Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Gurnee Holiday Train & Holiday Lights
Dual holiday events featuring a dazzling light train and a community light display.
About
Experience the magic of the holiday season in Gurnee with two spectacular events! The CPKC Holiday Train arrives, bringing a dazzling light display and a live concert. Simultaneously, Welton Plaza glows with festive lights, offering s'mores, crafts, and a chance to meet Santa. It's a perfect community celebration to ignite holiday cheer.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, community-oriented, cheerful
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High
Special Events & Promotions
- Commemorative 'Holiday Lights' mug for the first 200 children visiting Santa.
- Free pizza from Jimano's Pizza (while supplies last) at Holiday Lights.
- Collection of non-perishable food items for local food pantries.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
FREE
Duration
2 hours for Holiday Lights; 2 hours for Holiday Train event
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- DJ Frank Wright
- Mr. and Mrs. Claus
Organizer
Village of Gurnee, Gurnee Park District, Village of Gurnee Chamber of Commerce
Practical Information
Parking
Parking is available at Viking Park, Viking Middle School, and Warren Township High School.
Pet Policy
No pets mentioned, but a petting zoo is present at the Holiday Train event.
Food & Drink
Fire pits and s'mores available at Holiday Lights. Free pizza from Jimano's Pizza (while supplies last) at Holiday Lights. Food donations are collected for the Warren Township Food Pantry and Northern Illinois Food Bank.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early for the Holiday Train event, especially if you want to secure a good viewing spot near Depot Road and Old Grand Avenue, as it's a popular event.
- Bring non-perishable food items for donation to the Warren Township Food Pantry (Holiday Lights) or Northern Illinois Food Bank (Holiday Train) to support those in need.
- Check the weather forecast and dress in warm layers, as both events are primarily outdoors. Fire pits at Welton Plaza will offer some warmth.
- For the Holiday Train, consider parking at Warren Township High School if you prefer a slightly longer walk, as it might offer more available spots.
- Take advantage of the free pizza at the Holiday Lights event, but be aware it's available while supplies last, so don't delay!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates and times for these holiday events?
The Holiday Lights at Welton Plaza is on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. The CPKC Holiday Train event is on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with the train arriving around 5:00 PM.
Are these events free to attend?
Yes, both the Holiday Lights at Welton Plaza and the CPKC Holiday Train event are free to attend.
Where is the best place to park for the Holiday Train?
Parking is available at Viking Park, Viking Middle School, and Warren Township High School. From these locations, you can walk to Depot Road and Old Grand Avenue.
What can I do at the Holiday Lights event?
At Holiday Lights, you can enjoy fire pits, s'mores, craft stations, meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy free pizza while supplies last. Food donations are also collected.
What is the purpose of the food donations?
Food donations collected at both events support local food pantries: the Warren Township Food Pantry for Holiday Lights and the Northern Illinois Food Bank for the Holiday Train, helping to combat hunger.
