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Last updated: November 11, 2024

Thrilled for the holiday season in Lincoln Park? Discover all the festive events with our ultimate guide! For Lincoln Park insiders and outsiders alike, this guide is your key to unlocking seasonal wonders.

Popular events throughout the holiday season include the charming Christkindlmarket, where traditional German crafts and festive bites bring the spirit of Europe to life. You'll also enjoy the twinkling lights and spirited atmosphere of Ice Skating at Millennium Park, a perfect spot for family fun and holiday cheer. And definitely don't forget the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, where dazzling displays and local festivities create a magical holiday experience. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!

Contact information and details below.

Lincoln Park Holiday Light Displays

What to Expect:

Largest nighttime parade in the United States.

Description:

The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a day-through-night holiday extravaganza featuring a spectacular nighttime parade led by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. The event includes over 1 million lights illuminating 200 trees, giant helium balloons, marching bands, and musical performances. It culminates with the Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular over the Chicago River.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

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What to Expect:

Global holiday traditions showcased in a single exhibit.

Description:

Christmas Around the World at the Museum of Science and Industry features over 50 trees and displays decorated by volunteers to represent holiday traditions from cultures around the globe. The event includes a four-story, floor-to-dome Grand Tree and various on-site programs and activities for all ages.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Christmas Around the World at the Museum of Science and Industry

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What to Expect:

Dazzling outdoor light displays and ice-skating with Lake Michigan views.

Description:

Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier features dazzling outdoor lakefront light displays, an outdoor ice-skating rink, cozy firepits, and a heated Centennial Ferris Wheel. Enjoy live music, artisan markets, and axe-throwing activities.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier

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What to Expect:

Immersive light and music displays highlighting tree beauty in winter.

Description:

Explore 50 acres of The Morton Arboretum's majestic trees during this spectacular light and sound display. The event features 17 dazzling light and music displays, including a secluded glade strung with fairy lights and kinetic LED tall grasses honoring Midwest native species. Warm up by a crackling fire and enjoy snacks and beverages along the illuminated trail, or sit down to a delicious meal at the Ginkgo Restaurant to view a laser light finale on Meadow Lake.

Where: Lisle | More Info: Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum

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What to Expect:

Boozy twist on a holiday lights tour with express entry to top attractions.

Description:

Join Chicago's exclusive BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour for a 4.5-hour celebration featuring entertainment, information, and humor with a boozy twist. Enjoy express entry into the Christkindlmarket and Zoo Lights, drive by iconic holiday displays, and end the night with new friends at Headquarters Beercade.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Chicago’s BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour

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What to Expect:

Immersive holiday light displays with interactive activities.

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, visit Santa Claus, ice-skate, enjoy free train rides, and go tubing down the Alpine Slide. Festive food and beverage options are also available.

Where: Rosemont | More Info: Sparkle Light Festival

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What to Expect:

2.5-mile long journey with synchronized lights and music.

Description:

Willow Hill Lights is a drive-thru holiday light show featuring over one million LED lights, three drive-through tunnels, and a 30-foot Christmas tree. The event takes place at Willow Hill Golf Course in Northbrook, IL, and is open nightly from November 22nd to January 5th.

Where: Northbrook | More Info: Willow Hill Lights

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What to Expect:

Holiday tree lighting and fireworks display.

Description:

Winter Lights in downtown Aurora features a holiday tree lighting, illuminated parade, and fireworks display, along with food vendors and musical entertainment.

Where: Aurora | More Info: Winter Lights at Aurora

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What to Expect:

Walkthrough light displays set in a zoo environment highlight wildlife education.

Description:

Illuminated displays create a vibrant outdoor atmosphere as animals are seen in their habitats. Visitors walk along enchanting paths lined with lights, enjoying seasonal decorations that bring a festive spirit to the zoo. This family-friendly event features interactive experiences and occasional live entertainment, making it an annual highlight.

Where: Chicago | More Info: ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo

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Lincoln Park Holiday Markets and Shopping

What to Expect:

German-style holiday market with international and local vendors.

Description:

Christkindlmarket is a traditional German-style holiday market offering unique shopping, international and local foods, and festive events. Visitors can explore vendor products, participate in special events, and enjoy a cozy atmosphere filled with the smell of roasted nuts, fresh pretzels, bratwurst, and hot spiced wine.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Christkindlmarket

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What to Expect:

Unique, handmade gifts from over 600 artists and makers.

Description:

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 provides unique, handmade gifts for everyone on your list.

Where: Chicago | More Info: One of a Kind Holiday Show

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Lincoln Park Other Holiday Activities

What to Expect:

Free ice skating lessons for all skill levels.

Description:

Ice skating at Millennium Park offers free admission and skating sessions, with free skating lessons available for beginners and intermediate skaters. The rink is open daily from November through March, weather permitting, and features snacks and hot drinks available from Momentum Coffee and Millennium Hall.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Ice Skating at Millennium Park

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Private chalet rentals and beach-themed igloos.

Description:

Winterland at Gallagher Way offers a variety of rides, games, and family-friendly activities, including Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville with international food and drinks. Enjoy private chalet rentals and beach-themed igloos for a unique experience.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Winterland at Gallagher Way

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What to Expect:

Commemorating 25 years of connecting people with nature through public programming and school partnerships.

Description:

The Winter Flower Show at Garfield Park Conservatory celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Garfield Park Alliance with beautiful silver foliage, lush poinsettias, and other winter flowers.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Winter Flower Show at Garfield Park Conservatory

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