6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 30. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints O’Fallon & Shiloh Ward, 255 Fairwood Hills Road, O’Fallon. Appointments are recommended but not required. To make an appointment for the upcoming blood drive visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-2767.
▪ Red Cross Blood Drive — 1-6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 30. Freeburg Township Office, 203 S. Richland St., Freeburg. Appointments are recommended but not required. To make an appointment for the upcoming blood drive visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-2767.
▪ Free Blood Pressure Checks — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 1. HSHS Medical Group Multispecialty Care - Edwardsville, 1188 S. Illinois 157, Edwardsville. Free blood pressure checks available on a walk-in basis. Both established and new patients are welcome. 618-692-5900.
▪ Red Cross Blood Drive — 1-6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 1. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints-Waterloo, 900 Park St., Waterloo. Appointments are recommended but not required. To make an appointment for the upcoming blood drive visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-2767.
▪ Red Cross Blood Drive — 1-6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 2. Bethel Baptist Church of Caseyville, 10 Bethel Meadows Road, Caseyville. Appointments are recommended but not required. To make an appointment for the upcoming blood drive visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-2767.
Theater/Concerts
▪ Andy Patalan (from Sponge) Live — 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27. Copper Fire, 200 E. Main St., Belleville. Andy Patalan from Sponge plays solo to kick off to an upcoming concert at the Lincoln in January. Patalan is bringing Andy’s Guitar too. After his set, hang out with Patalan and Moon from #TeamRizz for a meet and greet. There will be some concert ticket giveaways too. facebook.com/events/438445394557724
▪ Movie Nights with Santa: ‘Frosty the Snowman’ and ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’ — 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27. Skyview Drive-In, 5700 North Belt West, Belleville. Gates open at 3:45 p.m. Movie begins at 6 p.m. Spots are limited. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Sales end the night before the movie unless previously sold out. bellevillechamber.org
▪ The Trophy Mules — 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27. Millpond Brewing & Incubator, 308 E. Washington St., Millstadt. Corey Saathoff Josh Kean acoustic.
▪ St. Louis Symphony Orchestra: Poems, Tales and Memories — 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 28. Powell Hall, 718 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis. Emotions are laid bare. In Jake Heggie’s “The Work at Hand,” mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke and SLSO cellist Elizabeth Chung face the impossibility of saying goodbye. In Edward Elgar’s “Sea Pictures,” Cooke’s luminous voice uncovers love, faith, dreams, and fears. And Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Scheherazade” lends rich colors to a princess who tells stories to stay alive. For tickets and information, visit slso.org.
▪ The Bach Society of St. Louis Chorus presents ‘Thanksgiving and Hope’ — 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 28. St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, 1411 Cross St., O’Fallon. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. First responders, health care workers, teachers, essential workers, military personnel and all others who served and protected area communities during the pandemic will be celebrated in a free community concert of “Thanksgiving and Hope.” Free admission. General admission seating. Wheelchair accessible. For tickets and information: bachsociety.org.
▪ Chamber Music Society of St. Louis: ‘Baroque Masters’ — 7:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 29 and Tuesday, Nov. 30. The Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Blvd., St. Louis. Saint Louis favorite Nicholas McGegan returns. For tickets and information: chambermusicstl.org
▪ L&C Jazz Band and Alton High Jazz Band: An Evening of Jazz — 7:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 29. Ahlemeyer Atrium, Lewis & Clark Community College, 5800 Godfrey Road, Godfrey. 618-468-4731 or lc.edu.
▪ L&C Rock Ensemble Concert — 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 30. Benjamin Godfrey Memorial Chapel, Lewis & Clark Community College, 5800 Godfrey Road, Godfrey. 618-468-4731 or lc.edu.
▪ Jazz Ensemble Concert — 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 1. Hettenhausen Center for the Arts, 400 N. Alton St., Lebanon. Admission is free. mckendree.edu
Clubs & Support Groups
▪ Stitchin’ in the Stacks — 2-4 p.m. Fridays. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main St., Glen Carbon. Do you like to knit? Crochet? Embroider? Whatever your passion, gather and socialize with others who share your interest, and perhaps pick-up a few tips and tricks as you work on your own creations. Please bring your crafting supplies. This is a self-directed program; there is no instructor. Snacks allowed. glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ GriefShare Seminar/Support Group — 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Dec. 7. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Conference Room, Lower Level, 1300 Beltline Road, Collinsville. A helpful, encouraging seminar for people grieving the death of a loved one. Featuring practical suggestions and reassurance through video interviews with counselors, grief experts and others. There are 14 total sessions; join any time. Cost: $15 for the workbook. For information or to register: 618-344-3151 or lcookparishnurse@charter.net.
▪ O’Fallon Sunrise Rotary Meeting — 6:45 a.m. Wednesdays. O’Fallon Township Building, 801 E. State St., O’Fallon. 618-210-8156 or ofallonsunriserotary.org
▪ PFLAG Edwardsville Meeting — 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 2. Immanuel UMC Rainbow House, 808 N. Main St., Edwardsville. Offering support, education and advocacy for LGBTQ people and their allies. A speaker from Big Brothers Big Sisters will discuss their new LGBTQ mentor program. Contact Amy for more information at 618-977-5078.
▪ Granite City Senior Social Club Christmas Bingo Party — 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5. St. John UCC, 2901 Nameoki Road, Granite City. Doors open at 12:30 p.m. Admission is $1. Get four cards for $1. Includes trivia, sing-along, 50/50 and refreshments. Seniors ages 50 and over, disabled are welcome to participate. RSVP 618-444-6771.
▪ Hints to Handle Holiday Grief — 10:30-11:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 6. Office on Aging, 201 N. Church St., Belleville. Diana Cuddeback from Heartlinks Grief Center will discuss tips for managing your grief during this time of year. Registered attendees will receive a gift card for lunch. Registration required by Friday, Dec 3. Call 618-234-4410, ext. 7044 (Susan) to register. This event is co-sponsored by St. Clair County Office on Aging and St. Elizabeth’s Hospital.
Food
▪ O’Fallon K of C Fish Fry — 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. Fridays. Knights of Columbus Hall, 402 E. U.S. 50, O’Fallon. Traditional menu of cod available along with hamburgers, hot dogs, pork steaks and additional side dishes. Dine-in and carryout. Credit cards accepted. Orders can be called in at 618-632-6229.
▪ Swansea Fish Stand – 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. 216 Service St., Swansea. Cod, walleye, catfish, shrimp and more. Saturday: fried chicken. Open for carryout, call-in and dine-in orders. 618-222-7171. facebook.com/swanseafishstand
▪ Collinsville American Legion Fish Fry — 3-7:45 p.m. Fridays. Collinsville American Legion, 1022 Vandalia St., Collinsville. Curbside delivery and dine-in. Cash or check only. Place a curbside order by calling 618-345-2508. facebook.com/legionpst365
▪ Millstadt Fish Fry — 4-8 p.m. Fridays. Millstadt VFW Post, 200 Veterans Drive, Millstadt. Eat in or carryout. Call ahead for carryout. 618-476-1180.
▪ Shiloh Eagles Fish Fry — 5-7 p.m. Fridays. Shiloh Eagles 545, 100 Eagle Drive, Shiloh. Cod, walleye, catfish, shrimp and sides. Full menu. Dine-in or carryout available. For carryout, call 618-624-5412.
Reservations Required
▪ Virtual Saturday Morning Yoga — 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 27. Online via Zoom. Get fit and healthy when you join us for an energizing session of yoga with instructor Sarah Hartwig. Register at glencarbonlibrary.org.
▪ ‘Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia: The Latest Advances in Treatment, Care and Research’ — Noon and 5:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 29, and Tuesday, Nov. 30. Keystone Place at Richland Creek, 1050 Fountain Lakes Drive, O’Fallon. Topics include: Forgetfulness: what’s normal and what’s not; What you can do now to reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s; What to do when you suspect a memory problem; Treatments currently available to slow Alzheimer’s, including what to know about a new FDA approved drug; Update on the latest Alzheimer’s research; Resources available for dementia caregivers. Seating is limited and reservations are required. The public may register by calling 618-576-6178 or visiting Info.KeystoneSenior.com/RC-NovEvent.
▪ St. Clair County Office on Aging Exercise Classes — 10:30-11:45 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. 201 N. Church St., Belleville. Tracie Renschen, who has a masters in kinesiology, (the study of mechanics of body movement) leads this exercise class to focus on strengthening the various muscles of the body, helping with balance and arthritis. Cost: $3 per class. Call 618-234-4410, Mary (ext. 7034) or Susan (ext. 7044) if you will be attending the class.
▪ Virtual Evening Flow Yoga — 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 1. Online via Zoom. Classes are suitable for those newer to yoga or those wanting a basic flow class. This class introduces traditional yoga postures, teaches you how to breathe, and helps you feel more comfortable in the yoga practice. Instructed by Anne Hughes. Register at glencarbonlibrary.org.
▪ Better Breastfeeding Class — 6:30-9 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 1. Memorial Hospital Shiloh, 2nd floor conference room, 1404 Cross St., Shiloh. The class reviews breastfeeding techniques and is ideal for new mothers or as a refresher course. If you are considering breastfeeding or have chosen to breastfeed your baby, this class will provide information, encouragement, and support for a successful breastfeeding experience. Enroll mom only. Registration is for 2 people. Cost: $10. mymemorialnetwork.com/events.
▪ Adult Zumba w/ Aimee — 6-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 2. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, Youth Room, 198 S. Main St., Glen Carbon. Join us for an evening workout with our very own Zumba Fitness instructor. Come in comfortable exercise clothing and bring a water bottle. Space is limited and masks will be required. Requires Registration. glencarbonlibrary.org.
▪ Prepared Childbirth Class — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4. HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, 1 St. Elizabeth’s Blvd., O’Fallon. These classes teach relaxation techniques, controlled breathing, physical and emotional changes that occur during labor and birth. Pain control options are discussed. Both mother and support person learn how to take an active part in the birth process. Cost: $20. To register, email childbirtheduc@hshs.org. hshs.org/StElizabeths
▪ Breastfeeding Class: Fundamentals and Practical Problem Solving — 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5. HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, One St. Elizabeth’s Blvd., O’Fallon. The Breastfeeding class provides information on preparation for feeding, feeding techniques and common concerns. Additional topics include information on which type of breast pump will best meet your needs, discussion on returning to work and other everyday issues.The class is open to expectant and new mothers. Support persons are welcome. Class is taught by an RN certified lactation counselor. Cost: $10. To register, email childbirtheduc@hshs.org. hshs.org/StElizabeths
Worth the Drive
▪ River-to-River Trail Society Hike: Wildcat Bluff, Little Black Slough, and Boss Island, in Johnson County — 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 27. Meet at 10:00 a.m. at the parking area for Wildcat Bluff. This hike is intended for people in good health who have done some hiking. This will be a hike of about six miles. Hiking sticks and boots or sturdy shoes are strongly recommended. Hikers should bring their own water and a snack. No dogs, please. For information or directions: 618-926-3250.rivertorivertrail.net