Here’s what we have in store this season:

This year, we’re blending the magic of the holiday season with themes of family, community, and support for Black-owned small businesses. With your partnership, we can extend our reach to community residents, corporate leaders, and officials, raising awareness about creative ventures in Bronzeville. We’re creating a safe, welcoming space for sharing journeys, celebrating resilience, and encouraging creative expression, all while supporting local businesses and boosting the community’s economy.

Partnering with Small Businesses: Fall in Love with Local

• Family Shopping Passport
  Shoppers are encouraged to “fall in love with local” by exploring a variety of onsite vendors. Each purchase earns a passport stamp, and completed passports can be entered into a raffle for family-friendly prizes, such as gift baskets and tickets to community events.

• Family Fun Zone
  Our pop-up stations feature games, face painting, and craft tables where kids can make holiday cards and gifts for loved ones.

• Warm Wishes Gate Walk
  As attendees stroll along 35th and King Drive, they’ll encounter beautifully themed gate displays featuring local business decor and artist creations celebrating family, togetherness, and the warmth of the season.

Embracing New and Old Traditions: Love Local, Shop Small

• Historic Tree Lighting Ceremony
  Sponsored by The Bud Billiken Parade, The Chicago Defender Charities, My Block My Hood My City, and additional generous sponsors. The ceremony will feature a live DJ and performances from dancers, singers, poets, and entertainers. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and for the community to gather and show their love for Bronzeville!

Families Supporting Small Business

• Holiday Cheer Kits
  Free kits for families featuring “Shop Small” stickers, holiday postcards, and Bronzeville-branded or locally made ornaments to encourage displaying pride for local businesses at home.

Together, let’s make this holiday season one of joy, community, and support for Bronzeville’s local businesses!