Kankakee Other Christmas Activities 2026

This holiday tradition in downtown Tinley Park brings the community together for a festive evening procession along Oak Park Avenue. Spectators can watch illuminated floats, civic organizations, non-profits, local businesses, and marching bands. The procession also features special guests, including...

Trim-A-Tree is a Tinley Park holiday tradition bringing together the community to welcome the season. Families, schools, businesses, and organizations gather to decorate holiday trees. The completed trees are proudly showcased around Harmony Square and along North Avenue.

Families board a holiday train ride traveling from the New Lenox station to Tinley Park and back. The event includes a meal, a visit with Santa and his elves, and activities at Santa's Workshop at Harald Viking Lodge. Guests can...

Visitors can board Santa's Candy Cane Express featuring open and enclosed passenger coaches, with the museum operating up to three railroads depending on the weather. Guests can meet Santa inside a real railroad caboose and stop by Doc's Soda Fountain...

Gather with the community to watch the Mayor and the Village Board of Trustees light the village Christmas tree. The annual celebration is followed by a special visit from Santa Claus.

Participants take to the streets of Crown Point in a timed 5K run or a non-timed 2K run/walk. Following the race, attendees can visit with Santa, meet 93.9 LITE FM host Robin Rock, and enjoy hot cocoa, holiday treats, and...

Families enjoy a full catered breakfast and entertainment together. Children have a special visit with Santa Claus and receive their own gift.

Downtown Valparaiso fills with seasonal cheer featuring holiday lights, carolers, live entertainment, and ice sculptures. Families can visit Candy Cane Lane, ride the Holiday Express Train, meet Santa, and see a live nativity hosted by Grace Chapel. Local retailers also...

Visitors can kick off the holiday season by watching Santa arrive and attending the tree lighting ceremony at Memorial Hall. Families can enjoy carousel rides, a holiday train, and visits with Santa. Guests can also stroll to explore local downtown...

Visitors can enjoy live musical performances and take photos with Santa. The celebration includes the presentation of the Good Neighbor Award along with the lighting of the plaza's giant Christmas tree. Ice skating is also available on-site at the rink.

Children and family members of all ages can experience a visit with Santa inside his magical workshop. Only one family enters the workshop at a time to enjoy a brief conversation with Santa. Guests can capture the memory by bringing...

Families can step into the world of Whoville with Grinchy games, festive crafts, holiday treats, and Who-themed keepsakes. Guests can take photos with Santa Claus, the Grinch, and Cindy Lou Who throughout the gathering. The open-house format allows families to...

Kankakee County comes alive with holiday magic during the Merry & Bright celebration. Experience a season filled with twinkling lights, local shopping, and festive cheer. From traditional events like the Gallery of Trees to new festivities, there's something for everyone....

Get ready for a magical holiday experience at the Crown Point Santa Parade! Watch as Santa makes a spectacular arrival by helicopter, landing at Pointe Plaza before heading to the historic Lake County Courthouse. Families can greet Santa and enjoy...

Get ready for the dazzling Jean Eberle Parade of Lights! This beloved community event features a spectacular procession of illuminated floats and participants, bringing holiday cheer to Cedar Lake. Watch as the parade lights up the night, showcasing creative designs...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Santa's March & Tree Lighting! Join the festive parade as Santa makes his way through downtown, culminating at the Main Square Gazebo. The evening culminates with a heartwarming tree lighting ceremony at...

Get ready for the enchanting Tinley Toyland Parade, a delightful community event that brings holiday magic to life. This festive procession features imaginative floats and enthusiastic participants, all celebrating the whimsical 'Toyland' theme. It's a perfect opportunity for families to...

Get into the holiday spirit at the Schererville Old-Fashioned Christmas Tree Lighting! This cherished event marks the beginning of the festive season. Community members have the opportunity to sponsor a tree, which will be beautifully displayed around the Schererville Town...

Capture the magic of the holiday season with a visit to the Santa Photo Experience at Orland Square. This cherished tradition allows families to create lasting memories with professional photos alongside Santa Claus. Special 'Pet Photos with Santa' events offer...

Join Santa Claus for a magical morning filled with delicious breakfast and delightful surprises. Children can enjoy a one-on-one visit with Santa, perfect for capturing memorable photos. Each registered child receives a special goodie bag to take home.

Experience the festive sounds of the Black Willow Brass Quintet at the Joliet North Pole Market. They will be performing a selection of holiday music, adding a special touch to your market visit. Discover unique gifts and enjoy the seasonal...

Get ready for a festive evening at the Jingle Bell Rock Family Dance! This event offers a lively atmosphere with a live DJ spinning holiday tunes, perfect for dancing the night away. Families can capture magical memories with a special...

Get into the festive spirit at the Oak Forest Park District's Christmas Arts and Crafts Workshop. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to engage in creative holiday crafting, perfect for all ages. Discover new techniques and create unique holiday-themed items.

Join the iconic Chicagoland Toys For Tots Motorcycle Parade, the world's largest of its kind, dedicated to bringing holiday joy to children. This massive event encourages participants to donate a toy, with all proceeds and merchandise sales supporting parade expenses...

The Rotary Club of Naperville presents a magical evening with their annual Parade of Lights. This family-friendly event illuminates downtown Naperville with dazzling floats, local performers, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. It's a heartwarming celebration that supports local...

Westmont, Illinois, comes alive with the Holly Days Winter Festival, a month-long celebration of end-of-year festivities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of enchanting events, from the excitement of the Elf Olympics and Santa's Sleigh Visits to heartwarming community initiatives like...

The Yorkville Holiday Celebration Weekend is the ultimate kickoff to the holiday season, offering a festive array of family-friendly events. Experience the excitement of the Holiday Parade, the heartwarming Tree Lighting Ceremony, and joyful visits with Santa. Lace up for...

Experience the warmth of community at Hodgkins Holiday Happenings. This festive evening begins with the cherished annual tree lighting ceremony, illuminating the start of the holiday season. Following the lighting, enjoy a variety of engaging holiday activities designed for families...

Bundle up for a magical evening at Westwood Park for Winter Wonderland! This festive celebration officially kicks off the holiday season with dazzling lights, lively entertainment, and fun for the entire family. Step inside the Community Center for warm hot...

Join the festive spirit at Hamilton Park for a delightful holiday event featuring Santa Claus and his friends. This celebration promises an afternoon filled with joy, including toys, delicious desserts, engaging music, lively dance performances, and creative arts and crafts....

Join the Johnson-Phelps VFW Post #5220 for their annual Christmas Party! This festive event promises an afternoon of holiday cheer. Keep an eye out, as Santa and Mrs. Claus are rumored to make a special appearance, bringing extra magic to...

Lace up your running shoes for the Rudolph Run 5K and Jingle Jog Family Fun Run! This festive event supports the Knights of Columbus in providing food and toys to local families. Participants can choose between a chip-timed 5K or...