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As much as I love curling up on the couch with a fire to watch Christmas Vacation (for the 527th time), there’s nothing quite like watching a favorite holiday classic on the big screen. This year holiday traditions look a little different, but whether the screens are large or small there is fun to be had by all.

Holiday Drive-in Movies
12 December 6:30 pm Elf Movie Night – Drive-in
Hawthorn Mall outer lot near AMC
Families are invited to attend a special showing of the holiday film “Elf”. Tickets cost $5 per family, and advance registration is required to ensure compliance with Illinois occupancy requirements. Cars can arrive as early as 5:30 p.m.

Virtual Holiday Performances
5 December 7:30 p.m. Tidings & Traditions
Hosted by The Kirk Players
“The Gift of the Magi” is a short story by O. Henry first published in 1905. This classic story is about a young couple and their quest to give one another a truly special gift, despite having very little money. It is a tale of true love, giving and true holiday spirit.
9 December 1-2:00 p.m. ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
Hosted by the Ela Area Public Library
Registration required, beginning December 1
The fascinating story of this classic poem chimes to life as shared by Martina Mathisen in this live program via Zoom. You’ll also learn more about other American holiday traditions. Educational Entertainer and an Ela Library favorite, Martina Mathisen returns in full costume to bring another live program via Zoom.
14 December 10:00 a.m. Ebenezer Duke
Hosted by the Ela Area Public Library
Ebenezer Duke is an original mini-musical based on Charles Dicken’s A Christmas Carol. This pre-recorded program is great for all ages, especially families looking to do something fun and festive together this holiday season! No registration required. The link to the program will be available starting at 10 a.m. on December 14 and ends at 9 p.m. on December 28.
16 December 7:00 p.m. Yuletide Tales
Hosted by Gorton Center, tickets required, $10
A holiday show with six storytellers headlined by Matt Dicks, storyteller extraordinaire, who has won 51 Moth StorySLAMS & five Moth GRANDSLAMS! The stories will be 7 minutes each and will be comedic about Christmas and other holiday themes. Escape into a show filled with laughter and fun and full of holiday cheer.
23 December 10:00 a.m. A Charlie Brown Christmas
Hosted by the Fox Lake District Library
Celebrate the 55th Anniversary of this holiday classic with a look behind the scenes at the making of the special. The pre-recorded video will be available on Facebook and YouTube.
What’s your family’s favorite holiday movie?
Find more Christmas events and activities at Christmas in Lake County.
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