Joy & Light: A Holiday Celebration in Bronzeville

Saturday, November 29 | 2:30-4:30p

Ahead Academy Studio | 330 E. 51st Street

Join us for the Joy & Light Festival, a community holiday celebration in the heart of Bronzeville -- With Santa!

We will close the evening with a tree lighting ceremony and remarks from Alderwoman Dowell, honoring the power of community care and local leadership.

Check out the lineup of activities and stations:

Holiday Photos with Black Santa | 3–4 pm

Bring the family and come take free professional photos with Black Santa. Kids can share their wishes, and families can take home a special holiday keepsake. Everyone is welcome.

Ornament Decorating | 3–4 pm

Make something festive to take home. We will have simple, hands-on crafts for kids and adults, so you can create together and start a new tradition.

Lego Ornament Building

Stop by The Chi Is Elite’s studio and build your own custom Lego ornament. Kids can get creative and walk away with something they made themselves. And maybe snag a cute shirt!

Food from Beats Sneaks & Eats

Grab great food from our neighbors at Beats Sneaks & Eats. Come eat, relax, and enjoy good company.

Cookies and Cocoa Station

Warm up at our hot chocolate bar with candy canes, marshmallows, whipped cream, and other fun toppings. We will also have a cookie decorating station where kids can add frosting and sprinkles to make their own holiday treat.

Tree Lighting | 4:25 pm

Close out the afternoon with our community tree lighting at sunset. We will count down together and officially kick off the holiday season with joy and light.

We cannot wait to celebrate with you!

Oh, and this event is FREE!

Everyone’s welcome! Especially:

• Families looking for something fun and free to do together
• Kids who love crafts, lights, and holiday magic
• Parents and caregivers who want a safe, joyful space to celebrate
• Neighbors who want to connect and support local events

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Ahead Academy