Near North Side Christmas Lights 2025

Experience the magical kickoff to the holiday season at Illuminate 900. Hosts Giuliana & Bill Rancic will guide you through an evening of spectacular performances, delightful family activities like cookie decorating, and festive music. The highlight is Santa's arrival to...

America's holiday season officially begins at The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival® in Chicago. This iconic event features the nation's largest nighttime parade, dazzling floats, marching bands, and beloved characters from Walt Disney World®. The celebration culminates with a spectacular...

Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland for ZooLights, a beloved holiday tradition. Millions of lights illuminate the park, creating a magical atmosphere with dazzling displays and a festive light tunnel. Enjoy seasonal treats, rides on the Ferris wheel...

Navy Pier transforms into a winter wonderland with the return of Winter WonderFest. This beloved indoor holiday event features dazzling décor, thrilling rides, an ice rink, and festive fun for all ages. Explore the 42-foot Holiday Tree, enjoy classic attractions,...

Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a magical holiday spectacle with ZooLights, featuring over 3 million dazzling lights and hundreds of festive displays. Enjoy iconic rides, warm up with seasonal treats, and experience live ice carving and caroling. It's Chicago's favorite...

Embark on a magical journey through Chicago's dazzling holiday lights aboard the original BYOB Holiday Lights Trolley. This unique experience begins with a festive welcome at Matilda, featuring a complimentary snack and a chance to meet your guide. Then, hop...

Winterland at Gallagher Way transforms into a magical holiday destination, bringing the festive spirit of the season to life. Visitors can immerse themselves in the charming Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville, a beloved European-style market featuring unique vendors and seasonal delights. It's the...

Experience Chicago's cherished holiday tradition with the Allstate CTA Holiday Train and Bus. This festive fleet brings joy to neighborhoods with dazzling lights, holiday music, and appearances by Santa Claus. Ride the elaborately decorated train or bus, enjoy photo opportunities...

Step into a global holiday spectacle at the Museum of Science and Industry's 'Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light.' This cherished annual exhibit transforms the museum into a winter wonderland, featuring over 50 trees and displays that celebrate...

Experience the 'Miracle on 63rd Street,' a heartwarming holiday event in Englewood. This festive gathering offers a day filled with joy, featuring free ice skating, complimentary food, and exciting toys. Attendees can meet the unique Black Santa Claus and enjoy...

Step into a magical winter wonderland at Brookfield Zoo Chicago's Holiday Magic, Chicagoland's longest-running holiday lights festival. For over 40 years, they've transformed the zoo with over 2 million LED lights, creating a dazzling spectacle. Stroll through glowing pathways and...

Join Westfield Old Orchard for a magical evening to 'Illuminate the Orchard,' transforming the center into a sparkling winter wonderland. This free, family-friendly event features live music, ice skating, exciting giveaways, and special appearances by Santa Claus and beloved characters....

Get into the holiday spirit at the Holly Jolly Fest & Tree Lighting! This festive event invites you to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy delicious roasted s'mores, and take enchanting horse-drawn trolley rides. Kids will love the petting zoo...