Highland Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Step into the world of "A Christmas Story" at the Indiana Welcome Center's captivating exhibit. They feature six dazzling animatronic window displays, originally from Macy's, that bring beloved scenes to life. Children can enjoy craft tables and write letters to Santa, while families can capture cherished memories with photos alongside...

Embark on a festive journey through Sunset Hill Farm County Park's enchanting Winter Lights Drive-Through. This beloved annual tradition transforms the park into a wonderland of synchronized light displays and holiday music, all enjoyed from the warmth and convenience of your vehicle. Drive the scenic loop past beautifully decorated sponsor...

Navy Pier transforms into a winter wonderland with the return of Winter WonderFest. This beloved indoor holiday event features dazzling décor, thrilling rides, an ice rink, and festive fun for all ages. Explore the 42-foot Holiday Tree, enjoy classic attractions, and savor seasonal treats.

America's holiday season officially begins at The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival® in Chicago. This iconic event features the nation's largest nighttime parade, dazzling floats, marching bands, and beloved characters from Walt Disney World®. The celebration culminates with a spectacular fireworks display, illuminating over one million lights along Michigan Avenue.

Experience the magical kickoff to the holiday season at Illuminate 900. Hosts Giuliana & Bill Rancic will guide you through an evening of spectacular performances, delightful family activities like cookie decorating, and festive music. The highlight is Santa's arrival to light the magnificent 50-foot tree, transforming the venue into a...

Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland for ZooLights, a beloved holiday tradition. Millions of lights illuminate the park, creating a magical atmosphere with dazzling displays and a festive light tunnel. Enjoy seasonal treats, rides on the Ferris wheel and carousel, and special events like ice carving and live...

Step into a magical winter wonderland at Brookfield Zoo Chicago's Holiday Magic, Chicagoland's longest-running holiday lights festival. For over 40 years, they've transformed the zoo with over 2 million LED lights, creating a dazzling spectacle. Stroll through glowing pathways and immerse yourself in festive decorations that make this a cherished...

Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a magical holiday spectacle with ZooLights, featuring over 3 million dazzling lights and hundreds of festive displays. Enjoy iconic rides, warm up with seasonal treats, and experience live ice carving and caroling. It's Chicago's favorite holiday tradition, perfect for creating lasting winter memories.

Get ready for the 7th annual Crafts at the Crossroads Handmade Craft Show - Holiday Edition! This indoor event on Saturday, December 13th, 2025, is the ultimate destination for finding beautiful, handcrafted gifts. With over 75 vendors, delicious food trucks, and free raffles, it's the perfect place to complete your...

Experience a delightful holiday celebration at Crestwood's Christmas Market with Santa. This festive event features a charming market with holiday-themed merchants, opportunities to write letters to Santa, and creative cookie decorating sessions. Visitors can also enjoy warm hot chocolate and meet Santa and Mrs. Claus for photos.

Experience the magic of the season at Tinley Park's Holiday Happenings! This beloved annual event transforms Downtown Tinley Park into a festive wonderland. Browse unique gifts and artisanal crafts at the Holiday Market, and savor delicious seasonal treats and warm beverages. It's the perfect opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit...

Experience the magic of Holly Days, a cherished downtown Valparaiso holiday tradition. This festive celebration features live entertainment, dazzling holiday lights, enchanting ice sculptures, and the joyful sounds of carolers. Children can visit Santa, and everyone can enjoy Candy Cane Lane and a special Holiday Express Train ride. Local retailers...

Discover the magic of the Holiday Road, a vibrant stretch of Western Avenue transformed into a festive celebration. This event offers a delightful mix of shopping specials, kids' activities, and unique food and drink options. Enjoy free trolley rides, visit with Santa, and explore a variety of local businesses offering...

Step into the holiday spirit at the Holiday Housewalk & Market in Oak Park and River Forest. This cherished local tradition invites you to tour four stunning homes, each adorned with festive decorations and offering inspiration for your own seasonal decor. Complement your visit with a stop at the vibrant...

Get into the holiday spirit with a delightful afternoon in Downtown Oak Park. Enjoy complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides, a festive Cocoa Walk featuring unique hot chocolate creations from local coffee shops, and a special visit from Santa Claus himself. It's the perfect way to embrace the magic of the season.

Ring in the New Year with Grammy Award-winning reggae icon Shaggy at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana's Hard Rock Live. This exclusive New Year's Eve performance promises a night of unforgettable hits and festive celebration. Your ticket includes an open bar, featuring cocktails, beer, and wine, ensuring a truly all-inclusive...

Celebrate an annual holiday tradition at The Polo Inn's Christmas Brunch. This festive event takes place in the historic Old Eagle Room, featuring live organ music playing beloved Christmas favorites. Reservations are essential for this popular celebration, offering a unique way to enjoy the holiday season.

Get ready for an unforgettable New Year's Eve at Howl at the Moon's spectacular celebration! They are hosting a night of high-energy entertainment and live music, promising a countdown like no other. Whether you prefer to start with a seated dinner and show or dive straight into the festivities with...

Get ready to ring in the New Year with an electrifying disco dance party at The Salt Shed! This event promises a night filled with the greatest hits from ABBA, alongside beloved disco anthems from the 70s and 80s by artists like The Bee Gees, Donna Summer, and Cher. Don...

Celebrate the holiday season with a unique culinary experience at Royal Palms Chicago's Holiday Food Program. They partner with Mad Man Hospitality Group to offer delicious catering for cabana parties from late November through early January. Guests can pre-order gourmet buffets, stations, or passed appetizers, or opt for a la...

Experience Brookfield Zoo Chicago after dark at the exclusive Zoo After Dark: Holiday Sip & Stroll. This 21+ event offers a magical evening filled with dazzling holiday lights, festive cocktails, and a lively DJ dance party. Get a first look at the Holiday Magic displays and enjoy seasonal sips in...

Step into a magical Christmas Eve at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with The Joffrey Ballet's spectacular production of The Nutcracker. This Tony Award-winning reimagining by Christopher Wheeldon transports audiences on a fantastical journey with Marie and her prince, set to Tchaikovsky's beloved score. Experience a dazzling array of international...

Experience the magic of 'Twas the Night Before... by Cirque du Soleil at The Chicago Theatre. This enchanting holiday show brings the classic poem to life with dazzling acrobatics, whimsical characters, and a heartwarming story of family and reunion. Follow Isabella and her father on a fantastical journey through a...

Experience the magic of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" at Goodman Theatre. This beloved adaptation, praised for its "first-rate cast and marvelous staging," follows Ebenezer Scrooge's transformative journey on Christmas Eve. Directed by Malkia Stampley, the production features Christopher Donahue returning as Scrooge in a performance hailed as "historical standout."...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Santa's March & Tree Lighting! Join the festive parade as Santa makes his way through downtown, culminating at the Main Square Gazebo. The evening culminates with a heartwarming tree lighting ceremony at 5:00 PM, followed by Santa distributing treat bags to good...

Embark on a whimsical journey aboard Santa's Candy Cane Express for a truly magical holiday experience. This festive event promises enchanting moments as you ride with Santa and his cheerful helpers, surrounded by dazzling holiday decorations. It's the perfect way to immerse yourself in the spirit of the season.

Visit Santa atop Santa's Mountain, a replica from 'A Christmas Story,' for a memorable photo opportunity. Children can also enjoy sliding down the iconic red slide. This special holiday event takes place at the Indiana Welcome Center.

Embrace the holiday spirit at the Schererville Tree Lighting Ceremony. This cherished annual event marks the official start of the festive season, bringing the community together to witness the dazzling illumination of downtown holiday trees. It's a magical evening filled with community cheer and the heartwarming glow of the season's...

Get ready for the magical Crown Point Santa Parade! Witness Santa's spectacular arrival by helicopter at Pointe Plaza before he heads to the historic Lake Country Courthouse. This beloved event marks the joyous start of the holiday season, bringing festive cheer to families.

Lace up your running shoes for the Santa Run & Walk 5K/2K, a festive event for everyone! Choose between a timed 5K or a non-timed 2K run/walk through Crown Point. Participants receive finisher medals, and awards are given to top performers. After the race, enjoy hot cocoa, Christmas treats, and...

Get into the festive spirit at the Oak Forest Park District's Christmas Arts and Crafts Workshop. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to engage in creative holiday crafting, perfect for all ages. Discover new techniques and create unique holiday-themed items.

The 27th Annual Tinley Park Parade of Lights illuminates the heart of downtown Tinley Park, marking a magical start to the holiday season. Families and friends gather for a dazzling procession of illuminated floats, marching bands, and community organizations, culminating in a special appearance by Santa Claus. Local businesses along...

Capture the magic of the holiday season with a visit to the Santa Photo Experience at Orland Square. This popular tradition offers families the chance to create lasting memories with professional photos alongside Santa Claus. Special events include a sensory-friendly 'Caring Santa' session for children with special needs and a...

Discover a variety of holiday events happening in Orland Park, IL. From festive Christmas celebrations to New Year's Eve parties and Thanksgiving gatherings, there are activities for everyone to enjoy during the holiday season. Explore popular events and find something special to celebrate.

Join the city of Chicago for the 112th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Millennium Park. This cherished event officially ushers in the holiday season, illuminating the city's official Christmas tree. Gather near Michigan Avenue and Washington Street to witness this spectacular tradition.