On a cold December night, families gathered around the bright lights that surrounded the magical Christmas tree. Between the choir’s carols, the rhythm of Mexican music, and the giggles of kids playing, the whole place felt alive.
On Dec. 6, West Chicago hosted the annual Frosty Fest, held on the first Sunday in December as they welcomed the holiday spirit to the community. Each year the event kicks off with the tree lighting and is then followed by activities for all ages, as well as food trucks and small business vendors.
The celebration kicked off with the Chicago Carolers singing as Mayor Daniel Bovey invited three special guests from different District 33 schools to help with the countdown for the tree. The community gathered around anxiously waiting as they said “Three, Two, One!” The tree burst into color as the lights brightened the night, and children lifted their special 3D glasses to see snowflakes and stars sparkle across the branches, admiring the CAPE students’ handmade decorations.
“I haven’t gone in a while, so this is my first time going back and it was a good experience. I like how the community gets together**,”** West Chicago resident Emanuel Lopez said.
Frosty Fest offers Fa La La La Lane where you can find the D33 Ballet Folklorico**, whose** bright, colorful dresses**, embroidered** with flowing patterns, swirled beautifully during each performance — a show you do not want to miss. The lively performances from the D33 Mariachi and festive songs by the D94 choir added even more warmth and culture to the celebration.
“Es una oportunidad para convivir con nuestra comunidad y volver a nuestra cultura de México, porque está el ballet folklórico, el mariachi, y aparte la comida, y nuestras fiestas navideñas. Que así siempre continúe para llevar nuestra cultura en alto,” West Chicago resident Liliana Medina said. (“It’s an opportunity to connect with our community and reconnect with our culture because there’s the Ballet Folklorico, the mariachi, and also the food and our Christmas celebrations. May it always continue so we can keep our culture alive.”)
Besides Fa La La La Lane, Frosty Fest also included a variety of small vendors such as Unwind Gracefully, Honeymoon Bouquets, D&M Craftworks, and Sugar & Shine Cookies**,** which were located in the Fox Community Center known as the “Elves Workshop.” Kids lined up as they waited to take pictures in the photo booth, parents shopped for handmade holiday gifts, and local vendors spoke proudly about sharing their creations with the community.
As the night came to an end, families walked back to their cars with warm drinks in hand and smiles lit by the glow of the Christmas tree. Frosty Fest once again reminded West Chicago of the joy, culture, and togetherness that define the start of the holiday season.
