Chicago Visitors Guide - 2026
HOLIDAY CHEER
2026-01-19 06:14:26
Join in Chicago’s favorite fall and winter events that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
Lincoln Park Zoo kicks off autumn with Fall Fest, a family-friendly extravaganza featuring pumpkin patches, harvest activities, and the ever-popular Spooky Zoo, where costumed kids are treated to themed exhibits and trick-or-treating among the animals.
For a spirited after-dark celebration, the Arts in the Dark evening parade melds artistic pageantry with spooky charm, marching down State Street in surreal style among dazzling lights, costumed dancers, and imaginative puppets.
The Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade turns Northalsted into a carnival of the bizarre and beautiful, where costume contests and floats create a nighttime celebration of frightful fun — with drag performers, music, and fabulous spectacles everywhere you look.
At the National Museum of Mexican Art, the festive Day of the Dead Xicágo honors ancestors with colorful altars, sugar skulls, storytelling, music, and food steeped in the traditions of Mexico.
The Chicago Botanic Garden in north suburban Glencoe glows eerily during the Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns, when creatively carved gourds light up winding nature trails beneath the autumn stars, attracting families and fans of Halloween artistry.
As the calendar flips to November, the city truly begins to sparkle as the holiday season heads into full swing. The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade on State Street is a classic kickoff to the holidays, with giant character balloons, marching bands, and fanciful floats delighting thousands.
Next comes The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, where one million lights are lit in the glittering trees along The Mag Mile. Expect cheerful crowds, festive floats, energetic music, joyful performances, and plenty of holiday shopping.
Christkindlmarket Chicago brings German holiday traditions to downtown Daley Plaza. Check out the handmade gifts and shiny ornaments, sip warm mulled wine or hot chocolate from a souvenir mug, and snack on Bavarian treats like fresh-baked pretzels and gingerbread.
Chicago’s largest indoor holiday bash, Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier beckons families with fun rides, ice skating, live music, and showstopping decor.
Millennium Park hosts some of Chicago’s most beloved holiday traditions. The Lighting of the City of Chicago Christmas Tree elicits oohs and aahs from visitors, while the joyous Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Along brings harmonious voices together under the glowing lights.
The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry decks its halls for Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light with a forest of decorated international trees, along with cultural displays and performances that celebrate global customs.
The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center hosts a vibrant Kwanzaa Celebration, welcoming all with drumming, dancing, and storytelling rooted in African heritage.
Winterland at Gallagher Way turns Wrigleyville into a sparkling holiday destination at historic Wrigley Field. Ice skate beneath twinkling string lights, shop the Christkindlmarket for artisan-made gifts, warm up around crackling fire pits with seasonal sips, watch classic holiday movies, and share your wish list with Santa.
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo transforms the grounds into a whimsical wonderland, where shimmering light displays dance and festive decorations bring enchantment to every corner. Grab a cup of cheer and look for snow leopards prowling in the twilight or red pandas nestled in their cozy branches.
In west suburban Brookfield, Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo Chicago offers a showstopping combination of synchronized light shows and immersive experiences. Stroll past animatronic reindeer and brightly colored light displays, all while listening to seasonal music that fills the winter air. Along the route, keepers share fun facts about the zoo’s animals.
The Chicago Botanic Garden In suburban Glencoe enchants with Lightscape, a mesmerizing display of stunning light sculptures that illuminate your way while strolling the snow-covered gardens.
The Menorah Lighting Celebration in the Loop’s Daley Plaza invites everyone to honor Hanukkah with music, blessings, and a shared sense of community.
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HOLIDAY CHEER
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