The festive season is fast approaching, bringing with it opportunities for communities to come together and spread cheer. To support local holiday light displays across northern Illinois, ComEd and the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus announced grants of up to $2,500 each for 24 northern Illinois communities through the annual ComEd Powering the Holidays Program. Since 2021, the Powering the Holidays grant program has celebrated the unique character of local communities by supporting holiday events that promote cultural exchange and foster inclusivity. With the latest 2024 grant recipients, ComEd has now provided a total of $172,000 in funding to 70 communities and organizations for holiday light displays since the program’s launch. Communities will use these grants to power holiday light events taking place between November 1, 2024 and February 13, 2025. Powering the Holidays is part of ComEd’s ongoing commitment to supporting holiday light events across Chicagoland including popular holiday attractions at Lincoln Park Zoo, Brookfield Zoo, The Morton Arboretum and Chicago Botanic Garden. A few of the 24 ComEd Powering the Holidays grant recipients and the programs to be supported are:
25th Ward Alderman Office (Chicago, Ill.) – The 25th Ward office, serving Little Village and Pilsen, will create a public light display for residents at the Plaza Tenochtitlán, which has a rich history and heavy foot traffic. Community organizations, schools and youth organizations will be involved in the event. The event will be held on December 7th, 2024.
Garfield Ridge Neighborhood Watch Annual Tree Lighting Event (Chicago, Ill.) – The event will include a Christmas tree, ice rink, toy giveaways, petting zoo, pony rides, raffles, Santa Claus and food trucks. Funds will go towards new lighting equipment, outreach mailers, a children’s scavenger hunt and stocking decorating. The event will be held on December 7th, 2024.
Humboldt Park Health Power of Community Holiday Lights (Chicago, Ill.) – Humboldt Park Health’s first annual tree lighting and toy drive at their new Wellness Center will reflect Puerto Rican holiday traditions. Funds will be used for trees, lights and ornaments. The event will be held on November 19th, 2024.
