Why wait until December for a Christmas vacation when you can enjoy a holiday travel experience in July? There are plenty of destinations that celebrate Christmas in July and East Dundee, IL is one that goes big with this winter in summer event.
East Dundee is a city located in Kane County with a small section in Cook County. With a population of less than 3000, it has a terrific small-town feel. It has a historic district along Fox River and the shops on Main Street constitute its commercial center.
The charm of East Dundee is infectious. and July is the perfect time to visit for a holiday celebration. Here are some things you can do when you get to town.
Santa’s Village AZoosment and Water Park
Santa’s Village originally opened in 1959 and stayed open until 2006. It transferred owners in 2011 and is currently known as Santa’s Village AZoosment Water Park.
When you visit, there is plenty of holiday themed fun to be had. Santa Springs is the water park area. Children can splash through the Lighthouse Harbor and slide down water slides. Adults can relax in a cabana that includes a lockbox, private seating and a mini fridge.
There are also plenty of rides to enjoy. Thrill rides like the Super Cyclone are great for hardcore adventure seekers. Family classics and kiddie rides are available for those who like to turn it down a notch.
Think one park couldn’t possibly pack in any more fun? Santa’s Village also has an animal attractions area. Guests can visit Frosty’s Friends and Santa’s Little Helpers before heading over to the Koi Pond, Tortoise Island, Old McDonald’s Barn, Parakeet’s Paradise and the Aussie Area.
The park also offers seasonal entertainment, meet and greets with Santa and other characters, games and arcades, dining, shops and more.
Christmas in July Craft Show
Santa’s Village hosts a craft show that takes place at the park every year over the course of a weekend in mid-July. It’s a great place to find crafts produced by local artisans and businesses. The event has been going on for over 60 years.
Christmas in July 5K
The Christmas in July 5K event takes place at Hoffman Estates just 15 minutes outside of East Dundee. Runners get to run through light displays that include Snowman Land, Candy Cane Lane, Nutcracker Army, Santa’s Village and Reindeer Roundup. The run is hosted to benefit Hoffman Estates Police Explorers which involves a group of police officers that volunteer as advisors and mentors offering training and guidance to Explorers in all aspects of police work.
Runners that place in various age group categories receive medals.
Paintball Explosion
Adventurers won’t want to miss out on a trip to Paintball Explosion. This paintball theme park is located inside Santa’s village and it offers a video game like experience with sets fashioned after games like Call of Duty and Modern warfare. Laser tag and airsoft parties are available and walk on players are welcome.
Hike of Fox River Trail
Fox River Trail provides a terrific hiking experience. It was created from old rails and it connects quaint towns with plenty of small and local businesses along the way. It is frequented by dog walkers, cyclists, hikers and runners. It tends to get flooded but there are stairways and roads that can take you around high-water areas.
Dundee Depot Market and Visitor Center
The Dundee Market and Visitor Center serves as a bicycle trail rest stop, hospitality site and tourist information center. They host a weekly Farmer’s Market which helps them keep their building open and serves to fund annual scholarships to Dundee Township Graduates. Their market usually features about 40 vendors and it’s a great place to find local produce, antiques and collectibles.
Shopping on Main St.
There are plenty of interesting shops in East Dundee with most located on Main St. You will find boutiques, thrift stores, music shops and more.
You can also visit 311 Barrington which was erected at the former site of Dundee Lumber. The lot sat vacant for years after a fire occurred on the property, but it is now home to a downtown complex that features restaurants, shops and apartments.
East Dundee is so small, some people don’t even know it exists. But it’s old-fashioned charm and its Christmas in July spirit may make it America’s best kept secret. What will you be doing when you swing through?
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