Last updated: November 11, 2024
Embrace the festive spirit in South Lawndale! Discover all the community-driven holiday events with our guide. For South Lawndale experts and novices alike, our guide is your key to unlocking seasonal wonders.
Among the highlights of the holiday season is the Chicago Holidays Tree Lighting Ceremony, a beautiful spectacle that brings the community together to mark the start of festivities with music and lights. Light Up the Lake transforms the lakeside with vibrant installations and delightful activities for all ages. And the Skating at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering a charming winter experience right in the heart of the city. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Contact information and details below.
Illumination of a selected tree in Millennium Park.
The Chicago Holidays Tree Lighting Ceremony is an annual event where a selected tree is illuminated in Millennium Park, marking the beginning of the holiday season. The ceremony includes live programming and festivities, with the tree remaining lit through January 8, 2025.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Chicago Holidays Tree Lighting Ceremony
Dazzling outdoor lakefront light displays and ice-skating rink.
Light Up the Lake is the largest indoor and outdoor holiday experience in Chicago, featuring dazzling outdoor lakefront light displays, an outdoor ice-skating rink, cozy firepits, and an enclosed Centennial Ferris Wheel. Skating is free if you bring your own skates.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Light Up the Lake
Holiday celebration in a zoo setting with synchronized light displays.
Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic features over two million twinkling LED lights, giant illuminated animals, and immersive displays like Candy Cane Lane and Sparkling Coast. Enjoy seasonal attractions, meet Santa, and explore indoor and outdoor habitats.
Where: Brookfield | More Info: Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Dazzling light installations and immersive soundscapes.
Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden features an illuminated trail with dazzling installations, light, art, and music, offering a unique winter experience.
Where: Glencoe | More Info: Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
Community-driven holiday singing event with local choral groups.
Join local Chicago choral groups in a joyful celebration of diverse holiday traditions at Millennium Park's Wrigley Square. Each week features a different group leading guests and families in song, starting at 6pm.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Along
World-class ballet performance inspired by Chicago's 1893 World's Fair.
The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet is a holiday performance set in 1892 Chicago, where Marie and her mother prepare for a festive celebration. The mysterious Great Impresario brings magic to the season, and Marie embarks on a whirlwind journey with the Nutcracker Prince to the dreamlike fairgrounds of the World's Columbian Exposition. Featuring Tchaikovsky's classic score and a celebrated creative team, this production blends holiday cheer and historical charm.
Where: Chicago | More Info: The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet
Live radio-style performance with original music and Foley effects.
It’s A Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago is a live, interactive retelling of the Frank Capra classic, featuring original music and classic holiday carols. The show is set in the 1940s radio broadcast tradition and stars George Bailey, an Everyman from small-town Bedford Falls, whose dreams of escape and adventure were stopped by family obligation and civic duty. The production is filled with Foley effects and live music, making it a warm holiday favorite.
Where: Chicago | More Info: It’s A Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago at American Blues Theater
Interactive puppet show with Beatrix Potter stories and a festive tea party.
Four Beatrix Potter favorites come to life in an interactive trunk and puppet show with original music, featuring gentle interactive moments and a communal tea party with holiday treats.
Where: Chicago | More Info: The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party at Chicago Children’s Theatre
Free ice skating with scenic Chicago views.
The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park offers free admission with online reservations required. Enjoy ice skating sessions daily, weather permitting, with free skating lessons available for beginners and intermediate skaters. The rink is surrounded by breathtaking wintery views of Chicago, including the downtown skyline and holiday lights.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Skating at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Unique holiday celebration with rides, games, and international food.
Winterland at Gallagher Way offers a variety of rides, games, and family-friendly activities within Wrigley Field. Enjoy international food and beverages, including Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville, and unique experiences like Maker's Mark Chalet Rentals and the U.S. Virgin Islands Igloo Experience. The event features holiday-themed games and events, making it a unique holiday celebration.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Winterland at Gallagher Way
Interactive holiday activities and live entertainment.
Lockport's Central Square transforms into a holiday celebration with visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, live reindeer, balloon artists, kids crafts, and an ice sculpture demonstration. Enjoy food from various vendors and entertainment by local performers.
Where: Lockport | More Info: Christmas in the Square