Christmas Lights in Chicago 2023 (Interactive Map)

We're putting all of our favorite places to see Christmas lights in Chicago and the suburbs on one interactive map, so you can easily add this beloved Christmas tradition to your holiday checklist.

From professional light displays to neighbors that go the extra mile, walks in the park to drive-thru displays, let us know where you go to see Christmas lights near you so we can add them to the map. And, be sure to like and review any you've already been to below!

So, queue up your Christmas playlist and get ready to enjoy a walk (or drive) through a holiday light show near you. Don't forget the hot chocolate!


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    The Believe House

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    Kristy Pepping said:  These homeowners nicknamed their house, "The Believe House" and it sure will make you believe in holiday magic! On your drive-by you'll see Santa, the largest Elf on the Shelf and thousands of twinkling lights. Each year they try to add to their traditional static display, including pieces they've made by hand over the years!

    Naperville, IL

    Candy Cane Canyon Trail

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    Alexandra F. said:  This awesome residential display in Carol Stream has plenty of holiday magic to share, including twinkling lights set to music! Tune in on FM 101.5 to enjoy the show, and check out their Facebook page linked above for details. The Christmas lights are free to enjoy, but they accept non-perishable food donations for the Humanitarian Service Project as well as monetary donations for DuPage Animal Friends.

    Carol Stream, IL

    Santa's Rock n Lights

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    Shila said:  An animated drive-thru light show with spectacular lights dancing to music. Drive through over one mile of sparkling lights at the Lake County Fairgrounds.

    Grayslake, IL

    Santa's Village Magical Christmas Drive Thru Experience

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    Kristy Pepping said:  If you've grown up in the Chicagoland area, you may have visited this Santa-themed amusement park as a kid. This holiday season, you can also enjoy a one-of-a-kind drive thru experience with over 2 million lights set to music, festive displays, live animals, and of course, the big man himself! At the end of the trail you can park your car to take photos, and enjoy hot chocolate and yummy funnel cakes for purchase. Online reservations are required.

    East Dundee, IL

    Goebbert's Christmas Drive Thru Light Show 2023

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    Alexandra F. said:  Experience a Christmas drive thru light show like no other. Load up your car and watch the lights dance to the beat of the music.

    Hampshire, IL

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    An awesome light show

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    Naperville, IL
    PAST EVENT

    The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

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    Yoli B said:  This annual festival in downtown Chicago kicks off the holiday season in style with family activities throughout the day, including photos with Santa Claus. The main event is an epic tree-lighting parade down North Michigan Avenue, led by Grand Marshals Mickey & Minnie Mouse and featuring awesome floats, gigantic helium balloons, marching bands, musical performances, Santa Claus, and more, all helping to light up The Mag Mile with more than a million twinkling lights.

    Chicago, IL
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    Art on THE MART: 2023 Season of Light

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    Kristy Pepping said:  Looking for free things to do for Christmas in Chicago? Art on THE MART transforms one of Chicago's notable landmarks, THE MART (formerly known as The Merchandise Mart), into a permanent, larger-than-life canvas. During the holiday season, enjoy their Season of Light display nightly at 7:30pm. Performances are free for all to enjoy, and can be best viewed from The Chicago Riverwalk between Wells and Lake St.

    Chicago, IL

Primary photo:   The Morton Arboretum

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