Chicago Loop Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Chicago Loop and surrounding areas
Chicago Loop sparkles during the Christmas season with iconic holiday activities around Millennium Park, the Chicago Theatre, and Navy Pier. Major events like Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier and the City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony fill the season with festive energy, Christmas lights, holiday markets, and seasonal entertainment. From parades and concerts to markets and winter festivals, the Loop offers endless things to do, bright lights, and memorable experiences for visitors and locals alike.
Find the best Chicago Loop Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
30 eventsTour four decorated homes and shop a curated holiday market.
Christmas Shows
15 eventsCirque du Soleil's holiday spectacle based on a classic poem.
Christmas Parties
14 eventsHigh-energy live music and NYE countdown party
Christmas Lights
13 eventsChicago's largest indoor winter festival
Christmas Activities
27 eventsChicago's official Christmas tree lighting ceremony
Editor's Picks (6)
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Howl at the Moon New Year's Eve Celebration
(Chicago)
High-energy live music and NYE countdown party
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Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
(Chicago)
Chicago's largest indoor winter festival
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City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
(Chicago)
Chicago's official Christmas tree lighting ceremony
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'Twas the Night Before... by Cirque du Soleil
(Chicago)
Cirque du Soleil's holiday spectacle based on a classic poem.
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ZooLights Presented by Invesco QQQ and ComEd
(Chicago)
Millions of lights illuminating a beloved zoo setting.
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ZooLights
(Chicago)
Millions of lights in a beloved urban zoo setting
Events Happening Soon (6)
Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Chicago Loop
- Christmas Tree Lighting Event Linked to Loop Shootings Published: Tue, Nov 25, 2025
- Magnificent Mile Lights Festival Parade Kicks Off Published: Sun, Nov 23, 2025
Chicago Loop Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Chicago Loop
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Chicago Loop!
Chicago Loop Christmas FAQ
The biggest events include the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival and the Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park, both drawing large crowds to celebrate the season.
Unique traditions include the Macy’s Great Tree inside the Walnut Room and the historic holiday window displays on State Street, which have been cherished for decades.
The Chicago Loop itself, especially along Michigan Avenue and State Street, offers some of the best holiday lights, with nearby neighborhoods also hosting festive displays.
Daley Plaza hosts the well-known Christkindlmarket, and various artisan markets and craft fairs pop up near Chicago Loop throughout the holiday season.
Enjoy free events like the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, Millennium Park’s holiday displays, and walking tours of neighborhood light displays for budget-friendly festive fun.
Family-friendly options include visiting Millennium Park’s Christmas Tree, attending holiday shows at local theaters, and exploring interactive light displays and markets with kid-friendly activities.