The Village of New Lenox has announced changes to its Christmas in the Commons event this weekend due to forecasts of extremely cold temperatures. The event will remain open, but several programs have been modified for safety.
Santa visits will proceed as planned but are being moved indoors to the Village Hall rotunda. The Christmas light displays across the Commons will stay open, allowing visitors to walk through and enjoy them with hot cocoa from concession stands.
Two heated tents, Arrowhead Ale’s Lounge and a Character Visits Tent, will be available for guests. Scheduled character appearances include The Grinch on Saturday and Anna & Elsa on Sunday.
Holiday Market vendors were given the option to cancel because of the weather, so some may not attend. Residents are encouraged by the Village to support small businesses by visiting their online shops.
Concessions will operate with fewer staff members for safety reasons, but hot beverages will still be offered. Horse-drawn wagon rides will continue with only one wagon running so that animals and staff can warm up between rides; ride times may be slower than usual.
Performers have been allowed to cancel without penalty due to the conditions. Those who choose to participate will perform indoors at Village Hall’s upper-level rotunda, where space is available both upstairs and downstairs.
Food trucks may still attend; however, all participating trucks are receiving refunds regardless of whether they decide to come or not.
The Village states it “will continue monitoring weather conditions and will provide additional updates as needed.” It also says: “We appreciate the community’s understanding as we work to keep everyone safe while still offering a festive holiday experience.”
The Village of New Lenox operates under a board of trustees and a mayor elected for four-year terms, according to its government page (https://www.newlenox.net/27/Government). As outlined in its strategic plan (https://www.newlenox.net/DocumentCenter/View/364/Strategic-Plan-PDF), the municipality aims to improve quality of life and foster community pride through effective services and guidance. The village was incorporated in Illinois on October 4, 1946 (https://www.newlenox.net/333/History-of-New-Lenox), following efforts by local residents.
