Joliet Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Discover unique treasures and handmade gifts at the Lemont High School Craft Show. This event brings together local artisans and crafters, offering a fantastic opportunity to find one-of-a-kind items perfect for holiday shopping. Support the community and find something special.

Discover the 'Holiday Magic in Motion Craft Show,' a vibrant outdoor event featuring over 100 artisans and crafters. Browse unique handmade gifts, artisanal goods, and delicious bakery treats. This family-friendly event offers a festive atmosphere perfect for holiday shopping.

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 a charming holiday tradition at 'Once Upon A Christmas' in Lisle. This free event offers a delightful array of old-fashioned festive fun for all ages. Visitors can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy warm beverages, create holiday crafts, and participate in workshops. The event is held in conjunction with...

Immerse yourself in the magic of the Christkindlmarket Aurora, a beloved German-style holiday tradition. Discover unique handcrafted gifts, savor festive treats like Glühwein, and soak in the enchanting atmosphere. This vibrant market offers a delightful European experience for the whole family.

Discover unique, handmade treasures at A Holiday Happening Craft & Art Fair, recognized as one of the Top 20 craft shows in the US. This largest holiday event showcases the work of over 100 talented artisans from across the Midwest, offering a wide array of handmade gifts, jewelry, festive decor,...

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.

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...

Joliet transforms into a winter wonderland for the Light Up the Holidays Festival & Parade. This vibrant event features a bustling North Pole Market with artisan vendors, a magical North Pole Park with an iceless skating rink and kids' rides, and opportunities to visit with Santa. The day culminates in...

Join the Village of Burr Ridge for their annual 'Deck the Green' holiday celebration. This festive outdoor event features a magical holiday train ride around the Village Green, opportunities to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and appearances by beloved holiday characters. Enjoy live entertainment from illuminated jugglers and fun face...

Experience the magic of the holiday season in Yorkville with a weekend of festive fun! The celebration kicks off Friday with community performances, a dazzling Holiday Parade, and the traditional Tree Lighting Ceremony. Saturday brings opportunities to visit Santa Claus, participate in the charitable Rudolph Run 5K or Jingle Jog...

Central Park transforms into a magical winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights. Stroll through a 1/2 mile path featuring dancing trees, rainbow arches, snowflakes, and musical hearts. Enjoy a free, accessible experience perfect for all ages, with special sensory-friendly times available daily.

Experience a dazzling holiday wonderland at Christmas at Cantigny, featuring a spectacular light show with synchronized music and festive decorations. Explore illuminated gardens, including a new Northern Lights display, and admire a towering Christmas tree. Enjoy ice skating, cozy up in the Noël Lounge, and shop for unique gifts at...

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...

Step into the heartwarming world of "A Charlie Brown Christmas" as this beloved holiday classic comes to life on stage. Follow Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang as they navigate the true meaning of Christmas, from Lucy's psychiatric help booth to Linus's profound monologue. This live theatrical production captures the...

Get ready for a magical holiday experience as country music sensation Chris Young presents 'It Must Be Christmas: An Acoustic Evening.' This intimate concert promises a night filled with festive cheer and Chris Young's beloved hits, performed in a special acoustic arrangement. It's the perfect way to embrace the holiday...

Joliet's Rialto Square Theatre presents 'Home for the Holidays,' a season packed with festive entertainment. This celebration features a curated selection of family-friendly shows, including beloved holiday classics and exciting new performances. Enjoy live music, theatrical productions, and classic holiday movies in the stunning, historic setting of the Rialto Square...

Experience the heartwarming sounds of the season with the Joliet American Legion Band's free holiday concert at the historic Rialto Square Theatre. This performance is enriched with tradition and musical integrity, promising an unforgettable display of talent. Attendees can secure their free ticket by making a generous donation of non-perishable...

Salt Creek Ballet presents a timeless holiday tradition: The Nutcracker. This beloved ballet, set to Tchaikovsky's enchanting score, follows Clara's magical Christmas Eve journey. Witness the epic battle against the Mouse King, a voyage to the Kingdom of Sweets, and the dazzling performance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. A captivating...

Get ready for a foot-stomping, festive celebration as Old Crow Medicine Show presents their first-ever holiday tour, the Holiday Hootenanny. This GRAMMY-winning band will fill the historic Rialto Square Theatre with a unique blend of Christmas classics and their own beloved hits. Joined by special guest Bronwyn Keith-Hynes, they promise...

Prepare for the festive season with Binny's Holiday Tasting event. Attendees can sample a curated selection of wines from around the world, perfect for holiday celebrations and gift-giving. This walk-around tasting includes delightful charcuterie pairings, offering a chance to discover new favorites and find the ideal bottles for any occasion.

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...

Joliet is seeking the perfect Christmas tree to be the star of their new City Square. Residents can nominate their Norway Spruce or Fir trees, at least 30 feet tall and within 50 miles of downtown. If selected, the tree will be removed at no cost, and the donating family...

Experience the festive sounds of the Black Willow Brass Quintet at the Joliet North Pole Market. They will be performing a selection of holiday music, adding a special touch to your market visit. Discover unique gifts and enjoy the seasonal cheer.

Join Santa Claus for a magical morning filled with delicious breakfast and delightful surprises. Children can enjoy a one-on-one visit with Santa, perfect for capturing memorable photos. Each registered child receives a special goodie bag to take home.

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.

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...

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...

Step into Santa's magical workshop for a unique and personal visit. This event offers exclusive, one-on-one time with Santa for your family, allowing for private conversations and the opportunity to capture your own photos and videos. Special themed nights cater to various community groups, ensuring a memorable experience for all.

Bundle up for a magical evening at the Winter Holiday Celebration in the Park! This festive event offers a delightful way to embrace the holiday spirit with dazzling light displays and engaging holiday entertainment. Enjoy warm beverages and sweet treats while soaking in the cheerful atmosphere. Keep an eye out,...

Experience the magic of the Rotary Club of Naperville's Parade of Lights. This enchanting evening parade winds through downtown Naperville, adorned with twinkling lights. It's a spectacle of brightly lit floats, local musical talent, and community participants, culminating in a special visit from Santa Claus, promising a delightful experience for...

Bring your furry best friend to The Morton Arboretum for special Dog Admission Days. Explore 16 miles of trails together, and on select 'Illumination' nights, even experience the magical holiday light display with your canine companion. 'Tails on the Trails' events offer a pet expo with local vendors.

Lace up your running shoes for the Rudolph Run 5K and Jingle Jog Family Fun Run! This festive event supports the Knights of Columbus in providing food and toys to local families this Christmas. Participants can choose between a 5K or a 1-mile fun run, with both walkers and runners...

All aboard for holiday cheer on the Holiday Express! This festive event offers a delightful train ride experience adorned with holiday spirit. Families can also get creative by decorating a wooden tree to be displayed along the streets, adding to the festive atmosphere. A special Sensory-Friendly Night provides a more...

Join Elmhurst University for a festive holiday celebration combining the President's Holiday Open House with the Annual Festival of Lessons & Carols. This special event offers a warm and inviting atmosphere to kick off the holiday season.

Experience the magic of the holiday season in Elmhurst with the FREE Holly Trolley. This festive service runs on Saturdays, allowing you to easily hop on and off to shop, dine, and explore the charming town. Stay tuned for exciting announcements about special guests who will be joining the trolley...

All aboard for a magical journey on the Polar Express Storytime Train! Families are invited to wear their pajamas and embrace the holiday spirit for an unforgettable trip to the North Pole. Meet Santa and his friends, enjoy a festive meal, and create lasting memories with photos and wish list...

Step into a winter wonderland at the Geneva Holiday House Tour. This event invites visitors to explore five stunning homes in Geneva, each transformed into a festive masterpiece by talented local designers and green-scape experts. Discover creative decorating ideas and draw inspiration for your own holiday celebrations while enjoying a...