See all Near North Side Christmas happenings this year!
Near North Side celebrates Christmas 2025 around the Magnificent Mile and historic landmarks, where city lights shine brilliantly. Visitors find holiday experiences, festive events, and winter celebrations with grand window displays, markets, and seasonal performances downtown.
Find the best Near North Side Christmas happenings this year!
Top Christmas Events In and Around Near North Side
- Illuminate 900: Holiday Tree Lighting (Chicago)
- Santa at 900 North Michigan Shops (Chicago)
- The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival (Chicago)
- Candlelight Carols (Chicago)
- Holiday Happenings at The Drake Hotel (Chicago)
- Frosty's Christmas Bar Chicago (Chicago)
- Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier (Chicago)
- ZooLights (Chicago)
- ZooLights Presented by Invesco QQQ and ComEd (Chicago)
- City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (Chicago)
See even MORE Christmas events below!
Near North Side Christmas Events
Near North Side Christmas Light Displays
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Event Description
Experience the magical kickoff to the holiday season at Illuminate 900. Hosts Giuliana & Bill Rancic will guide you through an evening of spectacular performances, delightful family activities like cookie decorating, and festive music. The highlight is Santa's arrival to light the magnificent 50-foot tree, transforming the venue into a winter wonderland.
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Event Description
America's holiday season officially begins at The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival® in Chicago. This iconic event features the nation's largest nighttime parade, dazzling floats, marching bands, and beloved characters from Walt Disney World®. The celebration culminates with a spectacular fireworks display, illuminating over one million lights along Michigan Avenue.
Near North Side Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment
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Experience the magic of Candlelight Carols at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. This beloved tradition features inspiring musical performances by various Moody ensembles, a captivating original drama, and a festive atmosphere. Arrive early or stay late to enjoy food trucks, a Christmas market, and interactive holiday activities for kids. It's the perfect way to celebrate the season and exalt Jesus, the King of Kings.
Near North Side Christmas Food, Drink and Parties
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Frosty's Christmas Bar transforms into a dazzling holiday spectacle, offering an immersive seasonal experience across three levels. Guests can enjoy festive cocktails and a full bar, dance to non-stop holiday music on two dance floors, and capture memories with life-size Nutcrackers and extensive Christmas decor. This limited-time pop-up bar is the ultimate destination for holiday cheer.
Near North Side Other Christmas Activities
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Experience the magic of the holidays with a visit to Santa at 900 North Michigan Shops in Chicago. This festive event features a stunning 50-foot tree, enchanting digital art displays, and a charming winter wonderland setting for photos with Santa. Reservations include a digital keepsake photo, a plush toy, and parking validation.
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Event Description
The Drake Hotel in Chicago transforms into a festive wonderland for the holidays, continuing a tradition of over 100 years. Guests can enjoy elegant afternoon teas, including the special 'Festival of Lights' tea, and festive dining options like Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. Live music fills the air on weekends, and the hotel is adorned with a grand Christmas tree, a gingerbread village, and numerous holiday decorations, creating a magical atmosphere.
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With 20 years of experience, we use AI technology to build the most comprehensive list of christmas events events.
Our goal is complete coverage—from major festivals to small community celebrations, ensuring you never miss anything happening in your area.
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