Photo and Story By James Paradiso

"Customers frequently tell me that my shop is full of unusual gifts and home furnishings, and that its atmosphere is warm and welcoming," said Cheryl, owner of Ravinia's cozy Belle Fleur, while preparing for today's Holiday Festival.

From 3:30 to 5:00 PM, Jens Jensen Park promises holiday music, singing, poetry, special appearance by Santa Claus, holiday stockings, and free donuts with cider.

From 5:00 to 9:00 PM, Roger Williams Avenue hosts a holiday shopping event, gift basket drawings, tasty treats, and strolling musicians from the Music Institute of Chicago.

Wrote NorthShoreInsider.com about Belle Fleur, located at 487 Roger Williams: "If you have the bug for Paris and just can't stomach the flight or shrinking dollar, get your fix here."

"We are very excited about the Ravinia Holiday Festival," added Eve Tarm, VP of the Ravinia Neighbors Association and Chair of its Business District Committee. "We hope this Festival will become a tradition. We haven't had a big event in Ravinia's business district for years."