This is your guide to highlight Chicago happenings during the holidays. Whether you're a longtime Chicagoan or visiting Chicago around Christmas, we hope this guide helps you out.
Chicago has some great stuff to do during the holidays. Highlights include the Christkindlmarket and the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. Some of the more unique Christmas events in Chicago are the Holiday Train on the 'L', the ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo, and ice skating at Millennium Park.
This list is continually updated throughout the 2025 holiday season. Please email us for suggestions or corrections.
Chicago Holiday Light Displays
Experience the magic of Chicago's holiday light displays. See our complete lights guide for detailed information about each display.
Cosley Zoo Festival of Lights & Tree Sale
Join the Cosley Zoo Festival of Lights in Wheaton, where you can experience a dazzling display of holiday lights and shop for Christmas trees ranging from 3 to 12 feet tall. The festival runs during select hours, allowing visitors to enjoy warm beverages and browse unique holiday gifts at the Wild Side Gift Shop.
Illuminate 900: Holiday Tree Lighting
Experience the Illuminate 900: Holiday Tree Lighting in Chicago, where Santa Claus lights a majestic 50-foot tree. This event features family-friendly activities, including decorating sugar cookies and live performances, making it a must-visit holiday attraction this season.
ZooLights
Visit Lincoln Park Zoo for ZooLights, an enchanting holiday light display featuring millions of lights and iconic rides. Enjoy festive treats while exploring stunning light displays, including a reimagined South Lawn Light Show, making it a highlight of the holiday season in Chicago.
Chicago Holiday Markets and Shopping
Discover the best holiday markets and shopping experiences in Chicago. Browse our detailed markets guide for complete listings and shopping tips.
Holiday Prelude at Willows Academy
Join us for the Holiday Prelude at Lincolnshire Marriott Resort, an elegant evening benefit dinner featuring auctions and dancing. This annual event combines fine dining with charitable giving, creating a unique opportunity to celebrate the holiday season while supporting local causes.
Tinley Park Holiday Happenings
Experience the Tinley Park Holiday Happenings in Downtown Tinley Park, a festive holiday market celebrating the season with unique gifts and crafts. Running on scheduled dates, this community event offers a perfect blend of local shopping, seasonal treats, and a festive atmosphere, making it a must-visit holiday destination.
Holly Jolly Holiday Market
Join the Holly Jolly Holiday Market at North Center Town Square for a festive shopping experience with over 20 unique vendors. Enjoy visits from Santa, live entertainment, and a variety of seasonal treats while finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones. This event is a highlight of the holiday season, offering a fun and engaging atmosphere for all ages.
Chicago Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Enjoy world-class performances and entertainment this holiday season.
A Christmas Carol
Experience the beloved holiday classic, A Christmas Carol, at Goodman Theatre, featuring multiple performances this December. Directed by Malkia Stampley, acclaimed actor Christopher Donahue reprises his role as Scrooge in a production celebrated for its outstanding cast and staging. This family-friendly show captures the essence of Christmas through a story of redemption and generosity, making it a must-see holiday event in Chicago.
Salt Creek Ballet: The Nutcracker
Join Salt Creek Ballet for The Nutcracker at McAninch Arts Center, a holiday staple featuring live orchestral music performed by the New Philharmonic orchestra. This lavish production runs throughout December and showcases exceptional artistry and guest performers, ensuring a memorable experience for families. Don't miss this opportunity to witness a magical rendition of Tchaikovsky's classic ballet in a beautifully staged setting.
Ruth Page's The Nutcracker 2025
Experience a piece of Chicago history with Ruth Page's The Nutcracker 2025 at the Center for Performing Arts, showcasing the original full-length staging of this cherished holiday classic. This spectacular production runs throughout December and features stunning visuals, elaborate costumes, and performances by local dance students alongside professionals. A captivating journey through the magical world of Clara awaits audiences this holiday season.
Other Chicago Holiday Fun
Discover unique seasonal experiences and attractions throughout Chicago.
City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Join the 112th Annual City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Millennium Park to witness the spectacular illumination of Chicago's official Christmas tree. This iconic event marks the start of the holiday season, attracting crowds to enjoy the festive atmosphere and the stunning visual of the decorated tree. Don't miss out on this cherished holiday tradition in the heart of Chicago.
Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Along
Celebrate the holiday season at the Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Along, a community event held at Cloud Gate. Gather with fellow Chicagoans to sing beloved holiday carols in this vibrant public space. This festive sing-along is perfect for all ages and offers an opportunity to experience the joy of the season while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Millennium Park.
Gingerbread House Decorating Class
Experience the joy of the holiday season at the Gingerbread House Decorating Class in Bannockburn, where families can create their own festive masterpieces. This hands-on class offers a variety of candies and frosting to personalize your gingerbread house, and at-home kits are available for continued fun. Perfect for all ages, this event is a delightful way to celebrate the holidays with creativity and taste.
Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in Chicago.