‘Tis the season to be merry and bright, and Chicago is no exception! The city transforms into a dazzling spectacle of lights during the holiday season, offering a multitude of breathtaking displays. If you’re wondering, “Where Are Christmas Lights Near Me?” in Chicago, look no further. From immersive experiences in botanical gardens to towering Christmas trees and culturally rich museum exhibits, Chicago’s luminous Christmas light shows promise to ignite your festive spirit.
Here’s a curated guide to some of the most enchanting holiday light shows around Chicago, ensuring you can easily find the perfect display to brighten your holidays, no matter where you are in the city. For even more seasonal activities, be sure to explore the holiday guide to Chicago for a comprehensive look at everything the city has to offer.
Experience the Magic of ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo, a spectacular display of holiday lights in Chicago.
Nov. 15, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025
Step into a breathtaking winter wonderland at ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo. Chicago’s historic Lincoln Park Zoo becomes a dazzling canvas of light with over two million twinkling lights. This spectacular holiday lights display features impressive, larger-than-life animal light sculptures and mesmerizing light shows choreographed to festive holiday music.
Beyond the dazzling lights, ZooLights offers a festive experience for all ages. Enjoy the sounds of strolling carolers, witness the artistry of live ice carving, and indulge in cookie decorating. Capture precious moments with photos with Santa and savor seasonal treats like warm spiced wine, craft beer, and delicious snacks. Don’t forget to visit the zoo’s fascinating residents in their indoor and outdoor enclosures, adding an extra layer of wonder to your visit. Check the ZooLights calendar for special events, including sensory-friendly evenings, live music performances, and Adults Night Out for a unique twist. Reservations are required for this popular event, so be sure to plan your visit to Lincoln Park Zoo in advance and secure your spot for this unforgettable Chicago Christmas lights experience.
Witness the Dazzling Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival parade route in Chicago, illuminated with festive lights.
Nov. 23, 2024
Prepare to be amazed as one of Chicago’s most iconic streets ignites with holiday cheer during The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. This spectacular event transforms the Magnificent Mile into a shimmering spectacle, making it a must-see when searching for “Christmas lights near me” in downtown Chicago. The day begins with Lights Festival Lane, a hub of free, family-friendly activities. Here, you can create lasting memories with photos with Santa, be entertained by balloon twisters, and enjoy a variety of festive engagements.
The highlight of the festival is the evening tree-lighting parade, a truly magical procession. Grand Marshals Mickey and Minnie Mouse, beloved Disney icons, lead the parade, followed by elaborately decorated festive floats and, of course, Santa Claus himself. The anticipation builds to a breathtaking moment as over one million lights illuminate the 200 trees lining the Magnificent Mile, creating a dazzling canopy of sparkle. The night culminates in a spectacular fireworks display, painting the Chicago skyline with vibrant colors and adding a final flourish to this unforgettable Christmas lights festival.
Marvel at the Iconic City of Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park
The City of Chicago Christmas Tree lighting ceremony in Millennium Park, a beloved holiday tradition.
Nov. 22, 2024
Experience a cherished annual tradition at the heart of the city with the City of Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park. Celebrating its 111th year, this towering tree becomes a beacon of holiday spirit in downtown Chicago each winter. The beloved tradition commences with an exuberant tree-lighting ceremony, filled with the joyous sounds of live music and a dazzling fireworks display.
The magnificent Christmas tree will shine brightly over Michigan Avenue throughout the holiday season, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for your winter outings. While you’re visiting to admire the tree, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy ice skating in Millennium Park, adding another classic Chicago winter activity to your festive experience. Finding this iconic Christmas tree is easy when you’re looking for “Christmas lights near me” in the heart of Chicago.
Immerse Yourself in Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
Lightscape
Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden, an immersive mile-long path of light installations near Chicago.
Nov. 15, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025
Venture just outside of Chicago to the Chicago Botanic Garden and discover the enchanting Lightscape experience. Returning for its sixth year, Lightscape is a blockbuster holiday event featuring both brand-new, awe-inspiring installations and beloved crowd favorites. This multi-sensory display unfolds along a mile-long path, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a world of light, color, sound, and nature. Admire the creativity of international artists as you explore the garden’s sprawling grounds transformed into a luminous wonderland.
Lightscape offers a unique and sophisticated take on holiday lights, making it a standout when searching for “Christmas lights near me” with a touch of artistry and natural beauty. To ensure you don’t miss this captivating experience, purchase your timed tickets in advance, as this popular event often sells out.
Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier: A Waterfront Winter Wonderland
Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier
Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier, a festive winter celebration with outdoor light displays and activities in Chicago.
Nov. 29, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025
Light Up the Lake is back to illuminate Chicago’s iconic waterfront at Navy Pier this winter. This enchanting winter celebration offers a dazzling array of outdoor light displays, creating a festive atmosphere against the backdrop of Lake Michigan. Beyond the lights, Light Up the Lake provides a full spectrum of winter activities. Experience the thrill of an exhilarating ice slide, warm up by cozy fire pits in the beer garden, and browse unique holiday artisan markets for special gifts.
Adding to the festive cheer, enjoy spectacular drone shows and Saturday fireworks displays that light up the night sky. For those seeking extra excitement, try axe throwing, and for the little ones (and the young at heart), visits from Santa Claus are a highlight. Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier offers a comprehensive holiday experience, making it a prime destination when looking for “Christmas lights near me” with added entertainment and waterfront views.
Celebrate Hanukkah with the Menorah Lighting in Daley Plaza
Menorah in Daley Plaza
The annual Menorah lighting ceremony in Daley Plaza, celebrating Hanukkah in downtown Chicago.
Chabad of the Loop & Gold Coast — Center for Jewish Life
Celebrate the start of Hanukkah with the annual menorah lighting ceremony in the Loop’s Daley Plaza. This significant cultural event brings the community together to commemorate Hanukkah with the lighting of the menorah. The official lighting event is accompanied by live music and traditional holiday snacks, creating a warm and celebratory atmosphere for all spectators.
The Daley Plaza menorah lighting provides a meaningful and inclusive holiday experience, especially when searching for “Christmas lights near me” that also encompass diverse holiday traditions. Adjacent to Daley Plaza, you’ll find the beloved Christkindlmarket, a festive German holiday market where you can further immerse yourself in holiday cheer, shop for unique gifts and crafts, and indulge in festive treats. For more local celebrations, explore neighborhood gatherings hosted by community groups, such as the annual ceremony in Mary Bartelme Park in the West Loop.
Explore more: Discover magical holiday markets in Chicago for even more festive shopping and seasonal delights.
Discover Nature Illuminated: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum
Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum, a nature-inspired holiday lights event near Chicago.
Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum
Nov. 15, 2024 – Jan. 4, 2025
Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum in nearby Lisle is a much-loved, nature-inspired holiday event. This unique experience allows guests to marvel at the stark beauty of trees in winter, enhanced by breathtaking colorful lighting effects. As you walk the one-mile path, you’ll be captivated by a tunnel of light, a magical woodland area, and a landscape illuminated with thousands of lights dancing to music.
Ornament Meadow at Illumination: Tree Lights, Morton Arboretum, a dazzling display of lights synchronized with music.
Illumination offers a sophisticated and serene holiday lights experience, appealing to those seeking “Christmas lights near me” with a focus on natural beauty and artistic lighting design. After your walk through the dazzling show, warm up by crackling fire pits, enjoy making s’mores, and visit the concessions tent for festive treats and beverages. Enhance your experience by checking out special events like IllumiBrew, focused on craft beer, and a late-night event featuring a live DJ. Get your timed tickets in advance to ensure entry to this popular holiday lights destination.
Macy’s State Street Holiday Windows and the Great Tree: A Classic Chicago Holiday
Macy’s State Street Christmas Tree, a towering centerpiece of holiday tradition in downtown Chicago.
Nov. 2, 2024 – Jan. 12, 2025
Macy’s on State Street is an essential destination for holiday magic in Chicago. It is home to the historic Walnut Room, the first restaurant ever opened inside a department store, making it a unique culinary and historical landmark. The stately Walnut Room is beautifully adorned with antique chandeliers and elegant holiday décor, with the towering Great Tree serving as its glittering centerpiece.
Make a reservation for a memorable holiday brunch or dinner in the Walnut Room, and check the calendar for special events throughout the season, including themed drag brunches and Breakfast with Santa for family fun. Outside, the holiday magic continues with the iconic Macy’s Holiday Windows. A beloved tradition for over 50 years, these storefront windows are intricately and elaborately decorated each year, telling a whimsical holiday story as you stroll from one display to the next. Macy’s State Street offers a classic and heartwarming holiday experience, easily found when searching for “Christmas lights near me” with a touch of tradition and elegance.
Experience the Longest-Running Lights Festival: Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo, photo courtesy CZS-BrookfieldZoo
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo, photo courtesy CZS-BrookfieldZoo
Nov. 22 – Dec. 31, 2024
Chicagoland’s largest and longest-running lights festival, Holiday Magic, has been illuminating suburban Brookfield Zoo for over 40 years. This cherished family-friendly event features over two million twinkling lights and immersive displays, making it a must-visit when searching for “Christmas lights near me” in the Chicago suburbs. Walk through a captivating 600-foot-long light tunnel synchronized to music, and admire impressive, larger-than-life LED animal sculptures that add to the zoo’s festive transformation.
Enjoy delicious festive food and beverages throughout the park, and don’t miss the chance to meet Santa Claus and explore the new holiday market area for unique gifts and seasonal finds. Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo offers a classic and expansive holiday lights experience perfect for families and those seeking a long-standing Chicago tradition.
Drive Through a Dazzling Display: Light of Christmas Drive-Thru at Guaranteed Rate Field
Lights show at Guaranteed Rate Field
Light of Christmas drive-thru lights show at Guaranteed Rate Field in Chicago.
Nov. 21, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025
Experience the magic of holiday lights from the comfort of your car at the Light of Christmas drive-thru experience at Guaranteed Rate Field. This convenient and cozy holiday lights option features over one million shining LED lights, creating an enchanting and immersive environment. Visitors can stay warm inside their vehicles while tuning their radios to a special holiday soundtrack, enhancing the festive atmosphere as they drive through enchanted archways and luminous displays.
For a unique twist, consider the new holiday trolley experience for a different perspective of the light show. Light of Christmas Drive-Thru at Guaranteed Rate Field offers a perfect solution when searching for “Christmas lights near me” that you can enjoy without braving the winter weather, and tickets are on sale now for this sparkling seasonal event.
Celebrate Global Traditions: Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light at MSI
Christmas Around the World exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, showcasing global holiday traditions.
Nov. 16, 2024 – Jan. 6, 2025
Each year, the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) celebrates the holiday season with its culturally rich Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light exhibits. This unique museum experience provides an enriching and educational take on holiday lights, ideal for those seeking “Christmas lights near me” with a global perspective.
The centerpiece of the Christmas Around the World exhibit is the magnificent four-story Grand Tree, a stunning focal point surrounded by a forest of over 50 trees. Each tree is beautifully decorated to represent holiday traditions from diverse cultures around the world, offering a fascinating glimpse into global celebrations. Abundant glittering lights and occasional faux snow showers enhance the festive ambiance throughout the exhibit. In the Holidays of Light exhibit, the museum honors the traditions of Lunar New Year, Diwali, Kwanzaa, Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Hanukkah, Visakha Puja Day, and St. Lucia Day, offering a broad and inclusive celebration of holidays from around the globe.
Ride the Festive CTA Holiday Train: A Mobile Christmas Lights Spectacle
The CTA Holiday Train, elaborately decorated with lights and festive cheer, traveling through Chicago.
Nov. 29 – Dec. 23, 2024
For a truly unique and mobile Christmas lights experience, don’t miss the CTA Holiday Train and Bus. There’s no better way to navigate the city during the holidays than catching a ride on this festive public transportation. Each year, a CTA ‘L’ train is transformed into a rolling spectacle of holiday cheer, elaborately decorated with dazzling lights, festive bows, and playful candy-cane stripes. Adding to the joy, Santa Claus and his elves ride along, handing out candy to passengers, spreading holiday smiles throughout the city.
The holiday bus mirrors the train’s festive spirit, traversing city streets bedecked in lights and holiday colors, bringing the Christmas spirit to neighborhoods across Chicago. You can catch a ride on the Holiday Train and Bus from late November through December on various CTA lines. Check the CTA schedule for details to find out when and where you can hop on this mobile “Christmas lights near me” adventure and experience a uniquely Chicago holiday tradition.
Chicago’s holiday light displays offer a diverse and dazzling array of options for everyone asking “where are Christmas lights near me?”. Whether you prefer immersive walks, drive-thru experiences, culturally rich exhibits, or classic traditions, Chicago’s luminous offerings promise to brighten your holiday season and create lasting memories. Embrace the sparkle and festive cheer that illuminates the city this winter!
