The newly dedicated Doug Oberhelman Caterpillar Visitors Center (CVC) will kick off the holiday season with a lighting ceremony on November 14th at 10am. This year’s display will feature a fully decorated D6 track-type tractor, along with two rare antique machines. The sound of carols sung by the Caterpillars Employee Mixed Chorus will help guests get into the holiday spirit—and there’s even an opportunity to win an annual pass to the Visitors Center: just guess how many lights are in the display. “The amount… may surprise you,” hints CVC manager Susan Morton.
The lighting ceremony is a new tradition for Caterpillar; the event featured a motor grader last year. “We couldn’t wait to do it again this year with our track-type tractor,” explains Morton. “We’ll have even more lights this year!”
The public is also encouraged to check out the “Soup and Sweets” luncheon on November 24th. In partnership with PACE (Peoria Area Community Events), Santa Claus will park his sleigh in front of the building after the Santa Claus Parade, and spend two hours taking photos with guests. Tickets include lunch and an express pass for a family picture with Santa. General admission ticketholders will also have access to Saint Nick, but must wait in line.
Morton is thrilled to watch the community enjoy the festivities again. “It was fun to see so many people coming to take their holiday photo… and even better seeing all the pictures begin to pop up in newsletters and Facebook posts and on people’s Christmas cards.” Information about all Caterpillar holiday exhibits is available at visitcaterpillar.com. a&s
