Last updated: November 11, 2024
Plan your festive adventure in Near South Side with our comprehensive guide. Whether you call Near South Side home or are just visiting, this guide unlocks the best of the season.
Popular Events: Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with "Christmas Around the World" at the Museum of Science and Industry, where dazzling displays celebrate global traditions through enchanting decorations. You’ll also find yourself captivated by Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden, showcasing stunning light installations against the backdrop of beautiful winter landscapes. And the Christkindlmarket is something you definitely don’t want to miss, offering authentic German fare and unique handcrafted gifts in a charming holiday market atmosphere. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Contact information and details below.
Dazzling light installations and live music along an illuminated trail.
Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden features an illuminated trail with dazzling installations, handcrafted drinks, and live music, creating a memorable winter experience.
Where: Glencoe | More Info: Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden
Dazzling outdoor light displays and ice-skating rink.
Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier features dazzling outdoor lakefront light displays, an outdoor ice-skating rink, cozy firepits, and the enclosed Centennial Ferris Wheel. Skating is free if you bring your own skates.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
A grand parade featuring live music and the lighting of over a million holiday lights.
The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival transforms Chicago's iconic avenue into a dazzling display of lights for the holiday season. The event features a spectacular parade, live performances, and the illumination of over one million lights along Michigan Avenue, creating a vibrant atmosphere that attracts visitors from all around. Local vendors and artists showcase their creativity, enhancing the jubilant spirit of the occasion.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
German-style holiday market with international and local vendors.
The Christkindlmarket is a traditional German-style holiday market offering a wide array of international and local foods, unique shopping experiences, and festive music. Visitors can explore vendor products from around the world, 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
Unique celebration of global holiday traditions with over 50 decorated trees.
The Museum of Science and Industry's Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light exhibit features over 50 trees decorated by volunteers to represent holiday traditions from cultures around the globe. The event includes a four-story, floor-to-dome Grand Tree and explores rich holiday traditions while creating new ones with loved ones.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Christmas Around the World at the Museum of Science and Industry
Nostalgic holiday activities in a charming small-town setting.
Vintage Holidays in Long Grove features a nostalgic holiday experience with quaint shops, old-world charm, and family memories. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, festive holiday carolers, and merchant specials throughout the historic downtown area.
Where: Long Grove | More Info: Vintage Holidays in Long Grove