Near South Side Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Near South Side and surrounding areas
The Near South Side sparkles during the festive season with dazzling Christmas lights, lively Christmas markets, and winter festivals around the city center and historic districts. Stroll past iconic downtown landmarks, enjoy seasonal activities, and soak in parades and street performances that celebrate the holidays. From neighborhood lights displays to organized events like the Santa Hustle Chicago 5K & 10K, the area mixes family fun and festive markets with cultural attractions for a holiday season full of things to do and memorable moments.
Find the best Near South Side Christmas happenings this year!
Start Here
Christmas Markets
32 eventsTour four decorated homes and shop a curated holiday market.
Christmas Shows
15 eventsNutcracker reimagined at 1893 Chicago World's Fair
Christmas Parties
14 eventsHigh-energy live music and NYE countdown party
Christmas Lights
14 eventsChicago's largest indoor winter festival
Christmas Activities
24 eventsChicago's official Christmas tree lighting ceremony
Editor's Picks (6)
-
Howl at the Moon New Year's Eve Celebration
(Chicago)
High-energy live music and NYE countdown party
-
Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
(Chicago)
Chicago's largest indoor winter festival
-
'Twas the Night Before... by Cirque du Soleil
(Chicago)
Cirque du Soleil's holiday spectacle based on a classic poem.
-
City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
(Chicago)
Chicago's official Christmas tree lighting ceremony
-
ZooLights Presented by Invesco QQQ and ComEd
(Chicago)
Millions of lights illuminating a beloved zoo setting.
-
ZooLights
(Chicago)
Millions of lights in a beloved urban zoo setting
Events Happening Soon (6)
Near South Side Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Near South Side
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Near South Side!
Near South Side Christmas FAQ
Near South Side’s biggest events include neighborhood light displays and block parties, with larger city celebrations like the Museum of Science and Industry’s Christmas Around the World and Christkindlmarket just a short distance away.
Near South Side is known for its tight-knit community gatherings, home-decorating contests, and local craft fairs that highlight the area’s diverse cultures and creative spirit.
Residential blocks throughout Near South Side are ideal for strolling and admiring home displays, with some streets known for coordinated decorations and festive themes.
While Near South Side itself has smaller pop-up markets, the city’s major artisan markets and craft fairs are easily accessible nearby, offering a wide range of local goods and holiday treats.
Enjoying neighborhood light displays, attending local craft fairs, and exploring nearby parks and public spaces are all free or low-cost ways to celebrate the season in Near South Side.
Families can enjoy neighborhood light walks, local holiday markets, and easy access to larger city attractions like the Museum of Science and Industry and Lincoln Park ZooLights, all within a short drive.