Des Plaines Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Des Plaines and surrounding areas
Des Plaines celebrates the Christmas season with striking Christmas lights across River Road and lively Holiday lights at downtown plazas. Seasonal events such as Mariah Carey's Christmas Time, the City of Des Plaines Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, and Christmas in the Air theatrical performances bring music, Santa visits, and holiday attractions to the local community. Stroll lit streets, visit market stalls, and join family-friendly activities that pair traditional charm with modern festive events for a joyful seasonal experience.
Find the best Des Plaines Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
30 eventsTour four decorated homes and shop a curated holiday market.
Christmas Lights
13 eventsEnchanting 1.3-mile illuminated trail with artistic light displays.
Christmas Shows
11 eventsMariah Carey's "Christmas Time" concert tour
Christmas Parties
8 eventsBreakfast with Santa Claus
Christmas Activities
38 eventsChristmas-themed national championship with indoor snowball fights
Editor's Picks (6)
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Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
(Glencoe)
Enchanting 1.3-mile illuminated trail with artistic light displays.
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Mariah Carey's Christmas Time
(Rosemont)
Mariah Carey's "Christmas Time" concert tour
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Christmas Classic Chicago South
(Schaumburg)
Christmas-themed national championship with indoor snowball fights
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Breakfast with Santa
(Glenview)
Breakfast with Santa Claus
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Skate with Santa
(Wilmette)
Holiday-themed public skate with Santa Claus
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Downtown Evanston Holiday Tree Lighting
(Evanston)
Annual tree lighting with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Events Happening Soon (6)
Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Des Plaines
- Park Ridge Historical Society Christmas Events Published: Wed, Nov 26, 2025
- Des Plaines Library Holiday Programs Published: Wed, Nov 26, 2025
Des Plaines Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Des Plaines
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Des Plaines!
Des Plaines Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual events include the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at Metropolitan Square and the Winter Fair at the Des Plaines Public Library, both held in early December and featuring festive activities and entertainment.
Des Plaines celebrates with community-focused events like the Holiday Tree Lighting and local artisan pop-up shops, fostering a close-knit holiday spirit that highlights local makers and family-friendly festivities.
Several residential neighborhoods in Des Plaines are known for their festive holiday lights and neighborhood displays, offering charming walking trails and drive-by options to enjoy the season’s glow.
Local makers and Christmas markets can be found at venues like Lurvey Home & Garden Center’s Holiday Open House and various pop-up artisan markets throughout the city during the holiday season.
Free or budget-friendly options include attending the Holiday Tree Lighting at Metropolitan Square, exploring neighborhood light displays, and visiting the Winter Fair at the public library, all offering festive fun without a high cost.
Families can enjoy events like visits with Santa at Lurvey Home & Garden, the Winter Fair with crafts and games, and walking or driving through neighborhood light displays that are safe and entertaining for children.