Last updated: November 22, 2024
Plan your holiday festivities in Arlington Heights with ease! Our guide has all the best events and activities. For Arlington Heights natives and newcomers alike, our guide illuminates the path to festive fun.
The Tree Lighting Ceremony and Parade marks the start of the holiday season, featuring live music, festive cheer, and the annual lighting of the community tree. Another highlight is the Annual Lambs Farm Holiday Lights, where families can stroll through radiant light displays and enjoy holiday-themed activities. And don't forget the enchanting performance of "A Christmas Carol" at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, a local favorite that brings the classic tale to life. Check out the rest of the page for more festive options!
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Arlington Heights Holiday Light Displays
Tree Lighting Ceremony and Parade
- What to Expect
- Unique trolley ride with Dickensian characters.
- Description
- Join the Arlington Heights Park District and the Village of Arlington Heights Special Events Commission for our annual tree lighting ceremony. Enjoy holiday-inspired music and dance performances, and take part in the countdown at North School Park as we flip the switch on over 80,000 tiny lights. Take a trolley to Harmony Park for more photo ops and family-friendly entertainment.
- Where
- Arlington Heights | More Info : Tree Lighting Ceremony and Parade
Annual Lambs Farm Holiday Lights
- What to Expect
- Unique holiday lights display with festive atmosphere.
- Description
- Join us at Lambs Farm for a spectacular holiday lights display. Enjoy a festive evening with beautiful lights and decorations, perfect for the whole family.
- Where
- Libertyville | More Info : Annual Lambs Farm Holiday Lights
Arlington Heights Holiday Markets and Shopping
River North Pole
- What to Expect
- Outdoor holiday celebration along the scenic Chicago River offering various attractions and food.
- Description
- This holiday event transforms the Riverwalk into a vibrant community space with spectacular displays and activities for all ages. Families can stroll along the river, taking in the beautifully decorated surroundings while participating in various seasonal attractions. A range of food vendors and local artisans add to the atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to soak in the spirit of the season.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : River North Pole
Firefly Market - Holiday
- What to Expect
- Unique holiday market with 100+ handcrafted vendors.
- Description
- Pack up your girlfriends and bring your Christmas list to enjoy a holiday celebration with fabulous shopping from 100+ handcrafted vendors at Firefly Market.
- Where
- Wheaton | More Info : Firefly Market - Holiday
Arlington Heights Holiday Shows and Entertainment
A Christmas Carol
- What to Expect
- A captivating local theatre production featuring community actors performing a timeless classic.
- Description
- This adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic story brings to life the transformation of Ebenezer Scrooge through powerful performances and heartfelt moments. Set in a theatrical atmosphere, the production showcases talent from the local community and offers a delightful rendition of timeless themes of generosity and compassion.
- Where
- Arlington Heights | More Info : A Christmas Carol
A Christmas Carol at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre
- What to Expect
- Ebenezer Scrooge's journey through past, present, and future.
- Description
- A Christmas Carol at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre brings Charles Dickens' timeless tale to life with memorable characters, ghostly apparitions, and splendid holiday music.
- Where
- Arlington Heights | More Info : A Christmas Carol at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre
The Paul Marinaro Holiday Show at Hey Nonny
- What to Expect
- Unique jazz performance by Paul Marinaro.
- Description
- Paul Marinaro, a renowned jazz vocalist, presents a holiday show at Hey Nonny, featuring his mastery of jazz classics and infectious passion for the material.
- Where
- Arlington Heights | More Info : The Paul Marinaro Holiday Show at Hey Nonny
Christmas with The Peppermint Patties at Hey Nonny
- What to Expect
- Unique holiday concert with diverse musical performances.
- Description
- Get ready for an unforgettable evening of holiday music and fun as The Peppermint Patties return to Hey Nonny for our 5th season of Christmas Shows The 90-minute shows feature Anna Caldwell, Daina Fischer, and Laura Smalley, accompanied by pianist Michael Oldham, and include special performances by Nikki Krzebiot and The Feathered Beaus. The shows include nostalgic throwbacks, musical theater gems, timeless jazz standards, and covers celebrating many musical genres.
- Where
- Arlington Heights | More Info : Christmas with The Peppermint Patties at Hey Nonny
A Nat King Cole Christmas with John-Mark McGaha
- What to Expect
- Lush jazz ensemble performance with intimate charm.
- Description
- Acclaimed musician John-Mark McGaha celebrates Nat King Cole with a festive cocktail of signature songs and yuletide favorites.
- Where
- Arlington Heights | More Info : A Nat King Cole Christmas with John-Mark McGaha
Arlington Heights Other Holiday Activities
Arts & Crafts Studio by Mucci World
- What to Expect
- Customized art parties and inclusive sessions for seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities.
- Description
- Ceramics, Arts & Crafts Studios by Mucci World offers a variety of creative activities for all ages, including pottery, painting, and mosaic parties. The studio provides a stress-free environment where people can enjoy themselves and relax.
- Where
- Tinley Park | More Info : Arts & Crafts Studio by Mucci World