Champaign Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Champaign and surrounding areas
Champaign celebrates the holiday season with Christmas markets and festive events centered on downtown and the Orpheum Theater area. The Champaign Center Parade of Lights, Winter Nights at Prairie Farm, and Holiday in Whoville provide lively seasonal attractions and neighborhood lights. With seasonal concerts, markets, and family activities, Champaign offers plenty of things to do that pair local charm with holiday lights and community entertainment for a joyful festive season.
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Christmas Markets
5 eventsOver 130 decorated trees and wreaths for charity.
Other Christmas Activities
8 eventsAnnual Christmas Tree Lighting with live reindeer
Editor's Picks (6)
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The Nutcracker
(Urbana)
Tchaikovsky's holiday classic performed by Champaign Urbana Ballet
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Festival of Trees
(Danville)
Over 130 decorated trees and wreaths for charity.
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8th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
(Decatur)
Annual Christmas Tree Lighting with live reindeer
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The Baby Fold's Festival of Trees
(Bloomington)
Reimagined holiday festival with diverse events and attractions.
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Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra: Good Tidings! Holiday Concert
Holiday concert featuring symphony orchestra and multiple choirs
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Champaign Center Parade of Lights
25th Anniversary Parade of Lights with 'Silver Bells' theme
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Lights Near Champaign
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Champaign.
Winter Nights at Prairie Farm
Experience the magic of Winter Nights at Prairie Farm, a free holiday light...
View full details →Holiday Showcase GLOW Opening Night
Step into a world of holiday magic at the Holiday Showcase GLOW Opening...
View full details →Trees on the Tees
Experience the magic of the holiday season with Trees on the Tees, a...
View full details →Christmas Shows Near Champaign
Christmas shows, theater performances, and holiday entertainment in Champaign.
Holiday in Whoville
Step into the whimsical world of Whoville for a cherished holiday tradition! This...
View full details →Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra: Good Tidings! Holiday Concert
Get into the holiday spirit with the Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra's 'Good Tidings!' concert....
View full details →The Nutcracker
Step into a world of enchantment with Champaign Urbana Ballet's production of The...
View full details →Christmas Parties Near Champaign
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Champaign.
Women's Christmas Celebration
This annual Women's Christmas Celebration offers a heartwarming start to the holiday season....
View full details →Latest News & Updates
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Champaign Christmas FAQ
While specific events vary, look for large community tree lightings, major holiday markets, and festive parades that often mark the start of the season in Champaign.
Champaign often embraces traditions tied to the University of Illinois, such as festive decorations around campus and community events that blend local culture with holiday cheer.
Residential neighborhoods like Country Fair and areas surrounding the University of Illinois campus are known for residents who decorate extensively, creating beautiful displays.
Keep an eye on event listings for markets often held in downtown Champaign, community centers, or university-affiliated spaces that showcase local artisans and holiday goods.
Enjoying neighborhood light displays, attending free community events like tree lightings, and visiting local libraries for seasonal programs are excellent free options.
Families often enjoy visiting Santa, attending kid-friendly shows at venues like the Virginia Theatre, and exploring neighborhood light displays.