Last updated: November 11, 2024
Find the must-see holiday highlights in Logan Square! Explore all the top events with our guide. From Logan Square locals to global adventurers, this guide ensures you catch the spirit of the season.
Popular Events: Experience the enchanting lights and festive atmosphere at Light Up the Lake, where the shimmering displays create a magical backdrop for holiday memories. Additionally, behold the iconic Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park, a stunning centerpiece that captures the city's holiday spirit. And the Winterland at Gallagher Way is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering a winter wonderland filled with joyful activities and seasonal cheer. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Contact information and details below.
Dazzling outdoor lakefront light displays and ice-skating rink.
Light Up the Lake is a holiday celebration at Navy Pier featuring dazzling outdoor lakefront light displays, an outdoor ice-skating rink, cozy firepits, and an enclosed Centennial Ferris Wheel. Skating is free if you bring your own skates.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Light Up the Lake
Towering tree with special lighting ceremony.
The Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park is a towering tree, ideally a Norway Spruce or Fir, that stands at least 45 feet tall. Located near the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Washington Street, it serves as the centerpiece of the city's holiday traditions. The tree will be illuminated during the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 22, 2024, and remain lit through January 8, 2025.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park
Interactive light displays and animal encounters.
Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic features over two million twinkling LED lights, giant animal sculptures, and immersive light tunnels. Guests can explore indoor and outdoor animal habitats, enjoy live entertainment, and participate in seasonal activities like ice carving and virtual reality experiences.
Where: Brookfield | More Info: Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Dazzling light and sound installations in a 1.3-mile trail.
Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden is an illuminated trail featuring dazzling light and sound installations, transforming the garden into a vibrant winter spectacle with art and music.
Where: Glencoe | More Info: Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
Holiday celebration with interactive light displays and festive activities.
Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a vibrant spectacle with over 3 million lights, interactive displays, and festive seasonal experiences. Visitors can enjoy thrilling holiday light tunnels, ride the 65-foot Ferris wheel, and indulge in hot chocolate or roast s'mores by an open fire. The event features professional ice carvers and roaming Victorian carolers on select nights, along with a light lounge for relaxation.
Where: Chicago | More Info: ZooLights at the Lincoln Park Zoo
Animated light show and holiday song presentation during the train ride.
Take a 40-minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus. Enjoy treats and hot chocolate while seeing and visiting with Santa. The event features an animated light show and holiday song presentation, and gifts are given to children on Santa’s “good list.” Holiday lights are displayed throughout the campus, including a spectacular animated snow plow display. The event also includes a holiday light tour in Barn 6 and rides on historic Chicago streetcars.
Where: Union | More Info: Happy Holiday Railway at Illinois Railway Museum
Display of decorated trees from diverse cultures representing their holiday traditions
This annual event features beautifully decorated trees representing various cultures, showcasing unique ornaments and traditions. Visitors can explore the festive displays while enjoying educational activities and live performances throughout the event. The museum's captivating atmosphere highlights the rich diversity of holiday celebrations from around the globe, offering an immersive experience for all ages.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
World-class ballet performance inspired by Chicago's 1893 World's Fair.
The Joffrey Ballet's Nutcracker is a holiday tradition 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 on a whirlwind journey through the World's Columbian Exposition.
Where: Chicago | More Info: The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet
Spectacular parade with performances and dazzling light displays along a famous avenue.
A vibrant celebration that lights up the city with dazzling displays along Michigan Avenue. The event features a festive parade with marching bands, spectacular floats, and appearances by iconic characters, creating a lively atmosphere for families and visitors alike. Local performers add to the entertainment, enhancing the community spirit and holiday cheer.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Unique blend of carnival rides and international food options.
Winterland at Gallagher Way offers a variety of rides, games, and activities for all ages, including ice skating and international food options. The event features private chalets and igloos for special experiences, and admission to Gallagher Way activities is free.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Winterland at Gallagher Way
Free ice skating with accessible facilities.
The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park offers free admission with online reservations required. It features free skating lessons, accessible for wheelchairs, and snacks available from Momentum Coffee and Millennium Hall.
Where: Chicago | More Info: McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Interactive art installations with unlimited ice cream.
At Pinkmas at Museum of Ice Cream, indulge in unlimited ice cream and explore 14 interactive art installations featuring exclusive treats that create unforgettable memories.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Pinkmas at Museum of Ice Cream
Unique outdoor ice skating experience with festive ambiance.
Skating in the Park at Parkway Bank Park offers a serene outdoor ice skating experience amidst a lively atmosphere with various events and activities.
Where: Rosemont | More Info: Skating in the Park at Parkway Bank Park
Free, award-winning fireworks display over Lake Michigan.
Witness the dazzling Award-Winning fireworks display at Navy Pier, featuring spectacular Saturday shows this winter. Get cozy on the Pier and enjoy the breathtaking winter display.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Winter Fireworks at Navy Pier
Interactive holiday activities and festive photo ops.
The Jack Frost Christmas Holiday Pop-Up in Fulton Market, Chicago, offers a two-acre outdoor attraction featuring a Christmas market, photo opportunities, ice skating, bumper cars, axe throwing, and more. Enjoy boozy hot cocoa and holiday cocktails while exploring the light-filled Christmas tree walk.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Jack Frost Christmas Holiday Pop-Up
Nostalgic holiday activities in a quaint, historic downtown setting.
Vintage Holidays in Long Grove features horse-drawn carriage rides, festive carolers, and special appearances by Santa, set amidst historic downtown shops and old-world charm.
Where: Long Grove | More Info: Vintage Holidays in Long Grove
Santa visits in a historic downtown setting.
Santa in the Village in Historic Downtown Long Grove features visits from Santa Claus on select weekends, bringing joy to all ages.
Where: Long Grove | More Info: Santa in the Village in Historic Downtown Long Grove
