Chicago's Giant Christmas Tree Display Opens Saturday, Featuring Holiday Traditions From Around the World
HYDE PARK, CHICAGO— Chicago's holiday season is starting early this weekend, and one of the city's most beloved Christmas traditions is returning with more than 50 decorated trees from around the world.
The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry will open its 84th annual Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light exhibition on Saturday, November 7, 2026, transforming the museum into an indoor celebration of international holiday traditions.
The centerpiece is a spectacular four-story Grand Tree, surrounded by decorations created by Chicago community volunteers representing countries and cultural traditions from across the globe.
Opening day will also feature live performances, seasonal treats and a special tree-lighting ceremony at 11 a.m.
The exhibition runs through January 3, 2027, giving Chicago families plenty of opportunities to experience the displays throughout the holiday season.
More Than 50 Trees, Each With a Different Cultural Story
Unlike a traditional Christmas tree display, Christmas Around the World celebrates the ways different communities observe the holiday season.
More than 50 trees are decorated by community volunteers who incorporate ornaments, symbols and traditions connected to their cultural heritage.
Visitors can walk through the indoor displays, discover the meaning behind different decorations and learn how families celebrate around the world.
The accompanying Holidays of Light exhibition expands the experience beyond Christmas, recognizing traditions associated with celebrations such as:
Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights.
Kwanzaa, a celebration of African American heritage and community.
Diwali, the Festival of Lights celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists.
At the center of the exhibition stands the museum's enormous Grand Tree, offering one of the most recognizable family photo spots of Chicago's holiday season.
The tradition dates back to 1942, when the museum displayed a single Christmas tree as a symbol of unity during World War II.
More than eight decades later, the exhibition has grown into an annual celebration of Chicago's cultural diversity.
Opening Day Includes a Giant Tree Lighting and Live Performances
Families visiting on Saturday, November 7, will experience more than the decorated trees.
The museum is hosting a Tree Lighting and Cultural Festival, with special activities planned throughout the day.
The opening celebration includes:
11 a.m. Grand Tree Lighting: A countdown and ceremonial lighting of the four-story Christmas tree.
10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Cultural Performances: Music, dance and presentations by local cultural organizations.
Seasonal Treats: Holiday samples and specialty offerings from Stan's Donuts.
Holiday Shopping: Gifts and seasonal merchandise available in the museum's Holiday Shop.
The opening celebration is included with general admission, so visitors do not need a separate festival ticket.
Families hoping to watch the Grand Tree lighting should plan to arrive before 11 a.m. to allow time for entry and finding a viewing spot.
The museum will also offer seasonal food options and holiday programming throughout the exhibition's run.
Christmas Around the World 2026: Dates, Hours and Tickets
Here's what visitors should know before heading to the museum.
Event: Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
Opening Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
Exhibition Ends: Sunday, January 3, 2027
Opening Weekend Hours: 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Location: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60637
Admission: Included with general museum admission.
Grand Tree Lighting: November 7 at 11 a.m.
Official Event Details: Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
Museum admission prices and discounts vary by ticket type and eligibility. Visitors should check the official booking page before purchasing tickets.
Chicago residents receive a general admission discount, and qualifying families may be eligible for additional admission programs.
For those driving, the museum operates an underground parking garage with a posted general visitor rate of $22 per vehicle.
Public transportation options include the Metra Electric Line at 55th/56th/57th Street and nearby CTA bus routes.
Because the exhibit continues into January, families who cannot attend opening weekend can still visit during the coming weeks.
Make It a Holiday Outing in Hyde Park
A visit to Christmas Around the World also offers an opportunity to explore one of Chicago's most established South Side neighborhoods.
The museum sits near Jackson Park and Lake Michigan, providing access to outdoor spaces, historic architecture and nearby cultural destinations.
Hyde Park is also home to the University of Chicago, independent bookstores, restaurants, museums and neighborhood businesses.
Families can turn a museum visit into a longer afternoon by exploring the surrounding area, enjoying a meal along 53rd Street or visiting nearby public spaces.
For Chicago residents, the exhibition is an annual reminder of how the city's diverse communities contribute to its cultural identity.
For relocation buyers and families considering Hyde Park or nearby South Side neighborhoods, attractions like the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry offer a glimpse into the area's educational opportunities, community activities and everyday amenities.
The neighborhood also includes a range of housing options, from historic homes and vintage condominiums to apartments and multifamily properties.
Discover Chicago Neighborhoods Through Their Local Traditions
From Hyde Park's museums and historic streets to the South Loop's Museum Campus and Downtown Chicago's seasonal celebrations, local experiences are part of what makes each neighborhood distinct.
For buyers and families considering a move, exploring these destinations can help reveal the lifestyle and amenities available beyond the property itself.
The Cory Tanzer Group at Option Premier helps buyers, sellers and relocation clients compare Chicago neighborhoods, understand local real estate markets and explore housing options across the city and suburbs.
Exploring Chicago as your next home? Connect with our team for local guidance and help finding a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle, budget and priorities.
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