Lower West Side Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Lower West Side and surrounding areas
The Lower West Side embraces the Christmas season with colorful Holiday lights along Archer Avenue and community gatherings around local parks and cultural centers where neighbors share seasonal cheer. Experience festive events like Morgan Park Beverly Hills Holiday Road, join parades and holiday activities, and enjoy winter festivals and family-friendly attractions that spotlight neighborhood spirit and local traditions.
Find the best Lower West Side Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
30 eventsTour four decorated homes and shop a curated holiday market.
Christmas Shows
16 eventsNutcracker reimagined at 1893 Chicago World's Fair
Christmas Parties
14 eventsHigh-energy live music and NYE countdown party
Christmas Lights
13 eventsChicago's largest indoor winter festival
Christmas Activities
26 eventsChicago's official Christmas tree lighting ceremony
Editor's Picks (6)
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Howl at the Moon New Year's Eve Celebration
(Chicago)
High-energy live music and NYE countdown party
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Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
(Chicago)
Chicago's largest indoor winter festival
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'Twas the Night Before... by Cirque du Soleil
(Chicago)
Cirque du Soleil's holiday spectacle based on a classic poem.
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City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
(Chicago)
Chicago's official Christmas tree lighting ceremony
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ZooLights Presented by Invesco QQQ and ComEd
(Chicago)
Millions of lights illuminating a beloved zoo setting.
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ZooLights
(Chicago)
Millions of lights in a beloved urban zoo setting
Events Happening Soon (5)
Lower West Side Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Lower West Side
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Lower West Side!
Lower West Side Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual events include neighborhood light displays and local holiday markets that bring the community together. Seasonal tree lightings and festive craft fairs are also highlights each year.
Lower West Side traditions often focus on community-driven displays and markets, emphasizing local artisans and family-friendly celebrations that reflect the neighborhood’s diverse culture.
The heart of Lower West Side and its adjacent blocks are known for their charming neighborhood displays, with several streets offering walkable light trails that showcase festive decorations.
Christmas markets and local makers can be found at community centers, pop-up markets, and seasonal fairs throughout Lower West Side, often highlighted in local event listings during the holiday season.
Free neighborhood light displays, public tree lightings, and open-air markets provide budget-friendly ways to enjoy the holidays. Many events also offer free entertainment and activities for visitors.
Family-friendly options include walkable light trails, markets with craft workshops, and events featuring visits with Santa. These activities offer engaging experiences suitable for children of all ages.