Naperville, IL -

The year 2006 will be the most memorable one since the Naper brothers arrived in the area back in 1831. Plan to start the year off by joining in the fun New Year's Day as the City of Naperville kicks off its 175^th anniversary celebration in a blaze of light, color and sound. The theme of the 175^th anniversary is "Heritage, Unity and Vision" with the first events tied into the theme of heritage.

Become acquainted with Naperville's heritage from 1 to 5 p.m. on Jan. 1, by visiting Naper Settlement, a 19th century outdoor museum village, located at Aurora Avenue and Webster Street, with a special admission price of $1.75.  The village will be alive with activity to commemorate the 175th year of the founding of Naper's Settlement. Visit with costumed interpreters in the historic homes and businesses, including a working blacksmith and print shop, a fort, one-room schoolhouse and a Victorian mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Beginning at 1:30 p.m., learn about Victorian customs in the upper level of Century Memorial Chapel from Ann Lord and Vicki Keller who will portray two Victorian ladies. Lyrics will be provided so visitors can sing along. Beginning at 2 p.m., tours of the Civil War-era chapel will begin and will be offered every hour.

Captain Joseph Naper and his wife, Almeda, make a return appearance especially for the 175th anniversary. Longtime Naperville residents Eldon and Madeline Hatch will portray the pioneer couple at 1 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:15 p.m. in the Pre-Emption House Tavern.

Peg Yonker will portray Hannah Ditzler Alspaugh, whose diaries have provided an intimate look at the life and times of a growing town from the Civil War to the turn of the century. Ms. Yonker will perform this popular program, which is also offered through Naper Settlement's Speaker's Bureau, at 2:45 p.m., 3:15 p.m. and 3:45 p.m. in the Pre-Emption House Tavern.

The New Year is a time for making resolutions, but how about making a paper Conestoga wagon and filling it with good intentions for the upcoming year. Visitors will be able to make their own "Wagon of Wishes" in the Meeting House upper and lower levels.

Hot drinks, cookies and sweets will be available in the lower level of Century Memorial Chapel and in the Pre-Emption House Tavern.

For more information about $1.75 Day at Naper Settlement, call (630) 420-6010. This project has been supported in part by a grant from the City of Naperville's Culture Fund.

At 5:30 p.m., the Electric Parade will step off from the Municipal Center. Each of the floats or vehicles will be adorned with glittering lights. The parade, sponsored by the Naperville Jaycees and the 175th Anniversary Heritage Committee, will wind through the downtown area.

Following the parade the night sky will be brought to light at 7:30 p.m. with a 35-minute fireworks display, synchronized to music from the last 175 years, which will be broadcast live by 95.9 The River.

Appropriately enough, a Carillon concert following the fireworks will include selections from the Royal Fireworks Suite by Handel and other vibrant music.

 

In the downtown area, restaurants and businesses remain open with special events planned to coincide with the kickoff celebration. Look for the blue and white 175th anniversary flags flying outside participating businesses. From 3 to 8:30 p.m., a selection of street vendors also will be located throughout downtown Naperville. Several area mascots, including the Harris Bank Lion and McGruff the Crime Dog, will be on hand to celebrate the historic occasion with Naperville's youngsters.

For more information about any of the 175th anniversary events on Jan. 1 or throughout the year, visit the Web site at www.naper175.org or call the 175th hotline at (630) 305-5368.