Last updated: November 11, 2024
Plan your holiday fun in Greater Grand Crossing with our guide. Discover all the best festive events and activities. Whether you're a familiar face or a new visitor, our guide ensures you experience the holiday spirit in Greater Grand Crossing.
Popular Events: Immerse yourself in the joyous atmosphere at the Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park, a cherished tradition that beautifully marks the season. Adding a unique twist to your celebrations, the Chicago’s BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour allows you to sip your favorite drinks while cruising through dazzling light displays. And the Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring a breathtaking array of lights illuminating the trees. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Greater Grand Crossing Holiday Light Displays
Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park
- What to Expect
- Iconic tree lighting ceremony with live performances and fireworks.
- Description
- The City of Chicago's 111th Christmas Tree in Millennium Park will be illuminated with a grand ceremony, featuring live performances, fireworks, and festive cheer. The tree will shine brightly near the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Washington Street, filling onlookers with joy and festive spirit.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park
Chicago’s BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour
- What to Expect
- Boozy holiday lights tour with express market entry.
- Description
- Join Chicago's BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour for a 4.5-hour festive adventure. Enjoy express entry into Christkindl Market and ZooLights while cruising through iconic holiday attractions like The Magnificent Mile and Millennium Park Christmas Tree. The tour includes complimentary apps, drink deals, and souvenir Santa hats.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : Chicago’s BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour
Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
- What to Expect
- Interactive light displays synchronized to music in a winter woodland setting.
- Description
- Explore 50 acres of The Morton Arboretum's majestic trees during this spectacular light and sound display. The event features 17 dazzling light and music displays, including new interactive installations and returning favorites. Enjoy a one-mile ADA-compliant path, warm fires, and marshmallow roasting, as well as snacks and beverages at concession tents.
- Where
- Lisle | More Info : Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
Winter Lights at Aurora
- What to Expect
- Illuminated parade and drone show over the Fox River.
- Description
- Winter Lights in Aurora is a free family-friendly event featuring an illuminated parade, tree lighting, drone show, and festive activities along Downer Place and Stolp Avenue. Santa and Mrs. Claus will lead the parade, followed by the tree lighting and a drone display over the Fox River. The event will also include food vendors, costumed characters, and musical entertainment at Millennium Plaza.
- Where
- Aurora | More Info : Winter Lights at Aurora
Greater Grand Crossing Holiday Markets and Shopping
Holiday Tea at The Grove
- What to Expect
- Unique handmade items and festive holiday refreshments.
- Description
- The Holiday Market at The Grove Redfield Estate features unique, handmade items from 20+ artists, makers, and designers. Shop for gifts, jewelry, textiles, décor, personalized ornaments, stocking stuffers, gourmet food, and baked goods. Enjoy festive holiday refreshments and take photos with Santa by the fireplace in the heated pavilion.
- Where
- Glenview | More Info : Holiday Tea at The Grove
Christkindlmarket Chicago
- What to Expect
- Features authentic German artisans and vendors in a charming outdoor setting.
- Description
- This traditional open-air market captures the spirit of European holiday bazaars. Visitors can explore stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, delicious seasonal foods, and warm beverages, all set against the backdrop of a festive atmosphere. The vibrant offerings make it a hub for holiday shopping and culinary delights, with entertainment that brings the community together.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : Christkindlmarket Chicago
Greater Grand Crossing Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Wintrust Lights Festival
- What to Expect
- Witness the spectacular tree lighting complemented by a lively parade and performances.
- Description
- The Wintrust Lights Festival transforms downtown Chicago into a dazzling display of holiday cheer, featuring a parade of illuminated floats and a stunning tree lighting ceremony. Spectators can gather to watch festive performances from local artists, creating a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates the holiday spirit. Families and friends come together to kick off the seasonal celebrations amid the bright decorations and cheerful ambiance.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : Wintrust Lights Festival