The following events are held each year in Downtown Crystal Lake and draw visitors from far and wide. Check our calendar for exact dates and times.

Slidewalk sales downtown Crystal Lake
January

Slidewalk Sales

A winter version of a traditional sidewalk sale. Stores in the downtown area offer special discounts. It’s a great time of year to score a deal so slide on down!

February

Have a Heart Food Drive

Hunger is an issue every minute of every hour of every day.  In order to combat this issue, many of your favorite downtown merchants are hosting a “Have a Heart Food Drive” in order to stock the shelves of the Crystal Lake Food Pantry.

Flower sale downtown Crystal Lake
May

Garden Party and Flower Sale

Celebrate Spring with us and get some gorgeous flowers for your special Mother’s Day gifts simultaneously. What better way to welcome spring than a magical day in Downtown Crystal Lake? Enjoy live music, charming window displays, a craft show and more!

June – September

Farmers Market

The Crystal Lake Farmers Market is a family-friendly market. Bring the whole family for some great food, fun, and activities/crafts for the kids!

Sidewalk Sales and Ladies Night Out downtown Crystal Lake
July

Sidewalk Sales

A bargain hunter’s delight! Merchants set up tables full of great merchandise at great prices. Guaranteed to be something for everyone! Rain or Shine!

Johnny Appleseed Festival
September

Johnny Appleseed Festival

Our biggest event of the year held on the last Saturday of September. A great family event with rides, games, food vendors, crafts and more!

Great Ball Race downtown Crystal Lake
September

The Great Ball Race

This fun and exciting raffle is held at the Johnny Appleseed Festival.  Brightly colored plastic balls will be numbered to correspond with the numbers on the raffle tickets. The balls are released and “rolled” down Brink Street. The fastest ball wins!

October

Halloween Handout

Trick or Treat in Downtown Crystal Lake! Participating merchants throughout Downtown Crystal Lake open their doors to invite costumed children 12 and under to receive a treat.

Festival of Lights Parade Crystal Lake
November

Festival of Lights Parade

Held on the Friday after Thanksgiving, The Festival of Lights Parade is the traditional start to the season when Santa Claus comes to town and the lighting of the community Christmas tree! The evening is filled with lights, music, pageantry, and a little magic!

November

Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday is a BIG deal in Downtown Crystal Lake.  It’s a great reason to stroll our historic downtown, shop our uniques stores, dine in one of the many restaurants and support your community.

Santa House
November – December

Santa House

Santa is in residence in Downtown Crystal Lake! Now is your chance to visit with Santa, tell him what you want for Christmas and take a family photo to cherish. This is a free event!

Christmas Tree Lane
November – December

Christmas Tree Lane

Imagine…Depot Park filled with beautiful Christmas Trees, decorated by local organizations and businesses! Grab some hot chocolate and stroll through the display. This is a free family event!