Waukegan Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Waukegan and surrounding areas
Waukegan transforms for Christmas 2025 with shimmering Christmas lights along the lakefront and downtown corridors, offering seasonal activities and concerts at venues like the Genesee Theatre. Don’t miss Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour 2025 or the Waukegan Park District Holiday Adventures & Polar Bear Plunge for spirited community moments. From winter festivals to family-friendly attractions and holiday parties, Waukegan’s neighborhoods host festive events that brighten the season.
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Christmas Markets
28 eventsLate-night shopping with discounts and live music.
Christmas Lights
16 eventsEnchanting 1.3-mile illuminated trail with artistic light displays.
Christmas Shows
10 eventsMariah Carey's "Christmas Time" concert tour
Christmas Parties
7 eventsBreakfast with Santa Claus
Christmas Activities
38 eventsBreakfast with Santa Claus
Editor's Picks (6)
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Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
(Glencoe)
Enchanting 1.3-mile illuminated trail with artistic light displays.
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Mariah Carey's Christmas Time
(Rosemont)
Mariah Carey's "Christmas Time" concert tour
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Breakfast with Santa
(Glenview)
Breakfast with Santa Claus
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Skate with Santa
(Wilmette)
Holiday-themed public skate with Santa Claus
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Village Tree Lighting & Downtown Holiday Walk
(Libertyville)
Santa's grand entrance to light the Village Holiday Tree
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Downtown Evanston Holiday Tree Lighting
(Evanston)
Annual tree lighting with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Waukegan
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Waukegan.
Salvation Army Waukegan Holiday Giving
The Salvation Army's Waukegan Corps invites the community to participate in their annual...
View full details →Waukegan Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Waukegan
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Waukegan!
Waukegan Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual Christmas events in Waukegan include the community holiday celebrations hosted by the Waukegan Park District and seasonal performances at the Genesee Theatre, which feature festive shows and concerts.
Waukegan celebrates with community-focused events such as the Polar Bear Plunge on New Year's Day and local holiday craft fairs, reflecting the city's strong neighborhood spirit and support for local artisans.
Neighborhoods with active community participation and well-known displays are the best spots for Christmas lights in Waukegan, though specific neighborhood names are less publicized. Exploring residential areas near downtown often reveals charming displays.
Christmas markets and local makers can be found at community centers, local schools, and seasonal craft fairs throughout Waukegan, especially during December. Checking the Waukegan Chamber of Commerce event calendar is helpful for current listings.
Free or budget-friendly activities include visiting neighborhood light displays, attending community holiday events at parks, and participating in free craft fairs or holiday socials hosted by local organizations.
Families with kids can enjoy holiday-themed events at the Waukegan Park District, including craft workshops, the Polar Bear Plunge, and seasonal performances at the Genesee Theatre, all offering engaging activities for children.