Last updated: November 11, 2024
Make your holidays in South Shore unforgettable with our event guide. For South Shore devotees and casual admirers, this guide is your passport to seasonal splendor.
Start your festive journey at the Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park, where the twinkling lights bring joy to the city skyline. The Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier transforms the waterfront into a dazzling experience, featuring vibrant displays and seasonal activities. And the Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing a stunning array of illuminated trees set against the backdrop of nature. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Contact information and details below.
Live performances and fireworks accompany the tree lighting.
The annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park features a 45-foot Colorado Blue Spruce, live performances, fireworks, and Santa Claus. The event includes a pre-show at 5 p.m. and the tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m., followed by post-show activities.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Christmas Tree Lighting at Millennium Park
Dazzling outdoor light displays and 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. Enjoy live music, artisan markets, and thrilling axe throwing activities.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier
Interactive light displays synchronized to music in a fully ADA-compliant environment.
Explore 50 acres of The Morton Arboretum's majestic trees during this spectacular light and sound display featuring 17 displays of lights and music that highlight the beauty of trees in winter. Enjoy immersive installations, warm fires, and delicious meals while experiencing a unique and dynamic light show.
Where: Lisle | More Info: Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
Authentic German holiday market with international and local food options.
Christkindlmarket is a traditional German-style holiday market offering a unique shopping experience with international and local foods, festive music, and a wide array of vendor products. Visitors can explore the market's cozy atmosphere, enjoy roasted nuts, fresh pretzels, bratwurst, and hot spiced wine, and participate in special events like scavenger hunts and glassblowing workshops.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Christkindlmarket
Unique, handmade gifts from over 600 artists and makers.
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
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 the World's Columbian Exposition. The story unfolds with a surprise visit from the Great Impresario, leading to an epic battle and a whirlwind journey with the Nutcracker Prince. Featuring Tchaikovsky's classic score and a celebrated creative team, this production blends historical charm with timeless ballet.
Where: Chicago | More Info: The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet
Community-driven holiday celebration with festive floats and Santa's visit.
The Hammond Holiday Parade is a vibrant celebration featuring floats, marching bands, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. The event showcases community spirit and festive decorations.
Where: Hammond | More Info: Hammond’s Holiday Parade
Spectacular tree lighting combined with a parade and live entertainment on the Magnificent Mile.
The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival transforms Chicago’s iconic Magnificent Mile into a dazzling display of holiday lights. Featuring a parade, live entertainment, and a spectacular tree lighting ceremony, this event captures the spirit of the season. Attendees can enjoy festive performances, beautifully lit storefronts, and a sense of community as the city celebrates together.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Unique group experiences with private chalets and igloos.
Winterland at Gallagher Way offers a variety of rides, games, and family-friendly activities, including ice skating and international food options. The event features Maker's Mark Chalet Rentals and the U.S. Virgin Islands Igloo Experience, providing unique group experiences. Admission to Gallagher Way activities, including Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville, is free.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Winterland at Gallagher Way
Interactive animatronic window displays and Santa photo opportunities.
The "A Christmas Story" Comes Home exhibit at the Indiana Welcome Center features six animatronic window displays from Macy's Department Store in New York, recreating iconic scenes from the holiday classic. Visitors can also take photos with Santa on Santa's Mountain and participate in special events like the Mommy's Little Piggy Contest.
Where: Hammond | More Info: “A Christmas Story” Comes Home exhibit
