It's officially the time of year where I am chomping at the bit for the Christmas season to begin. I don't feel right totally Christmasfying my house until after the turkey has been digested, but I'm more than willing to soak in all the holiday cheer that I can. That being said, I'm pretty sure I need to take my family into Chicago this weekend to check out the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival.

The festival kicks off Friday at Pioneer Court (401 N Michigan Ave.) with several family-friendly activities and a visit from Santa Claus himself. The fun continues Saturday with all kinds of holiday fun and special offers at numerous stops and shops along the Magnificent Mile, plus the BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival tree-lighting parade kicks off at 5:30 p.m.

If you are planning to go watch the parade, here's some suggestions from the Chicago Tribune to help you make the most of your festival experience:

Where to watch: Organizers recommend that viewers watch the parade on the east side of Michigan Avenue near the northern end of the parade route. The fireworks display will be best viewed from along Wacker Drive.

Wheelchair access: Plaza of the Americas (just north of the Wrigley Building on the west side of Michigan Avenue) is the recommended spot for those using wheelchairs to observe the parade and fireworks.

Ready to really get excited to see the parade? Here's some highlights from last year...

 


 

Catch Lil Zim on ‘Q98.5 Mornings with Lil Zim & JB’ on Q98.5 from 5:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Follow her on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook


 

More From Rockford's New Country Q98.5