This Illinois City Is Perfect For A Last-Minute Vacation Full Of Christmas Festivities

If you're still deciding where to go for a Christmas getaway, one Illinois city has you covered. Whether you want to stroll past historic homes decked out for the season, pop into cozy shops for last-minute gifts, or enjoy a festive concert, you can't beat Jacksonville, Illinois. With its well-preserved downtown and wide-open plaza perfect for gatherings, Jacksonville could easily pass for a charming place named Christmasville in a Hallmark movie.

Jacksonville is a small town, around 3.5 hours from Chicago and just 1.5 hours from St. Louis, making it perfect for a weekend escape from either city or a delightful addition to a Midwest Christmas road trip. Festivities run throughout the season, so whenever you visit, there will be something Christmassy to add to your itinerary.

One of the main draws is the Jacksonville Festival of Lights, a twinkling drive-thru display open Thursdays through Sundays through most of December. Held at the Morgan County Fairgrounds, the displays will delight visitors of all ages. Certain evenings offer walk-thrus if you'd prefer to be dazzled on-foot.

Try to visit Jacksonville on the weekend to make the most of its festive calendar of events. In 2025, December 12 sees a Live Nativity in the town square, complete with actors, real animals, and beloved carols. A day later, Christmas Songs and Bells at the Rammelkemp Chapel promises a rousing performance by the Symphony Chorale and Orchestra and a renowned handbell group, plus a visit from Santa. Afterward, families could head to Santa at the Mansion, where they'll find the Clauses, cookies, and carols. The atmospheric three-story Governor Duncan Mansion, built in the early-19th century, provides an ideal backdrop for a traditional holiday outing.

If you're interested in the historical side of Jacksonville, on December 19, the Governor Duncan Mansion opens for a candlelight tour. Like many of the town's events, you can get tickets at the door, great for a spontaneous vacation. That weekend also sees late opening hours at The Peddler's Antiques, where you can pick up unique Christmas gifts, a Christmas Movie Trivia Night on Saturday, and a Holiday Drag Show on Sunday.

Between events, visitors have much to discover around town. The Jacksonville Area Museum is a fascinating stop to learn about local history, and the Jacksonville African American History Museum offers an insight into the town's connection to the Underground Railroad, as well as a broader look at African American heritage in the area. Simply wandering the streets is a pleasure, and you can give your stroll a mission by seeking out the brightly colored Walldog Murals that adorn many city buildings. Find a map here.

If you're staying overnight in Jacksonville, consider a bed and breakfast. Blessings on State and Villa DeWolf are situated in the historic district, and offer guests cozy fireplaces, beautifully decorated rooms, and a warm welcome. Both earn glowing reviews from visitors, with one calling Villa DeWolf "simply magical," and another giving Blessings on State "10 out of 5 stars."

If these are booked, you'll find many other options around town, including several chain hotels and motels. Most visitors will arrive by car, but the downtown area is pleasantly walkable, so you can park at your accommodation and explore mainly on-foot.

It won't come as a surprise to learn that winters can be downright freezing in Jacksonville, and you might even get a dusting of snow. But that's the kind of weather you crave for a Christmassy getaway, right? Dig out your boots, sweaters, and scarves, and check our guide to packing for cold weather to make sure you stay toasty while enjoying holiday festivities.