Chicago flips the holiday switch on November 20, 2026, and keeps it on through New Year's.
The Millennium Park tree lights up that Friday night, and within 24 hours the popular Christkindlmarket opens at Daley Plaza, ZooLights takes over Lincoln Park Zoo, and the Magnificent Mile parade sends a million bulbs on down Michigan Avenue. And that's just the opening weekend!
If you're wondering what to do in Chicago for Christmas, the Windy City offers the perfect mix of traditional wonder and big city excitement. But with lots to offer, navigating Chicago's winter festivities can be overwhelming. That's why we've made the ultimate guide to the best of Christmas in Chicago 2026.
More Holiday Hot Spots: Best Christmas Towns in Illinois | Best Places to Go During Christmas in the US
- Things to do in Chicago for Christmas
- Where to stay during Christmas in Chicago
- Where to eat & drink for Christmas in Chicago
- Where to go Christmas shopping in Chicago
- Best Christmas lights in Chicago
- Best places to visit during Christmas in Chicago
- Christmas in Chicago FAQs
What to Know: Chicago Christmas Activities 2026
Is Chicago Worth Visiting in December?
Yes. At Christmas, Chicago swaps its street festivals for markets, light displays, and ice rinks, and it's one of the best places to visit in December in the US.
The snowy landscape, coupled with the city's festive lights and decorations, creates a picturesque setting for the holiday season.
Plus, you can take advantage of all the indoor and outdoor activities Chicago is known for, like visiting world-class museums, dining at top restaurants, and enjoying a holiday show.
How Is Christmas Celebrated in Chicago?
Christmas in Chicago is a grand, urban celebration built around markets, lights, and a wintry atmosphere.
You can spend your days ice skating in Millennium Park, browsing the open-air Christkindlmarket, or indulging in a variety of holiday foods from the local culinary scene.
But while Chicago Christmas is one of a kind, there are still many traditional events going on in the city, including Nutcracker performances, the CTA Holiday Train, and Christmas tree lighting ceremonies.
How Cold Is Chicago in December?
Average highs sit in the mid-30s Fahrenheit and lows drop into the low 20s. And as the cold is amplified by winds from Lake Michigan, it can feel even more like a classic winter experience. This is all part of the fun, as locals know the key to enjoying it is to bundle up in layers and duck into a cozy restaurant or museum for a break.
When Does Chicago Decorate for Christmas?
Chicago decorates through November, and the city is fully lit by the third weekend of the month.
Macy's Great Tree in the Walnut Room is usually in place by the first week, and the Millennium Park tree lighting and the Lights Festival parade fall on back-to-back nights, November 20 and 21 in 2026. Chicago Christmas time is in full swing by Thanksgiving.
Chicago Christmas Events 2026: Key Dates
Mark these Chicago holiday events: 2026 dates are set for the season's biggest nights.
- November 20: The 113th City of Chicago Christmas Tree is lit in Millennium Park at 6 p.m., followed by fireworks.
- November 20: Christkindlmarket opens at Daley Plaza for its 30th year and runs through December 24.
- November 20: ZooLights opens at Lincoln Park Zoo and runs through January 3, 2027.
- November 21: The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival parade marks its 35th year on Michigan Avenue.
- January 10, 2027: The Millennium Park tree goes dark for the season.
Best Ways to Spend Christmas in Chicago 2026
Things to Do in Chicago for Christmas in 2026
- Christkindlmarket
Experience the magic of Christmas at Chicago's Christkindlmarket, a beloved holiday tradition inspired by the German Christmas markets. Located in Daley Plaza, this festive market features unique holiday gifts, traditional German foods, and warm beverages like spiced wine (Glühwein). Admission is free, and 2026 marks the market's 30th season, running from November 20 through December 24. - Ice Skating at Millennium Park
Lace up your skates and glide across the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink at Millennium Park. This iconic outdoor rink is a must-visit during the holiday season, offering stunning views of the city's skyline and the nearby Cloud Gate (aka "The Bean"). Skating is free if you bring your own skates, rentals are available, and reservations are required. For rinks elsewhere in the country, see our guide to the best outdoor ice skating rinks in the US. - ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Celebrate Christmas at Lincoln Park Zoo's ZooLights, where the zoo is transformed into a dazzling display of more than two million lights. From November 20 through January 3, 2027, enjoy festive activities like photos with Santa, light displays synchronized to music, and live ice carving. It's a fun and family-friendly way to experience the holidays in Chicago, and tickets sell out on peak nights. - Macy's Holiday Windows
A visit to Macy's on State Street is a holiday tradition for many Chicagoans. Each year, the store's holiday windows feature elaborate displays that tell a festive story. Inside, you can visit the historic Walnut Room to enjoy a meal under the Great Tree, a 45-foot tree that hangs from the ceiling. Reservations go fast, but you can walk in just to see the tree.
Where to Stay During Christmas in Chicago
The Peninsula Chicago | ★★★★★
For those seeking a luxurious and festive Christmas getaway, The Peninsula Chicago is an exceptional choice. This elegant hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms and suites, top-notch amenities, and stunning views of the city.
During Christmas, The Peninsula hosts special events like afternoon tea with carolers and a gingerbread house decorating class, making it a perfect spot for a family Christmas vacation.
The Drake Hotel | ★★★★★
The Drake Hotel is a historic landmark that exudes timeless elegance, making it perfect for a traditional Christmas stay.
Located on the Magnificent Mile, this iconic hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms and a Palm Court holiday tea with a live harpist and a children's service for ages 3 to 12.
The Langham Chicago | ★★★★★
For a modern and luxurious stay, The Langham in downtown Chicago is a top choice. This chic hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning river views, a luxurious spa, and gourmet dining options.
Where to Eat & Drink for Christmas in Chicago
Christmas Brunch Spots
- Festive Brunch at The Lobby, The Peninsula Chicago
Start your Christmas Day with an elegant and festive brunch at The Lobby, located in The Peninsula Chicago. Known for its sophisticated dining experience, The Lobby offers a delightful Christmas brunch with seasonal dishes, live music, and stunning holiday décor. - Christmas Day Brunch at Travelle, The Langham
For a grand holiday spread, book Travelle at The Langham. Their Christmas Day brunch runs late morning into the afternoon with carving, seafood, and dessert stations, plus a visit from Santa for the kids. Reserve well in advance.
Christmas Dinner Destinations
- Christmas Eve Dinner at NoMI Kitchen
Located in the Park Hyatt Chicago, NoMI Kitchen offers a festive Christmas Eve dining experience with a special holiday menu. Enjoy contemporary American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients, all while enjoying stunning views of the Chicago skyline. Reservations are recommended. - Holiday Dining at The Gage
For a more casual yet festive dinner, visit The Gage on Michigan Avenue. This upscale tavern offers a cozy atmosphere and a special holiday menu featuring hearty dishes like roasted meats, seasonal vegetables, and decadent desserts. It's a great spot to enjoy a warm Christmas dinner on a chilly Chicago evening.
Holiday Drink Spots
- Holiday Cocktails at The Aviary
If you're in the mood for creative and festive drinks, The Aviary in the West Loop is the place to be. Known for its innovative cocktails, The Aviary offers a selection of holiday-themed drinks during the Christmas season. - Christmas Spirits at The Berkshire Room
For a more intimate and cozy drinking experience, visit The Berkshire Room in River North. This classic cocktail bar offers a warm and inviting setting, perfect for sipping on expertly crafted holiday cocktails.
Where to Go Christmas Shopping in Chicago
The Magnificent Mile
The Magnificent Mile is Chicago's premier shopping destination, offering a wide range of luxury brands and department stores. During the holiday season, the street is beautifully decorated with festive lights, creating a magical atmosphere for holiday shopping.
State Street
State Street in downtown Chicago is another great spot for holiday shopping, offering a mix of department stores, boutique shops, and historic landmarks. The area is known for its festive holiday windows, particularly at Macy's, and it's a block east of the Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza.
Lincoln Park
For a more unique and local shopping experience, head to Lincoln Park. This charming neighborhood is home to a variety of boutique shops and specialty stores along Armitage Avenue and Halsted Street, offering one-of-a-kind gifts and holiday treats.
The Best Christmas Lights in Chicago 2026
- ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Experience the holiday magic of ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo, where the zoo is transformed into a sparkling winter wonderland. Wander through the dazzling light displays, take a spin on the carousel, and enjoy festive treats like hot cocoa and holiday sweets. Admission is free on select nights with advance registration. - Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Kick off the holiday season with the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, a time-honored Chicago tradition returning for its 35th year on November 21, 2026. The event features a grand parade down Michigan Avenue, with floats, marching bands, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and of course, the illumination of over a million lights along the Magnificent Mile. - Christmas Around the World at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
Explore the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry's "Christmas Around the World" exhibit, where you'll find more than 50 beautifully decorated trees representing holiday traditions from around the globe. This annual event also includes festive performances, holiday crafts, and a dazzling four-story Grand Tree. It's a cultural and festive experience that's perfect for the whole family.
Have a car and a free day? Two of the region's biggest displays sit outside the city, including Illumination at the Morton Arboretum and Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Both pair well with weekend getaways in Illinois.
Best Places to Visit During Christmas in Chicago
- Millennium Park
No Christmas in Chicago is complete without a visit to Millennium Park. From the iconic ice rink to the dazzling lights on the city's Christmas tree, Millennium Park is the heart of Chicago at Christmas time, and the Maggie Daley Skating Ribbon is a five-minute walk east. - Navy Pier
Navy Pier offers a variety of festive activities during the holiday season, including Winter WonderFest, a massive indoor holiday event featuring rides, ice skating, a 42-foot tree, and holiday-themed attractions. It typically runs December through early January and closes on Christmas Day. - Wrigleyville
Head to Wrigleyville for the annual Winterland at Gallagher Way, where you can enjoy ice skating, a second Christkindlmarket, a holiday train, and festive entertainment. This neighborhood, known for its lively atmosphere, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season starting November 20, 2026.
Christmas in Chicago FAQs
When Is the Chicago Tree Lighting in 2026?
The City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is on Friday, November 20, 2026, in Millennium Park near Michigan Avenue and Washington Street. A pre-show starts in the early evening, the tree is lit at about 6 p.m., and fireworks follow. It's free and open to the public.
When Does Chicago Take Down Its Christmas Decorations?
The Millennium Park tree stays lit through January 10, 2027, and most downtown decorations come down in the weeks that follow. The Christkindlmarket closes earlier, on December 24, and several ice rinks run well into February.
What Is There to Do in Chicago on Christmas Day?
Skating is the Christmas Day tradition, and the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink and the Maggie Daley Skating Ribbon both open with reservations.
Lincoln Park Zoo is open every day of the year, though ZooLights doesn't run that night.
The conservatories at Garfield Park and Lincoln Park make a warm alternative, and holiday movies and Chinatown dinners round out a classic Chicago Christmas Day.
What's Open in Chicago on Christmas Day 2026?
Hotel restaurants, Chinatown, and most movie theaters stay open, along with city parks, conservatories, and the observation decks at Willis Tower and 360 Chicago.
Closed for the day: the Christkindlmarket, Navy Pier and Winter WonderFest, Winterland at Gallagher Way, and most museums and shops. Always check hours before you go.
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