Looking for a festive way to get in the holiday spirit this year? Look no further than the Windy City! Chicago is known for its stunning holiday lights displays, and there are plenty of places to see them throughout the city and suburbs. Whether you’re a local or just visiting for the season, experiencing the Christmas lights in Chicago is a must-do activity.
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Downtown Chicago is beautifully decorated and a treat to walk around to see some of the best Christmas lights in the nation. Chicago is home to many holiday traditions, like the annual Christkindlmarket that is hosted in Daley Plaza and is located not far from Michigan Avenue, home to the Chicago Lights Festival.
Another one of the most popular spots to see holiday lights in Chicago is at the Lincoln Park Zoo’s annual ZooLights event. With over two million lights illuminating the zoo, it’s a magical experience for all ages. But ZooLights isn’t the only show in town!
From the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Lightscape to the Morton Arboretum’s Illumination: Tree Lights, there are plenty of other light displays to explore throughout the city and suburbs.
Chicago Christmas Lights Highlights
- Chicago is known for its stunning holiday lights displays, making it a great place to get in the holiday spirit.
- Lincoln Park Zoo’s ZooLights is one of the most popular displays, but there are many other options throughout the city and suburbs.
- From Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden to Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum, there are plenty of magical displays to explore.
Planning Your Trip to Chicago
If you’re visiting Chicago and planning on visiting a number of attractions while you’re there, you’ll want to look into the Chicago CityPASS® ticket option. With the Chicago CityPASS®, you can bundle multiple attractions into one ticket!
On our most recent trip, we used the Chicago CityPASS® to go to the Museum of Science & Industry, the Art Institute of Chicago, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, Field Museum, and Skydeck Chicago! All with one Chicago CityPASS® ticket!
Experiencing Christmas Lights in Chicago
Chicago is one of the most beautiful cities to visit during the holiday season. The city is adorned with thousands of sparkling lights, and the festive spirit is infectious. If you’re looking for a way to get into the holiday spirit, then experiencing Christmas lights in Chicago is a must.
One of the most popular places to see Christmas lights in Chicago is at the Magnificent Mile. This is a stretch of Michigan Avenue that is lined with beautiful lights and holiday decorations. You can take a stroll down this street and enjoy the festive atmosphere while doing some holiday shopping.
Another great place to see Christmas lights in Chicago is at the Lincoln Park Zoo. During the holiday season, the zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland with thousands of colorful lights and holiday displays. You can take a walk through the zoo and enjoy the festive atmosphere with your family.
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Christmas lights in Chicago, then you can take a ride on the Chicago Trolley Holiday Lights Tour. This tour takes you through some of the most beautiful light displays in the city, including the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Magnificent Mile.
Millennium Park
No holiday season is complete without a visit to the Christmas tree at Millennium Park. This tree is one of the most iconic symbols of Christmas in Chicago, and it is a must-see for anyone visiting the city during the holiday season. The tree is decorated with thousands of lights and ornaments, and it is a sight to behold.
Whether you choose to walk, ride, or simply admire the beautiful light displays, experiencing Christmas lights in Chicago is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit. So grab your family and friends, and head out to explore the festive traditions of this beautiful city.
Chicago Lights Festival
Beignning on November 18th, 2024, Chicago will be beautifully lit up with Christmas trees, festive lights, and other holiday decor. These magnificent displays make it one of the most special times of year to visit this amazing city!
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
If you’re looking for a magical holiday experience in Chicago, look no further than ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo. This annual event transforms the zoo into a winter wonderland with over 2.5 million lights illuminating the trees, buildings, and animal exhibits.
ZooLights offers fun for the whole family with live music, ice carving demonstrations, and even visits with Santa Claus. You can also warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or other festive treats available for purchase throughout the zoo.
One of the highlights of ZooLights is the light displays featuring some of the zoo’s most beloved animals. From a towering giraffe to a playful polar bear, these displays are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
Admission to ZooLights is free, but donations are encouraged to support the zoo’s conservation efforts. The event runs from late November through early January, so be sure to add it to your holiday itinerary.
Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
If you’re looking for a magical winter wonderland, look no further than the Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden. This illuminated trail is a must-see during the holiday season, and it’s sure to leave you feeling enchanted.
As you wander through the garden, you’ll be transported to a world of twinkling lights and stunning displays. From the glittering trees to the sparkling water features, every inch of the trail is a feast for the eyes.
In addition to the dazzling lights, there are also artisan markets where you can find unique gifts and treats. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind present or a tasty snack, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.
The Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the magic of the holiday season. With its stunning displays, artisan markets, and enchanting atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit.
Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum
If you’re looking for a spectacular display of Christmas lights, you won’t want to miss Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum. This event is held annually at the Morton Arboretum, a 1,700-acre outdoor museum of trees located in Lisle, Illinois, just a short drive from Chicago.
Illumination: Tree Lights is an electric wonderland that features over one million LED lights on trees throughout the arboretum. The lights are synchronized to music, creating a magical experience that will leave you in awe. This event is perfect for families, couples, and anyone who loves the holiday season.
The Morton Arboretum is a beautiful and serene setting for Illumination: Tree Lights. The trees are illuminated in a way that highlights their natural beauty, and the pathways are lined with lights, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. You can stroll through the illuminated trees at your own pace, taking in the sights and sounds of the season.
Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum is a must-see event for anyone visiting the Chicago area during the holiday season. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling festive and full of holiday cheer. Don’t miss out on this amazing display of lights and nature.
Holiday Lights at Millennium Park and Navy Pier
If you’re looking for a festive and magical experience, head to Millennium Park and Navy Pier for their annual holiday light displays. Both locations offer unique and breathtaking displays that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
At Millennium Park, you can enjoy the Enchanted Forest, a beautiful display of trees decorated with thousands of twinkling lights. You can also take a spin on the ice skating rink while surrounded by the sparkling holiday lights.
Navy Pier’s Light Up the Lake is a must-see event, featuring a stunning display of holiday lights along the Chicago River. You can also take a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel, which is adorned with even more holiday lights.
For a truly magical experience, consider taking a holiday cruise along the Chicago River. You’ll be able to take in all the holiday lights from a unique perspective while enjoying a festive atmosphere.
Millennium Park and Navy Pier are two of the best places to see holiday lights in Chicago. Whether you’re ice skating, strolling through the Enchanted Forest, or taking a holiday cruise, you’re sure to have a memorable and enchanting experience.
Note: Cloudgate, otherwise known as “The Bean” is closed for refurbishment until Spring 2024. The concrete areas around the base are being restored. During this refurbishment, the Bean is gated off from the public. So you are still able to take pictures from a distance but will not be able to get the close up photos this famous structure is known for.
Christmas on Michigan Avenue
If you’re looking for a classic Chicago Christmas experience, look no further than Michigan Avenue. Known as the Magnificent Mile, this shopping district is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season.
The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, which takes place in late November, is a must-see event. The festival features a parade, live music, and the lighting of over one million lights on Michigan Avenue. It’s a great way to kick off the holiday season in Chicago.
In addition to the festival, the shops along Michigan Avenue go all out with their holiday decorations. From elaborate window displays to twinkling lights, you’ll feel like you’re in a holiday movie as you stroll down the street.
Be sure to also check out the City of Chicago Christmas tree in Millennium Park, just a short walk from Michigan Avenue. And if you’re looking for some holiday shopping, the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza is a popular spot for unique gifts and festive treats.
Michigan Avenue is a must-visit destination during the holiday season in Chicago.
Special Attractions
There are many special attractions to see while viewing Christmas lights in Chicago. Here are a few highlights:
- Brookfield Zoo Holiday Magic: This annual event at Brookfield Zoo features over a million LED lights, a laser light show, and holiday-themed entertainment. It’s a great place to bring the whole family to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
- The Walnut Room Great Tree: The iconic Great Tree at the Walnut Room in Macy’s on State Street is a must-see during the holiday season. This towering tree is decorated with thousands of lights and ornaments, and makes for a great photo opportunity.
- Impact Field Fireworks Display: Head to Impact Field in Rosemont to catch a spectacular fireworks display synchronized to holiday music. This is a great way to cap off an evening of Christmas light viewing.
- Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier: Navy Pier’s Winter Wonderfest is a winter wonderland of holiday fun, featuring ice skating, carnival rides, and of course, plenty of holiday lights.
- BrewLights: If you’re a beer lover, don’t miss BrewLights at the Lincoln Park Zoo. This adults-only event lets you enjoy holiday lights while sampling craft beers from local breweries.
No matter which special attraction you choose to visit, you’re sure to be dazzled by the festive lights and holiday cheer.
Holiday Season in Suburbs
If you’re looking for a quieter, more suburban Christmas light experience, there are plenty of options in the Chicago area. Here are some of the best places to see holiday lights in the suburbs:
Northbrook
Northbrook Court is a popular destination for holiday shopping, but it’s also a great place to see Christmas lights. The shopping center is decked out in thousands of twinkling lights, and there are often special events and activities for families.
Rosemont, IL
The Rosemont area is home to the Sparkle Light Festival, which features a mile-long drive-through light display. The festival also includes a holiday market, food vendors, and other activities.
Schaumburg
Schaumburg has lots of shopping and dining available, and inside Woodfield Mall you’ll find a special winter wonderland with a Santa meet and greet! Reservations are available and should be made during peak times to meet Santa.
Aurora Festival of Lights
The Rotary Club of Aurora hosts the Aurora Festival of Lights, a drive-through light display that features over a million lights. The festival also includes a Santa’s Village, where families can meet Santa and enjoy other holiday activities.
Arctic Adventure
The Phillips Park Zoo in Aurora, Illinois hosts Arctic Adventure, a winter wonderland that includes a light display, ice skating, and other winter activities. The event is free, but donations to local charities are encouraged.
Santa’s Rock N Lights
Santa’s Rock N Lights is a drive-through light display in the Joliet area that features over a million lights synchronized to holiday music. The display also includes a Santa’s Village with food vendors and other holiday activities.
Naper Lights
Naper Lights is a free, walk-through light display in Naperville. The display features over 400,000 lights synchronized to music, and there are often special events and activities for families.
No matter where you go in the Chicago area, there are plenty of opportunities to see beautiful Christmas lights and enjoy the holiday season.
Holiday Lights and Cultural Celebrations
Chicago is a diverse city that celebrates many holidays of light, including Hanukkah, Diwali, Kwanzaa, Ramadan, St. Lucia Day, and Visakha Puja Day. During the holiday season, the city is adorned with festive lights and decorations, creating a magical atmosphere that you won’t want to miss.
One of the most popular holiday light displays in Chicago is the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. This event takes place in late November and features a parade of floats, marching bands, and performers, culminating in the lighting of over one million lights on the Magnificent Mile.
If you’re interested in celebrating Hanukkah, head to Lincolnwood Town Center for their annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony. This event features live music, traditional Jewish food, and the lighting of a giant menorah.
For those celebrating Diwali, the Festival of Lights, the Chicago Cultural Center hosts an annual celebration that includes Indian music, dance performances, and traditional food. The event is free and open to the public.
Kwanzaa is celebrated in several locations throughout the city, including the DuSable Museum of African American History and the African American Cultural Center. These events feature music, dance, and storytelling, as well as traditional African food.
Ramadan is an important holiday for Muslims, and Chicago’s Muslim community celebrates with a variety of events, including iftar dinners and Eid al-Fitr celebrations. The Downtown Islamic Center hosts a popular iftar dinner during Ramadan, featuring traditional Middle Eastern food and live music.
Finally, St. Lucia Day and Visakha Puja Day are celebrated by the Swedish and Buddhist communities, respectively. The Swedish American Museum hosts a St. Lucia Festival, featuring a procession of young girls in white gowns and crowns of candles. The Buddhist Temple of Chicago hosts a Visakha Puja Day celebration, which includes meditation, chanting, and a vegetarian feast.
No matter what holiday you celebrate, Chicago has something to offer. From festive light displays to cultural celebrations, the city is full of holiday spirit that is sure to put you in the mood for the season.
Other Holiday Experiences
In addition to the spectacular Christmas light displays you can see in Chicago, there are many other holiday experiences to enjoy.
Here are some of the best:
- CTA Holiday Train: Take a ride on the CTA Holiday Train, a festive train decked out in lights and decorations. You can ride the train on select dates throughout December, and it’s a fun way to get around the city while enjoying the holiday spirit.
- Christmas Around the World: Visit the Museum of Science and Industry to see the Christmas Around the World exhibit. This annual display features more than 50 trees decorated with ornaments and displays representing different cultures and traditions from around the world.
- Holiday Music: Enjoy live holiday music at one of Chicago’s many music venues, such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra or the House of Blues. You can also catch free holiday concerts at Millennium Park and other public spaces throughout the city.
- Craft Beer: Sample some of Chicago’s best craft beer at one of the city’s many breweries. Many breweries offer special holiday-themed beers during the winter months, so be sure to check out their seasonal offerings.
- IllumiBrew: Head to the Lincoln Park Zoo for IllumiBrew, a holiday beer festival featuring more than 150 beers from over 50 breweries. You can also enjoy holiday-themed food and live entertainment.
- Amaze Light Festival: Visit the Amaze Light Festival at the Chicago Botanic Garden for a dazzling display of lights and interactive exhibits. You can walk through a tunnel of lights, see a giant illuminated tree, and even make your own light display.
- Animated Displays: Check out the animated displays at Macy’s on State Street, which feature moving characters and scenes from classic holiday stories. You can also visit the animated window displays at other stores throughout the city.
- Minnie Mouse: Take the kids to see Minnie Mouse at the Chicago Children’s Museum, where she’ll be making special appearances throughout the holiday season. You can also enjoy other holiday-themed activities and exhibits at the museum.
- Dancing: Get in the holiday spirit with a dance performance, such as the Joffrey Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker. You can also catch free dance performances at Millennium Park and other public spaces throughout the city.
- Santa: Finally, don’t forget to visit Santa Claus himself! You can find him at various locations throughout the city, including the Chicago Cultural Center and Navy Pier. Be sure to bring your camera for a festive photo op.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago
What are the best places to see Christmas lights in Chicago?
Chicago has many beautiful places to see Christmas lights, but some of the best include the Lincoln Park ZooLights, the Christkindlmarket, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, and the Brookfield Zoo Holiday Magic.
Where can I find the biggest Christmas tree in Chicago?
The biggest Christmas tree in Chicago can be found at Millennium Park. The tree is over 60 feet tall and is decorated with thousands of lights and ornaments.
Are there any Christmas light shows in Chicago?
Yes, there are several Christmas light shows in Chicago. Some of the most popular include the Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo, the Illumination at Morton Arboretum, and the Chi-Town Rising New Year’s Eve Celebration.
Which neighborhoods in Chicago have the best Christmas decorations?
Some of the neighborhoods in Chicago with the best Christmas decorations include Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, and Andersonville. These neighborhoods have many homes and businesses that decorate their exteriors with lights and other festive decorations.
Where can I drive to see Christmas lights in Chicago?
You can drive to many places in Chicago to see Christmas lights. Some of the best options include the Lincoln Park ZooLights, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, and the Brookfield Zoo Holiday Magic. You can also drive through neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Wicker Park to see homes decorated with lights.
Is the Magnificent Mile decorated for Christmas in 2023?
Yes, the Magnificent Mile is decorated for Christmas in 2023. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival takes place every year starting on November 18th, 2023 and features a parade, fireworks, and the lighting of over one million lights along Michigan Avenue.
Check out some more of our top tips for visiting Chicago in this YouTube video!
** All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. Being Mommy with Style is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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