FREE

Families are invited to help decorate the official Community Holiday Tree starting at noon by bringing home-made ornaments crafted from natural or recycled materials. Kids bringing an ornament will receive $2 off coupons for "It's a Wonderful Life: A Radio Play" at The Hemmens. The tree lighting takes place at 5 p.m., with Santa's arrival and a performance by the Elgin Children's Chorus. Other activities include ornament-making on the lower level of The Hemmens and free skating at City-Skate from noon-9 p.m. The Salvation Army will be giving out free hot chocolate and accepting non-perishable food donations.