Every season is festival season in Chicago. Each month brings a packed line-up of special events celebrating food, music, culture, art, history, and beyond.
Choose from major music festivals, neighborhood street fairs, artisan markets, gourmet food fests, festive holiday celebrations, cultural heritage events, renowned film festivals, and so much more. Some of the city’s biggest happenings include bucket-list festivals like Lollapalooza, Chicago Blues Festival, Chicago Jazz Festival, and Taste of Chicago. Plus, many of the year’s top events are free to attend.
Check out the guide below to Chicago’s top festivals and events and mark your calendars to make the most out of a busy 2025. And don’t forget to explore our events calendar for even more things to do in Chicago.
Discover Chicago festivals by month:
January • February • March • April
May • June • July • August • September
October • November • December
January: Chicago Restaurant Week & winter festivities
Top Chicago festivals and events in January
Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden: Experience the awe-inspiring outdoor light show, when an illuminated trail transforms the Chicago Botanic Garden with lights and sounds.
Zoolights at Lincoln Park Zoo: Don’t miss ZooLights, a spectacular Chicago holiday tradition featuring more than one million sparkling lights and festive displays throughout the historic zoo.
Chicago Restaurant Week: Celebrate Chicago’s acclaimed dining scene during Chicago Restaurant Week, the city’s largest culinary event. Take advantage of special dining deals at hundreds of top Chicago restaurants.
Ice skating in Millennium Park: Grab your skates and enjoy some classic winter fun in Chicago’s famous Millennium Park. Check out the two pop-up ice rinks offering scenic views of the snowy skyline.
More January festivals and events in Chicago
Tomorrow Never Knows: This citywide multi-venue festival showcases the best of the city’s indie scene with performances from local musicians and comedians.
Winter Flower Show at Garfield Park Conservatory: Escape the cold and explore the Winter Flower Show, which showcases stunning flowers and lush greenery throughout the indoor greenhouses.
Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum: Immerse yourself in this dazzling holiday display, when brilliant lights and music bring the Morton Arboretum’s trees to life.
February: Chinese New Year & Chicago Theatre Week
Top Chicago festivals and events in February
Chicago Restaurant Week: Celebrate Chicago’s acclaimed dining scene during Chicago Restaurant Week, the city’s largest culinary event. Take advantage of special dining deals at hundreds of top Chicago restaurants.
Chicago Theatre Week: Experience the excitement of Chicago Theatre Week, where you can enjoy discounted tickets to a diverse range of exhilarating productions, ranging from original premieres to Broadway in Chicago favorites.
Chicago Lunar New Year celebrations: Celebrate the Lunar New Year in Chicago with lively cultural performances, colorful parades with traditional lion dances, film screenings, shopping specials, and culinary events across the city.
Chicago Auto Show: The Chicago Auto Show — America’s largest and longest-running auto exhibition — features the latest vehicles, concept cars, and interactive displays for auto enthusiasts of all ages.
Ice skating in Millennium Park: Grab your skates and enjoy some classic winter fun in Chicago’s famous Millennium Park. Check out the two pop-up ice rinks offering scenic views of the snowy skyline.
More February festivals and events in Chicago
The Orchid Show at Chicago Botanic Garden: Marvel at thousands of colorful orchids in bloom during this stunning annual exhibition.
Polar Adventure Days: Enjoy free family fun in Chicago’s parks with sled dogs, snowshoeing, crafts, and more winter activities.
Global Connections at Navy Pier: Experience vibrant international celebrations, including Carnivale and Lunar New Year, at lakefront Navy Pier.
Ravenswood On Tap: Discover new and long-time microbreweries as you sip your way through Ravenswood, a craft beer hot spot in Chicago.
UChicago Folk Festival: Celebrate the rich tradition of folk music from around the world at this beloved University of Chicago event, a local favorite since 1961.
Cider Summit Chicago: Sample top hard ciders from regional and international producers at this annual Navy Pier tasting event.
Music Frozen Dancing: Bundle up and rock out at this free (outdoor!) winter music festival, hosted at legendary music venue Empty Bottle.
March: St Patrick’s Day Parade & River Dyeing
Top Chicago festivals and events in March
St. Patrick’s Day Parade: The annual parade in downtown Chicago brings thousands of revelers to Grant Park to cheer on bag pipers, Irish dancers, community groups, and more.
Chicago Green River Dyeing: One of the world’s most famous St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, the Chicago River is dyed a vivid emerald green in honor of the holiday.
South Side Irish Parade: A tradition enjoyed by many generations of Chicagoans, this family-friendly parade draws thousands of revelers to the Beverly neighborhood each year.
More March festivals and events in Chicago
Northwest Side Irish Parade: Celebrate Chicago’s Irish heritage on the city’s Northwest Side with this annual parade, traditionally held the Sunday before St. Patrick’s Day.
St. Patrick’s Fest at Irish American Heritage Center: This fun-filled day includes traditional and contemporary Irish music, dance, an arts and crafts fair, and more at the Irish American Heritage Center.
Chicago White Sox home opener: Catch the excitement of the return of baseball season in Chicago as the White Sox kick off their season at Rate Field in the Bridgeport neighborhood, complete with post-game fireworks.
Chicago Humanities Festival: Discover a diverse range of thought-provoking discussions and performances at the Chicago Humanities Festival, featuring leading artists, authors, and visionaries from around the globe.
Chicago Irish Film Festival: A local staple for more than two decades, the Chicago Irish Film Festival brings some of the year’s best movies and documentaries from Irish filmmakers to Chicago audiences.
Holi at Navy Pier: This free cultural celebration brings the colors and traditions of the Holi holiday to the lakefront attraction, including the iconic powder throwing.
April: Spring art events & film festivals
Top Chicago festivals and events in April
EXPO Chicago Contemporary Art Fair: This renowned contemporary art fair brings more than 170 international galleries to Navy Pier for a range of exhibitions, shows, and curator discussions.
EXPO Art Week: Explore Chicago’s vibrant art scene during EXPO Art Week, with free citywide exhibitions, installations, and programming leading up to the main event at Navy Pier.
C2E2: Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo: Enjoy comic books, cosplay, anime, video games, celebrity panels, and more at the Midwest’s largest comic and entertainment convention.
Chicago Latino Film Festival: Celebrate Latino culture with films that put an emphasis on breaking stereotypes and spotlighting the diversity of Latino history and heritage.
More April festivals and events in Chicago
Chicago Cubs home opener: Kick off baseball season in Chicago during the Cubs’ first home game of the year at historic Wrigley Field, the country’s second-oldest ballpark.
Chicago Humanities Festival: Discover a diverse range of thought-provoking discussions and performances at the Chicago Humanities Festival, featuring leading artists, authors, and visionaries from around the globe.
One of a Kind Spring Show: Shop unique items, housewares, jewelry, and more handmade goods made by local creators and artisans from around the country.
Randolph Street Market: This European-style market showcases a curated mix of antique and vintage finds from a range of vendors, including fashion, art, decor, and beyond.
May: Street festivals & Memorial Day Weekend
Top Chicago festivals and events in May
Sueños Music Festival: Experience this electrifying reggaeton festival in downtown Grant Park, spotlighting Latin music’s hottest stars.
Navy Pier summer fireworks: Catch Navy Pier’s spectacular summer fireworks lighting up Chicago’s lakefront twice a week all season long.
Pullman Railroad Days: Step back in time at Pullman Railroad Days, featuring guided tours of historic railcars at the site of Chicago’s first National Monument.
Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest: Kick off summer with this Memorial Day Weekend festival, known for tribute bands, local artisans, and a lively beer garden.
Chicago Memorial Day Parade: Honor Memorial Day in Chicago with the city’s downtown parade and wreath-laying ceremony commemorating American heroes.
More May festivals and events in Chicago
Chicago Farmers Markets: Visit Chicago’s neighborhood farmers markets for the freshest local produce, creative food, and handmade goods all summer long.
Chicago Humanities Festival: Expand your mind at this annual showcase, featuring a multidisciplinary array of inspiring talks and performances across the city.
Maxwell Street Market: Browse Chicago’s century-old Maxwell Street Market on select Sundays for unique crafts, live music, and delicious global street food.
Randolph Street Market: This European-style outdoor market is a top destination for antique and vintage finds, including fashion, art, decor, and beyond.
Windy City Hot Dog Fest: Celebrate one of Chicago’s most iconic bites at this annual food fest, where you can cast your vote for the city’s best hot dog.
Lincoln Park Mayfest: Kick off summer in the heart of historic Lincoln Park, with live music from local bands, drinks, an art show, and local vendors.
Wright Plus Architectural Housewalk: Step inside private residences and landmark buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and his contemporaries throughout nearby Oak Park.
Maifest in Lincoln Square: Raise a stein at this annual German gathering in Lincoln Square, known for giant beers, traditional foods, and lively polka bands.
June: Pride Parade & Chicago Blues Festival
Top Chicago festivals and events in June
Chicago Pride Parade: One of the largest Pride celebrations in the world, the Chicago Pride Parade marches through the vibrant Northalsted neighborhood on the last Sunday of June.
Chicago Pride Fest: Celebrate Pride in the country’s oldest official gay neighborhood at this joyous fest, featuring drag queens, live music, dancing, local food, and more.
Chicago Blues Festival: Enjoy world-class blues at one of Chicago’s most legendary music festivals, drawing hundreds of thousands of fans from all over the country.
Puerto Rican Festival and People’s Parade: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Puerto Rico during this two-day festival and parade in Humboldt Park.
Grant Park Music Festival: Enjoy the magic of free classical performances all summer long at the Grant Park Music Festival, celebrating its 90th season this year.
James Beard Foundation Awards: These prestigious culinary awards from the James Beard Foundation recognize top chefs and restaurants in Chicago and around the country.
Summer Smash Festival: See some of the biggest names in hip hop at Summer Smash, the ultimate outdoor party with 50+ performances across three stages.
Chicago Dance Month: This month-long, citywide celebration brings dance performances across genres to venues throughout the city.
Old Town Art Fair: A long-standing staple of Chicago’s festival scene, this outdoor market showcases more than 200 visual artists from around the country.
Wells Street Art Festival: This juried art fest and sale draws artists from all over the world to the charming Old Town neighborhood for a weekend of art, food, and fun.
Andersonville Midsommarfest: For more than 50 years, this summer festival has celebrated Andersonville’s Swedish heritage, LGBTQ+ pride, and the close-knit community’s quirky vibes.
Do Division Street Fest: Discover local music, unique vendors, and fun family activities at Do Division Street Fest, a West Town staple event with two live stages.
57th Street Art Fair: Browse artwork from over 200 artists at Chicago’s oldest juried art festival, a staple in the Hyde Park neighborhood for more than 75 years.
More June festivals and events in Chicago
Ribfest Chicago: Dig into mouthwatering ribs at Ribfest Chicago, a family-friendly street festival in North Center with two stages, local beers, and bourbon tastings.
Flavors of Albany Park: Sample international cuisine from over 50 restaurants during this annual event highlighting the neighborhood’s culinary diversity.
Maxwell Street Market: Browse Chicago’s century-old Maxwell Street Market on select Sundays for unique crafts, live music, and delicious global street food.
Tuesdays on the Terrace: Enjoy free live music outside the Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing artists from Chicago’s internationally renowned jazz community.
Uptown Art Week: Marvel at more than 150 public art installations and engage with live art events during Uptown Art Week in Chicago.
Taste of Randolph: Indulge in gourmet bites and live music at Taste of Randolph, celebrating the best of the West Loop’s buzzing restaurant scene.
Millennium Park Music Series: This free outdoor concert series features top local and touring acts, all with a skyline backdrop in Millennium Park.
Chicago SummerDance: Dance the night away at Chicago SummerDance, featuring free dance lessons and live music on an open-air dance floor.
Lincoln Park Greek Fest: Savor authentic Greek cuisine, music, and dancing at this lively street festival celebrating the city’s Greek heritage.
Craft Brews at Lincoln Park Zoo: Sample craft beers while exploring the historic Lincoln Park Zoo during this unique adults-only tasting event.
Beyond Wonderland: Experience this fantastical music festival on Chicago’s lakefront, with two days dedicated to electronic music.
Jazzin’ at the Shedd: Bring some fun to your weeknights with this summer series at the Shedd Aquarium, featuring top jazz ensembles, cocktails, and unbeatable skyline views.
Millennium Art Festival: This juried art showcase brings more than 100 artists, plus live music and food, to Chicago’s famed Michigan Avenue.
July: Summer festivals & NASCAR
Top Chicago festivals and events in July
Chosen Few Picnic: House music fans flock to lakefront Jackson Park for the Chosen Few Picnic, the nation’s longest-running house music celebration.
Chicago Gospel Music Festival: Enjoy powerful voices and uplifting performances at the free Chicago Gospel Music Festival, highlighting traditional choirs and contemporary stars.
Millennium Park Summer Film Series: Catch free movies under the stars at Millennium Park’s beloved film series, featuring everything from classics to family favorites all season long.
Millennium Park Music Series: This free outdoor concert series features top local and touring acts, all with a skyline backdrop in Millennium Park.
Windy City Smokeout: This popular country music festival is like a weekend-long tailgate, with a star-studded lineup and some of the country’s best barbecue pitmasters.
NASCAR Chicago Street Race Weekend: NASCAR roars back to Grant Park with two days of thrilling street races, live music, family fun, and high-energy festival vibes in the heart of downtown.
Grant Park Music Festival: A Chicago summer tradition for 90 years, the Grant Park Music Festival continues to deliver world-class classical performances in scenic Millennium Park.
Chinatown Summer Fair: Immerse yourself in Chinese culture at this annual street fair, showcasing lion dances, live music, and traditional and contemporary culinary offerings.
More July festivals and events in Chicago
Wicker Park Fest: This weekend fest draws crowds for its eclectic musical lineup, delicious food options, and creative vibes.
Tacos y Tamales: Taste your way through the Pilsen neighborhood at this summer food festival, modeled after a typical Mexican market.
Roscoe Village Burger Fest: Bite into the city’s best burgers at this lively street fest, all while enjoying live music and cold drinks.
African/Caribbean International Festival of Life: Cultural celebrations take center stage at this Washington Park festival dedicated to the music, cuisine, and traditions of African and Caribbean nations.
Maxwell Street Market: Browse an eclectic array of handmade crafts, live music, and street food vendors at this long-running Sunday market.
Chicago Craft Beer Festival: Dive into the city’s craft brewing scene at this beer tasting event in Lincoln Park, where you’ll find sips from more than a dozen local spots.
Jazzin’ at the Shedd: Bring some fun to your weeknights with this summer series at the Shedd Aquarium, featuring top jazz ensembles, cocktails, and unbeatable skyline views.
Southport Art & Music Fest: Stroll the charming Southport Corridor during this neighborhood art and music festival, where jewelry, sculpture, photography, and more are on display.
Fiesta Back of the Yards: Celebrate community pride at Fiesta Back of the Yards, with a mix of live entertainment, Latin cuisine, carnival rides, and dance performances.
Bucktown Neighborhood & Garden Walk: Tour lush urban gardens during this annual neighborhood stroll in the funky Bucktown neighborhood.
Fiesta Del Sol: This multi-day celebration of Mexican culture in the Pilsen neighborhood features food, entertainment, and cultural activities.
Taste of River North: Get a taste of top local spots in the River North area, a bustling neighborhood known for its trendy restaurant scene.
Taste of Lincoln Avenue: A local staple for more than four decades, Taste of Lincoln serves up great food, art, crafts, and a full lineup of live performances.
Chicago SummerDance: Dance the night away at Chicago SummerDance, featuring free dance lessons and live music on an open-air dance floor.
Bike The Drive: For one day only, enjoy unbeatable views as you bike down Chicago’s scenic Lakeshore Drive during this all-ages, car-free event.
August: Lollapalooza & Chicago Jazz Festival
Top Chicago festivals and events in August
Chicago House Music Festival and Conference: House music was born in Chicago, and this highly anticipated event celebrates the past, present, and future of the genre.
Lollapalooza: Experience one of the world’s most iconic music festivals as Lollapalooza takes over Grant Park with four electrifying days of music along Chicago’s scenic lakefront.
Chicago Jazz Festival: Marvel at the city’s rich jazz legacy at the free Chicago Jazz Festival, which welcomes legendary names and modern masters to Millennium Park and neighborhood stages.
Bud Billiken Parade: This exuberant celebration of African American culture and history, a Chicago tradition for almost a century, is one of the largest parades in the country.
Chicago Air and Water Show: This iconic free event draws thousands of spectators to the Chicago lakefront to be wowed by breathtaking aerial maneuvers and water stunts.
Northalsted Market Days: Join in the joy of Market Days, a legendary LGBTQ+ event with all-day live music on multiple stages, unique local vendors, and dancing in a historic neighborhood.
Millennium Park Summer Film Series: Catch free movies under the stars at Millennium Park’s beloved film series, featuring everything from classics to family favorites all season long.
Millennium Park Music Series: This free outdoor concert series features top local and touring acts, all with a skyline backdrop in Millennium Park.
Chicago SummerDance: Dance the night away at Chicago SummerDance, featuring free dance lessons and live music on an open-air dance floor.
More August festivals and events in Chicago
Grant Park Music Festival: A Chicago summer tradition for 90 years, the Grant Park Music Festival continues to deliver world-class classical performances in scenic Millennium Park.
Jazzin’ at the Shedd: Bring some fun to your weeknights with this summer series at the Shedd Aquarium, featuring top jazz ensembles, cocktails, and unbeatable skyline views.
Wine and Art Walk at Morton Arboretum: Just outside Chicago, this sprawling natural area hosts a nature-themed art fair and wine tasting event on the lush summer grounds.
Jeff Fest: Also known as the Jefferson Park Arts & Music Festival, this neighborhood festival has been a staple in the Jefferson Park community for more than 20 years.
The Great American Lobster Fest: Crack into fresh lobster at Navy Pier’s Great American Lobster Fest, the Midwest’s largest seafood celebration.
Villapalooza: This lively music festival in the bustling Little Village neighborhood is a platform for local talent and young creatives.
Sangria Festival: Sip sangria in Humboldt Park while enjoying Latin American food and music at this laidback festival.
Edison Park Fest: This family-friendly festival in Edison Park supports neighborhood businesses and raises funds for the community.
Chicago Mural Festival: Watch local artists cover the city in art during this live-painting event, with food vendors, merchants, DJs, and more.
Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest: Artists, musicians, and craft vendors fill Rogers Park with creativity each summer during Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest, a staple for art lovers.
Chicago Triathlon: World-class athletes from around the world come to compete in this sporting event, which includes a triathlon, super sprint, and kids’ event.
September: Chicago Gourmet & Taste of Chicago
Top Chicago festivals and events in September
Taste of Chicago: Experience a true Chicago tradition at the lakefront Taste of Chicago, where you can try some of the city’s best bites and catch free shows by top musical acts.
Chicago Live!: Navy Pier’s free performing arts festival returns for the fifth year, with more than 110 artists and organizations performing throughout the waterfront space.
Riot Fest & Carnival: Chicago’s premier punk rock festival takes over Douglass Park with carnival rides, fun eats, and modern and throwback acts.
Chicago Gourmet: Indulge in elevated food and wine tastings and more fun foodie events during Chicago Gourmet, the city’s upscale culinary festival spotlighting acclaimed chefs from across the nation.
El Grito Festival: Celebrate Mexican Independence Day with this downtown festival featuring mariachis, ballet folclórico, authentic Mexican cuisine, and more.
Hyde Park Jazz Festival: Every fall, this free festival celebrates the roots of Chicago-style jazz with diverse artist lineups on outdoor and indoor stages throughout Hyde Park.
Englewood Jazz Festival: Now in its 25th year, Englewood Jazz Festival offers three days of live music with a strong emphasis on homegrown artists and the neighborhood’s jazz legacy.
ARC Music Festival: This electronic music fest draws attendees from around the world to celebrate house music, a Chicago-born genre, over Labor Day weekend.
Reeling Film Festival: The second-oldest LGBTQ+ film festival in the country, Reeling brings a diverse film lineup with everything from international finds to the latest documentaries.
West Loop Arts Festival: The West Loop Arts Festival transforms several blocks into a vibrant art walk, complete with live music and the neighborhood’s signature food.
German American Oktoberfest: There’s nowhere like Lincoln Square for Oktoberfest, when the neighborhood’s German heritage is on full display for the weekend.
Chicago International Latino Theater Festival: Chicago’s dynamic Latino theatre community shines during this month-long festival, featuring performances, workshops, and events across the city.
World Music Festival: Experience rhythms from around the globe at Chicago’s World Music Festival, a multi-venue celebration spotlighting international artists and genres.
Sundays on State: The city’s iconic State Street turns into a pedestrian playground filled with art, shopping, dining, live performances, and interactive fun.
More September festivals and events in Chicago
Taste of Greektown: Get your fill of Greek cuisine, live bands, and dance at this cultural celebration in Chicago’s Greektown neighborhood.
Lakeview Taco Fest: Celebrate the last days of summer with tacos, margaritas, and lucha libre action at Lakeview Taco Fest along the lively Southport Corridor.
Printers Row Lit Fest: Book lovers shouldn’t miss the Midwest’s largest outdoor literary event, with author talks and book exhibitors lining Printers Row.
Randolph Street Market: This European-style outdoor market showcases the best antique and vintage finds, including fashion, art, decor, and beyond.
Maxwell Street Market: Browse an eclectic array of handmade crafts, live music, and street food vendors at this long-running Sunday market.
Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up: This over-the-top Halloween pop-up includes a giant corn maze, carnival games, photo opportunities, axe throwing, bars, food trucks, and tons of pumpkin-packed fun.
St. Al’s Oktoberfest: In Lakeview, this popular Oktoberfest event includes a craft beer tasting, live bands, and a “kinderfest” for families. Prost!
World Dumpling Festival: Taste your way around the globe at World Dumpling Festival, which spotlights international cuisine in Logan Square.
Ravenswood Art Walk: Celebrate the local art scene at the Ravenswood Art Walk, where more than 50 Chicago artists display their work at pop-ups, open studios, and an outdoor market.
Chicago SummerDance: Learn to salsa, waltz, swing, and more during these free open-air dance lessons paired with live music in city parks.
Lincoln Park Gyro Festival: You’ll find authentic Greek flavor, live music, and festive vibes at the Lincoln Park Gyro Festival, an annual highlight for food lovers.
Lakeview East Festival of the Arts: This art festival in the waterfront Lakeview neighborhood showcases more than 150 artists and their work, including photography, furniture, jewelry, paintings, and much more.
North Coast Music Festival: Dance the day away at this Labor Day weekend music festival, featuring the best in electronic music, hip hop, and rock, plus art installations and food vendors.
Taste of Polonia Festival: Get a taste of Chicago’s Polish heritage with live music, a casino, beer garden, kids area, and of course, endless Polish food and beer.
October: Halloween celebrations & fall festivals
Top Chicago festivals and events in October
Chicago Marathon: Athletes from around the world come to Chicago for its world-class marathon course, featuring 26.2 scenic miles through the city’s neighborhoods.
Open House Chicago: This free city-wide architecture festival gives you inside access to the city’s most jaw-dropping landmarks, private clubs, skyscrapers, and more.
Chicago International Film Festival: Celebrating over six decades, the nation’s longest-running film festival brings a world-class lineup of feature films, documentaries, and shorts to Chicago.
Chicago Fashion Week: This week-long celebration of creativity will shine a spotlight on the city’s groundbreaking design community with more than 50 events and runway shows.
Chicago International Latino Theater Festival: Explore bold new performances and rising talent at this month-long showcase of the city’s vibrant Latino theatre community.
Historic Pullman House Tour: Step back in time during the Historic Pullman House Tour, offering rare access to stately mansions and charming workers’ cottages for more than 50 years.
Arts in the Dark: Halloween gets a creative twist at this family-friendly twilight parade, an enchanting twilight parade featuring puppets, giant lanterns, floats, and talented performers.
Northalsted Halloween Parade: Join the fun at this lively Halloween parade, complete with a costume contest, dance troupes, mesmerizing performances, and more.
More October festivals and events in Chicago
Reeling Film Festival: Dive into queer stories with the Reeling Film Festival, the nation’s second-oldest LGBTQ+ film event known for its diverse and inclusive programming.
Chicago Beer Festival: Sample seasonal brews from over 60 local breweries, all while exploring inside the historic Field Museum.
Maxwell Street Market: Browse an eclectic array of handmade crafts, live music, and street food vendors at this long-running Sunday market.
Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up: This over-the-top Halloween pop-up includes a giant corn maze, carnival games, photo opportunities, axe throwing, bars, food trucks, and tons of pumpkin-packed fun.
Lincoln Square Apple Fest: It’s all about apples at this autumnal extravaganza. Celebrate the fall harvest with apple pie, ciders, apple-themed goods, and more.
Lincoln Park Wine Festival: Raise a glass at the Lincoln Park Wine Festival, set in a beautiful outdoor market with wine tastings, sommeliers, and live performances.
Sundays on State: The city’s iconic State Street turns into a pedestrian playground filled with art, shopping, dining, live performances, and interactive fun.
November: Chicago Thanksgiving Parade & holiday lights
Top Chicago festivals and events in November
The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival: Kick off the holiday season at this magical evening parade, including a dazzling procession, fireworks, and the official lighting of Michigan Avenue’s iconic trees.
Chicago Thanksgiving Parade: Head to historic State Street to catch the annual Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, with giant floats, dancers, horses, special guests, and more.
Christkindlmarket Chicago: Grab a mug of hot wine and peruse artisan vendors and traditional foods during this open-air holiday bazaar, styled after traditional Christmas markets in Germany.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: Don’t miss the annual Christmas tree lighting, a century-old holiday tradition that draws crowds to admire the city’s glittering tree in Millennium Park.
Zoolights at Lincoln Park Zoo: Don’t miss ZooLights, a spectacular Chicago holiday tradition featuring more than one million sparkling lights and festive displays throughout the historic zoo.
More November festivals and events in Chicago
Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden: Experience the awe-inspiring outdoor light show, when an illuminated trail transforms the Chicago Botanic Garden with lights and sounds.
Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum: Immerse yourself in this dazzling holiday display, when brilliant lights and music bring the Morton Arboretum’s trees to life.
Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier: Navy Pier shines during Light Up the Lake, featuring holiday lights, a skating rink, fireworks, artisan markets, and activities for all ages.
Winterland at Gallagher Way: Find ice bumper cars, rides, family-friendly events, holiday traditions, and more at this winter wonderland near Wrigley Field.
Winter Flower Show at Garfield Park Conservatory: Escape the cold and explore the Winter Flower Show, which showcases stunning flowers and lush greenery throughout the indoor greenhouses.
Ice skating in Millennium Park: Grab your skates and enjoy some classic winter fun in Chicago’s famous Millennium Park. Check out the two pop-up ice rinks offering scenic views of the snowy skyline.
Chicago International Latino Theater Festival: Explore bold new performances and rising talent at this month-long showcase of the city’s vibrant Latino theatre community.
Festival of Wood and Barrel-Aged Beer: Taste some of the nation’s rarest, most exclusive wood and barrel-aged beers from more than 100 brewers, focusing on unique limited releases.
December: Holiday markets & NYE fireworks
Top Chicago festivals and events in December
Christkindlmarket Chicago: Grab a mug of hot wine and stroll through this magical holiday bazaar, styled after traditional German Christmas markets.
Zoolights at Lincoln Park Zoo: Don’t miss ZooLights, a spectacular Chicago holiday tradition featuring more than one million sparkling lights and festive displays throughout the historic zoo.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Navy Pier: Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Chicago with a spectacular fireworks show at Navy Pier, lighting up the night sky over Lake Michigan at the stroke of midnight.
Ice skating in Millennium Park: Grab your skates and enjoy some classic winter fun in Chicago’s famous Millennium Park. Check out the two pop-up ice rinks offering scenic views of the snowy skyline.
More December festivals and events in Chicago
One of a Kind Show and Sale: Find the perfect holiday gifts at this annual makers market, where you’ll find unique items, housewares, jewelry, gifts, and more handmade by local creators.
Winterland at Gallagher Way: Find ice bumper cars, rides, family-friendly events, holiday traditions, and more at this winter wonderland near Wrigley Field.
Winter Flower Show at Garfield Park Conservatory: Escape the cold and explore the Winter Flower Show, which showcases stunning flowers and lush greenery throughout the indoor greenhouses.
Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier: Navy Pier shines during Light Up the Lake, featuring holiday lights, a skating rink, fireworks, artisan markets, and activities for all ages.
Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden: Experience the awe-inspiring outdoor light show, when an illuminated trail transforms the Chicago Botanic Garden with lights and sounds.
Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum: Immerse yourself in this dazzling holiday display, when brilliant lights and music bring the Morton Arboretum’s trees to life.
Explore more Chicago festivals:
Chicago’s free summer music festivals
Please note that festival dates and information are subject to change. Visit event websites for details and the latest updates.
