The holidays are a magical time in the city, especially with little ones in tow. There are so many fun things to do with kids in Chicago this season, and each one is an opportunity to make a lasting holiday memory.
The whole family will be awed by the city’s massive Christmas tree, our historic zoo covered in millions of lights, the whimsical holiday parade starring both Santa and Mickey Mouse, and so much more.
Here’s your bucket list of the best kid-friendly holiday activities and events in Chicago.
Family-friendly things to do this holiday season
Holiday events in Chicago for families
City of Chicago Tree Lighting Ceremony
Friday, Nov. 21, 2025
Kick off the holidays with the 112th annual lighting of the official Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park, complete with music, special guests, and fireworks. Guests can enjoy multiple viewing areas throughout the park, complete with giant screens and seasonal treats.
The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025
This magical evening parade is filled with festive floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, live performances, Minnie and Mickey Mouse, Santa Claus, and more. It all leads up to the dazzling moment when more than one million bulbs illuminate the trees along iconic Michigan Avenue.
Chicago Thanksgiving Parade
Thursday Nov. 27, 2025
Head to historic State Street to catch the annual Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, with giant floats, dancers, horses, special guests, and more. The family-favorite event was even named the #2 Thanksgiving parade in the country by TimeOut Magazine.
Wreathing of the Lions at the Art Institute of Chicago
The annual wreathing of the lions has taken place outside the Art Institute of Chicago for more than 30 years. This beloved Chicago tradition involves giant holiday wreaths being placed on the monumental lions that flank the museum’s grand entry on Michigan Avenue.
Indoor holiday activities for families
Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
Dec. 2, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026
With tons of holiday-themed fun, Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier truly has something for the whole family. This indoor wonderland will include glittering light displays, a towering holiday tree, carnival rides, bumper cars, bounce houses and slides, an ice skating rink, and more. Plus, your ticket includes a ride on the iconic Centennial Ferris Wheel.
Christmas Around The World at the Museum of Science and Industry
Nov. 8, 2025 – Jan. 5, 2026
Christmas Around the World is an annual holiday celebration at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. The exhibit features more than 50 decorated trees representing Chicago’s diverse international communities and their holiday traditions. Make sure to save time to check out the museum’s other interactive (and educational) exhibits.
Holiday happenings at Macy’s on State Street
Located along Chicago’s iconic State Street, Macy’s is making the holidays magical all season long. Enjoy an unforgettable meal in The Walnut Room, a historic restaurant that’s an iconic holiday destination. Make sure to ask for a spot beneath the Great Tree. Check the schedule for visits from Santa and explore the new Holiday Square Market.
Winter Flower Show at Garfield Park Conservatory
Stay warm and toasty in these lush greenhouses, filled to the brim with exotic plants from around the world. The annual Winter Flower Show features a dazzling array of blooms, centered around a unique holiday theme each year.
Holiday shows and performances in Chicago
Make lasting holiday memories with a trip to one of Chicago’s iconic theatres. There are plenty of winter and holiday shows for the whole family, from classic Christmas plays to mesmerizing ballets. You might even start a new holiday tradition.
- A Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theatre (Nov. 15 – Dec. 31, 2025)
- The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet at Lyric Opera House (Dec. 5 – 28, 2025)
- The Beatrix Potter Holiday Party at Chicago Children’s Theatre (Dec. 6 – 28, 2025)
Explore more: Check out our guide to the best things to do in Chicago for the holidays.
Outdoor activities during the winter
Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
Nov. 14, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026
Wander through an enchanted, illuminated trail during Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden. This special after-dark event transforms a one-mile path into a holiday wonderland, complete with a choir of singing trees, a waterfall of cascading light, a soaring cathedral made of thousands of twinkling bulbs, dazzling light shows, and more.
Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
Nov. 15, 2025 – Jan. 3, 2026
This living outdoor museum hosts a spectacular winter light show each year. Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum features interactive light effects that bring out the natural beauty of the hundreds of towering trees. There are also crackling bonfires with s’mores for the little ones and seasonal drinks for parents.
Ice skating in Millennium Park
Nov. 21, 2025 through early February 2026
Chicago’s iconic Millennium Park is a winter wonderland for families, with two unique ice rinks on the lakefront park’s grounds. First, twirl around on the city’s iconic Millennium Park ice skating rink, nestled right below the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (aka “The Bean”).
Next, head to Maggie Daley Park to glide along the whimsical Skating Ribbon that meanders through frosty pine trees. You’ll enjoy views of the city skyline covered in snow as you glide along the whimsical route.
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Nov. 21, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026
In the winter, the historic Lincoln Park Zoo is covered in more than two million twinkling lights for a breathtaking holiday display. The family-favorite event also includes special activities like holiday crafts, pictures with Santa, snacks, live ice carving, animal encounters, train rides, a carousel, and so much more. Make sure to get your tickets in advance, as the event tends to sell out.
Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park
Nov. 21, 2025 – Jan. 11, 2026
The towering tree, decked out in thousands of twinkling lights, will be sure to wow kids of all ages. Catch it shining brightly near the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Washington Street in the heart of downtown Millennium Park. It makes for the perfect family photo op.
Christkindlmarket Chicago
Nov. 21 – Dec. 24, 2025
Amidst the hustle and bustle of downtown Chicago, this charming outdoor Christmas market pops up in Daley Plaza each holiday season. Kids can sip hot chocolate, admire shimmering ornaments and wooden cuckoo clocks, and snack on tasty seasonal treats. But hurry — the market’s last day for the year is Christmas Eve.
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Nov. 21, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026
Tucked away in the suburbs just outside of Chicago, Brookfield Zoo is a wondrous place during its long-running Holiday Magic light festival. Be mesmerized by colorful, luminous displays featuring more than two million glittering LED lights, plus a full schedule of live entertainment like ice-carving demonstrations, carolers, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and more.
Winterland at Gallagher Way
Nov. 23 – Dec. 31, 2025
Celebrate the season at iconic Wrigley Field in Lakeview. Winterland at Gallagher Way is held just outside the ballpark and includes an ice rink (with skating and on-ice bumper cars), Santa’s workshop, and the return of the popular Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville. Enjoy plenty of family-friendly holiday activities, including wreath-making workshops, a menorah lighting, and holiday movie screenings.
Chicago Holiday Train
Each winter, you can find Santa dashing through the city via the city’s elevated train system. The CTA Holiday Train is one of Chicago’s most unique holiday traditions. An entire ‘L’ train, towing Santa and his sleigh, is decked out with twinkling lights, red bows, and more holiday decor. Step on board and you’ll be greeted by elves handing out candy canes.
