SantaCon in Aurora, IL

There is an event page for Aurora, but its date is not confirmed in our data, so we do not want to guess. Check the Aurora event page for the latest status, since it is the source for scheduling. Cities with confirmed dates on our list fall on Saturdays in December, but that does not set Aurora's date. Hold off on non-refundable travel until a date is confirmed.

Costumes are the point: think Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves or anything holiday-themed that you can move around in. Dress for the cold with insulated boots, warm socks and a costume that works with a winter jacket. Comfortable shoes matter because you will be walking between bars. Test the outfit at home so you know it stays put.

Bar crawls are built around alcohol service, and the legal drinking age in Illinois is 21, so expect a 21+ crowd. Individual bars can set stricter entry rules than the law requires. Arriving with your ID in hand speeds up the line. Do not lend your ID to anyone, since it will not work for them.

The start location and bar list are best confirmed on the event page; we will not guess at venues for Aurora. Venue lists can change, so look again closer to the event date. Plan parking or a rideshare around the start information once it is posted. Ask your group to pick a backup meeting spot in case you get separated.

Expect a costume-heavy holiday bar crawl: Santa suits, elf outfits and plenty of red and green as the crowd heads from bar to bar. The idea started in San Francisco in 1994 and has since spread to cities across the country. For specifics about Aurora, including what a ticket covers, read the event page. Arrive curious and costumed, and the rest tends to take care of itself.

The best source is the event page for SantaCon Aurora, which is where ticketing details would be posted. Buy only through the checkout link shown there so you know you are paying the right organizer. Be cautious with third-party resale listings. Compare any bundle options only after confirming the date matches your plans.

Other Illinois cities on our list with dates: Chicago (Dec 19). Each city has its own event page with its own details. Traveling for the night? Plan lodging and a way home first. If you are driving, look at parking and rideshare options near the start point.