Last updated: November 11, 2024
Ready for holiday magic in Chicago Lawn? Our guide has all the top events and activities lined up for you. From Chicago Lawn locals to global travelers, our guide is your key to unlocking holiday magic.
Popular events unfold in iconic settings this season. Kick off your holiday evenings with the Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park, where dazzling lights and festive cheer set the stage. Explore the delightful stalls and unique gifts at the Christkindlmarket, a charming outdoor market that brings a slice of Germany to the heart of the city. And the Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring stunning displays and vibrant holiday décor along the waterfront. Check out more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Contact information and details below.
Iconic tree lighting ceremony with live performances and festivities.
The City of Chicago's Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park features a towering tree illuminated by Powering Chicago, marking the start of the holiday season with live performances and festivities.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park
Largest indoor and outdoor holiday experience in Chicago.
Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier features dazzling outdoor lakefront light displays, an outdoor ice-skating rink, cozy firepits, and a heated Centennial Ferris Wheel. Discover unique finds at local artisan markets and enjoy live music every weekend.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier
Interactive light displays and immersive winter wonderland experience.
Explore 50 acres of The Morton Arboretum's majestic trees during this spectacular display of color, light, and sound. The event features 17 displays of lights and music that highlight the beauty of trees in winter, including a secluded glade with fairy lights and kinetic LED tall grasses honoring Midwest native species. The immersive experience includes interactive light displays, warm concession tents, and a laser light finale at Meadow Lake.
Where: Lisle | More Info: Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
Dazzling light installations by international artists.
Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden features an illuminated trail with dazzling installations, light, art, and music, showcasing international artists' work in a festive setting.
Where: Glencoe | More Info: Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
Largest nighttime parade in the United States.
The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a day-through-night holiday celebration featuring a spectacular parade with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, giant helium balloons, marching bands, and over one million lights illuminating 200 trees along North Michigan Avenue.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Illuminated parade with Santa and special guests.
Winter Lights in Aurora is a free family-friendly event featuring a parade, tree lighting, and fireworks. Santa and Mrs. Claus lead the illuminated parade filled with reindeer, elves, and special guests. After the tree lighting, a grand fireworks display brightens the downtown Aurora sky along the Fox River. The event concludes with food vendors, costumed characters, and musical entertainment on Stolp Avenue.
Where: Aurora | More Info: Winter Lights at Aurora
Boozy twist on a holiday lights tour with express entry to top attractions.
Join Chicago's exclusive BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour for a 4.5-hour celebration of holiday lights and attractions. Enjoy express entry into Christkindlmarket and Zoo Lights, along with complimentary drinks, Santa hats, and festive music.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Chicago’s BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour
Dazzling outdoor light displays and ice-skating rink.
Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier features dazzling outdoor lakefront light displays, an outdoor ice-skating rink, and cozy firepits. The event includes a ride on the enclosed Centennial Ferris Wheel and offers free skating if you bring your own skates.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
Holiday celebration in a zoo setting
Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic features over two million twinkling LED lights, giant illuminated animals, and immersive light displays. Guests can explore indoor and outdoor habitats, enjoy live entertainment, and visit Santa. The event includes a festive holiday market and unique shopping opportunities.
Where: Brookfield | More Info: Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
German-style outdoor market with over 50 vendors and family-friendly activities.
Christkindlmarket is a traditional German-style holiday market offering a variety of international and local foods, unique shopping experiences, and festive events. Visitors can explore vendor products, participate in special events, and enjoy a cozy atmosphere filled with the smell of roasted nuts, fresh pretzels, and hot spiced wine.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Christkindlmarket
Illumination parade featuring floats, performances, and a dazzling city decor.
The holiday season in Chicago is celebrated with the Wintrust Lights Festival, where the city transforms into a vibrant display of lights. A stunning parade showcases elaborate floats adorned with colourful decorations, while performances from local artists capture the spirit of the season. This event draws people together, creating a lively atmosphere that's perfect for families and friends to enjoy.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Wintrust Lights Festival
