Last updated: November 11, 2024
Find everything you need for the holidays in Oak Park with our guide. Discover all the top events and activities. For those who know Oak Park well and those just discovering it, our guide is your festive roadmap.
This season, experience the enchanting Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo, where you can stroll through a wonderland of lights and see a variety of festive wildlife displays. Additionally, the Sparkle Light Festival features a dazzling array of light displays perfect for families to enjoy together. And the Willow Hill Lights is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering a captivating drive-through experience that brightens the chilly nights. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Oak Park Holiday Light Displays
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
- What to Expect
- Holiday celebration with synchronized light and animal displays.
- Description
- Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic features over two million twinkling LED lights, giant animal sculptures, and immersive lighting areas like Candy Cane Lane and Sparkling Coast. The event includes a holiday market, Santa meet-and-greets, and various seasonal attractions.
- Where
- Brookfield | More Info : Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Sparkle Light Festival
- What to Expect
- Immersive holiday light display with ice skating and tubing.
- Description
- Sparkle Light Festival at Impact Field in Rosemont features five illuminated villages, an ice skating rink, free train rides, and tubing down the Alpine Slide. Visitors can enjoy festive food and beverage options while making memories with family and friends.
- Where
- Rosemont | More Info : Sparkle Light Festival
Willow Hill Lights
- What to Expect
- Over one million LED lights and synchronized light displays.
- Description
- Willow Hill Lights is a drive-thru holiday light show at Willow Hill Golf Course in Northbrook, IL, featuring a 2.5-mile route with over one million lights, three drive-through tunnels, and a 30-foot Christmas tree.
- Where
- Northbrook | More Info : Willow Hill Lights
Happy Holiday Railway
- What to Expect
- Interactive holiday train ride with Santa and animated light displays.
- Description
- Embark on a 40-minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus. Enjoy treats and hot chocolate while seeing holiday lights and an animated light show. Historic trains and Chicago streetcars are included, and gifts are given to children on Santa's good list.
- Where
- Union | More Info : Happy Holiday Railway
Illuminations: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
- What to Expect
- Stunning light installations across a beautiful arboretum setting
- Description
- This spectacular event transforms the landscape of The Morton Arboretum into a vibrant display of light. Guests wander through illuminated trails, featuring a variety of creative light installations that highlight the natural beauty of the trees and surrounding environment. With music complementing the visual experience, it invites visitors to immerse themselves in a winter wonderland of sights and sounds.
- Where
- Lisle | More Info : Illuminations: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
Oak Park Other Holiday Activities
Vintage Holidays in Long Grove
- What to Expect
- Nostalgic holiday activities in historic downtown Long Grove.
- Description
- Vintage Holidays in Long Grove features quaint shops, old-world charm, and family memories. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, festive holiday carolers, and special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Merchants offer decorations, seasonal food, and drinks, while a Sip, Shop, and Dine Holiday Gift Promotion provides a free gift with purchase.
- Where
- Long Grove | More Info : Vintage Holidays in Long Grove