Last updated: November 11, 2024
Excited for the holidays in Glen Ellyn? Our guide has all the festive events you need to know! From Glen Ellyn regulars to holiday tourists, our guide unlocks the city's festive treasures for everyone.
Popular Events: Experience the enchanting Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum, where thousands of twinkling lights transform the outdoor landscape into a winter wonderland. With delightful pathways and themed displays, it's a sight to behold. Another highlight is Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo, featuring festive animal encounters and dazzling light displays perfect for families. And don't forget the Mooseheart Holiday Lights Festival, where a spectacular drive-through display captivates visitors with vibrant decorations. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Glen Ellyn Holiday Light Displays
Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
- What to Expect
- Interactive light displays synced to music in the Gerard T. Donnelly Grand Garden.
- Description
- 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 strung with fairy lights and kinetic LED tall grasses honoring Midwest native species. Warm up by a crackling fire and enjoy snacks and beverages along the trail or a delicious meal at the Ginkgo Restaurant.
- Where
- Lisle | More Info : Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
- What to Expect
- Synchronized light and sound show with giant illuminated animals.
- Description
- Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic features over two million twinkling LED lights, giant illuminated animals, and immersive light displays. Guests can explore 900 beautifully decorated trees, visit Santa, and enjoy unique shopping and seasonal food at the Holiday Market.
- Where
- Brookfield | More Info : Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Mooseheart Holiday Lights Festival
- What to Expect
- Chicagoland's largest holiday light display with over 80 illuminated displays.
- Description
- The Mooseheart Holiday Lights Festival features a 1.8-mile drive-through route with over 80 lighted displays, showcasing one of Chicagoland's largest holiday light displays.
- Where
- Mooseheart | More Info : Mooseheart Holiday Lights Festival
Aurora Festival of Lights
- What to Expect
- Dazzling light displays synchronized with holiday music.
- Description
- The Aurora Festival of Lights is a free outdoor drive-through holiday light display featuring over a mile of spectacular lighted displays, including jumping reindeer, ice skating bears, and Santa's toy factory, all synchronized with holiday music.
- Where
- Aurora | More Info : Aurora Festival of Lights
Glen Ellyn Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Santa Arrives by Helicopter at Winston Plaza
- What to Expect
- Santa arrives by helicopter for a festive family event.
- Description
- Join Winston Plaza for a free holiday event where Santa lands via helicopter. Enjoy a magic show, face painting, kids crafts, and more. Get your free photo with Santa after a $25 purchase from any merchant.
- Where
- Glen Ellyn | More Info : Santa Arrives by Helicopter at Winston Plaza
Salt Creek Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”
- What to Expect
- Live orchestra accompaniment and elaborate sets.
- Description
- Salt Creek Ballet presents a full-scale production of Tchaikovsky’s "The Nutcracker," featuring live accompaniment from New Philharmonic. This holiday tradition includes elaborate sets and costumes, showcasing a series of divertissements led by the Sugar Plum Fairy. The story follows Clara as she battles mice and meets her dashing nutcracker prince, culminating in a grand dance spectacle.
- Where
- Glen Ellyn | More Info : Salt Creek Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”
Glen Ellyn Other Holiday Activities
Christmas Walk
- What to Expect
- Family-friendly holiday activities and festive market.
- Description
- The Christmas Walk in Downtown Hinsdale features family-friendly holiday crafts, giveaways, and activities. Businesses set up booths on Washington Street, offering festive treats and entertainment. The event includes a classic carousel, trackless train, and holiday carolers.
- Where
- Hinsdale | More Info : Christmas Walk