Gurnee Christmas Events 2026
Your guide to the best Christmas events in Gurnee and nearby
Gurnee area communities embrace the holiday season with dazzling light displays, lively tree lighting ceremonies, and opportunities to connect with Santa. Families can explore events ranging from festive parades winding through downtown streets to theatrical performances and unique craft workshops. The spirit of togetherness shines through as neighborhoods and towns near the lakefront and wooded preserves fill with seasonal cheer.
This curated list highlights a selection of these celebrations, featuring everything from the grand scale of Mariah Carey's Christmas Time in Rosemont to Santa's Village Magical Christmas Drive-Thru in East Dundee. You’ll also find local favorites like the Annual Woodstock Christmas Parade and the Village Tree Lighting & Downtown Holiday Walk in Libertyville, among many other ways to experience the magic of the season.
Browse Christmas Near Gurnee by Category
Christmas Shows
Features 15 musicians playing over 20 instruments with multimedia effects.
Christmas Lights
Annual Christmas tree lighting, drone light show, and downtown holiday stroll.
Christmas Markets
Local craft market featuring handmade goods, winter décor, and holiday gifts.
Unique & Unusual Christmas Events
Trolleys feature Dickens-era characters sharing local history stories.
Editor's Picks
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Gurnee Holiday Train & Holiday Lights
Dual holiday events featuring a dazzling light train and a community light display.
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Chicago Winter Wonderland Craft & Vendor Market 2026
Local craft market featuring handmade goods, winter décor, and holiday gifts.
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Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
· Glencoe
Enchanting after-hours holiday light trail with new installations annually.
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Lightin' Up Downtown Kenosha
· Kenosha
Annual Christmas tree lighting, drone light show, and downtown holiday stroll.
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Arlington Heights Tree Lighting
· Arlington Heights
Trolleys feature Dickens-era characters sharing local history stories.
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Mundelein Winter Tree Lighting Festival
· Mundelein
Features ice carving, train rides, Santa's Cottage, and fireworks.
Latest News & Updates
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Christmas Events in Nearby Cities
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Bigger holiday scenes worth the drive
Gurnee Christmas FAQ
What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Gurnee?
The Holiday Lights at Welton Plaza and the Holiday Train event are among the biggest annual Christmas celebrations in Gurnee, drawing families and visitors for festive activities and light displays.
What holiday traditions are unique to Gurnee?
Gurnee’s community-focused events like the Holiday Train arrival and the Holiday Lights celebration with s’mores and craft stations create a warm, local tradition that brings neighbors together each year.
Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Gurnee?
Several residential neighborhoods in Gurnee are known for their festive holiday lights and neighborhood displays, offering walkable areas to enjoy a variety of decorations up close.
Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Gurnee?
Christmas markets and local artisan fairs are often held at community centers like Hunt Club Park and other venues near Gurnee, featuring vendor stalls with handmade goods and seasonal treats.
What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Gurnee?
Free activities include neighborhood light displays, the Holiday Lights event at Welton Plaza, and community gatherings like the Holiday Train arrival, all offering festive fun without a cost.
What are good picks for families with kids in Gurnee?
Family-friendly options include the Holiday Train ride, craft stations at holiday events, visits with Santa, and walkable light displays that are engaging and suitable for children of all ages.
Today's Trending Event
One of today's most-visited holiday events from across the country.
BYOB Holiday Lights Trolley Tour Philadelphia
📍 Philadelphia , PA , United States
BYOB trolley tour of Philadelphia's holiday lights
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