Monument Square District is inviting all downtown businesses to bring some extra holiday cheer with this year’s "Winter Wonderland" Window Decorating Contest. Set to transform the heart of downtown into a festive wonderland, the contest aims to attract holiday shoppers and visitors with beautifully decorated storefronts.

How to Enter: All businesses and merchants in the downtown area are automatically entered, so every business is encouraged to join in the fun and decorate their windows by the night of the annual parade on November 29th. To boost the holiday spirit, windows are encouraged to feature nighttime lighting, adding a magical glow to the streets after dark.

Judging Criteria and Prizes: Judges will assess the window displays from November 29th to December 1st, looking for creativity, curb appeal, attention to detail, and how well they incorporate the "Winter Wonderland" theme. The top three winners will each receive a monetary donation to a charity of their choice, along with a certificate and the opportunity to be highlighted on Monument Square District's social media platforms.

Winners will be announced on December 4th.
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This contest promises to make the downtown shopping experience even more special for the community and visitors alike. Monument Square District hopes everyone will come downtown to enjoy the holiday displays and support local businesses.

Champaign County Children and the Young at Heart will be able to visit with Santa Claus at Legacy Place (formerly the Douglas Inn) on the Square in Downtown Urbana on the following dates:

• Friday, November 29th – immediately following the Holiday Horse Parade
• Thursday, December 5th – 5:30 pm -7:30 pm
• Saturday, December 7th – 11:00 am - 2:00pm
• Thursday, December 12th – 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
• Saturday, December 14th – 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
• Thursday, December 19th – 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
• Saturday, December 21st –11:00 am - 2:00 pm

 

• After his visits on December 21st, Santa will be returning to the North Pole to finalize his lists, start loading his sleigh and prepare for his Christmas travel!
  (This is Santa's Busiest Time of the Year!)
• Santa’s mailbox will be available anytime leading up to the big day in front of Legacy Place – be sure to include a return address because Santa may be able to write little ones back if he has time!
• Each child will receive a small goodie treat!
• Please Share with Everyone who has Little Ones!!