The Ultimate Guide to Christmas in Chicago!

Updated November 2024

Chicago holds a special allure during the Christmas season, drawing me back year after year. Whether with family or friends, I try to experience something new each time. I explore something new every year, whether dining at Macy’s Walnut Room, staying overnight on the Magnificent Mile, or witnessing the Millennium Park tree lighting. Past trips have included Winter Wonderfest (now Light Up The Lake) at Navy Pier, downtown shopping, and the Chicago Christkindlmarkt. Chicago offers countless Christmas activities, and I’ve compiled a list of my favorites to help you experience the city’s magic during this festive time.

Light Up The Lake at Navy Pier

Light Up the Lake on Navy Pier is a must-do holiday activity, especially for those with kids. The event features a Christmas festival with craft workshops, a local artisan market, a holiday drone show, dazzling lights, and Saturday fireworks. You can also enjoy Pier Park rides, firepits, an ice slide, and meet and greets with Santa. Bundled admission is available to include access to rides, activities, axe throwing, and the Centennial Wheel.

Millenium Park Tree Lighting and Ice Skating

Tree Lighting Ceremony: The annual tree lighting ceremony in Millennium Park features live music, activities, and a visit from Santa. It usually occurs on the Friday after Thanksgiving at around 6 p.m., but the date can vary. The event draws large crowds, so consider arriving after the tree lighting to avoid the rush and still enjoy the festive atmosphere.

McCormick Tribute Ice Rink: Enjoy free ice skating at the McCormick Tribute Ice Rink in Millennium Park from November to February. Bring your own skates for free admission, or rent them for a fee ($16-20). The rink also offers free ice skating lessons for all ages and skill levels. Check the website for specific dates and registration information.

Chicago Christkindlmarket

Although I prefer the Carmel Christkindlmarkt in central Indiana (I’m biased!), the Chicago Christkindlmarket (spelled with an “e”) at Daley Plaza is a magical experience and a cherished local tradition. This German-style outdoor Christmas market features local and international vendors, delicious food, hot drinks, and a unique annual mug. Admission is free, so take a stroll and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Holiday Walking Tours of the Christkindlmarket and downtown Chicago are fun options!

Zoolights at Lincoln Park Zoo

Zoolights at the Lincoln Park Zoo is a must-see holiday tradition in Chicago, featuring over 3 million lights and hundreds of displays. Admission to the zoo is always free, but there is admission for Zoolights, which is generally affordable and even free on Mondays!  Enjoy the festive atmosphere with a lighted tunnel, Ferris wheel, hot chocolate, s’mores, and holiday pop-up shops. Special events include carolers, ice carving, Santa visits, indoor zoo tours, an interactive light wall, cookie decorating, and holiday characters.

Shopping and Festivities on the Magnificent Mile

Every year, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, complete with a parade, takes place one weekend in November. The Magnificent Mile is alive with shoppers and festive window displays throughout the holiday season. After Thanksgiving, the street is lined with illuminated trees, adding to the dazzling display of holiday lights.

I fondly remember taking my daughters to Tiffany’s on the Magnificent Mile when they were younger. We’d admire the sparkling diamonds and the beautiful teal blue and white Christmas decorations. The glamorous employees would give the kids large Tiffany-colored candy canes. It was a special tradition.

Stay along the Magnificent Mile

My top choices for a stay in downtown Chicago, along the Magnificent Mile, and within walking distance of the holiday activities!

• Aloft Chicago Mag Mile
• Home2 Suites By Hilton Chicago River North
• Godfrey Chicago Hotel
• Ivy Boutique Hotel
• Hampton Inn & Suite Chicago Downtown
• Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Downtown Magnificent

Chicago Union Station Polar Express

The Polar Express comes to life every November at Chicago’s Union Station! The movie, “The Polar Express, ” inspires this magical one-hour Amtrak train ride. It features festive decorations, dancing chefs serving hot chocolate and cookies, and a visit from Santa and his elves. Tickets are available for purchase on their website. (The train is not running in 2024 due to construction.)

Dine in the Walnut Room at Macy’s

The Walnut Room, located on the top floor of Macy’s, has been serving customers since 1905. It is world-famous for its Circassian wood paneling and Austrian chandeliers and annually displays The Great Tree in the center of the dining room. The Walnut Room offers a buffet in addition to its menu, allowing for more customer experiences. Reservations are required and recommended several months (or more) in advance.

The Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theatre

The Goodman Theatre in Chicago hosts a fantastic production of A Christmas Carol each year.  I highly recommend getting tickets in advance, but if you’re looking for a deal, check their website at 10 a.m. the day of the show for half-price mezzanine seats.  They also offer discounts for college students, active military, and first responders.

Nearby things to do:

• Chicago Cubs Fan Family Outings
• SafeHouse Chicago – James Bond Brunch
• The Hotel Zachary in Chicago’s Wrigleyville
• Family Things to Do in the Chicago Wrigleyville Area

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