The Best Christmas Events in Illinois for 2025

Illinois knows how to celebrate Christmas in a big way. From Chicago’s world-famous holiday traditions to small-town festivals filled with charm, the state offers something for every kind of holiday traveler. 

We’ve done the digging to save you time. These are the 10 most popular and talked-about events for Christmas 2025 across Illinois. For seeing lights, markets, parades, or family-friendly activities, this list has you covered.

These events are not ranked in any particular order. Each one is included because it's  popular or worth knowing about. 

1. Christkindlmarket Chicago

The Christkindlmarket is one of Illinois’ most iconic Christmas events, bringing a taste of Germany to Chicago each year. Visitors can browse hand-crafted gifts, sample authentic German foods, sip warm drinks, and enjoy live music in the heart of the city. With three locations to choose from, it’s a must-do for locals and visitors alike.

• Dates: Mid-November – December 24, 2025
  
• Address: Daley Plaza, 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602 (also in Wrigleyville & Aurora)
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (outdoors)
  
• Free: Yes
  
• Website: christkindlmarket.com

2. Magnificent Mile Lights Festival (Chicago)

This massive holiday parade lights up Michigan Avenue with floats, balloons, fireworks, and Disney magic led by Mickey and Minnie Mouse. The festival draws hundreds of thousands of people each year and officially kicks off the city’s holiday season. It’s one of the largest nighttime holiday parades in the country.

• Dates: Saturday, November 22, 2025
  
• Address: N Michigan Ave from Oak St to Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60611
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (outdoors)
  
• Free: Yes
  
• Website: themagnificentmile.com/lights-festival

3. ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo (Chicago)

ZooLights transforms Lincoln Park Zoo into a holiday playground with millions of lights, themed displays, and seasonal activities. Families can enjoy carousel and train rides, watch ice sculpture carving, and take in festive treats. Some nights are free, making it an accessible holiday tradition for all.

• Dates: Late November 2025 – Early January 2026 (select dates)
  
• Address: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: No
  
• Free: Select nights
  
• Website: lpzoo.org

4. Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum (Lisle)

This walk-through experience lights up the Arboretum’s trees with interactive displays and music for a one-of-a-kind outdoor show. Guests can warm up near fire pits or grab seasonal treats along the way. It’s a perfect event for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy nature in a new light.

• Dates: November 15, 2025 – January 4, 2026
  
• Address: 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL 60532
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Service animals only
  
• Free: No
  
• Website: mortonarb.org

5. Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier (Chicago)

Navy Pier hosts Chicago’s largest indoor holiday event, featuring a skating rink, carousel rides, a holiday market, and fireworks. Families can experience indoor snowfall and themed light displays while enjoying the festive lakeside atmosphere. Outdoor activities add even more holiday fun for everyone.

• Dates: November 29, 2025 – January 5, 2026
  
• Address: Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (outdoors)
  
• Free: No (some free outdoor activities)
  
• Website: navypier.org

6. East Peoria Festival of Lights

This drive-through light display has been a family favorite for more than three decades. With animated floats, massive lighted structures, and its famous 160-foot steam engine, it’s one of the Midwest’s premier holiday light festivals. Visitors can enjoy it all from the comfort of their vehicles.

• Dates: November 29, 2025 – January 5, 2026
  
• Address: VFW Post 2078, 1505 E. Veterans Dr, East Peoria, IL 61611
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (in vehicles)
  
• Free: Donation requested
  
• Website: cityofeastpeoria.com

7. Christmas Wonderland at Rock Spring Park (Alton)

Millions of lights, nativity scenes, and animated displays make this drive-through event a highlight in southern Illinois. Families can enjoy the experience at their own pace and donate to support the community. It’s especially popular for those who love classic, traditional holiday lights.

• Dates: November 29 – December 27, 2025
  
• Address: Rock Spring Park, 2116 College Ave, Alton, IL 62002
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (in vehicles)
  
• Free: Donation requested
  
• Website: https://www.riversandroutes.com/blog/christmas-wonderland/

8. Christmas in Carlinville

This small-town festival brings big holiday spirit with a Christmas market, live entertainment, Santa visits, and historic tours. The three-day event creates a welcoming community atmosphere with activities for all ages. Visitors can also explore the town’s decorated square and tree lighting ceremonies.

• Dates: December 5–7, 2025
  
• Address: Downtown Square & various sites, Carlinville, IL 62626
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (outdoors)
  
• Free: Most activities
  
• Website: christmasincarlinville.com

9. Old Capitol Holiday Walks (Springfield)

Downtown Springfield transforms into a festive hub with carriage rides, decorated shop windows, and a community tree lighting. Families can enjoy free programming and meet Santa while exploring the historic Old State Capitol. The weekly walks bring locals and visitors together in the heart of Illinois’ capital.

• Dates: Wednesdays & Saturdays, November 30 – December 21, 2025
  
• Address: Old State Capitol, 526 E Adams St, Springfield, IL 62701
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (outdoors)
  
• Free: Yes
  
• Website: visitspringfieldillinois.com

10. Festival of Lights Parade (Crystal Lake)

This festive parade features floats, performers, and a lively downtown lighting ceremony. It’s a community celebration that kicks off the holiday season in McHenry County. The parade draws families from across the region for its small-town charm and energy.

• Dates: December 7, 2025
  
• Address: Downtown Crystal Lake, 25 W Crystal Lake Ave, Crystal Lake, IL 60014
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (outdoors)
  
• Free: Yes
  
• Website: downtowncl.org

Create New Family Traditions This Holiday Season

These 10 events highlight the best of Illinois’ holiday celebrations in 2025, from world-class parades and light shows to small-town festivals worth the drive. No matter where you are in the state, there’s a holiday tradition waiting for you.

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Have an event to add or see an update we should make? Email us at info@thechristmas.com.