Last updated: November 11, 2024
Discover the joy of the season in Cicero with our detailed guide. Whether you're a familiar face in Cicero or seeing it fresh, our guide is your key to holiday cheer.
One of the highlights of the holiday season is the Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park, where the dazzling lights create a festive atmosphere for all visitors. Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier is also captivating, featuring stunning light displays and entertainment that bring joy to families and friends. And the Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum is something you definitely don't want to miss, as it transforms the gardens into a winter wonderland. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Contact information and details below.
Iconic tree lighting ceremony in a prominent city park.
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 programming and festivities.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park
Dazzling outdoor light displays and ice-skating rink with Lake Michigan backdrop.
Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier features dazzling outdoor lakefront light displays, an outdoor ice-skating rink, cozy firepits, and the heated Centennial Ferris Wheel. Enjoy live music, artisan markets, and axe-throwing activities.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier
Interactive light displays synchronized to music and dynamic colors.
Explore 50 acres of The Morton Arboretum's majestic trees during this spectacular light and sound display featuring 17 displays of lights and music that highlight the beauty of trees in winter. Enjoy immersive installations, warm fires, and festive music along a fully ADA-compliant one-mile path.
Where: Lisle | More Info: Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
Dazzling light and sound installations along a one-mile outdoor path.
Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden features an illuminated trail with dazzling installations, light, and music, transforming the garden into a vibrant winter spectacle.
Where: Glencoe | More Info: Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
Illuminated parade with Santa and fireworks display.
Winter Lights in Aurora features a festive parade, tree lighting, fireworks, and family-friendly activities including visits with Santa and holiday music.
Where: Aurora | More Info: Winter Lights at Aurora
Boozy twist on a holiday lights tour with express entry to popular attractions.
Join Chicago's exclusive BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour for a 4.5-hour celebration featuring entertainment, information, and humor with a boozy twist. Enjoy express entry into the Christkindlmarket and Zoo Lights, and visit top holiday attractions like The Magnificent Mile and Millennium Park Christmas Tree.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Chicago’s BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour
World-class ballet performance inspired by Chicago's 1893 World's Fair.
The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet is a holiday classic ballet set in 1893 Chicago, featuring a celebrated creative team and Tchaikovsky's iconic score.
Where: Chicago | More Info: The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet
A spectacular parade lighting up Chicago's famed thoroughfare with festive performances and displays.
The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival illuminates Chicago's iconic Magnificent Mile, featuring a breathtaking parade of floats and dazzling light displays. Families and friends gather to celebrate the season as beloved characters, marching bands, and live performances fill the streets. The atmosphere buzzes with joy and anticipation, creating a sense of community through music and lights.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Family-friendly holiday fun with unique attractions and dining options.
Winterland at Gallagher Way offers a variety of rides, games, and activities, including Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville, with international food and drinks. The event features private chalets and igloos for special experiences, and admission to Gallagher Way activities is free.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Winterland at Gallagher Way
