The area is brimming with festive events to celebrate both the finale of fall and the kick off of the holiday season. From enjoying fall colors to holiday markets and sparkling winter light displays, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the magic of this time of year. Check out these events to plan your weekend!
Go to the Tree Lighting Ceremony
Kick off the holiday season with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. This festive event will feature a special appearance by Santa, and enjoy the sounds of the season with live performances by the District 99 marching band and the Downers Grove Choral Society.
Date: November 29
Time: 4:30PM
Cost: Free
Location: Main Street Station, 5001 Main St, Downers Grove
More Info: downers.us
Support Local at Small Business Saturday Flash Sale
Start your holiday shopping at the Small Business Saturday Flash Sale in La Grange. This event encourages you to shop small and support local businesses, with incredible deals and discounts available throughout the day. It’s the perfect opportunity to find holiday gifts and support your community.
Date: November 30
Time: 11AM-8PM
Cost: Free
Location: Various Locations, La Grange
More Info: lgba.com
Feel the Spark at Electric Illumination
This event features a live DJ who will keep the energy high by mixing music that is perfectly synchronized with an incredible display of lights. Enjoy the festive atmosphere as you warm up by the bonfires, making s’mores with kits available for purchase. Enjoy hot chocolate and snacks, or treat yourself to an alcoholic beverage while you soak in the light show.
Date: November 29-30
Time: 8:30PM-10P
Cost: $47
Location: The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle
More Info: mortonarb.org
Browse the Christmas Market
Step into a winter wonderland at this Christmas Market. Browse through vendors offering holiday goods, from handmade crafts to jewelry, while warming up with complimentary hot cocoa and cookies. As you find the perfect holiday gift, don’t forget to create a hand painted ornament with a loved one to take home for free.
Date: November 30
Time: 11AM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: Aponte Art Gallery, 5504 W Lawrence Ave
More Info: allevents.in
Get Your Gifts from the Dovetail Holiday Market
The Dovetail Holiday Market is back, bringing together beer, food, gifts, and more. Sip on a unique Glühkriek or try your hand at hot beer poking while you explore over 80 different artists and vendors like Gnome Depot Fiber, Six Point Pet, and Art by Maritza. With delicious food and handcrafted gifts, the Dovetail Holiday Market is the ideal spot to find special holiday gifts.
Date: November 29-30
Time: Fri 2PM-8PM; Sat 12PM-6PM
Cost: $25+
Location: Dovetail Brewery, 1800 W Belle Plaine Ave
More Info: dovetailbrewery.com
Discover Treasures at Mercado Navideño
Discover unique treasures at Mercado Navideño, a holiday market featuring handmade keepsakes from Mexico. From intricate Christmas ornaments to beautifully crafted jewelry, there’s something for everyone. Museum members enjoy a 30% discount on all merchandise, making it the perfect opportunity to find special gifts and support artisans.
Date: November 29-December 1
Time: 10AM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W 19th St
More Info: nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org
Enjoy Bandera Holiday Market
Celebrate the holiday season at the 2nd Annual Lighting of the Puerto Rican Steel Flag. Sip on Puerto Rican hot chocolate or spiced apple cider, and indulge in delicious treats from the food truck “El Piolon”. Browse unique creations from artisans like Chucherias Tropical Creations and Grazing Designs Charcuterie, and don’t forget to snap a photo at the “Feliz Navidad” photo booth. The market also features a showcase from two Chicago Jeep Clubs and a warming station on a CTA bus.
Date: November 30
Time: 2PM-7PM
Cost: Free
Location: Humboldt Park, Corner of Division St and Mozart St
More Info: eventbrite.com
Explore Chicago Artisan Market
Explore the Chicago Artisan Market, showcasing the talent of over 200 artisans. Held indoors across two connected buildings, the market features food, fashion, home goods, and art. Enjoy gourmet dishes, artisan coffee, tea, pastries, and desserts. With two bars offering cocktails, wine, and beer, it’s the perfect place to find unique gifts and enjoy a festive atmosphere.
Date: November 30-December 1
Time: 114AM-5PM
Cost: $8+
Location: Artifact Events, 4325 N Ravenswood Ave
More Info: chicagoartisanmarket.com
