With Thanksgiving right around the corner, we know what you’re thinking: What can the family do to get out of the house and stay active? Two words: Naper Lights.

This Naperville tradition opens on November 26 and runs through December 27, including during the Thanksgiving holiday. Hours are every day from 4 to 9 PM. Admission is free, making Naper Lights the perfect activity for kids, grandparents, and out-of-town relatives and friends.

Naper Lights has been a part of the community for seven years and counting. Thousands of holiday lights and animated displays turn the Riverwalk into a holiday wonderland with music. Naper Lights draws plenty of visitors, so we put together a guide to help you and family get the most out of the experience.

How to Get to Naper Lights

Naper Lights has a new location for 2019. The main entrance is across the street from the Naperville Municipal Center on Aurora Avenue in downtown Naperville. Naper Lights is also accessible from the Riverwalk.

Where to Park

The best strategy is to try the Water Street Parking Garage first. There are 400 spaces there. If that lot is full, head to the nearby municipal parking decks. Live within walking distance? Bundle up and walk there to skip parking hassles!

When to Go and What to Bring

Hours are from 4 to 9 PM from November 26 to December 27. Dress warmly! Bring along a thermos of something hot.

Dogs and other pets are allowed on Water Street and Naperville’s Riverwalk. Pets must be leashed, of course.

Where to Get a Hot Drink

Naper Lights is located along the Riverwalk within walking distance to restaurants and cafes in downtown Naperville. Our pick for a hot drink is Sparrow Coffee at 120 Water Street Suite 110.

• Sparrow Coffee is located on the south side of the river next to the Indigo Hotel entrance.
• Free parking is behind the café.
• Open 6 AM to 8 PM Sunday through Thursday
• Open 6 AM to 9 PM Friday and Saturday
• Christmas Eve hours 6 AM to 4 PM. Closed on Christmas Day.

Check out the directory at Water Street Downtown Naperville for a complete list of eateries. Be sure to call ahead to check Thanksgiving holiday hours.

Naper Lights Donations Are Welcome!

Naper Lights is a free event organized by the Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise. Donations are welcome!
You can donate to Naper Lights online at https://naperlights.com/donate.

At john green Realtor, we Live and Love Local! Check out our Guide to Living in Naperville. We’re local experts for finding a home in Chicago’s western suburbs with offices in Naperville, Hinsdale, and Oswego.