Late-er Night Thursday
holiday_markets_and_shopping

Artistic rendering – Event may differ

Late-er Night Thursday

Discover unique holiday gifts and festive cheer during Late-er Night Thursday on Central Street. Many local shops extend their hours until 7 PM, offering special promotions and treats. Enjoy activities like a Gingerbread House Workshop, Santa meet-and-greets, and even pet photos with Santa. Free parking is available through January 1, 2025, making it easy to support local businesses.

What to Expect

Extended holiday shopping hours with local business promotions.

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$
  • Parking: Free parking is available through January 1, 2025, with up to two hours of free parking daily. Use the Park Evanston App and enter code 'Holiday2024'. Offer valid once per day per account.
  • Pets: Pet-friendly for photos with Santa

Other Christmas Events Near Evanston

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Holiday shopping and family activities

Vibe

Festive and community-oriented

Energy Level

Low to medium

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Special Events & Promotions

  • Gingerbread House Workshop at Backlot Coffee ($55, reservation required)
  • Santa Meet & Greet at Parlor On Central
  • Furry friend photos with Santa at Follow Your Nose
  • In-store gaming at Heroines & Heroes
  • Special curated six packs of beer at Beer on Central
  • 20% off ornaments and sale items at Gracie's
  • 50% off a year membership at Heaven Meets Earth Yoga
  • Mack’s Scratch-off Ticket with $20 purchase at Mack's Bike & Goods
  • 25% off holiday PJs and shirts at Maya Papaya & Tony Macarony
  • $95.00 pair of glasses at MyeyeDr.
  • 20% off holiday houses, pillows, and trees at Notice
  • 20% sale on everything (except gift cards, classes, workshops) at Sew On Central
  • Build your own Christmas gift box for $20 at Shower Blooms
  • 20% off clothing at Stella
  • 20% off all original art at Storm Print City
  • 20% off the store at The Alchemist's Wife
  • 25% off ALL HOLIDAY DECOR and 30% off everything else at Then Again
  • Free hot cocoa at The Spice House
  • 25% off everything in the store at YWCA Shop For Good
  • 10% off all gift items at Walsh Natural Health
  • Free tray of chips and salsa and holiday cookies with purchase receipt at Comida Cantina
  • Free cookie with warm drink purchase at Great Harvest Bread Company
  • Buy one hot fudge sundae get one free at Hartigan's Ice Cream Shoppe
  • Free Cucumber Salad, Thai Ice tea or Thai Ice coffee with order over $30 at Pinto Thai Kitchen
  • Drink specials and Christmas ale at The Fat Shallot

Tags

holiday shoppingfamily friendlySanta visitsfestive foodcommunity celebrationlocal shoppingfree eventseasonal activitiesholiday tradition

Location

Central Street
Evanston, IL

Event Details

Duration

Until 7 PM

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Central Street

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Central Street Evanston

Food & Drink

Treats or beverages served while shopping, food trucks, and dining promotions available.

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Download the Park Evanston App and use code 'Holiday2024' for up to two hours of free daily parking through January 1, 2025.
  • Email emily@backlotcoffee.com in advance to reserve your $55 Gingerbread House Workshop kit.
  • Check the 'Shopping Promotions' and 'Dining Promotions' sections for specific deals and offers from individual businesses.
  • Arrive early for Santa meet-and-greets at Parlor On Central and Follow Your Nose, as they are popular attractions.
  • Consider visiting multiple businesses to take advantage of various discounts and special offers, such as 'buy 3 get 1 free' ornaments or percentage discounts on clothing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Late-er Night Thursday?

Many shops will be staying open until 7 PM on December 12, 2024.

Is parking available?

Yes, the City of Evanston offers free parking for up to two hours daily through January 1, 2025, when using the Park Evanston App with code 'Holiday2024'.

What activities are available?

Activities include a Gingerbread House Workshop, Santa meet-and-greets, pet photos with Santa, and in-store gaming.

How much does the Gingerbread House Workshop cost?

The Gingerbread House Workshop kit costs $55 and requires advance reservation by emailing emily@backlotcoffee.com.

Are there any special dining offers?

Yes, participating restaurants are offering various promotions, such as free chips and salsa with a purchase receipt, free cookies with a warm drink, and drink specials.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Nov 2, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team

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