JACKSONVILLE, Ill. (WICS) — One of the world’s tallest Advent calendars is set to return to downtown Jacksonville for the 2025 holiday season.
Farmers State Bank and Trust Company has again transformed its 110-foot historic building into a 24-day Christmas countdown, with each window revealing a seasonal image from Dec. 1 to Dec. 24. This year’s display will highlight both historic and current local industries, along with traditional holiday themes.
As part of the celebration, visitors can stop inside the bank lobby during business hours for a daily sweet treat. The first window reveal is scheduled for Dec. 1 at 4:45 p.m., accompanied by the Illinois College drumline.
The idea for the giant calendar was inspired in part by Uelzen, Germany, a longtime exchange partner with Jacksonville. Resident Patrick Kennedy proposed the concept in 2022 after noticing the building had the perfect number of windows.
The display will remain lit each night through Jan. 5, 2026. Artwork descriptions will be available on the bank’s Facebook page.
“We’re thrilled to offer this tradition once again and be part of downtown Jacksonville’s holiday celebrations,” bank president Joy French Becker said.
Farmers State Bank is located at 200 West State Street and overlooks Jacksonville’s Central Park. The lobby is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.