Christmas in Chicago: 2023 Events & Activities for Families

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:  This annual display from one of Chicago's must-see museums for kids explores rich holiday traditions from around the globe. There are over 50 trees and displays representing a variety cultures and traditions, including a floor-to-ceiling Grand Tree with thousands of twinkling lights.

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Kristy Pepping said:  ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo is definitely one of the most popular things to do for Christmas in Chicago, with luminous displays and holiday activities throughout the zoo grounds. The Pepper Family Wildlife Center will transform into the North Pole, hosting visits with Santa alongside the zoo’s holiday tree and festive décor.

Kristy Pepping said:  Holiday Magic is one of Chicagoland’s longest-running lights festivals, with over two million twinkling LED lights. Along with the light displays (including a tunnel light show!), families can enjoy photo ops, letters to Santa, roaming carolers, ice carving and more. Advance reservations are required for all, except for members entering through the North Gate. Admission to Holiday Magic is free for all members.

Kristy Pepping said:  One of Chicago's favorite botanic gardens presents Lightscape, bringing the night alive with color, imagination and sound, from a playful choir of singing trees to a spectacular Winter Cathedral. This is one of the most popular places to see Christmas lights around Chicago, and tickets sell out quickly so buy yours early to guarantee a spot!

Kristy Pepping said:  This immersive experience at the Kohl Children's Museum allows kids to interact with light and color as they explore hues and patterns in this interactive holiday light installation. The light display is an indoor and outdoor experience, and includes admission to the museum's wonderful indoor exhibits as well.

Carolina E said:  The Village of Rosemont is thrilled to announce the return of Sparkle Light Festival at Impact Field, the premier holiday destination for family fun. This year Sparkle Light Festival will feature a brand new, completely redesigned layout and the addition of an ice skating rink. Visitors are invited to make magical memories while enjoying breathtaking displays of millions of holiday lights alongside a variety of activities. Sparkle Light Festival will open on Friday, November 17 and will run through Sunday, December 31.

Sparkle Light Festival guests will stroll through five illuminated villages including the Frozen Forest, Snowflake Circle, Winter Wonderland, the North Pole and Deck the Walls. Guests are invited to visit Santa Claus, ice-skate with friends, enjoy free train rides on the “Holly Trolly” train, and go tubing down the Alpine Slide. Festive food and beverage options will also be available.

Kristy Pepping said:  Explore 50 acres of the Arboretum’s majestic trees during this one-of-a-kind spectacle of color, light, and sound along a 1-mile paved walking path. Ticket prices can go up over time up depending on availability, so get yours early for the best price.

Alexandra F. said:   Cosley Zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights, an amazing selection of Christmas trees, wreaths and greenery, and hot chocolate.

Kristy Pepping said:  Downtown Naperville is converted into a holiday lights extravaganza with lighted trees, large holiday-themed figures and a combination of other holiday displays. Visit Naper Lights to get your 3D Viewing glasses to enjoy the full effect of these spectacular Christmas lights in Naperville! Whether permitting, you can also take a picture with Santa by the great tree on Friday and Saturday evenings.

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.