When the temperatures drop and snow blankets the streets, Chicago’s suburbs transform into a wonderland of twinkling lights, festive markets, and cozy seasonal celebrations. From enchanting holiday light displays to family-friendly ice festivals and European-style winter markets, the suburbs surrounding the Windy City offer plenty of ways to embrace the magic of the season—without braving downtown crowds or pricey parking.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening under the stars, a fun outing with the kids, or a joyful community event to kick off the holidays, our curated guide to the best winter festivals and events in Chicago’s suburbs has you covered for the 2025–2026 season. Discover local gems in Naperville, Oak Brook, Arlington Heights, and beyond—each offering unique charm, seasonal cheer, and memorable experiences just minutes from home.
Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
November 15, 2025 – January 3, 2026 | 4:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. nightly
Step into a winter wonderland at Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum in Lisle, IL—one of the most celebrated holiday light shows in the Chicago suburbs. This award-winning, after-dark walking event transforms the 1,700-acre living tree museum into a magical landscape where light, sound, and nature blend in stunning harmony.
Unlike traditional light displays, Illumination is a fully immersive, sensory-rich journey along a one-mile paved path that winds through themed “light galleries.” Cutting-edge technology brings the trees to life: colors pulse to music, interactive installations respond to touch, and large-scale projections turn entire groves into animated works of art.
Don’t miss fan favorites like Symphony Woods, where thousands of lights dance in sync with an original musical score, or Treemagination, a projection-mapped spectacle that reimagines trees as living canvases. Each year, the Arboretum debuts new installations and upgraded tech, ensuring the experience stays fresh for returning visitors.
Pro Tip: Tickets are timed-entry only and sell out weeks—or even months—in advance, especially on weekends and near the holidays. Book your tickets early directly through The Morton Arboretum’s official website to secure your spot.
Since this is an outdoor winter event, dress warmly in layers and wear sturdy, slip-resistant footwear—your comfort is key to enjoying every glowing moment!
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
November 22-24, November 29-30, December 1, 5-8, 12-15, 19-22, and 26-31 | 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM on event nights. 
For nearly 40 years, Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo has lit up the season as one of the most beloved winter traditions in the Chicago suburbs. Recognized as one of the largest and longest-running zoo light festivals in the U.S., this enchanting evening event dazzles visitors with over 2 million energy-efficient LED lights, shimmering displays, and festive holiday cheer—all set against the backdrop of a world-class zoo.
Stroll through a glowing wonderland featuring giant illuminated animal sculptures, thousands of festively decorated trees, and the iconic 600-foot Tunnel of Lights, where colorful patterns pulse in perfect sync with holiday music. New light installations and updates are added regularly, keeping the experience fresh for returning guests.
But Holiday Magic isn’t just about lights—it’s a full sensory celebration. Enjoy live holiday music, live ice carving demonstrations, festive photo opportunities, and indoor access to select animal habitats, where you can warm up while watching penguins, seals, and other global wildlife. Quench your winter chill with hot chocolate, seasonal treats, and hearty comfort food from the zoo’s cafes and concession stands.
Perfect for families, couples, and holiday enthusiasts of all ages, Holiday Magic runs on select evenings in November and December. Because this popular event draws crowds from across Chicagoland, advance online ticket and parking reservations are strongly recommended—and often sell out fast.
Book timed-entry tickets early at Brookfield Zoo Chicago website to guarantee your visit!
Winter Fest on Spring Road
December 13, 2025 | 1–4 p.m.
Kick off the holiday season with Winter Fest on Spring Road, a charming and family-friendly event in downtown Elmhurst, IL—hosted annually by the Spring Road Business Association. Designed to celebrate the winter season while spotlighting local shops and restaurants, this festive gathering blends small-town warmth with holiday cheer, making it one of the most anticipated community events in Chicago’s western suburbs.
The highlight? Santa’s grand arrival via fire truck, followed by free photo opportunities and visits with children along the festive Spring Road corridor. Families can hop aboard complimentary trolley rides that loop through the district, making it easy to explore local boutiques, galleries, and eateries without the parking hassle.
Throughout the evening, live holiday music from local choirs and performers fills the air, while participating businesses open their doors for special promotions, seasonal refreshments, and cozy open houses. From handmade gifts to warm drinks and holiday treats, the event offers plenty of reasons to shop small and connect with Elmhurst’s vibrant merchant community.
More than just a celebration, Winter Fest plays a vital role in supporting local commerce—drawing residents downtown to discover (or rediscover) beloved neighborhood shops. It’s the perfect blend of community spirit, family fun, and hometown holiday magic just minutes from Oak Brook, Lombard, and other DuPage County communities.
The Winter Fest on Spring Road in Elmhurst, Illinois, is generally a free community event and does not require pre-booked tickets.
Winter Wonderland in Aurora
Opens on November 21, 2025 and runs on various dates throughout December 2025
Experience holiday magic from the warmth of your car at Winter Wonderland, Aurora’s beloved free drive-through light show at Phillips Park. Hosted annually by the City of Aurora, this festive event transforms the park into a glowing winter spectacle along a scenic one-mile route—perfect for families, seniors, and visitors of all abilities.
As you cruise through the illuminated path, you’ll pass under shimmering light arches, wave at animated holiday characters, and admire thousands of twinkling, themed displays—all thoughtfully designed and installed through a collaboration between city staff, local businesses, and community groups. This grassroots effort gives Winter Wonderland a uniquely Aurora-made charm that celebrates the city’s spirit and creativity.
One of the most accessible holiday events in the western suburbs, Winter Wonderland is ideal for families with young children, individuals with mobility needs, or anyone who prefers to enjoy the season without braving the cold. Best of all? Admission is free, though voluntary donations help support local community programs and keep the lights shining bright.
Running nightly from late November through early January—typically starting the weekend after Thanksgiving—Winter Wonderland has become a go-to holiday tradition for Chicagoland families seeking a stress-free, joyful way to celebrate the season.
Book your tickets: Paramount Theatre website
Downers Grove Ice Festival
Friday, January 31st: Live ice carving demonstration from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at Main Street and Curtiss.Saturday, February 1st: The main event with over 60 ice sculptures displayed, plus live ice carving demonstrations from 11 AM to 3 PM at the Main Street Train Station.Sunday, February 2nd: The ice sculptures remained on display, and you could still visit the downtown area for local shops and restaurants. 
Each winter, downtown Downers Grove transforms into a frosty open-air gallery during the Downers Grove Ice Festival—a beloved multi-day tradition that blends live art, family fun, and hometown charm. At the heart of the event are dramatic live ice carving demonstrations, where skilled sculptors use chainsaws, chisels, and torches to turn 300-pound blocks of ice into breathtaking, one-of-a-kind masterpieces right before your eyes.
Throughout the festival, these frozen artworks are displayed in front of shops and restaurants along Main Street and around the downtown core, inviting guests to take a self-guided “ice walk” through the village’s temporary winter sculpture trail. It’s a rare chance to enjoy accessible, outdoor cultural art—all while supporting the heart of the community.
Beyond the carvings, the festival buzzes with family-friendly activities, including Sunday pancake breakfasts, live music performances, and cozy stops at local cafés serving hot cocoa, seasonal treats, and warm drinks. Many downtown businesses join the celebration with special promotions, open houses, and festive décor, turning the entire district into a welcoming winter destination.
Held during a typically quiet retail season, the Ice Festival serves as a powerful economic boost for Downers Grove’s small businesses—drawing thousands of residents and visitors to shop, dine, and connect locally. More than just a winter event, it’s a true expression of community pride, creativity, and small-town spirit in the heart of DuPage County.
Book yout tickets: City of Downers Grove Website
WinterFest at Twin Lakes
Saturday, January 17, 2026Bundle up for WinterFest at Twin Lakes, a beloved one-day winter carnival hosted by the Salt Creek Rural Park District in Palatine, IL. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Twin Lakes Recreation Area, this charming event celebrates classic winter fun with a mix of free activities, unique demonstrations, and cozy seasonal touches—all designed to bring families together in the heart of Chicago’s northwest suburbs.
Weather permitting, guests can lace up their skates for open ice skating on the frozen lake, a rare and magical outdoor experience. One of the day’s biggest draws is the sled dog demonstrations, where visitors can meet energetic huskies and malamutes, learn about dog sledding from professional mushers, and even snap photos with the pups.
Other highlights include:
Horse-drawn sleigh rides through snow-dusted trails
Live ice sculpting demos by local artists
A crackling bonfire with complimentary hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows
Winter-themed crafts and holiday character meet-and-greets for kids
Most activities are free or low-cost, reflecting the park district’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality recreation for all residents. With its blend of old-fashioned charm and one-of-a-kind experiences, WinterFest has become a highlight of Palatine’s winter calendar—perfect for families looking to make memories without breaking the bank.
Register: WinterFet.org website
