Last updated: November 11, 2024
Discover the best holiday events in Highland Park! Explore all the must-see festive highlights with our guide. Whether Highland Park is your everyday reality or your dream destination, our guide brings holiday magic to life.
One of the most anticipated seasonal attractions is the Christkindlmarket, where the spirit of a traditional German Christmas market comes alive with handcrafted goods and delicious seasonal treats. Another highlight is the Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, where the dazzling display of lights marks the official start of the holiday season. And the Holiday Lighting is an event you definitely don't want to miss, featuring stunning decorations that illuminate the town. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Have suggestions or corrections? Contact us!
Highland Park Holiday Light Displays
Holiday Lighting
The annual Holiday Lighting event in Highland Park, IL, is a cherished City-sponsored tradition that illuminates Port Clinton Square with festive lights and decorations. The event series continues with holiday activities throughout Downtown Highland Park, offering a variety of seasonal activities.
Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is an annual event where the city's official Christmas tree is illuminated in Millennium Park. The ceremony includes a main stage on Washington Street with traditional tree lighting, followed by fireworks. Families can enjoy multiple viewing locations with screens and concessions across the park.
Highland Park Holiday Markets and Shopping
Christkindlmarket
Christkindlmarket is a traditional German holiday market offering a unique shopping experience with international and local vendors, festive music, and a variety of seasonal foods.
One of a Kind Holiday Show
The One of a Kind Holiday Show brings together over 600 exceptional artists, designers, and makers, offering thousands of handmade products across 20 categories. This premier holiday shopping destination in Chicago features unique, handmade gifts for everyone on your list.
Highland Park Holiday Shows and Entertainment
The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet
The Joffrey Ballet's Nutcracker is a holiday spectacle set in 1893 Chicago, featuring Christopher Wheeldon's choreography and Tchaikovsky's classic score. The story follows Marie and her mother as they celebrate Christmas Eve, only to be swept away by the Nutcracker Prince to the dreamlike fairgrounds of the World’s Columbian Exposition.
Breakfast with Santa at Maggiano's Old Orchard
Families gather at Maggiano's Old Orchard for a delightful breakfast featuring Santa Claus. Children and adults alike relish a hearty meal while sharing their Christmas wishes. The atmosphere is filled with laughter and joy as guests engage in festive activities, creating memorable moments. It's a splendid occasion to connect with loved ones during the holiday season.
Highland Park Other Holiday Activities
Cookie & Cocoa Crawl
The Cookie & Cocoa Crawl in the Ravinia District of Highland Park is a festive event where families and children can enjoy cocoa and cookies. It takes place on December 7 from 11:30 AM to 1 PM, offering a delightful holiday experience in a charming neighborhood setting.
Stews & Brews
Stews & Brews is a free, all-ages event offering an array of cold weather comfort foods like chili, pozole, lamb stew, beef stroganoff, Hungarian goulash, potpies, and a variety of soups. Attendees can pair their dishes with dozens of unique brews including craft beers, spiced wine, hot toddies, and mulled ciders. The event features live blues music with performances by Mississippi Heat and Chicago blues master Wayne Baker Brooks.
