What an unforgettable night! On December 6, 2024, the Monument Square District transformed The Cheetah Lounge into a dazzling 1920s-style wonderland for the Father Christmas Speakeasy – Spirits & Games of Chance. From the moment the doors opened, guests stepped into an era of glitz and glamour, surrounded by holiday cheer and the warm spirit of our amazing community.

From stunning Roaring Twenties attire to thrilling games of chance, the evening was packed with festive fun. Guests enjoyed delicious food, bid on exciting auction items, and laughed the night away, all while supporting local initiatives that keep Urbana thriving.

The atmosphere was made even more magical thanks to the nostalgic holiday music, creative costumes (congratulations to our Best Dressed winners!), and, of course, the fantastic energy of everyone who attended.

We owe a huge thank-you to everyone who made this night possible—our dedicated volunteers, generous sponsors, and most of all, the incredible community members who joined us. Your support makes events like this possible and helps ensure that Monument Square District continues to flourish.

Ready to relive the fun? Check out the photo slideshow below by the talented Andy Grimm. We hope these memories inspire you to mark your calendars for next year’s holiday festivities—trust us, you won’t want to miss out!

​Thank you for making this night so special, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you again soon.

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!!

The ​Monument Square District would like to thank all of the merchants/business and voters that helped to make the Flannel & Fall Window Contest a success as a new event. After 328 votes, we would like to congratulate the winner, Downtown Divas! 

The following is a list of the Top 8:
Downtown Divas
Tommy Brooks Salon
Dee Brew Coffee
Our Kitchen Window Winery & Home Goods
Vintage Traveler
Guild Gallery Interior
Ethel’s Flower Shop
The Peoples Savings Bank

Thank you to all merchants/businesses and thanks again to Andy Grimm for the photography!