The Holiday Glow In Illinois That’s Straight Out Of A Hallmark Christmas Movie

It's time to get into the holiday spirit! During the holiday season, there's certainly no shortage of festivals to attend around the Prairie State. This year, one, in particular, is set to be so festive you may feel as though you're walking through the set of a Hallmark Christmas Movie! The Holiday Glow in Illinois at Monticello's Allerton Park and Retreat Center is a holiday light festival you won't want to miss.

Originally built as a private residence for philanthropist Robert Allerton in 1900, the 1,500-acre Allerton Park and Retreat Center is a place for visitors to enjoy nature, art, and history.

During the day, you can take a hike along one of the trails, enjoy the natural beauty of the woods and prairie, appreciate the art in the sculpture garden, and marvel at the mansion and reflecting pond. A cafe is also on the property and overnight lodging is available as well.

This holiday season, Allerton Park and Retreat Center is holding its annual holiday walk, an art and light festival that's sure to put you in the holiday spirit! This is one of the most magical Christmas events in Illinois.

Christmas magic is in the air as you stroll the historic grounds of this turn-of-the-century estate during the Holiday GLOW light festival.

While all are invited to attend, not all areas of the grounds are accessible. You can view a map of the suggested accessible pathway.

This much-anticipated event is a wonderful way to explore the grounds and to also get in the spirit of the season. It's just as enchanting as a Hallmark Christmas movie!

The walk is approximately one mile long with plenty of artwork and festive lights along the way.

A ticket is required only for the opening night of this event, which is December 1, 2023, from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. You can purchase your ticket through the Allerton Park & Retreat Center website.

After opening night, advanced tickets are not required for the Holiday Glow 2023 season. The dates for the rest of the season are select dates between December 3, 2023 and Jan. 13, 2024. There is a suggested donation of $10 per person which can be made at the park or online.

Have you made plans yet to attend the Holiday Glow in Illinois? In the comments, please tell your fellow readers about your favorite holiday light displays throughout the state. For more information on this holiday tradition in Illinois, visit the official website of the Allerton Park and Retreat Center. You can also follow the Allerton Park and Retreat Center Facebook page for updates.

'Tis the season to see light displays around the state. Read our post on the most magical light displays in Illinois for some of the best. And if you're looking for gifts this holiday season, be sure to check out the OnlyInYourState Holiday Gift Guide!