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Last updated: November 11, 2024

Get thrilled for the holidays, South Chicago! Check out our guide for all the best events and activities. For those who call South Chicago home and those just visiting, our guide is your festive companion.

Popular events include the Christkindlmarket, where you can experience a blend of festive crafts, delicious food, and the charm of a traditional German holiday market. Another highlight is the City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, featuring live entertainment and the stunning illumination of a massive tree in the heart of the city. And the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing a dazzling display of lights along Michigan Avenue. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!

Contact information and details below.

South Chicago Holiday Light Displays

What to Expect:

Iconic tree lighting ceremony with live performances and fireworks.

Description:

The City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a festive event where Chicago's official Christmas tree is illuminated in Millennium Park. The ceremony includes live performances, multiple viewing locations with screens and concessions, and a main stage on Washington Street. It is a significant holiday tradition that marks the start of the festive season.

Where: Chicago | More Info: City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

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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 with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, giant helium balloons, marching bands, and musical performances. Over 200 trees along North Michigan Avenue are illuminated with one million lights, culminating in the Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular over the Chicago River.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

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What to Expect:

Interactive light displays and immersive winter wonderland experience.

Description:

Explore 50 acres of The Morton Arboretum's majestic trees during this spectacular display of color, light, and sound. The event features 17 displays of lights and music that highlight the beauty of trees in winter, including a secluded glade strung with fairy lights and kinetic LED tall grasses honoring Midwest native species. Enjoy interactive light displays, warm fires, and delicious meals while experiencing one of the nation's most well-known holiday light displays.

Where: Lisle | More Info: Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum

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What to Expect:

Dazzling outdoor light displays and ice-skating rink with breathtaking Lake Michigan views.

Description:

Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier features dazzling outdoor lakefront light displays, an outdoor ice-skating rink, cozy firepits, and the heated Centennial Ferris Wheel. Enjoy live music, artisan markets, and award-winning fireworks on Saturdays.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier

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South Chicago Holiday Markets and Shopping

What to Expect:

Traditional German-style Christmas market with unique souvenirs and festive atmosphere.

Description:

Christkindlmarket is a traditional German-style Christmas market offering a variety of unique souvenirs, international and local foods, and festive events. Visitors can explore vendor products, 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

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South Chicago Holiday Shows and Entertainment

What to Expect:

Iconic parade with diverse entertainment and giant helium balloons.

Description:

The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade is a cherished holiday tradition that kicks off the holiday season with a colorful procession along State Street in downtown Chicago. The event features top marching bands, live music, festive floats, acrobats, equestrians, cultural performances, and larger-than-life helium balloons.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Chicago Thanksgiving Parade

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South Chicago Other Holiday Activities

What to Expect:

Private chalets and beach-themed igloos with tropical dessert towers.

Description:

Wintrust Winterland at Gallagher Way offers a festive holiday experience with more rides, games, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy indoor and outdoor seating, warm fireplaces, and unparalleled views in private chalets and beach-themed igloos. Snap photos with Santa and explore Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Winterland at Gallagher Way

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