By Deena Sherman –
December is one of the best times of the year to live in Aurora. We mix the best of universal holiday traditions with some unique Aurora area attractions. From Phillips Park to Blackberry Farm, there are fun things to do across the City.
One of my favorite places on earth is the William and Anna Tanner House at the corner of Oak and Cedar Streets. Nothing gets individuals into the holiday spirit better than a Victorian Era mansion decorated for Christmas. Each year groups and individuals adopt rooms in a friendly competition. Visitors vote on their favorites and it is always a difficult choice.
This year the downstairs bedroom will have a “Frozen” theme for Disney princess fans. The parlor will have a vintage photography theme, where visitors can use the photo booth for selfies, thanks to Mary Clark Ormond.
Scott Sherwood, and Bill Walsh are usually the instigators of slightly irreverent, humorous fun involving jolly old Saint Nick. This year they give us food for thought concerning his elves in their library display.
Rachel Rose Bee, a new Aurora Historical Society volunteer, has stepped up to create a gingerbread house modeled after the Tanner House! Those in attendance can experience all the fun through December 30, Wednesdays and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Fridays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m..
Another of my favorite traditions in Aurora is the Riverfront Playhouse’s rendition of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Although the original story is heartwarming, it’s even better told by thieving gypsies! This true Aurora original was written by the late Jack Schultz, whose talent and wit are greatly missed. Those who have never seen it, should get tickets quickly before those of us who have made it a family tradition for the past quarter century snap them all up. Just remember to hang on to your valuables when gypsies are dancing. The show will run Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. December 14-23. Call 630-897-9496 for tickets.
I have not seen the lights at Phillips Park since my children were small, but this year we have a new grandbaby to enjoy them. The city government of Aurora and Aurora Noon Rotary always put up a thrilling display and I particularly want to see “Old Man Winter” blowing snowflakes. This magnificent drive-through display is open every evening until the day after Christmas and it is free!
Those who live in Aurora, I’m sure, have their favorite places to go during December. I hope you’ll stop and visit some of mine.