November 28, 2009 - It's the most wonderful time of the year and Countryside's annual Christmas Tree Lighting officially kicked-off the holiday season. Decked out in Christmas colors and warm coats, residents came from all over Chicago's western suburbs for caroling, hot cocoa and most of all, Santa.

Braving the cold by sipping steaming cups of hot cocoa, residents caroled joyfully and enjoyed the beautiful tree lighting ceremony. According to several attendees, the highlight of the evening was the chance to be photographed with Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrived together on a fire truck.
The event took place at Memorial Park in Countryside, at the corner of Plainfield Road and 55th Street.

Check out the video with some of the holiday fun in the area: