Dekalb Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Dekalb and surrounding areas

How we verify →
Christmas Markets (27 events) → Christmas Lights (18 events) → Christmas Parties (7 events) → Christmas Shows (7 events) → Christmas Activities (41 events) →

DeKalb lights up the Christmas season across cultural landmarks and downtown venues with Christmas lights, holiday activities, and community markets. Visit the DAWC Annual Local Holiday Shopping Fair for festive events, shop local vendors, and enjoy seasonal performances near the historic campus and Courthouse Square. Parades, lights displays, and family activities round out the calendar, making DeKalb a lively place to celebrate tradition, support local businesses, and enjoy seasonal cheer.

Find the best DeKalb Christmas happenings this year!

Dekalb Christmas Events

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Christmas Markets

27 events
Stroll on State • Nov 29

Rockford's official holiday season kick-off event.

Dekalb Christmas Markets →

Christmas Lights

18 events
St. Charles Holiday Homecoming Weekend • Nov 28 – Nov 29

Kick off the holiday season with a weekend of festive events.

Dekalb Christmas Lights →

Christmas Parties

7 events
Cookies and Churros with Santa • Nov 30

Sweet treats with Santa after the parade

Dekalb Christmas Parties →

Christmas Shows

7 events
Irving Berlin's White Christmas • Nov 12 – Jan 11, 2026

Iconic holiday musical with spectacular costumes and dance numbers.

Dekalb Christmas Shows →

Christmas Activities

41 events
Holiday Homecoming Lighting of the Lights Ceremony • Nov 28 – Nov 29

Community lighting ceremony and electric Christmas parade.

Dekalb Christmas Activities →

Editor's Picks (6)

  1. Stroll on State (Rockford)
    Rockford's official holiday season kick-off event.
  2. Rockford Festival of Lights (Rockford)
    Over 85 dazzling holiday light displays
  3. A Very Merry Huntley (Huntley)
    Full day of holiday festivities with parade and fireworks.
  4. Holiday Homecoming Lighting of the Lights Ceremony (St. Charles)
    Community lighting ceremony and electric Christmas parade.
  5. St. Charles Holiday Homecoming Weekend (St. Charles)
    Kick off the holiday season with a weekend of festive events.
  6. Santa's Village Magical Christmas Drive-Thru Experience (East Dundee)
    Over 3 million synchronized holiday lights in a drive-thru.

Events Happening Soon (6)

DAWC Annual Local Holiday Shopping Fair Fri, Dec 5 View →
Geneva Holiday House Tour Fri, Dec 5 View →
Holiday Express Fri, Dec 5 View →
Belvidere Hometown Christmas Fri, Dec 5 View →
Polar Express Storytime Train Sat, Dec 6 View →
Victorian Christmas featuring Glendale Heights Christkindl Market Sat, Dec 6 View →
Latest Christmas news and updates in Dekalb

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Dekalb Christmas Events Map

See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.

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Dekalb Christmas events map

Also Near Dekalb

Wasco (17.8 miles) → Geneva (21.8 miles) → St Charles (22.7 miles) → Batavia (23.2 miles) → Huntley (23.3 miles) → Belvidere (23.6 miles) →
Christmas road trip adventure with festive characters

Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways

Worth the drive for more holiday events near Dekalb!

Madison (85.6 miles) → Milwaukee (87.9 miles) →

Looking for more? Explore all Illinois Christmas Events →

Dekalb Christmas FAQ

What are the biggest annual Christmas events in DeKalb?

The biggest annual events include the Lights on Lincoln celebration, the Downtown DeKalb Merry Market, and the Christmas tree lighting in Van Buer Plaza.

What holiday traditions are unique to DeKalb?

DeKalb is known for its Santa house in Van Buer Plaza, the Elfie Adventures scavenger hunt, and the festive decorations along Lincoln Highway.

Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in DeKalb?

Downtown DeKalb and the neighborhoods around Lincoln Highway are especially popular for their holiday lights and festive displays.

Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in DeKalb?

Christmas markets and local makers are often found in downtown DeKalb, especially during the Merry Market and holiday weekends.

What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in DeKalb?

Free activities include viewing Christmas lights, attending the tree lighting, and visiting the Downtown DeKalb Merry Market and other holiday markets.

What are good picks for families with kids in DeKalb?

Families enjoy visiting Santa’s house, the Elfie Adventures scavenger hunt, and the holiday photo sessions and crafts at local markets.

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