Chicago Kicks Off Holidays: Lights, Music & Festive Fun This Weekend
Chicago is gearing up for an unforgettable holiday season, with a spectacular lineup of events this weekend. From iconic light festivals to legendary concerts, the city is buzzing with festive cheer and unique experiences perfect for locals.
Dazzling Light Displays and Holiday Cheer
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Get ready for one of Chicago’s most magical holiday traditions: the Magnificent Mile Grand Tree-Lighting Parade. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will lead the way, illuminating Michigan Avenue. The day begins with family activities and live entertainment at Pioneer Court, featuring performers from Cirque de Soleil. The grand parade showcases illuminated floats, giant balloons, marching bands, and Santa Claus himself. As the procession moves, holiday lights flicker on, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over the Chicago River at the DuSable Bridge.
- When: November 22, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. (activities), 5:30 p.m.–7:15 p.m. (parade)
- Where: Pioneer Court (401 N. Michigan Ave.) for activities; parade southbound on Michigan Avenue from Oak Street to Wacker Drive
- Cost: Free
- More Info: themagnificentmile.com
City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting & More
Millennium Park officially opens its holiday season by lighting the City of Chicago Christmas Tree on November 21, followed by a fireworks display. This weekend also marks the opening of the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink and the Millennium Park Holiday Market (November 21-23). For another local tree lighting, head to Greektown on November 23 for their blue-and-white tree illumination and traditional Holiday Karavákia Display (decorated Christmas boats).
| Event | Date & Time | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting | Nov. 21, 6 p.m. (pre-show 5 p.m.) | Millennium Park (Michigan Ave & Washington St) | Huge spruce, fireworks, ice rink opens |
| Greektown Tree Lighting | Nov. 23, 5 p.m. | Elysian Field (Halsted & Van Buren) | Blue-and-white tree, Holiday Karavákia |
- Millennium Park Tree Info: chicago.gov
- Greektown Tree Info: greektownchicago.org
Live Entertainment: Music, Comedy & Dance
Paul McCartney’s “Got Back” Tour Finale
The legendary Beatle, Paul McCartney, concludes his “Got Back” tour in Chicago with two highly anticipated shows. At 83, his performances continue to receive glowing reviews, making this a must-see event for music fans.
- When: November 24-25, 8 p.m.
- Where: United Center, 1901 W. Madison St.
- Tickets: Resale tickets from $1,628.70 at unitedcenter.com
El Alfa & Jeff Arcuri
Get ready to dance with El Alfa, the Dominican “king of dembow,” on his “Ultimo Baile” tour. Meanwhile, Chicago-born stand-up comedian Jeff Arcuri returns with his popular “(Un)scripted” show, known for its engaging crowd work.
- El Alfa: Nov. 21, 9 p.m. at Rosemont Theatre (5400 N. River Road, Rosemont). Tickets from $57.98 at rosemont.com.
- Jeff Arcuri: Nov. 22, 7 p.m. & 10 p.m.; Nov. 23, 8 p.m. at The Chicago Theatre (175 N. State St.). Tickets from $34.85 at msg.com.
Ruth Page’s “The Nutcracker”
Experience a beloved holiday classic with Ruth Page’s traditional “The Nutcracker,” featuring choreography dating back to 1962. A special one-act version is available this weekend for younger audiences.
- When: Nov. 22, 1 p.m. & 5 p.m.
- Where: Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St. (Additional dates through Dec. 22 at various locations).
- Tickets: From $20 at ruthpage.org
“American Prophets: Writers, Religion, and Culture” Exhibit
The American Writers Museum unveils a new exhibit exploring the intersection of religion and creative expression. “American Prophets” features interactive installations and artifacts, including Flannery O’Connor’s rosary, showcasing how writers serve as “modern-day prophets.”
- When: Through November 2026
- Where: American Writers Museum, 180 N. Michigan Ave.
- Tickets: From $10 at americanwritersmuseum.org
Festive Markets and ZooLights
Christkindlmarket
The beloved Christkindlmarket opens its doors this weekend in Daley Plaza, Wrigleyville, and Aurora. Indulge in glühwein, sausages, pierogi, and pretzels while browsing German-inspired Christmas ornaments and unique gifts. Check the schedule for special events, including the “Haus of Krampus” on December 14. In Wrigleyville, Christkindlmarket is part of Winterland, offering an ice rink, holiday train, and Santa visits starting November 28.
- When: Through Dec. 24 (Daley Plaza & Aurora), Nov. 23–Dec. 31 (Wrigleyville)
- Where: Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington St.), RiverEdge Park (360 N. Broadway, Aurora), Gallagher Way (3635 N. Clark St., Wrigleyville)
- Cost: Free entry
- More Info: christkindlmarket.com and gallagherway.com
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Don your hat and mittens for Lincoln Park Zoo’s annual holiday light display, ZooLights. This year features a reimagined “Zooltide” light show on the South Lawn, alongside the Ferris wheel, s’mores, hot chocolate, and select nights with carolers and ice sculptures. New flexible ticketing allows you to pay a little more for spontaneous visits.
- When: Through Jan. 4
- Where: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St.
- Tickets: From $7.73 at lpzoo.org
Holiday Mercadito
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at this Rogers Park craft fair featuring art, jewelry, candles, and more. Enjoy free gift-wrapping for two items between 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., courtesy of St. Jerome Church.
- When: Nov. 23, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Where: Grow/Progresando, 7056 N. Clark St.
- Cost: Free entry
- More Info: business.rpba.org
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago’s Holiday Kickoff
- When do Chicago’s main holiday lights turn on?
The City of Chicago Christmas Tree lights up on November 21, and the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival parade illuminates Michigan Avenue on November 22. ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo is also open now through January 4. - Can I still get tickets to see Paul McCartney in Chicago?
Yes, resale tickets are available for his shows at the United Center on November 24 and 25. - Are there free holiday events for families this weekend in Chicago?
Absolutely! The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, the City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting, the Greektown Tree Lighting, Christkindlmarket (all locations), and the Holiday Mercadito all offer free admission and family-friendly fun. - Where can I find unique gifts for the holidays?
Christkindlmarket offers German-inspired gifts and ornaments, while the Holiday Mercadito in Rogers Park features local craftspeople selling art, jewelry, and candles.
Whether you’re looking for dazzling lights, legendary live entertainment, or unique holiday shopping, Chicago offers a packed schedule this weekend to immerse you in the festive spirit.
Chicago Kicks Off Holidays With Dazzling Lights
