Highland Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Highland and surrounding areas
Highland's Christmas 2025 brings neighborhood charm with Christmas lights, things to do and winter festivals centered near downtown landmarks and community parks. Enjoy Santa's Candy Cane Express, Photos with Santa at Santa's Mountain, and holiday performances that create festive events for families and visitors. Seasonal lights line main streets while local shops host markets and community activities, making Highland a cozy destination for holiday outings and family memories.
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Christmas Markets
26 eventsDowntown Valparaiso holiday tradition with Santa and train.
Christmas Lights
17 eventsChicago's largest indoor winter festival
Christmas Shows
12 eventsNutcracker reimagined at 1893 Chicago World's Fair
Christmas Parties
11 eventsHigh-energy live music and NYE countdown party
Other Christmas Activities
33 eventsAnnual illuminated holiday parade with Santa Claus
Editor's Picks (6)
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Holly Days
(Valparaiso)
Downtown Valparaiso holiday tradition with Santa and train.
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Howl at the Moon New Year's Eve Celebration
(Chicago)
High-energy live music and NYE countdown party
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Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
(Chicago)
Chicago's largest indoor winter festival
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'Twas the Night Before... by Cirque du Soleil
(Chicago)
Cirque du Soleil's holiday spectacle based on a classic poem.
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City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
(Chicago)
Chicago's official Christmas tree lighting ceremony
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Tinley Park Parade of Lights
(Tinley Park)
Annual illuminated holiday parade with Santa Claus
This Week / Coming Up (6)
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Highland’s biggest annual events include the Highland Christmas Lights for a Cure and community holiday markets, along with seasonal gatherings at local schools and churches. Nearby, larger light displays like Luminaria at Thanksgiving Point also draw crowds from Highland.
Highland is known for its neighborhood light displays and the collaborative Highland Christmas Lights for a Cure, which supports a good cause while bringing the community together. The town’s small-town feel shines during the holidays with caroling, tree lightings, and local markets.
The area around the Highland Christmas Lights for a Cure is a must-see, and many residential streets throughout Highland decorate enthusiastically. For the fullest experience, drive or walk through several neighborhoods to discover hidden gems.
Look for holiday markets and craft fairs at local schools, churches, and community centers in Highland. For a broader selection, artisan markets and vendor events in nearby cities are also easily accessible.
Enjoying the neighborhood light displays, attending free community markets, and participating in local tree lightings or caroling events are all budget-friendly ways to celebrate in Highland. Donations are appreciated at some events, but admission is generally free.
Families will enjoy the Highland Christmas Lights for a Cure, visits with Santa at local markets, and holiday crafts or treats at community events. The welcoming, small-town atmosphere makes Highland especially family-friendly during the holidays.