Last updated: November 11, 2024
Enjoy the magic of the season in Hoffman Estates with our detailed event guide. For those who know Hoffman Estates's every nook and those just scratching the surface, this guide reveals holiday wonders.
One standout event in the area is the Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon, where enchanting displays transform the venue into a winter wonderland. Sparkle Light Festival offers a stunning array of lights and festive activities for the family to enjoy. And the Arctic Adventure is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing winter activities that bring joy to visitors of all ages. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Hoffman Estates Holiday Light Displays
Arctic Adventure
- What to Expect
- Immersive drive-through light show with over one million lights and synchronized music.
- Description
- Immerse yourself in a spectacular drive-through light show featuring over one million colorful lights, larger-than-life trees, and a mesmerizing snowflake tunnel, all choreographed to favorite holiday tunes. Hosted by Beti the Yeti, this immersive experience includes winter characters and delightful holiday treats.
- Where
- Gurnee | More Info : Arctic Adventure
Sparkle Light Festival
- What to Expect
- Illuminated villages with ice skating and tubing.
- Description
- Sparkle Light Festival at Impact Field in Rosemont features a brand new, completely redesigned layout with an added ice skating rink. Visitors can stroll through five illuminated villages, including the Frozen Forest, Snowflake Circle, Winter Wonderland, the North Pole, and Deck the Walls. Activities include visiting Santa Claus, ice-skating, enjoying free train rides on the Holly Trolly train, and going tubing down the Alpine Slide. Festive food and beverage options are also available.
- Where
- Rosemont | More Info : Sparkle Light Festival
Willow Hill Lights
- What to Expect
- 2.5-mile drive-thru light display with synchronized lights and music.
- Description
- Willow Hill Lights is a drive-thru holiday light show at Willow Hill Golf Course in Northbrook, IL, featuring a 2.5-mile route with over one million LED lights, three drive-through tunnels, and a 30-foot Christmas tree. The event is open nightly from November 22nd to January 5th.
- Where
- Northbrook | More Info : Willow Hill Lights
Happy Holiday Railway
- What to Expect
- Interactive holiday train ride with Santa and animated light show.
- Description
- Take a 40-minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus. Enjoy treats and hot chocolate while seeing historic trains and holiday lights. The event features an animated light show and holiday song presentation, with a quiet car option for those averse to animated lights. Additional attractions include a holiday light tour in Barn 6 and rides on historic Chicago streetcars.
- Where
- Union | More Info : Happy Holiday Railway
Hoffman Estates Holiday Markets and Shopping
Holiday Craft Fair
- What to Expect
- Local artisans present a variety of handmade crafts and goods for holiday shopping.
- Description
- A vibrant gathering showcasing local artisans and crafters, offering unique handmade items for holiday gifts. Visitors can explore diverse booths featuring jewelry, ornaments, home décor, and more, creating a perfect atmosphere for holiday shopping and community engagement. It's an opportunity to support local talent while finding one-of-a-kind treasures.
- Where
- Hoffman Estates | More Info : Holiday Craft Fair
Hoffman Estates Holiday Shows and Entertainment
for KING & COUNTRY: A Drummer Boy Christmas Concert
- What to Expect
- Grammy-winning duo performing holiday favorites and new songs.
- Description
- for KING & COUNTRY brings their A Drummer Boy Christmas Tour to NOW Arena, featuring Christmas classics and original music.
- Where
- Hoffman Estates | More Info : for KING & COUNTRY: A Drummer Boy Christmas Concert
Hoffman Estates Other Holiday Activities
Vintage Holidays in Long Grove
- What to Expect
- Nostalgic holiday activities in a quaint, old-world setting.
- Description
- Vintage Holidays in Long Grove features historic downtown decorations, horse-drawn carriage rides, festive carolers, and merchant specials.
- Where
- Long Grove | More Info : Vintage Holidays in Long Grove