Here are five Chicago holiday events worth adding to your November calendar:
1. Christkindlmarket Chicago
November 20th—December 24th | Daley Plaza
Kick off the holiday season at Chicago's iconic German-style holiday market. Browse handmade gifts, grab a warm drink and enjoy festive food in the heart of the Loop–admission is free!
Local tip: The Wrigleyville location at Gallagher Way also opens November 20th, making it an easy option for North Side residents.
– Christkindlmarket
2. Millennium Park Christmas Tree Lighting
November 20th | Millennium Park
Chicago's official Christmas tree lights up Millennium Park on November 20th, officially kicking off the city's holiday season. The free ceremony is a classic Chicago tradition and an easy excuse to spend an evening downtown.
– Choose Chicago
3. Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
November 21st | North Michigan Avenue
More than one million lights, a holiday parade and fireworks over the Chicago River make the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival one of the city's biggest holiday traditions. The parade begins at 5:30 p.m., with fireworks following at 7:30 p.m.
Local tip: Skip the parking headache and take public transportation. Expect street closures and large crowds around Michigan Avenue.
– The Magnificent Mile
4. Chicago Thanksgiving Parade
November 26th | State Street
Start Thanksgiving morning with one of Chicago's oldest holiday traditions. The free Thanksgiving Parade travels along State Street with floats, marching bands, giant balloons and performances.
Afterward, head home, warm up and get ready for the main event: Thanksgiving dinner.
– Choose Chicago
5. ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
November 20th–January 3rd | Lincoln Park Zoo
More than three million lights transform Lincoln Park Zoo into a holiday wonderland. ZooLights runs from 4:30 to 9:00 p.m., with tickets starting at $7 for select dates.
Local tip: Free admission is available on most Mondays, with tickets released one week ahead. ZooLights is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
– Lincoln Park Zoo
Make the Most of November in Chicago
Living in Chicago means having some of the city's best seasonal traditions right outside your door. Whether you're exploring a holiday market, watching the lights downtown or spending a night in Lincoln Park, November is a great time to experience the city.
At Highpoint Living, we're proud to call Chicago home. Explore our communities and find your place in the city!