Chicago’s Best Holiday Light Display: A Guide for Homeowners

The holiday season is coming up quickly. Many locals will celebrate the season by checking out the Chicago holiday light displays. As a major city, Chicago has some of the biggest and brightest displays in the country. I have compiled a list of the Chicago holiday displays homeowners won’t want to miss. Read on to learn about some seasonal hotspots you should include in your holiday itinerary.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Millennium Park

The Chicago Christmas tree lighting is an event holiday enthusiasts won’t want to miss. It will take place at Millennium Park at the intersection of Michigan Ave. & Washington St. on November 17 at 6 PM. The lights will remain on through early January 2024.

Every year, the city’s mayor and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events go on the hunt for the perfect tree. This year’s tree is a 55-foot Colorado Blue Spruce donated by the Glisovic family of Morton Grove. Come by to watch as Mayor Brandon Johnson flicks the switch and rings in the holiday season. The event will be emceed by Joe Donlon and Irika Sargant of CBS 2. Engage in activities including skating at McCormick Tribune Ice Rink. Stick around for the fireworks after the ceremony.

Light Up at the Navy Pier

Light up at the Navy Pier is Chicago’s largest indoor immersive holiday event. It will run from November 25 to January 7. Each ticket includes access to new and returning activities. New activities include:

• Stomp Light: A collection of 100 interactive lights
• The Light Memory Game: A giant ‘Simon Says’ game that you can play with your smartphone
• Reflecting Pond: This frozen pond is ideal for photo opportunities
• Birch Tree Forest: Explore a maze of giant birch trees
• Roseaux: This interactive art installation is a treat for the senses
• Magic Wand: Interact with 30 magic objects to create a unique color story

The activities will be available alongside returning features including light sculptures, an ice-skating rink, Santa’s Village, and a ride on the Centennial Ferris Wheel.

Zoo Lights at Lincoln Zoo

Zoo Lights at Lincoln Zoo is an event many Chicagoans include on their holiday to-do lists. It runs from November 17 to January 7. It is an annual tradition now in its 29th year.

Every year’s Zoo Lights brings something new. This year guests will be treated to a nature-inspired light show on the South Lawn. The zoo will be filled with costumed characters and Victorian carolers on select nights. The Pepper Wildlife Center will transform into a Santa’s Village.

Other attractions and activities include Ferris wheel rides, live ice carvers, fire pits for smores roasting, and pop-ups offering tasty treats and beverages.

Illuminated Light Trail at Lightscape

The Chicago Botanic Gardens Holiday Lights are a sight to behold. The event will run from November 17 to January 2. It merges art and nature with a seasonal twist.

Every year, the Gardens light up with thousands of twinkling lights. Enjoy old favorites like the Winter Cathedral. Check out new attractions like the hypnotizing Fire Garden, the illuminating Arc of Light, the vibrant Feast of Light, and the enchanting Dancing Palms.

Guests can enjoy meals served from the food trucks that line the garden. Santa visits will be available on select nights.

Christmas Around the World & Holiday of Light at the Museum of Science and Industry

Now in its 80th year, the MSI’s Christmas Around the World & Holiday of Light display is one of the best holiday lights in Chicago events. It runs from mid-November to the first weekend of January. Guests can explore dozens of trees decorated with handcrafted ornaments while learning how the holidays are celebrated across the globe.

The tradition started in 1942 when the facility redecorated a single tree every day for 12 days to represent each country allied with America during World War II. Today it features over 50 trees decorated by volunteers throughout the Chicago area. It reminds people to celebrate the differences that make us unique.

During a museum visit, guests can also check out the Holidays of Light Exhibit which showcases artifacts that represent cultural holidays like Diwali, Kwanzaa, Chinese New Year, Ramadan, St. Lucia Day, and more.

Spark Your Holiday Season this Year by Incorporating One or More of Chicago Holiday Light Displays on Your To-Do-List.

The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without Chicago Holiday Light Displays and the warmth of a cozy home. Let me help you make your season bright by finding you the perfect home in 2024. I wish you the very best holiday season.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/chicago-holiday-light-displays-2023-homeowers-guide/