Want to know what’s happening this weekend in Chicago? Look no further. There’s a whole calendar of exciting events, exhibits, and activities taking place all over the city this month in Chicago.
This weekend in Chicago is jam-packed with dazzling holiday light displays, artisan markets, jaw-dropping art exhibits, unforgettable Thanksgiving meals, riveting live theatre, family-friendly fun, exciting cultural events, and so much more.
And if you’re looking to do some shopping this Small Business Saturday, Chicago is the perfect place to browse unique boutiques, local artisans, and fun neighborhood shops.
Check out just a few of the top things to do this Thanksgiving weekend in Chicago, Nov. 27 – 30, 2025.
Chicago Thanksgiving Parade
The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, a local tradition for almost 90 years, kicks off the holiday season with a fun-filled morning in the heart of downtown Chicago. The family-favorite event was even named the #2 Thanksgiving parade in the country by TimeOut Magazine.
Lincoln Park ZooLights
Chicagoland’s favorite holiday tradition is back and brighter than ever! ZooLights Presented by Invesco QQQ and ComEd twinkles with more than 3 million lights, hundreds…
Bronzeville’s Takeover on Small Business Saturday
"Join us for the 10th Annual Small Business Saturday 🎉 in Chicago’s historic Bronzeville neighborhood! Sponsored by American Express. Discover unique local shops, family activities, and holiday…
Andersonville Small Business Saturday
Join us in Andersonville on Saturday, November 29 for Small Business Saturday! Shop local, discover new favorites, and support the Andersonville Businesses that make our…
Indoor Farmers Market
As our outdoor season wraps up, we’re heading inside for the colder months. Come support local vendors and farmers, and stock up on your favorite…
Christkindlmarket
What can you expect at the market? The German-style Christmas Market provides a safe outdoor experience for the whole family. All Christkindlmarkets are always free admission. The smell of roasted nuts,…
Winterland at Gallagher Way
Winterland returns to Wrigleyville this season with ice skating, ice bumper cards, Santa’s workshop, and a miniature Christkindlmarket.
Lightscape
Tickets are on sale now for all. Book in advance and secure your preferred slot; popular dates and times go fast! Step into an enchanting…
North Suburbs
Event details
Chicago Artisan Market – Ravenswood
Shopping small, local and sustainable -- is about to get a little bigger -- at the Chicago Artisan Market in Ravenswood. Celebrate "Small Shop Saturday"…
Vienna Boys Choir: Christmas in Vienna
Overview For six centuries, the child musicians of the Vienna Boys Choir have been enthralling the world with their lively singing style and purity of…
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Ice skating at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park begins Nov. 21 (weather permitting). Admission to the ice rink will be free, but…
Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
Bring family and friends to see Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum and be amazed by how light, color, and music transforms a magnificent landscape of trees.
It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago!
George Bailey – the Everyman from small town Bedford Falls whose dreams of escape and adventure were stopped by family obligation and civic duty –…
A Christmas Carol
“I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” Rediscover a Dickens’ classic with an adaptation that “makes you…
Hell’s Kitchen
Welcome to HELL’S KITCHEN, the hit musical from 17-time Grammy® Award winning Alicia Keys—inspired by her life, her music, and her community. Your journey begins with…
Straight No Chaser – Holiday Road 2025 Tour
A cappella sensation Straight No Chaser will perform live at The Chicago Theatre on Nov. 29, 2025.
SAUCED Small Business Saturday Market
What do we say to big box stores? What do we say to cooperate overlords? We say, "No thank you," because this holiday season, we're…
Chicago River Sleigh Rides with Santa!
🎅🚢 Set sail on the iconic Chicago River this holiday season with our Santa Claus Sleigh Ride Cruises! 🌟 Join us for an unforgettable experience…
Paris in Black Exhibition Opening at the DuSable Museum
Join us at the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center for the opening of Paris in Black: Internationalism and the Black Renaissance. Discover the…
The Taming of the Shrew
Deception, disguise, and desire. What if we want to be tamed? The richest man in town has two daughters and one big problem: he refuses to marry…
Holiday Magic
We’re lighting up the night this holiday season! Returning with a brand new light display, celebrate more than 40 years of Holiday Magic. Now with…
Balloon Museum: EmotionAir
The Pop Air and Let’s Fly exhibitions continue to thrill and engage a participative audience, but EmotionAir sets an even more ambitious goal. This latest…
Día de Muertos: A Celebration of Remembrance
The Day of the Dead is one of Mexico’s most extraordinary traditions, which celebrates the lives of those who have passed away. The National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen is holding their 39th annual exhibit dedicated to Day of the Dead customs and traditions.
Yoko Ono: Music of the Mind
Yoko Ono: Music of the Mind presents one of the most comprehensive exhibitions to date of Yoko Ono, the trailblazing artist, celebrated musician, and formidable campaigner…
Chicago Architecture Biennial
Explore cutting-edge projects and ideas from global contributors at North America’s largest architecture and design festival. All events are free and open to the public.
Explore our events calendar for more Chicago events and happenings.
Please note that all events are subject to change.
