Lights on Creston returns, this time with reindeer!

On a December evening, when the light fades early and the air turns sharp, the Creston neighborhood has a way of brightening things up — literally. Lights on Creston returns Wednesday, Dec. 17, from 4 to 8 p.m., transforming the Plainfield corridor into a walkable winter celebration filled with music, art, shopping and unmistakable neighborhood spirit.

For locals, it’s become one of the most anticipated nights of the year, drawing families, longtime residents and first-time visitors into shops and gathering spaces that define Creston’s creative backbone.

“Lights on Creston is one of our favorite nights of the year,” said Alan Hartline, owner of Kingma’s Market. “Welcoming families for Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the reindeer is a joyful reminder of how special this corridor is—and how much our local businesses give back to the neighborhood.”

From Santa sightings to aerial performances, the event blends classic holiday charm with the offbeat creativity Creston is known for. Live reindeer and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus anchor the festivities at Kingma’s Market, while choirs and jam sessions bring music to Spencer Street. Along Coit Avenue, local artists and makers fill the Crestkindl Holiday Market with handmade goods, art and gifts that feel anything but ordinary.

One of the most eye-catching elements returns with Zeal Aerial Fitness, whose performers bring movement and artistry out of the studio and into the street.

“We love taking our art off the rig and into the neighborhood,” said Christina VanDam, owner of Zeal Aerial Fitness. “Performing in our community lets families experience movement, strength, and a little wonder up close—it’s a joyful reminder that creativity lives right here on our corridor.”

As guests wander the corridor, they’re encouraged to shop local, dine at neighborhood restaurants and explore the independent businesses that give Creston its character. A trolley service connects stops along the route, while hot cocoa and glühwein stations keep things cozy. A business map and bingo card add a playful incentive, with completed cards entered into a drawing for prizes from Creston businesses.

At its core, Lights on Creston is about more than twinkling lights and seasonal cheer. It’s a reminder of what can happen when a neighborhood shows up for itself.

“This event shows what happens when businesses, neighbors, and partners pull in the same direction,” said Nate Phillips, chair of the North Quarter/Creston Corridor Improvement Authority. “Lights on Creston is about connection—supporting small businesses, celebrating local creativity, and making our corridor shine.”

More than 40 businesses and organizations are participating this year, including Kingma’s Market, Black Cat Bodega, Boomtown Records, Great Matter Books, Graydon’s Crossing, Stonesthrow and Zeal Aerial Fitness, among many others. Window displays throughout the corridor compete in a decorating contest, with community voting hosted online.

For corridor organizers, the night captures the essence of Creston — collaborative, creative and deeply rooted in community.

“Lights on Creston is what happens when more than forty local businesses pull together—shops open their doors, artists share their craft, and neighbors show up for one another,” said Gregg Hampshire, corridor manager for the North Quarter/Creston Corridor Improvement Authority. “It’s community, collaboration, and holiday spirit all in one night.”

The event is made possible through the support of the Creston Corridor Improvement Authority, Creston Neighborhood Association, Kingma’s Market, 8THIRTYFOUR Integrated Communications and Zeal Aerial Fitness.

Participating Businesses