If you haven’t been to Allerton Park in the Winter time, I would highly recommend it, especially after the show has fallen.
Today, the park has announced a lighted wellness walk to accompany a slew of other Winter events, which are sure to get you in the holiday spirit, including the Monticello High School madrigal singers (of which I am an alumnus, fun fact) at a free kickoff event tomorrow night, as well as a Holiday Showcase on December 10th – 12th.
For more information on specifics, check out Allerton’s press release below:
Allerton seasonal events expand to include lighted wellness walk
Monticello – In addition to Allerton’s annual holiday festivities, this year visitors will be able to experience the Park after dark during its All is Bright event, featuring the Kirby Winter Wellness Walk. All winter events will be held at the estate, 515 Old Timber Road, Monticello.
With the support of Kirby Medical Center, Allerton has illuminated a walk from the Mansion parking lot to the Visitor Center (approx. half-mile round-trip), which will be open after the Park typically closes, 5-8pm, every Tuesday-Saturday from December 1 until January 15. For the past two years, Allerton staff has concentrated on decorating the courtyard outside the Mansion, but knew eventually they’d like to expand the lighted area to highlight specific aspects of the Park’s unique gardens and sculptures.
“This year we’re focusing on showcasing Robert Allerton’s original designs and giving the visitor a different experience than they have during the day,” explained Allerton’s Associate Director Derek Peterson. “Kirby’s support really made it possible for us to get this idea off the ground.”
Kirby Medical Center was eager to be involved and help the community stay moving this winter, while highlighting a local attraction.
“Staying active is important year-around and can be especially hard in the winter time,” Kirby’s CEO Steve Tenhouse explained. “We are proud to support the Wellness Walk at Allerton and hope people come out, get moving, and enjoy what Allerton has to offer!”
After visiting Longwood Gardens (Philadelphia, PA) and the Morton Arboretum (Lisle, IL), Peterson was further inspired to continue to grow the event in the future.
“With enough community support and attendance, we’re looking at adding more unique lighting displays, pairing the lights with music, and keeping it open for more of the winter season,” Peterson said.
The All is Bright Kick Off is December 1, and will feature live music from the Monticello High School Madrigals and the Angelus Bell Choir from Grace Methodist Church in Urbana. Artists from the Monticello Area Arts Council will lead a natural ornament-making workshop in the Mansion, and there will be complimentary snacks and warm drinks in the Visitor Center. (Pre-register online.) The Walk and Kick Off event are free, but donations are appreciated.
For those who prefer to see the Park in daylight, the Holiday Showcase will run December 10-12 from 10am-4pm each day. Tickets are on-sale for the Showcase, which features booths from local businesses and artists, tours of the decorated Mansion, reservations for a buffet lunch, and carriage rides. Limited tickets remain for Sweets with Santa on December 18, featuring a visit with Santa, a story with Mrs. Claus, crafts, and treats.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Allerton.illinois.edu or call 217-333-3287.