Last updated: November 11, 2024
Organize your perfect festive season in North Chicago with our guide. We’ve gathered all the top holiday events for you. From North Chicago old-timers to fresh faces, this guide ensures a holiday experience to remember.
Popular Events: The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival transforms the city's skyline into a dazzling display of holiday lights, creating a magical backdrop for your festive outings. City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony attracts visitors with its iconic holiday tree and live performances, setting the stage for seasonal cheer. And the Nutcracker by the Joffrey Ballet is something you definitely don’t want to miss, offering a stunning performance that brings the classic tale to life. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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North Chicago Holiday Light Displays
The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
- What to Expect
- Largest nighttime parade in the United States with over one million lights.
- Description
- The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a day-through-night holiday extravaganza featuring a spectacular parade down North Michigan Avenue with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse as grand marshals. The event includes giant helium balloons, marching bands, musical performances, and over one million lights illuminating 200 trees. It culminates with the Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular over the Chicago River.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
- What to Expect
- Illumination of a specially selected Christmas tree in Millennium Park.
- Description
- The City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is an annual event where the official Christmas tree in Millennium Park is illuminated, marking the start of the holiday season. The tree, which must meet specific criteria, is chosen from nominations submitted by local residents. The ceremony includes live performances and festivities, and the tree remains lit through January 8.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
- What to Expect
- Interactive light displays synchronized to music in a fully ADA-compliant path.
- Description
- Explore 50 acres of The Morton Arboretum's majestic trees during this spectacular light, sound, and color display. The one-mile path is fully ADA compliant, featuring 17 displays of lights and music that highlight the beauty of trees in winter. Enjoy warm fires, marshmallow roasts, and snacks at concession tents, or dine at the Ginkgo Restaurant while viewing a laser light finale on Meadow Lake.
- Where
- Lisle | More Info : Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
North Chicago Holiday Markets and Shopping
Christkindlmarket Chicago
- What to Expect
- Authentic European market experience with crafts, food, and live entertainment.
- Description
- This holiday market replicates the charming and vibrant atmosphere of traditional German Christmas markets. Visitors can explore an array of artisan stalls selling handmade gifts, ornaments, and delicious seasonal treats. The market features live music and festive performances, delighting guests of all ages with its warm ambiance and rich cultural offerings. Special activities, including visits from Saint Nicholas, enhance the celebratory spirit.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : Christkindlmarket Chicago
North Chicago Holiday Shows and Entertainment
The Nutcracker by the Joffrey Ballet
- What to Expect
- World-class ballet performance inspired by Chicago's 1893 World's Fair.
- Description
- The Joffrey Ballet's production of The Nutcracker is a holiday classic set in 1893 Chicago, featuring a celebrated creative team and Tchaikovsky's iconic score.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : The Nutcracker by the Joffrey Ballet
North Chicago Other Holiday Activities
Winterland at Gallagher Way
- What to Expect
- Family-friendly holiday activities with unique private event options.
- Description
- Winterland at Gallagher Way offers a variety of activities including ice skating, carnival rides, and games. The event features Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville with international food and beverage options. Private chalets and igloos are available for special experiences.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : Winterland at Gallagher Way