Wilmette Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Join Westfield Old Orchard for a magical evening to 'Illuminate the Orchard,' transforming the center into a sparkling winter wonderland. This free, family-friendly event features live music, ice skating, exciting giveaways, and special appearances by Santa Claus and beloved characters. Don't miss the spectacular fireworks display to light up the...

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.

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...

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...

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.

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.

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...

Experience the magic of Mundelein's Winter Tree Lighting Festival, a cherished tradition combining the Village's Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony with Winterfest. This festive event features live music, ice sculpting, and visits with Santa. Explore the Kris Kringle Market for unique gifts and enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities, culminating in...

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...

Discover unique holiday gifts and festive cheer during Late-er Night Thursday on Central Street. Many local shops extend their hours until 7 PM, offering special promotions and treats. Enjoy activities like a Gingerbread House Workshop, Santa meet-and-greets, and even pet photos with Santa. Free parking is available through January 1,...

Discover a vibrant holiday shopping experience along Central Street in Evanston, featuring over 90% locally-owned businesses. Find unique gifts for everyone on your list, from children's toys and fashion to home decor, gourmet foods, and wellness products. Enjoy the convenience of free parking through January 1, 2025, and the flexibility...

Get into the holiday spirit at the Central Street Holiday Stroll! This festive event invites you to explore the charming shops and diverse eateries along Central Street, all offering special promotions. The day culminates with a magical tree lighting ceremony in Independence Park, marking the early start to the holiday...

This holiday season, let the merry band of Holiday Wrapsters handle your gift-wrapping needs. Drop off up to ten gifts at Mallinckrodt Center and pick them up later the same day, beautifully wrapped. In lieu of a fee, they kindly request non-perishable food items for the New Trier Township Food...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Fashion Outlets of Chicago's Holiday HQ. This premier shopping destination invites visitors to create lasting memories with Santa Claus, find incredible deals at over 130 outlet stores, and give back to the community through the Big Brothers Big Sisters Giving Tree initiative....

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Woodfield Mall's Santa Photo Experience. Santa arrives on November 6th and will be available for photos through December 24th. Special events include Santa's grand arrival parade, dedicated pet photo sessions, and sensory-friendly visits for children with special needs. Reservations are encouraged to...

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,...

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...

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...

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 magical breakfast at Chevy Chase Country Club. This festive event offers a delicious holiday meal and the chance for children to meet and take photos with Santa Claus. It's a perfect way to create lasting holiday memories for the whole family.

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...

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...

Immerse yourself in the magic of NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet, a cherished holiday tradition. This spectacular performance features an international cast of world-class dancers, breathtaking Broadway-level sets, and opulent costumes. Experience Tchaikovsky's iconic score brought to life with innovative choreography, whimsical puppetry, and dazzling visuals that will captivate audiences of...

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."...

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...

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...

Lace up your skates for a magical holiday experience at Centennial Ice Rinks! Join Santa Claus for a festive public skate session filled with holiday cheer, complete with cocoa and candy canes. It's the perfect way to celebrate the season on the ice.

Experience the warmth of community at the 29th annual Winnetka Holiday Sing. Families and friends gather at Village Green Park to share in the joy of singing favorite holiday carols. Bring your candles or flashlights for this heartwarming, short-and-sweet celebration.

Celebrate the holiday season at Northfield's annual Holiday Fest! This family-friendly event features a magical park lighting ceremony, a visit from Santa Claus, and delightful holiday music performed by local school choirs. Children can write letters to Santa and enjoy festive crafts, s'mores, and refreshments. It's a perfect community gathering...

Experience the magic of the holiday season with a special 'Breakfast with Santa' event. This cherished tradition offers families a chance to enjoy a delicious breakfast while meeting the jolly man himself. Children can share their holiday wishes and capture unforgettable photos with Santa, creating lasting memories. It's the perfect...

Gather your family for a delightful gingerbread house decorating session. Each group receives a gingerbread house, frosting, and an assortment of candies to create a festive masterpiece. Little ones will also enjoy a special gingerbread craft activity, making it a sweet and memorable holiday experience for all ages.

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...

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.

Join the Schaumburg community for their annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, a cherished tradition that officially ushers in the holiday spirit. This festive event brings residents together to celebrate the season and witness the magical illumination of the village's holiday tree.

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.

Step into a festive winter wonderland at the Holly Jolly Holiday Family Event! This delightful celebration features a variety of indoor activities, including craft stations for kids, a gingerbread house contest, and a fun cake walk. As dusk settles, gather for outdoor holiday carols before the grand Tree Lighting Ceremony,...