4 Spectacular Christmas Light Displays near Chicago 2015
Wondering where to take out-of-town visitors this holiday season? It’s not too early to plan ahead! We’re fortunate enough to have some truly magnificent annual Christmas light displays here in the Chicago area. These family-friendly attractions and events are a great way to entertain your kids this winter, or to show your visiting relatives and friends what makes Christmas in Chicago so special. Here’s our list of favorites and recommendations, plus the 2015 schedule details, all in one place!
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Where: N. Michigan Avenue
When: November 21st
A decades-long Chicago tradition, this day-long festival extravaganza the Saturday before Thanksgiving marks the official kick-off of the holiday season. From 11:00 AM- 4 PM, visit Lights Festival Lane at Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan Ave, for family-friendly activities, treats, and live music on the BMO Harris Bank Stage. At 5:30, the Tree-Lighting Parade begins at Oak Street & Michigan Avenue, culminating in the Fireworks Spectacular over the Chicago River at 6:55. For those who don’t feel like braving the massive tourist crowds, the parade and fireworks will be televised live on ABC7 beginning at 6, and the trees along the avenue will be lit up with thousands of lights all December long.
ZooLights
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo
When: From 4:30-9 PM on November 27-29, December 4–6, 11–23, 26–31; and January 1–3
This free attraction features Christmas light show displays throughout the zoo, as well as free holiday crafts, animal encounters, live ice carving every night, and photos with Santa through December 23. On December 14, 21, and 28th, kids can also ride the Lionel Train Adventure, the carousel, and the Holiday Wagon for free!
Holiday Magic
Where: Brookfield Zoo
When: From 4:00-9 PM on Saturdays and Sundays in December, plus December 28-31.
Brookfield Zoo’s holiday display features over one million Twinkling LED lights, the interactive Polar Lights display, a 41-foot talking tree, free admission to Wild Encounters, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and more!
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light exhibits
Where: Museum of Science and Industry
When: Daily during museum hours, November 19th through January 3rd
The Museum of Science and Industry’s seasonal exhibit is another family favorite. The Museum’s 45-foot Grand Tree in the Rotunda is surrounded by more than 50 smaller decorated trees. Each one is decked out to showcase the holiday traditions of a different culture or ethnic community in Chicago, by volunteers from that community. On weekends, there will be traditional song and dance performances to match.
Happy Holidays from all of us here at Continental Mitsubishi!
