12/08/2025
Peoria… we’re blown away once again. 🎄
This weekend, the fourth annual Christmas in the Village welcomed over 12,500 guests to the Riverfront, which still feels unreal! What unfolded over these two days was nothing short of extraordinary: families bundled up together, kids racing toward Santa with wide eyes, vendors greeting guests with joy, carolers filling the air with music, and thousands of tiny moments that made the Village glow brighter than ever before. ✨
To our Christmas Angel Presenting Sponsors, Doug & Diane Oberhelman and Cullinan Properties: your belief in this event from the very beginning is the reason this tradition has grown into what it is today. And to our full family of sponsors, vendors, performers, community partners, and the incredible team behind the scenes: thank you for pouring your heart and talent into every detail. The Village simply could not exist without you. 🫶
When we launched this event in 2022, our hope was simple: bring Peoria together, create a little Christmas magic, and support the Museum’s Every Student Initiative to support access to hands-on learning and unforgettable experiences.
Watching more than 12,500 people walk through the Village this weekend… watching the tree light up against the night sky… watching families discover wonder in all the corners of the Museum… it reminded us exactly why we do this. ✨
To everyone who visited, volunteered, donated, performed, shopped local, or helped spread the joy—thank you for making this year the most memorable yet. Your presence and support mean far more than you know.
With love and deep gratitude,
Alison Unkovich, Event Chair
