holiday house tour geneva illinois

Geneva Christmas Walk & Holiday House Tour

Tradition and surprise. It wouldn’t be Christmas without them. And Geneva’s Christmas Walk and House Tour offer both.

Friday evening, December 3 begins at 6 pm with Graham’s Chocolates First Candy Cane of the season being presented with great fanfare followed by the arrival of Santa Lucia, the Swedish symbol of the season, who will offer Swedish cookies to merry-makers.  The Christmas Tree is lit and the Courthouse lawn becomes aglow.  The young and young at heart will wait with anticipation as Santa Claus arrives. Santa will open his home for visits from excited children while All Chocolate Kitchen recreates their record-breaking candy cane.

Serenaded by carolers, families stroll Geneva’s historic marketplace, nibbling on fresh-roasted chestnuts, and dodging into brightly lit shops and restaurants along the way.

Those who aren’t downtown, might be touring holiday-decked homes. The Holiday House Tour (Dec. 3; 10 am-8 pm & Dec. 4; 10 am-5 pm) also another tradition, but thanks to the diversity of homes and the creativity of local designers, it’s filled with unexpected treats.

The Farmhouse:  Situated in a friendly neighborhood, a luminary lit path leads you to one of the many entrances for this 5000 square foot home.  Hospitality and cheerfulness are the first impressions you feel upon entering the 2018 house.  This 4-bedroom home is so much more than a farmhouse, it is where memories happen, and stories begin.

Festively decorated by Heinz Brothers Greenhouse Garden Center (630.377.6288, https://heinzbrothers.com ) with contributor Little Red Barn Door (630.402.0072, https://littleredbarndoor.com )

Architectural Beauty: Towering trees create a secluded garden for this 6000 plus square foot home; that originally had a railroad trestle running through the property.  Built in 2006, a touch of Tuscany can be found throughout this five-bedroom, seven-bathroom home.  The front doors, with wrought iron insets, welcome you inside. 

Festively decorated by Haven Interiors Studio (630.402.0444, haveninteriorsltd.com) and Platt Hill Nursery (630.529.9394, www.platthillnursery.com )

Custom Home: This home defines the phrase “great curb appeal”.  Looking at this 2015 home from the street, you begin to anticipate a creative and modern interior.  Brown paned windows glisten in the December sun.  Warm wooden beams surround the covered porch where you can rock away any worries night or day.

Festively decorated by Haven Design Group (HDG) (773.220.2501 havendesigngroup.com) and Plandscape ( 630.365.2558 ,  plandscapeinc.com )

Captivating Ranch: This captivating ranch home was built in 1954.  In 2015 the homeowners fully renovated and redesigned this 3100 square foot home to its present beauty.  Holiday adornment decking the front door gives hint of the amazement that lies inside.

Festively decorated by Geneva Design House by Strawflower (630.232.7141, https://genevadesignhouse.com )

Mid-Century Charmer : In a highly desirable neighborhood, where most of the homes were built in the 50s & 60s, this mid-century ranch is no wallflower.   Bought by the homeowners in 2018, they had a vision to delight the eye and fire the imagination, by restoring it back to its 1962 splendor…. with present-day conveniences.  Walking through the bright orange door, you know this house will be anything but “square”.

Festively decorated by Gatherings by Design (630.880.8792,  https://Gatheringsbydesign.net  ) and Plandscape ( 630.365.2558 ,  plandscapeinc.com )

Tickets include a holiday tea and a special treat from 360° Flavor & Spice or The Olive Mill (while supplies last) and are available for $35.  Proceeds are used to decorate Geneva for the holiday season.  Purchase at the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, 8 South Third St., online at genevachamber.com or at any of the locations listed below (in Geneva unless indicated otherwise).  Call 630.232.6060 to pre-order over the phone.   Tickets will not be for sale at the homes.

Cocoon , 212 S. Third St.  – 630.232.8340

Country Naturals, 316 Campbell St. – 630.232.1172

Haven Interiors Studio, 15 S. Third St. – 630.402-0444

Heinz Brothers Greenhouse, 2010 E Main St., St. Charles – 630.377.6288

Little Barn Baby, 207 S. Third St., # 110 – 331.248.0568

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory , 1308 Commons Dr. – 630.208.1484

SG Geneva/Scentimental Gardens , 428 W. State St – 630.232.1303

Please note:  the above locations accept cash and check (made payable to Geneva Chamber).  This event may sell out.

Times to visit Santa (at his home at 10 S. Third St.), tickets for the Cocoa Crawl and reservations for Cocoa & Caroling on Campbell are open at genevachamber.com

Christmas in Geneva is magical right up to the big day.

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Geneva Chamber announces Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour

Santa lucia, the swedish symbol of the season, will offer swedish cookies to merry-makers.

The Geneva Chamber of Commerce has announced Geneva’s Christmas Walk and House Tour. Festivities begin Dec. 1, 2023 and last right up to Christmas. (Photo provided by Geneva Chamber of Commerce)

The Geneva Chamber of Commerce’s Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour will take place Dec. 1 and 2.

According to a news release from the Chamber, festivities begin at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, with Bob’s Candy Cane Parade and Graham’s Chocolates’ first candy cane of the season being presented with great fanfare, followed by the arrival of Santa Lucia – the Swedish symbol of the season – who will offer Swedish cookies to merrymakers.

Reservations to visit Santa at his home at 10 S. Third St. in Geneva can be made at genevachamber.com . Cost is $10 for a time slot.

While serenaded by carolers, families can stroll Geneva’s historic marketplace, nibble on fresh-roasted chestnuts and dodge into brightly lit shops and restaurants, according to the release.

The Holiday House Tour is from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 1 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 2. The house tour includes:

Unique standout : This 16-year-old home radiates friendliness and hospitality. At 4,500 square feet, it was built in 2007 by Shodeen Builders and the homeowners are one of the few original families still in the neighborhood, according to the release. The simplicity of the colors and lines complement the strong pillars, fun furnishings and unique windows, bringing a wow factor to the home. In 2019, the family remodeled the kitchen, master bath, stairs and trim in the foyer, making it a truly livable space for the family of six. The home is being decorated by Heinz Brothers Greenhouse Garden Center.

Exquisite estate : This 7,700-square-foot, seven-bedroom, 4.5-bath, southern charm-inspired home was built in 2003 by Havlicek Builders. It is overflowing with craftsmanship including detailed trim, cherry hardwood floors, moldings and many upgrades throughout the house. Twenty years of memories fill the walls and shelves. The home is being decorated by Little Red Barn Door and Plandscape.

Historic gem : This home was built in 1857 and at more than 160 years old, the craftsmanship is a testament to the past. The cottage, with its charming exterior and a history steeped in nostalgia, was an ideal choice for the owners to buy and create a short-term rental. The home is being decorated by Farmdog Flowers and Fox Valley Lighting.

Cozy cottage : Once upon a time in a small, picturesque town, nestled amid mature trees and steps away from a tranquil river, stood a beautiful cottage with Tudor-inspired architecture. This home, at just more than 2,500 square feet, was built by Hogan Design & Construction in 2021. The home is being decorated by 610 Home and Plandscape.

Custom home : Spectacular light graces this beautiful home that was made for entertaining and built in 2022 by Augustine Builders. A standout feature, the rain chain on the cedar columns allows for a breathtaking show of ice and rain. While it is 3,650 square feet, the family lovingly has added their personalities to make it a cozy home, including the photography talents of their son that are found in the foyer. The homeowners designed both the architectural and interior design plans. A color palette in the front, where one will see white with muted colors, differs from the black-and-white look in the back. The home is being decorated by Intentional Spaces and Lightville.

Contributors include Crystal Bride, Inluro, The Cottage Geneva, The Gift Box and The Little Traveler.

Tickets, which include a holiday tea and a special treat from Scentcerely Yours (while supplies last), are $38. Proceeds are used to decorate Geneva for the holiday season.

The event may sell out.

Buy tickets at the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, 8 S. Third St., or online at genevachamber.com . Call 630-232-6060 to preorder tickets. Tickets will not be on sale at the homes.

You also can buy tickets at the following locations in Geneva (unless indicated otherwise):

Cocoon, 212 S. Third St., 630-232-8340

Country Naturals, 316 Campbell St., 630-232-1172

Farmdog Flowers, 239 W. Wilson St., Batavia, 630-326-9432

Heinz Brothers Greenhouse, 2010 E Main St., St. Charles, 630-377-6288

Little Barn Baby, 15 S. Third St., 331-248-0568

Little Red Barn Door, 21 S. Third St., 630-402-0072

SG Geneva/Scentimental Gardens, 428 W. State St, 630-232-1303

These locations accept cash or check made payable to Geneva Chamber.

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Geneva christmas walk.

Fri, Dec 06 , 2024 • 6:00pm - 9:30pm

8 S Third St., Geneva, IL 60134

Christmas in Geneva begins Friday, December 6.

Santa Lucia arrives and Santa makes his Geneva debut to open his House. Enjoy carolers, the Great Tree lighting, roasted chestnuts, Swedish cookies, an old-fashioned candy cane pull, and holiday shopping. 6-6:30 pm Santa comes and the tree is lit.

• Eco Friendly
• Family friendly
• Pet Friendly

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Geneva Christmas Walk, Holiday House Tour usher in the season

Tradition and surprise. It would not be Christmas without them, and Geneva's Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour offer both.

Geneva begins the holiday season with the Christmas Walk on Friday, Dec. 3 and Holiday House Tour on Saturday, Dec. 3 and 4.

Christmas Walk

On Friday, events kick off at 6 p.m. with Graham's Chocolates' First Candy Cane of the season being presented with great fanfare followed by the arrival of Santa Lucia, the Swedish symbol of the season, who will offer Swedish cookies to merrymakers. The Christmas tree is lit and the Courthouse lawn becomes aglow. The young and young at heart will wait with anticipation as Santa Claus arrives. Santa will open his home for visits from excited children while All Chocolate Kitchen recreates their record-breaking candy cane.

Serenaded by carolers, families can stroll Geneva's historic marketplace, nibbling on fresh-roasted chestnuts, and dodging into brightly lit shops and restaurants along the way.

Visit with Santa continue on weekends through Dec. 19. Make your reservation at www.genevachamber.com/festivals-events/christmas-walk/ .

You can drop off letters at the North Pole post office on the Courthouse Lawn. If you enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope he will be sure and write back.

Holiday House Tour

Those who are not downtown might be touring holiday-decked homes during the Holiday House Tour, which runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 3 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4. A diversity of homes and the creativity of local designers make this event a special Geneva tradition.

The Farmhouse: A luminaria-lit path leads you to one of the many entrances for this 5,000 square foot home. Hospitality and cheerfulness are the first impressions you feel upon entering the 2018, four-bedroom house. Festively decorated by Heinz Brothers Greenhouse Garden Center with contributor Little Red Barn Door.

Architectural Beauty: Towering trees create a secluded garden for this 6,000 plus square foot home; that originally had a railroad trestle running through the property. Built-in 2006, a touch of Tuscany can be found throughout this five-bedroom, seven-bathroom home. The front doors, with wrought iron insets, welcome you inside. Festively decorated by Haven Interiors Studio and Platt Hill Nursery.

Custom Home: This home defines the phrase "great curb appeal." Brown paned windows glisten in the December sun. Warm wooden beams surround the covered porch where you can rock away any worries night or day. Festively decorated by Haven Design Group and Plandscape.

Captivating Ranch: This captivating ranch home was built in 1954. In 2015, the homeowners fully renovated and redesigned this 3,100 square foot home to its present beauty. Festively decorated by Geneva Design House by Strawflower.

Mid-Century Charmer: In a neighborhood where most of the homes were built in the 1950s and '60s, this midcentury ranch is no wallflower. The homeowners who purchased it in 2018 had the vision to restore it back to its 1962 splendor, but with present-day conveniences. Walking through the bright orange door, you know this house will be anything but "square." Festively decorated by Gatherings by Design and Plandscape.

Tickets, $35, include a holiday tea and a special treat from 360° Flavor & Spice or The Olive Mill (while supplies last). Proceeds are used to decorate Geneva for the holiday season.

Online sales have closed but you can purchase tickets at the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, 8 S. Third St., or at any of the following locations: Haven Interiors Studio, 15 S. Third St.; Heinz Brothers Greenhouse, 2010 E. Main St., St. Charles; Little Barn Baby, 207 S. Third St., No. 110; Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, 1308 Commons Drive; or SG Geneva/Scentimental Gardens, 428 W. State St. Check on www.genevachamber.com/festivals-events/holiday-house-tour/ to see if tickets are still available.

The above locations accept cash and checks made payable to Geneva Chamber. This event may sell out. Call the chamber at (630) 232-6060 to pre-order over the phone. Tickets will not be for sale at the homes.

Cocoa Crawl

On Dec. 11, take some time for the Cocoa Crawl. Visit 17 downtown Geneva businesses to sample some cocoa creations - some with a kick, must be 21 or older to taste. While you are in the holiday spirit, check out Carol on Campbell. This event includes hot cocoa and a goody bag for the children. Both events require reservations and can be purchased at genevachamber.com.

Visit www.genevachamber.com/festivals-events/christmas-walk/ .

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Naperville Magazine

Holiday House Tour

genevachamber.com

Location: Geneva, Geneva, IL 60134 Start Date/Time: December 02, 2022 - Varies by day End Date/Time: December 03, 2022

Geneva’s annual House Tour features five homes decorated for the holidays. Allow three to four hours for the self- guided driving tour. Enjoy a traditional tea served at First Congregational Church and treat from the Olive Mill or 360° Flavor & Spice (while supplies last). $38. Homes are open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

Download .ics file to add this event to your personal calendar .

Among the twinkling lights and fresh greenery-lined streets you will find Geneva, Illinois to be a holiday destination overflowing with comfort and charm. Dazzling window displays brimming with gift ideas invite visitors to stroll through our delightful establishments.  Historic Geneva serves as a picturesque backdrop for over 100 specialty shops, many nestled in vintage storefronts and charming Victorian-style homes.

The holiday house tour commences on December 1 & 2.  Five charming Geneva homes are aglow with holiday decorations.  The personality of each home will illuminate when local decorators and landscapers work with homeowners to create holiday magic.  As you self-guide through five homes, it may even seem that some are decorated by elves.   This ticketed event is a lovely way to explore Geneva and garner a peek into some of the lovely homes and families our town is lucky to have.    

The evening of December 1 begins with the arrival of Santa Lucia, the Swedish symbol of the season, offering Swedish cookies to merry-makers.  Young and young at heart will wait with anticipation as Santa Claus arrives and the Great Tree on the Courthouse lawn is lit.  Santa Claus will then open his home for visits from excited children.  Throughout the night, chestnuts are roasting over open fires, carolers are filling the night air with seasonal favorites and a live nativity scene is taking place.   Find yourself watching an old-fashioned candy cane pull, where lines waiting for the first candy canes begin early.

The festiveness continues weekends in December.   Hop on a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride.  As you tour downtown, you will feel the yuletide cheer of our town.  Or make a reservation to visit with the jolly old elf.  

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All season long, our award-winning restaurants, breweries, wineries, cafes and sweet stops are preparing delicious meals and yummy treats.   Or enjoy that holiday-time feeling of friendliness, familiarity and relaxation while dining outdoors.  While there might not be a fireplace, the hospitality will offer warmth enough.  Dining in Geneva is more than a meal, it is an experience, especially during the winter months.

With lights aglow on our Courthouse lawn, the spirit of Christmas comes alive and infuses us with smiles and optimism for 2024.   The holiday season in Geneva is overflowing with unique and unforgettable ways to celebrate.  We invite you to come and make your own memories.

To discover more and plan your visit, bookmark visitgenevail.com .  Browse the many pages of detailed information, including where to order a Geneva Visitor Guide.   

We look forward to welcoming you to make festive memories in Geneva, IL. 

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We extend our warmest welcome and invite you to experience the magic of our small town on the Fox River. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, connect with our history, and embrace the genuine hospitality of our residents. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, we’re certain that your time with us will create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

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Geneva christmas walk, holiday house tour: see what roads will close, police will use a law enforcement drone for real-time aerial monitoring during the christmas walk event happening in just a few days..

Emily Rosca , Patch Staff

GENEVA, IL — Several roads will be implemented to make room for Geneva's Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour Dec. 1-2, police announced.

The Christmas Walk will kick off with a tree-lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. Dec. 1, and in preparation, staff from the Geneva Police Department and Geneva Emergency Management Agency will shut down Third Street from State to South streets at 5 p.m. All intersections along Third Street will also close.

In light of the event, parking restrictions will also be enacted at 3 p.m. Dec. 1 throughout downtown Geneva. Roadways will reopen at the end of the Christmas Walk at 10 p.m.

Find out what's happening in Geneva with free, real-time updates from Patch.

Police officers and GEMA volunteers will be around downtown to help guests during the Christmas Walk. Officials said officers will also use a law enforcement drone for real-time aerial monitoring.

RELATED: Christmas Walk, Holiday House Tour Will Kick Off Geneva Holiday Season

Tours at the following houses will run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 1 and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 2.

• 406 S. River Lane
• 216 Campbell St.
• 585 S. Eighth St.
• Two homes in the Mill Creek subdivision in unincorporated Kane County

Parking restrictions will be in place on streets surrounding each destination within city limits to provide increased safety for pedestrians as well as the necessary clearance for emergency vehicles.

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