Near North Side Other Christmas Activities 2026

Navy Pier transforms into an indoor holiday destination filled with festive décor and seasonal attractions for visitors of all ages. Guests can take to the ice on the rink, with ice skating included with entry. Visitors can also experience the...

Visitors gather in viewing areas throughout the park equipped with giant screens to watch the official illumination of the city's Christmas tree. A vibrant main stage along Washington Street next to the Chicago Cultural Center hosts seasonal entertainment, accompanied by...

Visitors gather at Cloud Gate, also known as The Bean, to celebrate Chicago's diverse holiday traditions through choral music and communal singing. Attendees can follow along using printed songbooks or digital downloads to join their voices together. The program also...

Participants can run or walk through 5K and 10K courses lined with cheerful volunteers and aid stations, while children up to age 12 can participate in a 1K Kids Dash. Entrants receive themed apparel including beanies or Santa hats and...

Passengers take a festive journey aboard the Metra to Fox Lake alongside Santa and Mrs. Claus. Both characters remain on board for the entire two-hour trip to visit with each family. Guests can sing along with caroling while enjoying sweet...

Participants travel by coach bus to Shipshewana, Indiana, to explore the Ship Chic Holiday Craft Show and spend free time in the downtown area. The trip includes a homemade lunch at an Amish residence. Guests also experience Lights of Joy,...

Guests attend a live seated holiday show featuring John Waters. The performance takes place inside the Avondale Music Hall with both general seated admission and VIP options available.

Children and families can bring their letters for Santa to a magical mailbox at the park gazebo. Visitors get to meet one of Santa's elves to make sure their letters are safely on their way to the North Pole. Guests...

Participants learn hands-on techniques for crafting a beautiful evergreen wreath. Everyone creates and takes home a completed winter decoration ready to display. All required materials are provided.

Families work together to assemble and decorate their own gingerbread house using supplied icing and an assortment of sweet treats. After crafting their holiday creations, participants can head over to enjoy playtime in the Exploritorium.

Participants build artisan gingerbread houses using handmade frosting and decorate them with an array of candies, cookies, and goodies. Guests can enjoy unlimited non-alcoholic beverages such as espresso, coffee, hot chocolate, hot cider, or a signature mocktail alongside light savory...

Grandparents and grandchildren gather for a festive holiday celebration centered around creativity and sweet treats. Participants decorate an assortment of holiday cookies using colorful frosting, sprinkles, and festive decorations. Everyone leaves with their custom holiday creations to take home.

Participants gather to discuss the holiday cozy mystery novel The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year by Ally Carter. The club features a meet-and-greet session where attendees make a bookmark, learn how to access the book, and enjoy appetizers and...

This annual family event celebrates the new year with a DJ, games, crafts, and entertainment. Visitors can gather together to celebrate with a festive balloon drop. Entry also includes admission to the Exploritorium.

Ring in the new year with a holiday-themed public ice skate. The event welcomes participants of all ages to take to the ice at Centennial Ice Rinks.

Participants enjoy private ice time featuring photo opportunities with Santa, holiday music, and hot chocolate. A skating trainer device is available to assist children who are new to the ice. Skate rental is provided for each registered participant.

Families sip hot chocolate and enjoy fresh donuts provided by Naperville's DeEtta's Bakery. Children can listen to a holiday story told by Santa and take pictures with him.

Santa at 900 North Michigan Shops provides professional photos in a winter wonderland setting with a tree and digital displays. Each reservation includes a plush toy and digital photo.

The Drake Hotel in Chicago transforms into a festive wonderland for the holidays, continuing a tradition of over 100 years. Guests can enjoy elegant afternoon teas, including the special 'Festival of Lights' tea, and festive dining options like Thanksgiving and...

All aboard for holiday cheer! Chicago's beloved Allstate CTA Holiday Train and Bus return, bringing festive magic to the city. Ride the dazzling train, adorned with thousands of lights and featuring Santa and his reindeer, or hop on the decorated...

Join the community in Downtown Evanston for their cherished annual Holiday Tree Lighting event. This festive celebration at Fountain Square features live music from local choirs, a special tree lighting ceremony with the Mayor, and a visit from Santa and...

Celebrate the start of the holiday season at West Chicago's annual Frosty Fest. This beloved community event features a magical tree lighting ceremony, opportunities to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a festive Elves Workshop for unique gift shopping. Enjoy...

Step into a winter wonderland at the Forest Park Holiday Walk! Stroll down Madison Street to discover enchanting live window displays and enjoy open houses at local shops. Delight in magical horse-drawn sleigh rides, marvel at a festive ice sculpture,...

Discover a day of intergenerational cultural fun at the Chicago Cultural Center's Holiday Open House. This free event features a variety of activities for all ages, including live music and dance performances, hands-on art workshops, and engaging exhibitions. Explore the...

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....

Experience the magic of the holidays as Santa Claus makes a special visit to North Berwyn in his mobile workshop. This unique event offers residents the chance to receive a personal meet-and-greet with Santa right at their home, perfect for...

Unleash creativity at Glazed Expressions by decorating a unique menorah, perfect for a cherished Hanukkah keepsake. This engaging event is designed for children of all ages to enjoy, with delightful snacks and drinks provided to enhance the festive experience.