Experience Chicago's festive holiday markets and Christmas shopping events throughout the city. The beloved Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza brings authentic German tradition to downtown, while Millennium Park and Navy Pier host seasonal markets with local artisans and unique gifts. From neighborhood craft fairs to iconic lakefront venues, Chicago's holiday markets offer something for everyone.
Holiday Prelude at Willows Academy
Location: Lincolnshire
The Holiday Prelude at Willows Academy is hosted at the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort, featuring an elegant evening benefit dinner that includes auctions and dancing. This event invites attendees to enjoy fine dining while supporting local initiatives.
Tinley Park Holiday Happenings
Location: Tinley Park
Dates: December
The annual Tinley Park Holiday Happenings returns to Downtown Tinley Park, featuring a vibrant holiday market filled with unique gifts and festive crafts from local artisans. Visitors can enjoy seasonal treats and warm beverages while exploring the holiday decorations adorning the downtown area.
Highlights:
- The annual Holiday Market returns to Downtown Tinley Park, offering a festive shopping experience.
- A community celebration designed to bring holiday cheer to residents and visitors.
- Browse unique gifts and festive crafts from local artisans at the Holiday Market.
Holly Jolly Holiday Market
Location: Chicago
Dates: December 13th (11 am to 6 pm) and December 14th (11 am to 5 pm)
The Holly Jolly Holiday Market at North Center Town Square features over 20 unique vendors offering one-of-a-kind gifts and holiday decorations. Attendees can enjoy visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, live entertainment, and a selection of seasonal food and drinks.
Highlights:
- A festive shopping experience with over 20 unique vendors.
- Visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
- Live entertainment and seasonal food and drinks.
Elburn Chamber of Commerce Christmas Stroll
Location: Elburn
Dates: December 6th, 2025
The 31st Annual Elburn Chamber Christmas Stroll takes place in Downtown Elburn, featuring a festive evening filled with activities for all ages. Participants can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy live music by the Kaneland High School Jazz Band, and explore various crafts hosted by local businesses.
Highlights:
- The 31st Annual Elburn Chamber Christmas Stroll offers a festive evening for all ages.
- Enjoy a wide array of activities spread across multiple locations in Downtown Elburn.
- Support local businesses and community organizations participating in the event.
Randolph Street Market Holiday Market
Location: Chicago
Dates: November 15+16, 2025 and December 13+14, 2025
The Randolph Street Holiday Market at Plumbers Hall features over 125 vendors across three floors, showcasing a vast selection of vintage and modern items. Visitors can explore an extensive collection of holiday-themed goods, making it an ideal place for unique shopping.
Highlights:
- The Randolph Street Holiday Market offers a unique shopping experience with a vast selection of vintage and modern items.
- Browse an extensive collection of holiday-themed goods from over 125 vendors.
- Discover unique vintage and modern decorative objects, housewares, and fashion for all ages.
Tinley Park Holiday Market
Location: Tinley Park
The Tinley Park Holiday Market at the Oak Park Avenue train station features local artisans offering unique gifts and festive decorations. Attendees can browse handcrafted items while enjoying seasonal treats and warm beverages in a charming holiday atmosphere.
Highlights:
- A vibrant holiday market featuring local vendors and seasonal cheer.
- An opportunity to find unique Christmas gifts and artisanal products.
- Browse unique gifts and festive decorations from local artisans.
The Great Holiday Wrap-Up
Location: Wilmette
Dates: December 17
The Great Holiday Wrap-Up at Mallinckrodt Center offers a convenient gift-wrapping service during the holiday season, with same-day pickup available for all wrapped gifts. Attendees can support the New Trier Township Food Pantry by donating non-perishable food items during their visit.
Highlights:
- Convenient gift-wrapping service available during the holiday season.
- Same-day pickup for all wrapped gifts.
- Drop off up to ten holiday gifts for professional wrapping.
A Dicken's of a Holiday Craft Show
Location: Darien
Dates: November 15
A Dicken's of a Holiday Craft Show at the Darien Park District Community Center features original handmade goods from local artisans. Visitors can browse a variety of one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, showcasing creativity and craftsmanship in a festive setting.
Highlights:
- Annual holiday craft show and sale featuring original, handmade goods.
- Opportunity to find unique, handcrafted holiday gifts for everyone.
- Browse unique, one-of-a-kind handcrafted holiday gifts.
Santa's Workshop at Wilder Mansion
Location: Elmhurst
Dates: Saturday, December 6, Noon-3 pm
Santa's Workshop at Wilder Mansion offers children a special holiday shopping experience where they can purchase inexpensive, kid-friendly gifts for family and friends. This kid-focused event provides a unique opportunity for children to enjoy the spirit of giving.
Highlights:
- A special holiday store designed exclusively for children to shop for loved ones.
- Children can purchase inexpensive, kid-friendly holiday gifts for family and friends.
A Holiday Happening Craft & Art Fair
Location: Glen Ellyn
Dates: Saturday November 8, 10am-4pm Sunday November 9, 10am-4pm
The A Holiday Happening Craft & Art Fair at the College of DuPage PEC Arena features over 100 Midwest artisans showcasing handmade gifts, jewelry, and festive decor. This top-rated craft show is an excellent opportunity to support local artisans while finding unique holiday treasures.
Address: Glen Ellyn, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- One of the Top 20 classic & contemporary craft shows in the US.
- Largest holiday show featuring handmade gifts, jewelry, and festive decor.
- Opportunity to support local artisans and find unique holiday treasures.
Lights of Lisle
Location: Lisle
Dates: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Downtown Lisle hosts its annual Lights of Lisle event featuring a traditional Tree Lighting Ceremony, a festive Santa Parade, and enchanting luminaria displays. Attendees can participate in the Santa Parade, enjoy live ice carving demonstrations, and engage in family-friendly activities such as the 'Once Upon a Christmas' crafts with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The event showcases the community's holiday spirit with vibrant displays and activities for all ages.
Highlights:
- The annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, a quintessential holiday tradition.
- A festive Santa Parade bringing holiday cheer to Downtown Lisle.
- Luminaria displays lighting up Downtown Lisle, creating a magical ambiance.
St. Christopher Family School Association Annual Holiday Craft Show
Location: Midlothian
Dates: Saturday, November 15, 2025, 9am-4pm
The St. Christopher Family School hosts its 51st Annual Holiday Craft Show, featuring over 50 juried crafters and vendors showcasing original handmade goods. Attendees can browse a variety of unique holiday gifts and support local artisans while enjoying a long-standing community tradition. This event emphasizes quality craftsmanship and offers a diverse selection of crafts for shoppers.
Address: 14611 Keeler Ave, Midlothian, IL 60445
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Support St. Christopher School by purchasing unique holiday gifts and crafts.
- Experience a long-standing tradition, celebrating the 51st year of this holiday craft show.
- Browse unique handmade crafts and gifts from over 50 juried artisans.
Descent of the Holy Spirit Orthodox Church Christmas Cookie Walk
Location: Schererville
Dates: Saturday, December 20, 2025
The Descent of the Holy Spirit Orthodox Church hosts a Christmas Cookie Walk featuring a delightful selection of homemade cookies, pastries, nut rolls, and traditional Eastern European baked goods. Guests can purchase a variety of treats to enhance their holiday celebrations, including cabbage rolls and pierogies sold by the dozen. This event is perfect for those seeking authentic homemade goodies to share with family and friends.
Highlights:
- Experience a festive Christmas Cookie Walk offering a wide variety of homemade baked goods.
- Find perfect treats to prepare for your holiday celebrations.
- Select from a delightful array of delicious homemade cookies, pastries, nut rolls, and breads.
Randolph Street Holiday Market
Location: Chicago
Dates: November 15-16, 2025 and December 13-14, 2025
The Randolph Street Holiday Market is Chicago's premier indoor/outdoor urban antique and collectibles flea market featuring over 100 vendors. Shoppers can find vintage clothing, unique home decor, and artisanal goods, making it a vibrant destination for holiday gift shopping. The market also offers a lively atmosphere with seasonal treats and live music performances throughout the event.
Highlights:
- Shop for unique holiday gifts from over 100 vendors.
- Find vintage clothing, home decor, and artisanal goods.
- Enjoy a festive shopping experience with a lively atmosphere.
AA Stagg Music Boosters Fall Craft Show
Location: Palos Hills
Dates: November 15-16, 2025
At the AA Stagg Music Boosters Fall Craft Show, over 100 local crafters gather to showcase unique handmade gifts while supporting the AA Stagg Music Program. This festive community gathering promises a wide variety of crafts, including ornaments and holiday-themed items, along with food and warm beverages available from the concession stand. Attendees can also participate in a raffle with prizes donated by exhibitors.
Address: 8015 W. 111th Street, Palos Hills, IL 60465
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Shop for unique holiday gifts from over 100 local crafters.
- Support the AA Stagg Music Program through your attendance and purchases.
- Experience a festive community gathering with a holiday theme.
Home for the Holidays
Location: Oak Park
Dates: December 20
Downtown Oak Park celebrates the holiday season with the Home for the Holidays event, offering complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides and a Cocoa Walk featuring unique hot cocoa flavors from local coffee shops. Families can enjoy a charming atmosphere while meeting Santa Claus and participating in holiday-themed activities throughout the district.
Highlights:
- Experience the festive atmosphere of Downtown Oak Park during the holiday season.
- Enjoy unique hot cocoa flavors from local coffee shops.
- Take a charming horse-drawn carriage ride through the district.
Hyde Park Holly-Day Celebration
Location: Chicago
Dates: December 6, 2025, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The Hyde Park Holly-Day Celebration offers a full day of free, family-friendly holiday activities across multiple locations in Hyde Park. Attendees can enjoy live ice carving demonstrations, ice skating with free rentals, and meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with Santa Maui. The event features a variety of festive experiences suitable for all ages.
Address: Chicago, IL
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A full day of FREE, family-friendly holiday activities.
- Multiple locations across Hyde Park offering diverse festive experiences.
- Opportunities to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and even Santa Maui.
Jack Frost Christmas Holiday Pop-Up
Location: Chicago
Dates: Returns November 2025
The Jack Frost Christmas Holiday Pop-Up transforms Jack's into a magical North Pole-themed experience. Visitors can join the VIP list for festive updates and surprises as they explore this enchanting seasonal event designed to bring holiday magic to life.
Highlights:
- A festive pop-up event designed to bring the magic of the North Pole to visitors.
- Join the VIP list for festive updates and surprises as they bring the North Pole to you.
- Experience the magical transformation of the venue into a winter wonderland.
Roselle Winterfest
Location: Roselle
Dates: December 7
Roselle Winterfest kicks off the holiday season with a community celebration featuring live entertainment, kids' activities, and food trucks offering a variety of cuisine. Attendees can meet Santa at the Roselle Public Library, decorate gingerbread houses, and enjoy a festive parade route. The event is filled with activities suitable for families and holiday fun.
Highlights:
- Kick off the holiday season with live entertainment, kids' activities, and food trucks.
- Experience the magic of Santa Claus with special visits and a festive parade route.
- Enjoy a variety of food trucks offering soul food, pizza, shaved ice, and specialty drinks.
Ravenswood Holiday Craft Show
Location: Chicago
Dates: November 29-30, 2025
The Ravenswood Holiday Craft Show features over 100 local artisans and small businesses showcasing a vibrant array of unique Christmas gifts and seasonal decor. Shoppers can explore handcrafted items, food, fashion, home goods, and art, all while supporting local craftsmanship. The event emphasizes the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of local makers.
Highlights:
- A festive holiday market featuring local artisans and small businesses.
- Opportunity to find unique Christmas gifts and seasonal decor.
- A vibrant atmosphere celebrating local craftsmanship and entrepreneurship.
The One of a Kind Holiday Show
Location: Chicago
Dates: December 4-7, 2025: Thursday-Saturday 10am-7pm, Sunday 10am-5pm
Held at The Merchandise Mart, this premier holiday market features over 600 artisans offering one-of-a-kind handmade gifts across 20 diverse categories, including fashion, jewelry, home goods, and gourmet items. Visitors can explore a vibrant shopping environment while witnessing the stunning ART on THE MART digital projection that illuminates the building each evening.
Address: 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, 7th floor, Chicago, IL 60654
Phone: 312.527.4141
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Shop for one-of-a-kind, handmade holiday gifts from a curated selection of over 600 artisans.
- Find unique items across 20 categories, perfect for everyone on your list.
- Discover unique, handmade gifts from over 600 exceptional artists, designers, and makers.
Evanston Holiday Bazaar
Location: Evanston
Dates: November 21-23, 2025
The Evanston Holiday Bazaar at the Woman's Club of Evanston features over 50 curated artisan vendors offering a wide variety of handcrafted goods, including clothing, jewelry, and home decor. This annual event not only serves as a great shopping opportunity but also creates a festive environment ideal for finding unique holiday gifts.
Highlights:
- Kick off your unique holiday gift shopping at this annual tradition.
- Discover over fifty curated vendors offering a wide range of handcrafted goods.
- Experience a festive atmosphere perfect for finding one-of-a-kind presents.
Holiday Shopping Blitz
Location: Bartlett
Dates: December 5, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
The Holiday Shopping Blitz at the Bartlett Community Center features over 100 booths filled with unique handmade gifts, decorations, and artisan crafts. Attendees can enjoy exploring a diverse shopping experience while supporting the Bartlett Parks Foundation with a small donation at the door.
Highlights:
- Over 100 booths offering a unique shopping experience for holiday gifts and decor.
- A chance to support the Bartlett Parks Foundation with a small donation at the door.
- Discover unique handmade jewelry, cozy knitted items, and adorable pet products.
Christmas in the Square
Location: Lockport
Dates: Save the date for November 29, 2025!
Christmas in the Square at Lockport's Central Square features beloved holiday characters such as Santa and The Grinch, alongside live entertainment including dance performances and choirs. Visitors can also enjoy ice skating, festive food options from local vendors, and an awe-inspiring ice sculpture demonstration.
Highlights:
- Meet beloved holiday characters like Santa, The Grinch, and Buddy the Elf.
- Enjoy a day filled with live entertainment, including dance studios, carolers, and choirs.
- Browse a variety of festive food and drink options from local vendors.
Renegade Craft Fair Chicago Winter
Location: Chicago
Dates: December 20 + 21
The Renegade Craft Fair Chicago Winter at Morgan Manufacturing showcases over 170 curated artists offering unique handmade gifts ranging from home decor to fashion. This indoor market provides a vibrant atmosphere for shoppers to support independent creators while discovering exceptional crafts.
Address: 401 North Morgan, Chicago, IL
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Shop from over 170 curated artists offering unique, handmade holiday gifts.
- Experience a festive indoor market in Chicago's West Loop.
- Support independent creators and the creative economy.
West Ridge Treasures and Trinkets Holiday Bazaar
Location: Park Ridge
Dates: November 2, 2024
The West Ridge Treasures and Trinkets Holiday Bazaar at the Park Ridge Park District features a curated selection of handmade gifts and decorations from local artisans. Attendees can browse unique crafts and discover one-of-a-kind treasures perfect for holiday gifting while supporting small businesses.
Highlights:
- A curated selection of handmade holiday gifts and decor.
- The opportunity to support local artisans and small businesses.
- Browse unique handmade crafts and holiday decorations from local artisans.
Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in Chicago.