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Good morning, Coles County.
It’s Friday, November 28, the day after Thanksgiving and officially a state holiday in Illinois, so some things are still closed while everyone eases into the long weekend.
Here’s what you need to know in Mattoon & Charleston today and a look into the future holiday festivities planned.
Let’s get to it.
THE CURRENT (Top Stories)
CLOSURES & SCHEDULES
GOVERNMENT & COURTS
Illinois state offices – Closed today as part of the two-day Thanksgiving holiday (Thursday + Friday).
Coles County – The county holiday calendar lists “Day Following Thanksgiving Day – Nov. 28, 2025”, so expect county offices and the courthouse to be closed.
Mattoon DMV (Secretary of State facility) – Closed Thursday, Nov. 27 and Friday, Nov. 28 for the holiday.
SCHOOLS
Most schools in the area follow the typical Thanksgiving break schedule. Plan for classes to be back in session on Monday, Dec. 1st.
Bottom line:
Don’t plan DMV runs, courthouse errands, or school-related business today. Save those for Monday.
WEATHER UPDATE
WINTER STORM WATCH
What to expect:
Heavy snow is possible across central and east-central Illinois, with totals potentially topping 5 inches.
Timing:
Starts late Friday night and continues through late Saturday night.
Impacts:
Roads, bridges, and overpasses may become slick and hazardous. Travel could be very difficult, especially during heavier bursts of snow.
If you must travel:
Delay trips if you can.
Use extreme caution and expect sudden drops in visibility.
Leave extra space between vehicles.
Avoid sudden braking or accelerating.
Take it slow on hills and turns.
Make sure your vehicle is winter-ready.
Stay updated:
Continue to monitor the latest forecasts as conditions may change.
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LOOKING AHEAD - HOLIDAY FUN!
Saturday, Nov 29 | Small Business Saturday Special
Visit over 16 local Mattoon businesses to collect holiday cookies and surprises! Support local while enjoying delicious treats.
FAQ: (Answers provided by The Broadway District Facebook page)
🛑 CAN WE SEE A LIST OF THE STOPS?
YES! Participants will receive a printed copy in the all of the stops bag.
🕰️ WILL ALL LOCATIONS HAVE THE SAME HOURS?
YES! Everyone will be open from 9-2.
👧 DO WE HAVE TO PAY FOR BABIES/TODDLERS?
NO! You can bring a baby or toddler at no charge, but you only get one cookie per bag, per stop.
❄️ WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD?
Well. . we pray! 😉 We will be carefully watching the forecast. A little snow sets the mood for a great day! We will ONLY reschedule if the weather is certain to be dangerous. The cookies are being baked as we speak, so we need to do everything in our power to keep our originally planned date.
📝 HOW WILL WE BE NOTIFIED IF THERE ARE CHANGES?
We will email you and post in this event page.
😢 WHAT IF I CAN'T MAKE IT TO THE WALK?
Please message the page and we will set you bag and cookies aside for you.
🤷♀️ WHERE DO WE CHECK IN?
You can check-in at Holey Moley Daylight Donuts (1117 Broadway Ave.) from 9-10 a.m. on Saturday.
GAMES WITH SANTA & ORNAMENT PAINTING
Saturday, Dec. 6th | Emerald Acres
PICTURES WITH SANTA
Saturday, Dec. 7th - Dec. 20th | Cross County Mall
VENDOR MARKET
Saturday, Dec. 12th - 14th | Cross County Mall
🛍️Are you a local business owner and want your event featured? Reply to this email!
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