Last updated: November 11, 2024
Experience the holiday joy in Rogers Park! Our guide has all the exciting festive happenings. For those who call Rogers Park home and those who wish they did, our guide is your holiday roadmap.
Popular events abound this season, starting with the Christkindlmarket, where you can explore handcrafted gifts and enjoy seasonal treats in a charming European-style market. The Wintrust Lights Festival captivates with dazzling displays that bring the streets to life with festive illumination. And don't forget the Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park, a beloved tradition that marks the beginning of the holiday season in style. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Rogers Park Holiday Light Displays
Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park
- What to Expect
- Iconic tree lighting ceremony in a prominent public park.
- Description
- The City of Chicago's Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park features a towering tree illuminated in a festive ceremony, accompanied by live performances and festivities.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park
Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier
- Interactive light displays and heated outdoor ice-skating rink.
- Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier features dazzling outdoor lakefront light displays, an outdoor ice-skating rink, cozy firepits, and a heated Centennial Ferris Wheel. Discover unique finds at local artisan markets and enjoy live music every weekend.
- Chicago | More Info : Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier
Chicago’s BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour
- What to Expect
- Boozy twist on a holiday lights tour with express entry to top attractions.
- Description
- Join Chicago's exclusive BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour for a 4.5-hour celebration of holiday lights and attractions. Enjoy express entry into Christkindlmarket and Zoo Lights, along with a boozy twist featuring drink deals, music playlists, and festive activities.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : Chicago’s BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour
The Wintrust Lights Festival
- What to Expect
- Largest nighttime parade in the United States.
- Description
- The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a day-through-night holiday extravaganza featuring a spectacular parade with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, giant helium balloons, marching bands, and musical performances. The event includes the illumination of one million lights on 200 trees along North Michigan Avenue, culminating in the Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular over the Chicago River.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : The Wintrust Lights Festival
Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
- What to Expect
- Immersive light and sound experience highlighting tree beauty in winter.
- Description
- Explore 50 acres of The Morton Arboretum's majestic trees during this spectacular light and sound display. The event features 17 dazzling light and music displays, including new exhibits like Starlit Trail and Winter Radiance, along a one-mile ADA-compliant path. Enjoy warm concession tents, a crackling fire, and a delicious meal at the Ginkgo Restaurant while viewing a laser light finale at Meadow Lake.
- Where
- Lisle | More Info : Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
- What to Expect
- Dazzling light and art installations along a 1.3-mile trail.
- Description
- Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden features an illuminated trail with dazzling installations, light, art, and music, showcasing the garden's beauty during the winter season.
- Where
- Glencoe | More Info : Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
Rogers Park Holiday Markets and Shopping
Christkindlmarket
- What to Expect
- German-style Christmas market with international and local vendors.
- Description
- Christkindlmarket is a traditional German-style holiday market offering a wide array of international and local foods, unique shopping experiences, and festive events. Visitors can explore vendor products, participate in special events, and enjoy the cozy atmosphere.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : Christkindlmarket
One of a Kind Holiday Show
- What to Expect
- Unique, handmade gifts from over 600 artists and makers.
- Description
- The One of a Kind Holiday Show brings together over 600 exceptional artists, designers, and makers, offering thousands of handmade products across 20 categories. This premier holiday shopping destination in Chicago provides unique, handmade gifts for everyone on your list.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : One of a Kind Holiday Show
Julmarknad at the Swedish American Museum
- What to Expect
- Focus on Swedish holiday traditions with local artisans and authentic cuisine.
- Description
- A vibrant celebration showcasing Swedish traditions, featuring local artisans, festive foods, and cultural performances. Visitors can explore a variety of handcrafted gifts, enjoy traditional culinary delights, and immerse themselves in the holiday spirit. This event highlights the rich heritage of Swedish culture in a warm, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families and friends alike.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : Julmarknad at the Swedish American Museum
Rogers Park Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Holiday Trolley
- What to Expect
- A charming guided tour through beautifully decorated neighborhoods in Chicago.
- Description
- The Holiday Trolley journeys through iconic neighbourhoods in Chicago, showcasing stunning seasonal decorations. Attendees can enjoy comfortable seating while touring the city's most beautifully adorned streets, with knowledgeable guides sharing tales of the area's history and traditions. Each stop features local businesses and sights that embody the spirit of the holidays.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : Holiday Trolley
Rogers Park Other Holiday Activities
Winter Flower Show at Garfield Park Conservatory
- What to Expect
- Commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance with a showcase of silver foliage and winter flowers.
- Description
- The Winter Flower Show at Garfield Park Conservatory celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance. The event features beautiful silver foliage, lush poinsettias in pink and white hues, and other winter flowers and plants. It is a great opportunity to learn about the rich history of the alliance while enjoying the stunning floral displays.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : Winter Flower Show at Garfield Park Conservatory