Geneva Chamber announces Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour

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.