Embrace the crisp fall days with exciting activities that’ll make your autumn glow. From checking out charming boutiques to savoring pumpkin spice treats at seasonal festivals, there is so much to see and enjoy. Venture into fall foliage trails and local landmarks to infuse a dash of adventure into your autumn plans. Don’t miss out on these activities scheduled for this weekend to fully savor the changing leaves!
Celebrate in Glenview with a Parade
Celebrate the start of the festive season at the Glenview Holiday in the Park & Parade! Follow the parade along Glenview Road to Jackman Park, and enjoy the park festivities featuring Santa visits, hayrides, a children’s train ride, carolers, delicious treats, and a snow globe photo opportunity. Come out to celebrate with your whole community.
Date: November 25
Time: 4-6PM
Cost: Free
Location: Jackman Park, 1011 Lehigh Ave, Glenview
More info: glenviewchamber.com
Illuminate the Holidays at the Brookfield Zoo
Step into a winter wonderland at Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic. This festive celebration transforms the zoo into a sparkling spectacle with over a million twinkling lights, captivating displays, and holiday-themed activities for the entire family. Wander through themed light displays, marvel at the dazzling tree-lined pathways, and enjoy special visits with Santa Claus. Enjoy the joyful atmosphere as carolers fill the air with melodic tunes, and you savor seasonal treats.
Date: Runs through December 31
Time: 3-9PM
Cost: $20.95+
Location: Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St, Brookfield
More info: czs.org
Brighten Your Nights at Willow Hill Lights
Willow Hill Lights invites you to experience the magic of the season with a drive-thru holiday lights show. Explore a 2.5-mile route with over one million lights, featuring three enchanting drive-through tunnels and a 30-foot Christmas tree. See festive characters, including the abominable snowman, Rudolph, and his reindeer companions, along with holiday classics like the Twelve Days of Christmas and Frosty and friends.
Date: Runs through January 6
Time: 5pm nightly
Cost: $40
Location: 1350 Willow Rd, Northbrook
More info: willowhilllights.com
All Aboard the Holiday Train
Experience the magic of the holiday season aboard the CTA Holiday Train, with the first trains starting on the Green and Orange lines this weekend. This season, your ordinary commute transforms into a festive journey filled with joy and wonder. As it winds its way through the city, passengers are treated to the sights and sounds of the holidays, surrounded by cheerful decorations and the jolly tunes of seasonal music. Join the ride and let the twinkling lights and festive cheer transport you to a winter wonderland on tracks.
Date: Begins November 24
Time: Varies by Day
Cost: Free
Location: Public Transit Lines in Chicago
More info: transitchicago.com
Light Up the Lake
Chicagoland’s largest indoor holiday light display is back at Navy Pier to light up Downtown Chicago. You’ll find interactive displays, a skating rink, and a visit with Santa! You can even take a ride on the Centennial Wheel for a bird’s-eye view of the winter wonderland below you. With new activities and old favorites, there’s something for everyone at Light Up the Lake.
Date: Opens November 24
Time: 11:00AM – 10:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave
More info: navypier.org
You’ll Love This Hannukah Bar a Whole Latke
As Adam Sandler once sang, “Hanukkah is the festival of lights; instead of one night of presents, we have eight crazy nights,” and we finally have a bar to celebrate that! Check out the Hanukkah pop-up bar in Wrigleyville with drinks like the Mazel Tov and Menorah Margarita. You can try some matzo ball soup and get your gelt on!
Date: Open through December
Time: 5:00PM to close
Cost: Free
Location: Wrigleyville, 3441 N Sheffield Ave
More info: 8crazynightschicago.com
Explore the Magic at Disney 100
Step into the magical realm of Disney at the Disney 100 exhibit, a captivating journey through a century of enchanting storytelling. From early Mickey Mouse sketches to modern animated classics, the exhibit showcases rare artifacts and original concept art, providing a nostalgic experience for fans of all ages. Explore the evolution of Disney’s creative genius in a visual timeline, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the beloved world of characters and stories that have shaped generations.
Date: Runs through December
Time: Varies by Day
Cost: $24.90
Location: Exhibition Hub Art Center, 2367 Logan
More info: feverup.com
Ice Skate Play Date!
The Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon opens this weekend and is ready to give holiday magic & fun to Chicagoans of all ages. Bring your own skates or rent a pair while the Chicago skyline twinkles around you. Put this on your winter season bucket list and buy tickets early!
Date: Open for the season
Time: 12:00PM – 10:00PM
Cost: $20
Location: Maggie Daley Park, 337 E Randolph
More info: maggiedaleypark.com
