Sean Korzo, 6, of Skokie sits on Santa's lap during a holiday fest in Krier Plaza in Skokie. The event was organized by the Independent Merchants of Downtown Skokie. | Ryan Pagelow~Sun-Times Media

Despite rain and no trace of seasonal snow, the Independent Merchants of Downtown Skokie Saturday celebrated the holidays with a grand festival in Krier Plaza. | Ryan Pagelow~Sun-Times Media

Independent Merchants of Downtown Skokie leaders (from right) President Randy Miles, Linda Bouvilom, Scott Holtz and Ann Tennes enjoy a holiday festival Saturday in Krier Plaza. | Ryan Pagelow~Sun-Times Media

Mark Johnson of Wonder Lake sculpts a carousel rocking horse out of ice during a holiday fest Saturday in Krier Plaza. | Ryan Pagelow~Sun-Times Media

A menorah is lit Saturday, the last day of Hanukkah, during a holiday fest Saturday in Krier Plaza in downtown Skokie. | Ryan Pagelow~Sun-Times Media

Liam Weinberg, 4, of Lincolnwood pets Snowflake the reindeer alongside his brother Noah, 6, during a holiday fest Saturday in downtown's Krier Plaza. | Ryan Pagelow~Sun-Times Media

Jonathan Weissinger, 3, of Skokie pets a reindeer named Snowflake Saturday during a holiday fest in Krier Plaza. | Ryan Pagelow~Sun-Times Media

Max Kramer, 6, of Skokie visits with Santa ( Layne LaPage of Wilmette) Saturday at Krier Plaza in downtown Skokie.The Independent Merchants of Downtown Skokie sponsored a holiday fest. | Ryan Pagelow~Sun-Times Media