Encore: The History Of Urbana’s Candlestick Lane
Homes in one east Urbana neighborhood celebrate the holidays along the route known as Candlestick Lane in 2015. Darrell Hoemann/Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting
For one east Urbana neighborhood, the Christmas season means more than time with family and exchanging gifts. There’s also a sense of pride up and down the street when it comes to showing off holiday spirit on the front lawn, the porch, and maybe even the roof. 53 years ago, Charlie Halpin’s family helped start the tradition known as Candlestick Lane.
Last year, Halpin talked with Illinois Public Media’s Jeff Bossert about what began as a utility company’s decorating competition.
The route includes Grant Place, and parts of Eastern and Fairlawn Drives. Homes in that area are lit from about 5 to 10 each evening through New Year’s Eve.