High-quality musicals and plays are available at suburban theaters, offering an alternative to navigating downtown Chicago traffic. Several restaurants in northern Illinois are also open on Christmas Eve and Day.
Chicago News & Updates
Stay informed about the latest events and activities in Chicago
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
The play 'Christmas With C.S. Lewis' is currently showing at the Broadway Playhouse in Chicago. The production offers a peaceful holiday experience, described as a time with no gifts to wrap or meals to cook.
A recent study has recognized the Christkindlmarket in Chicago, IL, as the best Christmas market in the country. This popular market is a highlight of the holiday season for many visitors.
Epic Theatre Company is presenting 'Let It Be Christmas' with its final weekend of performances scheduled from December 18-21 in Naperville, IL. This show is based on the Gospels and features music inspired by The Beatles.
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
The iconic Home Alone house, a nostalgic Christmas movie location, is located in Winnetka, Illinois. This suburban Chicago spot is a popular destination for fans of the classic holiday film.
Emo Christmas is being celebrated at Everything Bar located at 1601 W Grand Ave in Chicago, IL. This event offers a unique holiday experience for attendees.
St. Charles, Illinois, is recognized as one of the best small towns to visit for Christmas, according to HGTV. Located less than an hour from Belleville, it offers a Christmas festival experience.
McCormick Place is hosting the 29th Annual Christmas in the Wards, filling the venue with holiday cheer. This citywide celebration, built from a small gym, honors Uncle Larry Huggins' contributions to Chicago and Illinois.
Chicago, Illinois, has been recognized by Vogue as one of the best Christmas towns in the USA for holiday cheer. The city offers a festive atmosphere for visitors seeking seasonal enjoyment.
Monday, December 15, 2025
The 29th Annual Christmas in the Wards provided holiday gifts to children in need across Chicago. This event aims to bring festive cheer to local families during the holiday season.
Chicago offers a magical holiday season with numerous festive traditions and unique activities. From the Michigan Avenue tree lighting to other special events, there's plenty of holiday spirit to experience.
A local nonprofit held its annual holiday giveaway, bringing Christmas cheer to families in need. This event distributed gifts and support to the community during the festive season.
Sunday, December 14, 2025
The 29th annual Christmas in the Wards event brought holiday joy and toys to children in need just weeks before Christmas. This massive toy giveaway event aimed to spread cheer amidst the festive season.
Despite Chicago experiencing its snowiest December start in 47 years, the likelihood of a white Christmas is trending downwards. The article discusses the current wintery conditions and their impact on holiday expectations.
The downtown Christmas in the Wards event and a separate toy drive in Lombard, Illinois, are bringing warmth to residents amid frigid Chicago wind chills. These initiatives are helping to spread holiday spirit in the community.
The Kankakee Christmas Market and Food Drive is returning to the YMCA at 10 AM on Sunday, encouraging residents from Kankakee County and surrounding south suburban Chicago areas to attend. This event combines holiday shopping with a charitable food drive.
This guide offers local insights into discovering Chicago's hidden Christmas light displays, along with information on helpful apps for finding them. It aims to help residents and visitors explore the city's festive illuminations.
The Merry-Achi Christmas show, featuring Sol De Mexico de Jose Hernandez, is presented as an event perfect for families and music lovers seeking a traditional Mexican Christmas experience. Chicago, IL is listed as a location for this performance.
Join a special screening of 'Christmas in Chicago' in association with the 1st Team Actors Studio. This event is scheduled for December 16th and will take place in Chicago, IL.
Saturday, December 13, 2025
The children's story 'Oliver the Ornament' follows a journey from Thanksgiving night to Christmas morning, inspiring kindness. This multimedia brand has grown to reach audiences across the United States.
Val and Ryan discussed the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive and upcoming comedy shows in Chicago. The segment also touched on holiday recipes and other seasonal topics.
The Ugly Sweater Bingo Party is returning to Schaumburg Township's community facility on December 18th. This event is located near major suburban hubs northwest of Chicago.
An opera vocalist, Christine, will perform for free in La Grange on December 16th. She has previously performed with the Lyric Opera of Chicago and other notable opera companies.
Christine, an opera vocalist with experience at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, will present a free Christmas performance on December 16th in Western Springs. This event offers a festive musical experience.
Friday, December 12, 2025
The holiday posada at Chicago Ridge Mall will combine U.S. and Mexican Christmas customs on Saturday, December 13th. The event will feature kids' activities, music, and tamales.
The Pritzker Military Foundation is supporting the Chicago Christmas Ship Committee's efforts to continue a historic tradition of holiday giving. This initiative helps carry on charitable activities during the holiday season.
This weekend in Chicago, December 12-14, offers various activities including Cirque du Soleil's first Christmas show and 13th Floor Chicago's haunted attractions. The weather forecast includes cloudy skies and temperatures in the low 20s.
Replay Lincoln Park in Chicago is hosting 'Stranger Christmas: A Hawkins Holiday'. This event brings a themed holiday experience to the popular entertainment venue.
Carbondale Police held their annual Christmas event, providing essential winter items for 194 children through a Christmas Store. This event aims to support local kids during the holiday season.
The Archdiocese of Chicago will celebrate its 39th Annual Simbang Gabi Novena starting Monday, December 15th, through Tuesday, December 23rd. This novena culminates with the Misa de Gallo on Christmas Eve to welcome the birth of Jesus Christ.
Cantigny in Wheaton, Illinois, is featuring its Christmas Lights display and the Wicked show. Located at 1S151 Winfield Road, this attraction offers a festive experience.
Merle Burleigh's 'At Home' column discusses decorating for Christmas and other holidays, evoking memories. The first tree decorated is typically the one in Merle's personal space.
JD McPherson's 'Socks: A Rock N Roll Christmas Tour' is coming to Thalia Hall in Chicago on December 18, 2025. The acclaimed singer-songwriter will perform with special guest Melissa Carper.
The 'Rocky Mountain High Experience: A John Denver Christmas' starring Rick Schuler is returning to Broadway in Chicago's Broadway Playhouse. Performances will run for five shows starting this Friday.
WGN Radio will air the Dusty Rhodes Christmas Specials commercial-free this Christmas season. These specials offer holiday programming for listeners.
Thursday, December 11, 2025
A mystery donor has gifted $10,000 in gold coins to a Salvation Army kettle at Daley Plaza's Christkindlmarket. The donation will benefit local programs, helping provide Christmas gifts for children.
An early snowfall has extended the window for winter filming in Chicago and surrounding Illinois towns. This allows filmmakers to capture snowy Christmas scenes for their productions.
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
The Chicagoland Lionel Railroad Club is hosting a Christmas Open House where their clubhouse will be decorated for the season. This event is a festive opportunity to see holiday decorations and model trains.
A Pluto TV Holiday Rage Room Takeover event is happening in Chicago. This unique experience offers a fun and stress-relieving way to celebrate the holiday season.
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
A pop-up event is transforming Prince Street Pizza into Little Nero's, the fictional pizzeria from "Home Alone." The restaurant will also rename its classic cheese pizza to "The Lovely Cheese Pizza" during this special engagement.
Several dining options will be available on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in Illinois, with some restaurants offering special holiday hours. Portillo's in Chicago will be open on Christmas Eve until 5 p.m., but will be closed on Christmas Day.
Families can enjoy a holiday-inspired day at the Crestwood Christmas Market, where Santa and Mrs. Claus made a special appearance. The event also featured Camerata Chicago presenting "A Handel's Christmas Concert for the Whole Family."
The Fulton Market district will host a holiday edition of the Chicago Artisan Market, featuring over 115 local and Midwest artisans. This event offers a chance to reconnect with friends and family while shopping for unique crafts.
Monday, December 8, 2025
Schaumburg Township is collecting toys for children of all ages to help brighten the holiday season for families in the northwest suburbs. This toy drive is a crucial effort to ensure all kids have gifts during Christmas.
The Nutcracker at Lyric Opera of Chicago is highlighted as one of two essential Christmastime artistic performances in the city. It is mentioned alongside Goodman's A Christmas Carol as a holiday tradition.
The Orland Park Toys for Tots drive is accepting donations through December 13th, providing a two-week window for the community to support the initiative. This effort aims to help families across the Chicago Southland brighten their holidays.
Christmas pop-up bars are becoming a popular seasonal attraction throughout Illinois, with some in Chicago selling out quickly. Advance ticket purchases are often necessary due to high demand for these festive establishments.
Chicago's Christkindlmarket has been recognized as America's favorite Christmas market, receiving a significant number of votes. This popular market is a highlight for holiday shopping and festive atmosphere in the city.
A Naperville resident's Taylor Swift-themed Christmas house is gaining viral attention for the third year. This unique holiday display combines festive decorations with a popular music artist's theme.
Sunday, December 7, 2025
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem attended Chicago's annual "Christmas Tree Ship" delivery event at Navy Pier. The tradition, which began in 2000, saw protestors gather during the holiday celebration.
As the Christmas season is in full swing, Palos Park police are reminding residents to be patient with autistic children. This reminder comes as families navigate holiday activities across Cook County and the Chicago Southland.
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Aurora is hosting a variety of holiday events this weekend, including a Christmas market and a lights festival. These events are part of the broader holiday happenings across the Chicago area.
The Christkindlmarket in Chicago, Illinois, has been recognized as one of the 10 most magical Christmas markets in the U.S. It offers a festive shopping experience for the holiday season.
The official Chicago Christmas Tree is on display from November 21 to January 11. This year's tree is a 53-foot spruce originating from Logan Square.
Bourbonnais, IL will host a kids' "What the Elf?" Mystery Adventure on Friday, December 19th. This event is part of the local Christmas festivities.
St. Paul Lutheran Church in Mount Prospect, IL is holding a German Christmas service, one of the few of its kind in Chicago's Northwest Suburbs. The service is located at 770 Lee St.
The Squirrel Nut Zippers are bringing their seasonal show, featuring holiday originals like "A Johnny Ace Christmas," to Park West in Chicago. The venue is located at 3161 W. Cermak Rd.
Friday, December 5, 2025
The Goodman Theatre is presenting a review of "A Christmas Carol." This production is a highlight of the holiday season in Chicago.
The Park Forest House Museum invites visitors to step back into a 1950s Christmas and Hanukkah. The event is located at 227 Monee Road in Park Forest, Illinois.
Ballet FolklΓ³rico de Chicago is proud to present "Tradiciones de Navidad." This event celebrates the traditions of Christmas.
Christmas in the Wards is kicking off its 29th year with Mayor Brandon Johnson and elected officials. The event includes shopping starting at 6:30 p.m. at Walmart, 10900 S. Doty Ave., Chicago, IL.
Cargoos Logistics is offering an exclusive $500 holiday gift card giveaway for new shippers this Christmas season. This promotion is available to shippers in the Chicago, IL area.
The Little Village Chamber of Commerce will host "La Villita NavideΓ±a" at Plaza de la Raza, 4345 W. 26th St. Chicago, IL. The event will feature music, piΓ±atas, gifts, and food.
Illinois Speaker is hosting the 4th Annual Blue Christmas Toy Drive and Fundraiser. This event supports the Chicago and Chicago Suburbs Hispanic Bilingual Market.
The Austin Christmas Parade will feature a coat and toy drive, free food, toys, and hot cocoa. The Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony will take place at 5701 W Madison Street, Chicago, IL.
The downtown Christmas tree is now lit and ready for the holidays. A press conference was held in Chicago to outline how Illinois will celebrate.
A free Christmas dinner and community gathering will be held in Momence, IL. This event offers a warm meal and fellowship for residents.
Thursday, December 4, 2025
A Holiday Cookie Walk and Christmas Pageant is scheduled for Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 9:00 AM. The event details are located at 766 Graceland Ave, Des Plaines, IL, 60016, and will also feature the Chicago Master Singers Christmas.
Village officials in Bourbonnais have announced the cancellation of their annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony scheduled for Thursday due to the cold weather. The forecast for Chicago, IL, indicates temperatures around 18 degrees.
John Waters is bringing his 'A John Waters Christmas' tour to Chicago, IL, on December 16th at the Avondale Music Hall. The tour also includes stops in Atlanta and Alexandria.
Chicago, IL is highlighted as a must-visit destination for its Millennium Park Holiday Tree as part of a national tour of notable Christmas trees. This mention places Chicago among other major cities like New York and Washington D.C. for holiday experiences.
Timeless Gifts is hosting its 16th Annual Christmas Duets Concert and Fundraising Gala. The event will feature a wide range of Christmas music and performances. The organization is located at 773-783-1251 in Chicago, IL 60619.
Grant Park, IL will host a Christmas Celebration featuring Santa Claus at the Grant Park Firehouse on December 14th from 1 PM to 4 PM. This event is a popular stop for families in the Chicago metro area.
Chicago, IL is noted for its vibrant holiday markets and picturesque snowy streets, making it a must-see destination for winter travelers. These features contribute to an authentic holiday magic experience.
The Village of New Lenox's 'Christmas in the Commons' event is set to open on Saturday, December 6th. This popular holiday favorite in New Lenox, IL, promises a sparkling festive experience for the community.
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Doorbell camera footage captured a porch pirate stealing Christmas gifts from outside a home in a Chicago suburb. The incident occurred amidst cold weather conditions in the area.
The Marriott Theatre is set to present "NEW YEAR'S ROCKABILLY EVE," with related holiday programming mentioned including "A Carpenters Christmas in Chicago." Other holiday shows like "A Cripple Creek Christmas Carol" are also noted.
Playhouse 38 in Geneva, IL, is presenting a holiday show titled "The Little Town of Christmas" this weekend. The production offers multiple showtimes for audiences to enjoy the festive performance.
Families can enjoy a festive light display during the Light Stroll at Lake Shore Park in Oak Lawn. The event allows attendees to stroll through the park and read a homemade Christmas story.
An event called "Christmas in the Park" is scheduled to take place in Chicago. The event is located at 10546 S. Western Ave. and can be contacted via phone or email.
Tuesday, December 2, 2025
Elf the Musical is beginning its holiday run at the Auditorium in Chicago. The article also mentions Irving Berlin's White Christmas in Chicago and a review of Million Dollar Quartet Christmas in Lincolnshire, IL.
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is offering Christmas performances, including 'Chanticleer Christmas' and 'Merry, Merry Chicago!'. These events are part of discounted ticket offerings for Chicago performances.
Melania Trump has unveiled the 2025 White House Christmas decorations, featuring the official Christmas tree in the Blue Room. The article also includes contact information for Chicago, IL.
A North suburban couple has filmed a holiday romance movie titled 'Exes Christmas Past' in the Chicago area, including Libertyville and Woodstock. The film aims to showcase a northern Illinois Christmas on screen.
The Oglesby Mansion in Decatur, IL, will host its traditional Christmas Tea on December 7th. Visitors can experience a piece of Decatur's history with a tour of the restored mansion.
The White House has unveiled its Christmas decorations, including trees in the Grand Foyer. The article also mentions a separate incident where federal agents detained a man at The Home Depot in Chicago, IL.
Residents can submit their outdoor Christmas lights for a chance to win ABC7's Great Chicago Light Fight 2025. The contest celebrates holiday decorations in the Chicago area.
The 'Half-Price Holidays' program is offering discounted tickets to various Chicago theater productions. This includes a review of Irving Berlin's White Christmas at Paramount Theatre Aurora, IL.
Las Locas Comedy presents the Chingona Comedy Hour in December 2025 at the Laugh Factory in Chicago, IL. The event is listed alongside other Chicago shows, including Irving Berlin's White Christmas.
Monday, December 1, 2025
As Cyber Monday begins, Illinois shoppers are advised to be vigilant against a rise in Christmas-related scams. Authorities are urging consumers to stay alert to protect themselves from fraudulent schemes during the busy holiday shopping season.
Chicago is recognized for its impressive Christmas celebrations, offering a Winter Wonderland experience for visitors. The Magnificent Mile lights are a notable feature of the city's festive atmosphere.
Illinois College choirs and ensembles will present their annual "Christmas on the Hilltop" performance on Saturday, December 6th. This event showcases the musical talents of the college's students.
A visit to Macy's Santaland is a quintessential part of a Chicago Christmas experience. The iconic location at 111 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601 offers opportunities for families to meet Santa.
NOAA's long-range outlook suggests a potential for a white Christmas in Chicago this year, with favorable patterns indicated from December 13th to 26th. This forecast offers hope for a snowy holiday season.
Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Winfield is hosting a free Christmas concert on December 7th. The event will feature professional guest artists Jake Muzzy on cello and others, promising a delightful experience for the community.
Camerata Chicago presents "A Handel's Christmas Concert" suitable for the whole family. The performance will take place at St. Alphonsus Church, located at 1429 W Wellington Ave, Chicago, IL 60657.
Sunday, November 30, 2025
The Youth Dance Theater of Greater Chicago presents an urban take on a Christmas celebration through dance. This unique event promises a ghostly holiday experience.
Experience the Jingle & Mingle holiday tour, showcasing Chicago's festive hotel lobbies. The event features multi-story, glittering, and iconic Christmas trees.
Saturday, November 29, 2025
The 2025 Holiday Tour of Lights is seeking the best Christmas yard displays across Illinois. Residents are encouraged to submit their festive decorations for a chance to be featured.
Organizers and vendors of the Chicago Christkindlmarket are speaking out about challenges arising from new capacity limits. These issues are impacting the management of crowds at the popular holiday market.
Experience Mannheim Steamroller Christmas live at the Nederlander Theatre in Chicago, IL. This festive holiday show is scheduled for December 20th.
A review of the show MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET CHRISTMAS at the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, IL. The article provides insights into this holiday-themed production.
The Christkindlmarket in Chicago's Daley Plaza will be open from November 21 through Christmas Eve, December 24. This popular event offers a festive holiday shopping experience.
The Holly Jolly Holiday Market will take place on Sunday, December 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at North Center Town Square, 4100 N. Damen Ave, Chicago.
Camerata Chicago presents a family-friendly Handel's Christmas Concert on December 12th in Lakeview, IL. This event promises a delightful musical experience for all ages.
Friday, November 28, 2025
Start December off by getting into the holiday spirit with a special film screening and talkback. This event at Loyola University Chicago aims to help attendees embrace the festive season.
Chanticleer is set to perform holiday shows, including a Christmas tour stop at Symphony Center in Chicago. This event is part of their festive seasonal performances.
Looking for the perfect Christmas tree in Chicago? This guide highlights various farms, lots, and vendors where you can find your holiday centerpiece. The season opens November 28th.
As the winter and Christmas season settles in, Chicago homeowners are preparing for snow. This guide offers safer snow removal tips to help manage the upcoming winter weather.
Experience "A Magical Cirque Christmas" at the CIBC Theatre in Chicago. This enchanting holiday show promises a festive and entertaining experience for all ages.
Thursday, November 27, 2025
Camerata Chicago will perform Handel's Messiah (Part 1 - Christmas) on December 12th at St. Alphonsus Church in Chicago and December 13th at New Covenant Church in Naperville. The concert features outstanding musical artistry with their choir and soloists.
Experience Mannheim Steamroller Christmas at the Nederlander Theatre in Chicago. Get your tickets now for this popular holiday event.
Families in Northern Illinois can enjoy lighted Christmas parades, a beloved tradition that brings communities together. These festive events are a highlight for many during the holiday season.
Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Eric BenΓ©t has released his first-ever Christmas album titled 'It's Christmas'. He will be performing in Chicago, IL at City Winery on December 15th as part of his 'For The Holiday Tour'.
The city of Blue Island will host its annual Christmas in Blue Island celebration on Saturday, December 7th. This event promises festive holiday cheer for the community. The article also mentions an Illinois State Police alert regarding Christmas package thefts.
The Peppermint Patties will be celebrating the holiday season with two performances in Chicago. They will present 'A Christmas Carol Cabaret' at The Check-Out on December 4th and 5th. The shows will take place at 4116 N. Clark St.
Brett Eldredge will be performing multiple shows at the Chicago Theater throughout December. His concerts are a popular holiday tradition, often associated with the Christmas season. The article also mentions other country artists performing in Illinois and Missouri.
Brett Eldredge is set to perform at the Chicago Theater on December 4th and 5th. His performances are a beloved part of the holiday season, often described as going together with Christmas like milk and cookies. This event is part of his December tour dates in Illinois.
A Magical Cirque Christmas is bringing world-class acrobatics and holiday spectacle to Chicago. Performances begin tomorrow at Broadway In Chicago's CIBC Theatre for a limited one-week engagement. This show promises a festive and dazzling holiday experience.
Irving Berlin's White Christmas is being performed at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora, IL. This classic holiday musical brings festive cheer and entertainment to the season. The review highlights the show's seasonal appeal.
The Kankakee Valley Theatre Association (KVTA) will open its Christmas musical tradition on December 5th at 7 PM. The show's narrative includes a story about delivering Christmas trees to families in early 1900s Chicago. This production is a long-standing local holiday event.
The Homewood Giving Tree is now open, accepting Christmas donations to support families in need. This initiative aims to provide essential items and holiday cheer to the community. The program is part of local efforts to ensure a joyful Christmas for all.
Tuesday, November 25, 2025
This article highlights various Christmas and winter holiday concerts happening throughout Illinois. It mentions Chicago and surrounding areas as key locations for these festive musical events.
The Village of Orland Park is hosting its annual Holiday Coloring Contest, inviting local families to participate. Entries for this Christmas-themed competition are due by November 25th.
The Park Ridge History Center is organizing Christmas events, including a special exhibit titled βChristmas in Illinois: Through the Eyes of Two Artists and Two Poets.β This event is scheduled for Saturday, December 13th.
Manhattan is preparing to welcome the holiday season with its "Christmas on State 2025" event. The festivities will include opportunities for pictures with Santa.
A live Nativity, known as 'Il Presepe vivente,' is being presented in Chicago. This event is organized by various Italian-American heritage groups.
The Chicago Police Department has introduced festive red and green crime-scene tape to mark the start of the holiday season. This unique initiative adds a touch of Christmas spirit to the city's atmosphere.
The "Million Dollar Quartet Christmas Show" is currently playing at the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire. The performance features holiday classic songs from music legends like Elvis and Johnny Cash.
This guide provides information on Christmas light displays in the Quad Cities (QC) area, including specific addresses like 3011 6th St Ct W in Milan, IL. One featured house has a Christmas tree on its roof.
Monday, November 24, 2025
Share the joy of the season at the Chicago Master Singers' Christmas concerts, "O Radiant Dawn." Performances are scheduled for December 13th and 14th.
Families in Kankakee County are invited to the annual Christmas Gathering in downtown Momence this Saturday. The event features a parade, tree lighting, and carriage rides.
The Randolph Street Holiday Market offers more than just shopping, featuring hot cocoa, vintage Christmas dΓ©cor, and holiday music. It captures Chicago in its happiest form.
Saturday, November 22, 2025
Chicago's official Christmas tree will illuminate Millennium Park for the 2025 holiday season. The city's iconic Tree Lighting Ceremony marks the official start of the holidays.
Manual Cinema presents 'Christmas Carol' in Chicago, running from December 12-28. The performance is set in a Chicago home on Christmas Eve.
Families in Will County and the Chicago Southland can enjoy a month of free entertainment at Christmas in the Commons in New Lenox. This event offers free festivities for the holiday season.
Several Christmas movies are returning to the big screen across Illinois. This includes showings in Chicago, offering a festive cinematic experience.
Tinley Park is kicking off its Christmas season with the annual Tree Lighting at Harmony Square. The ice rink will also open tonight at 6:30 PM.
A new holiday pop-up bar experience has opened in Rockford, Illinois. This festive bar is part of the seasonal offerings for the holidays.
Five classic Christmas movies are making a comeback to theaters across Illinois. This offers audiences a chance to enjoy holiday films on the big screen.
Cantigny in Wheaton, IL, is previewing 'A Wickedly Popular Christmas' as part of its holiday programming. This event is set to bring festive cheer to the area.
The official Chicago Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Millennium Park will be broadcast live. The event kicks off the city's holiday celebrations with music.
Fire departments across Illinois are collaborating for the Christmas season to support Project Fire Buddies. This initiative is firefighter-led and aims to provide support during the holidays.
Several iconic Chicago holiday events are starting this weekend, including the Christmas Tree Lighting, Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, and Christkindlmarket. These events mark the beginning of the festive season in the city.
Chicago is officially flipping the switch on the holidays with its Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Millennium Park. The event will feature music starting at 5 PM.
The Goodman Theatre in Chicago is hosting 'Theater of the Mind'. While not explicitly a Christmas event, it is listed alongside 'Irving Berlin's White Christmas' in Chicago.
Friday, November 21, 2025
Chicago's official Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is set to take place this weekend. The city will illuminate the Magnificent Mile with festive lights.
The popular a cappella group Voctave will return to the McAninch Arts Center (MAC) for their 'It Feels Like Christmas' tour. This performance promises festive holiday cheer.
The 'Let There Be' Christmas Cantata will be presented in Winnetka, IL. This cantata features music by Mischa Zupko and lyrics by Pastor JoAnn Post, telling a Christmas story.
Experience 'A Chanticleer Christmas' at Orchestra Hall in Chicago, IL. This highly anticipated concert is described as the ultimate Christmas performance.
The 'Holly Dolly Christmas' show is coming to the Harris Theater in Chicago, Illinois. Get your tickets now for this festive holiday performance.
Chicago's 'Light Of Christmas' drive-thru event is back at White Sox Rate Field. Experience a dazzling display of holiday lights from the comfort of your car.
Anthony Rapp presents 'Home for the Holidays' at the Lookingglass Theatre Company in Chicago, IL. This performance is part of a holiday cabaret series.
Kankakee, IL will host its annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration on December 2nd. This event marks the beginning of the holiday season in the downtown area.
The Chicago-made film 'Exes of Christmas Past' is now available for streaming. The movie features a beautifully filmed opening sequence set during Christmas time in downtown Chicago.
Anthony Rapp brings 'Home for the Holidays' to the Lookingglass Theatre Company in Chicago, IL. The show is part of a holiday cabaret series.
Thursday, November 20, 2025
A La Grange resident is starring in "A Christmas Carol" at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre. The article also mentions BHHS Chicago Offices collecting Toys for Tots until December 10, 2025.
The City of Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) has announced the lineup for the holiday season, including the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Residents are advised to plan their routes in advance for the event on Friday, Nov. 21.
The Old Farmer's Almanac is predicting whether Illinois will experience a White Christmas this year. Historically, the Chicago area has a 2 in 5 chance of seeing snow on Christmas Day.
The Village of Beecher is hosting a Christmas community tradition on November 30th, featuring a holiday parade, market, and tree lighting. This event brings together residents for seasonal celebrations.
This article highlights various holiday tree lighting ceremonies taking place in the suburbs. It also mentions the City of Chicago's 112th annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Millennium Park on Friday, Nov. 21.
An event called 'Christmas in the Wards' is being held as an emergency food giveaway in Chicago. This initiative aims to address food insecurity during the holiday season.
Several Chicago residents, including Felipe Escudero and Maya McEntyre, are part of the cast for the holiday tradition "A Christmas Carol." The production features a cast of local performers.
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
Orland Park will officially ring in the season with its annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting event on November 30th. Families can enjoy a festive start to the holidays in the Chicago Southland.
A one-man performance of 'A Christmas Carol' is scheduled for December 14th in Orland Park. This festive holiday show is geared towards families in the southwest suburbs.
The annual Canadian Pacific Holiday Train will be passing through Chicago suburbs on two dates this holiday season. The train brings Christmas cheer and live musical performances.
Treetime Christmas Creations in Lake Barrington, IL is mentioned as a sponsor in contest rules. The article details past contest rules related to the business.
Several holiday productions are highlighted as Chicago's top 10 shows for 2025, including 'A Christmas Carol' and 'It's a Wonderful Life'. These performances offer festive entertainment for the season.
The Irish American Heritage Center (IAHC) in Chicago will host a one-night event called 'Christmas Bingo'. The event is scheduled for November 18th.
Chicago's official start to the Christmas season is marked by the annual holiday tree lighting ceremony in Millennium Park this Friday. Residents can find out what to know before attending the event.
The Polish Museum of America will host its annual Christmas Workshop on Saturday, December 6th. The event is located at 984 N. Milwaukee Ave. in Chicago.
This week's events include the Aurora Christkindlmarket and various tree lightings. The City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is scheduled for Friday, November 21st in Millennium Park.
The Orland Park Lions Club will begin selling Christmas trees, wreaths, and wood crafts on Wednesday, November 26th. This marks the start of their holiday season sales.
Addison is preparing for a series of Christmas events in December, including a tree lighting, parades, and Santa events. A Village Green Fest is also planned.
A new Christmas romantic comedy, streaming for the holidays, features two Chicago suburbs. The article highlights the local settings within the film.
The West Suburban Symphony will perform a Christmas concert in Hinsdale on December 7th. This family-oriented performance is designed to kick off the holiday season.
This article lists Chicago's top 10 holiday shows for 2025, including 'A Christmas Carol' and 'It's a Wonderful Life'. These theatrical productions are recommended for seasonal entertainment.
The article discusses the 'Final Four' of the 2025 Chicagoland Christmas Traditions Tournament. It also mentions the Chicago Botanic Garden Lightscape and Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo.
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
The Raue Center will be hosting "A Cripple Creek Christmas Carol" this holiday season. This event promises a festive theatrical experience for Chicago audiences.
Rendezvous Arts presents "Christmas O'Carolan" featuring art by Mary Foster at Artifact Events in Chicago, Illinois. This event is part of their 2023-2024 season.
Monday, November 17, 2025
Frankfort, IL will host a festive hands-on holiday wreath bar event combined with a chef dinner on December 9th. This event offers a unique way to celebrate the season.