Winter is easing in, and with it comes a new lineup of reasons to brave the cold. Here are a few standout events worth bundling up for this weekend.
Explore the Festival of Lights and Holiday Market.
Grayslake fills an entire afternoon and evening with holiday programming, starting with Giving Trees at the Heritage Center, photos with Santa, and a lineup of downtown vendors. As the sun sets, families can catch the holiday parade on Center Street, hop on horse-drawn carriage rides, browse the Arts Alliance show, and take a spin on the Ferris wheel. The night wraps with the lighting of the town tree, creating a scene straight out of a Hallmark script… minus the small-town drama.
Date: Nov. 28
Time: 2–6 p.m.
Winter is easing in, and with it comes a new lineup of reasons to brave the cold. Here are a few standout events worth bundling up for this weekend.
Kick off the holiday season with Bronzeville's Takeover on Small Business Saturday.
Celebrate the 10th annual Small Business Saturday on King Drive in Bronzeville — a day designed to spotlight the neighborhood's local shops, creators, and community spirit. Over 20 small businesses and vendors, including vegan bakeries, candle makers, and artisan tea sellers, set up shop while live dancers, carolers, and a tree-lighting bring holiday energy. Grab free hot cocoa and enjoy appearances by celebrity guests and performances around the 35th & King corridor.
Date: Nov. 29
Time:
Winter is easing in, and with it comes a new lineup of reasons to brave the cold. Here are a few standout events worth bundling up for this weekend.
Soak up the sights and sounds of Deck the Green.
Burr Ridge starts the season on a lively note as Deck the Green returns with its holiday train, character visits, and annual tree lighting. Families can explore the Village Green as Santa and Mrs. Claus make their way through the crowd, while hot cocoa stations and costumed characters add to the festive atmosphere. The evening builds toward the lighting moment, when the park shifts into full holiday mode under the newly illuminated display. With free admission and plenty of kid-friendly stops, it's the perfect way to kick off the season.
Date:
Winter is easing in, and with it comes a new lineup of reasons to brave the cold. Here are a few standout events worth bundling up for this weekend.
Join the run at the Glencoe Turkey Chase.
Enjoy a crisp morning outdoors before the Thanksgiving rush begins! This lighthearted fun run sends families along the Green Bay Trail for an easygoing start to the holiday season. The route begins at Ravine Bluffs Park and follows a short northbound stretch. Designed with kids in mind, the run encourages little ones to set the pace while adults tag along. It's free to participate, and advance registration is recommended.
Date: Nov. 21
Time: 4 p.m.
Winter is easing in, and with it comes a new lineup of reasons to brave the cold. Here are a few standout events worth bundling up for this weekend.
Ring in the season at the Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Chicago's annual Tree Lighting Ceremony returns to Millennium Park, marking the start of the holiday season with the illumination of the city's official Christmas tree. The event features multiple viewing areas, festive food options, and a main stage along Washington Street where guests can take in live entertainment before the lighting of the tree.
Date: Nov. 21
Time: 5–7 p.m.
Cost: Free