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Last updated: November 11, 2024

Embark on an exciting holiday adventure in Grand Boulevard with our guide. Discover all the best festive happenings. Whether Grand Boulevard is your backyard or a new adventure, our guide reveals the top holiday events.

One highlight of the season is The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet, a delightful performance that brings the classic tale to life with stunning choreography and vibrant costumes. Another captivating experience is the Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park, where the joy of the holidays is palpable as the massive tree illuminates the evening sky. And the Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing a brilliant display of lights and festive cheer throughout the iconic shopping district. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!

Contact information and details below.

Grand Boulevard Holiday Light Displays

What to Expect:

Largest nighttime parade in the United States.

Description:

The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a day-through-night holiday extravaganza featuring a spectacular parade down North Michigan Avenue, led by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. The event includes giant helium balloons, marching bands, musical performances, and one million lights illuminating 200 trees. It culminates with the Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular over the Chicago River.

Where: Chicago | More Info: The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

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What to Expect:

Immersive light and music installations highlighting tree beauty.

Description:

Explore 50 acres of the Morton Arboretum's majestic trees during this spectacular light, sound, and color display. The one-mile path is fully ADA compliant, featuring 17 displays of lights and music that highlight the beauty of trees in winter. Enjoy warm beverages, snacks, and meals at concession tents and the Ginkgo Restaurant while viewing a laser light finale on Meadow Lake.

Where: Lisle | More Info: Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum

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What to Expect:

Holiday celebration in a zoo setting

Description:

Lincoln Park Zoo's ZooLights features over 3 million lights, including hundreds of luminous LED displays and festive seasonal experiences. Guests can enjoy a thrilling holiday light tunnel, ride the 65-foot Ferris wheel, and indulge in hot chocolate and roasted s'mores by an open fire. The event also includes professional ice carvers and Victorian carolers on select nights.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Lincoln Park Zoo's ZooLights

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What to Expect:

Dazzling outdoor light displays and ice-skating with Lake Michigan as a backdrop.

Description:

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. Discover unique finds at local artisan markets and enjoy live music every weekend.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier

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Grand Boulevard Holiday Markets and Shopping

What to Expect:

Authentic German market ambiance with handmade crafts and traditional food stalls

Description:

A traditional German-style market featuring artisan goods, delicious food, and warm beverages. Visitors can wander through wooden chalets, collecting unique gifts and enjoying festive treats while surrounded by twinkling lights and holiday cheer. Local entertainment adds to the atmosphere, creating a delightful setting perfect for all ages.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Christkindlmarket Chicago

Event Organizer?

Grand Boulevard Holiday Shows and Entertainment

What to Expect:

World-class ballet performance inspired by Chicago's 1893 World's Fair.

Description:

The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet is a holiday tradition set in Chicago's 1893 World's Fair, featuring Christopher Wheeldon's choreography and Tchaikovsky's classic score. The story follows Marie and her mother as they celebrate Christmas Eve with a surprise visit from the Great Impresario, leading to a whirlwind journey through the fairgrounds. This production showcases a celebrated creative team, including Tony Award-winning designers and puppeteers.

Where: Chicago | More Info: The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet

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Grand Boulevard Other Holiday Activities

What to Expect:

Family-friendly holiday activities with unique private event options.

Description:

Winterland at Gallagher Way offers a variety of rides, games, and international food options, including Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville. Enjoy private chalet rentals and beach-themed igloos for a unique holiday experience.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Winterland at Gallagher Way

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Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!

Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!