Elmhurst Other Christmas Activities 2026

Join the Elmhurst Park District for a magical Tree Lighting ceremony in Wilder Park. This beloved event marks the start of the holiday season with a countdown to illuminate the community trees. Families can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, get...

Join Elk Grove Village for their annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony on Friday, November 27th. Festivities begin at 4 PM with complimentary cookies, hot chocolate, and hot cider. Enjoy storytime with the Village Board, a magical ride on the Elk...

All aboard for a magical 1-hour train ride to the 'North Pole'! Families can immerse themselves in the story of 'The Polar Express', sing Christmas carols, savor milk and cookies, and meet Santa Claus. This popular event is known to...

Experience a unique holiday event with filmmaker John Waters at Avondale Music Hall. This special Christmas show promises his signature blend of humor and unconventional holiday cheer, offering a one-of-a-kind festive experience.

Join the Village of Carol Stream for their annual Holiday Tree Lighting Extravaganza, a beloved community tradition marking the start of the festive season. This event brings neighbors and friends together for an evening filled with seasonal entertainment, family-friendly activities,...

Westmont, Illinois, comes alive with the Holly Days Winter Festival, a month-long celebration of end-of-year festivities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of enchanting events, from the excitement of the Elf Olympics and Santa's Sleigh Visits to heartwarming community initiatives like...

Journey back to 1880s Schaumburg for a heartwarming 'Christmas in the Valley' event. Visitors can savor traditional holiday treats, participate in children's crafts, and gather around a bonfire for warm beverages and roasted marshmallows. Father Christmas himself will be making...

Step into a festive winter wonderland at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago for the Holiday Bricktacular! Families can enjoy a magical experience with holiday-themed LEGO builds, including a giant DUPLO sleigh and Santa. Participate in the heartwarming 'Build to Give' initiative...

Join the Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce for their 60th annual Christmas Walk and Tree Lighting ceremony. This festive evening in downtown Hinsdale promises holiday cheer for all ages, featuring Santa's arrival, a magical tree lighting, delightful carousel rides, and enchanting...

Bundle up for a magical evening at Westwood Park for Winter Wonderland! This festive celebration officially kicks off the holiday season with dazzling lights, lively entertainment, and fun for the entire family. Step inside the Community Center for warm hot...

Barnes & Noble Oakbrook Center hosts a storytime on November 28, 2026, featuring The Grinch. Attendees can hear 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas (According to Max)' read aloud and meet The Grinch for photos. The event includes admission and one...

Winston Plaza hosts Santa's arrival by helicopter on Saturday, November 14th, 2026, at noon. The event includes a magic show, face painting, and children's crafts. A free photo with Santa is available with a $25+ purchase from a merchant.

A Gingerbread Workshop allows parents and children to decorate pre-assembled gingerbread houses with candy and gum drops. Light snacks and drinks are included. Bring a box to take the creation home.

The Uketones lead a holiday sing-along of popular songs for seniors. Complimentary cookies and hot chocolate are provided.

Santa Claus will lead a swim session at the Centennial Fitness Center Pool. Activities include swimming, carols, and reindeer games. Parents must be in the water with non-swimming children. Open swim follows.

'You've Been Grinched!' allows residents to arrange a surprise candy cane hunt in their front yard. Assistants will hide candy canes and leave a sign.

Maine Park's Santa Trail is a journey to the North Pole where children can create reindeer food, play games, and craft holiday items. A visit with Santa Claus is included.

The Grinch Candy Cane Hunt invites children aged 3-10 to search for candy canes in the park. The Grinch may swap some candy canes for surprises.

An Elf in Training Workshop teaches participants about reindeer care, ornament and card creation, and making elf slime. The workshop includes hot cocoa and an Official Elf Certificate.

Jammies and Jingles is a holiday pajama party and sing-along for families. Children from birth to 3rd grade can sing Christmas songs with live music and interactive instruments.

Children can send letters to Santa Claus via a mailbox at Maine Park Leisure Center. Santa will reply to all letters that include a full name and address.

Holiday Tree Trimming at Hodges Park allows families and organizations to purchase and decorate pre-lit LED trees. The event concludes with a light-turning-on ceremony at Winterfest.

Wagon Rides, Cocoa & Cookies with Santa includes wagon rides through lights, cocoa, cookie decorating, and a meeting with Santa Claus.

The Jingle Bell Workshop is for 3-5 year olds and includes movement games, gift-making, reindeer games, music, and a nut-free snack.

Santa and his elves host an ice skating event at the Oakton Sports Complex for all ages. Children receive complimentary candy canes.

Santa's Flight to Schaumburg at Schaumburg Regional Airport includes a buffet, music, crafts, and a meet-and-greet with Santa after his helicopter arrival.

Children aged 3-10 can explore global New Year's Eve customs at an event featuring international snacks and a balloon drop. The celebration occurs during the daytime.

Experience the magic of the holiday season in Elmhurst with the FREE Holly Trolley. This festive service runs on Saturdays, allowing you to easily hop on and off to shop, dine, and explore the charming town. Stay tuned for exciting...

Step into a winter wonderland at the Holiday Flower Show, hosted at the beautiful Wilder Park Conservatory. This enchanting event transforms the conservatory into a breathtaking display of seasonal flowers and festive decorations, offering a magical experience for all who...

Join Elmhurst University for a festive holiday celebration combining the President's Holiday Open House with the Annual Festival of Lessons & Carols. This special event offers a warm and inviting atmosphere to kick off the holiday season.

Join the community for the annual Addison Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, a beloved tradition that officially kicks off the holiday season. This festive evening features a variety of family-friendly activities, including enchanting train rides, opportunities to meet Santa Claus, and...

Join the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago in celebrating the Feast of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. This annual observance honors a beloved saint, offering a moment for reflection and spiritual connection within the community.

Experience the holiday magic in Glen Ellyn with the return of the 'Letters to Santa' mailbox, a charming way for children to send their wishes directly to the North Pole. Letters mailed by December 14th are guaranteed a response from...

Join the community for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in Glendale Heights. This festive event features performances by local choral groups and culminates with the Mayor and a special guest, Santa Claus, illuminating the Civic Center Complex. Following the ceremony,...

Experience the magic of the holiday season as Glendale Heights residents transform their homes into dazzling displays of festive lights and decorations. This beloved contest brings the community together, offering a delightful visual spectacle for all to enjoy.

Join the City of Des Plaines for their annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, a cherished tradition that officially ushers in the festive season. This heartwarming event brings the community together to witness the magical illumination of the city's holiday tree,...

Step into the holiday spirit with the West Englewood Wheaton Holiday House Walk. This event invites visitors to tour four beautifully decorated homes in historic downtown Wheaton, offering a charming glimpse into festive holiday decor. It's the perfect way to...

Join the Schaumburg community for their annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, a cherished tradition that officially ushers in the holiday spirit. This festive event brings residents together to celebrate the season and witness the magical illumination of the village's holiday tree.

Capture the magic of Christmas at the North Pole with this enchanting floral arrangement. Featuring a hand-painted, lighted cottage inspired by Thomas Kinkade, it depicts Santa and his elves preparing for their big night. Nestled amongst lush red roses and...

Experience the enchantment of Bensenville's annual Holiday Magic and Tree Lighting Ceremony. This festive event brings the community together in Downtown Bensenville for an evening filled with holiday cheer. Visitors can meet Santa Claus, enjoy a delightful holiday car parade,...

Experience the magic of the holidays as Santa Claus makes a special visit to North Berwyn in his mobile workshop. This unique event offers residents the chance to receive a personal meet-and-greet with Santa right at their home, perfect for...

Experience the magic of the holiday season with a delightful breakfast alongside Santa Claus at Maggiano's Schaumburg. This event offers a wonderful opportunity for families to create cherished memories, enjoy a delicious meal, and capture special moments with Santa.

Step back in time this holiday season at the Mount Prospect Historical Society's Holiday Family Fun event. Visitors can tour the beautifully decorated 1906 house and museum, enjoy a warm cup of cocoa, and create festive crafts to take home....

Step into a winter wonderland at the Forest Park Holiday Walk! Stroll down Madison Street to discover enchanting live window displays and enjoy open houses at local shops. Delight in magical horse-drawn sleigh rides, marvel at a festive ice sculpture,...

Elevate your holiday gifting with this specialized Christmas gift-wrapping event. Attendees will learn expert techniques to transform presents into beautifully wrapped treasures. Discover creative solutions for all gift shapes and sizes, ensuring your holiday gifts make a memorable first impression.

Bring your furry best friend to The Morton Arboretum for special Dog Admission Days. Explore 16 miles of trails together, and on select 'Illumination' nights, even experience the magical holiday light display with your canine companion. 'Tails on the Trails'...

Children can send their heartfelt letters to Santa Claus and receive a special response. This free event is open to all ages, encouraging young ones to share their holiday wishes and good deeds. A dedicated mailbox ensures their letters reach...

Step into the enchanting world of Whoville for a delightful holiday celebration. This whimsical event offers a morning packed with Grinchy games, creative crafts, and festive treats. Families can capture memorable moments with special photo opportunities alongside Mr. Grinch, Santa...

All aboard for a magical Santa Express train ride departing from Wheaton Train Station! Families can enjoy a festive journey filled with holiday music and stories, while Santa himself makes his way through the train to greet each child and...

Experience the warmth of community at Hodgkins Holiday Happenings. This festive evening begins with the cherished annual tree lighting ceremony, illuminating the start of the holiday season. Following the lighting, enjoy a variety of engaging holiday activities designed for families...

Experience the magic of winter at Parkway Bank Park's 'Skating in the Park'! Glide across a climate-controlled NHL-sized ice rink set against a festive backdrop. This popular seasonal activity offers a perfect opportunity for family fun and outdoor enjoyment. Special...

Experience the magic of the holiday season as Wheaton residents showcase their festive spirit in the Light Up Wheaton Decorating Contest. This event invites the community to transform their homes into dazzling displays of light and holiday cheer, creating a...

Experience the magic of the holiday season with a visit to Santa's winter wonderland at Fashion Outlets of Chicago. Capture cherished memories with professional photos alongside Santa Claus. Special Pet Nights allow your furry companions to join in the festive...

Get ready for a magical holiday kickoff as Santa Claus makes a spectacular arrival by helicopter at Stratford Crossing. This unique event promises an unforgettable start to the festive season, bringing a touch of wonder and excitement for the whole...

Ring in the New Year early at this exciting Noon Year's Eve Celebration designed for kids aged 6-10. They can enjoy music, dancing, games, and creative activities, all leading up to a grand countdown to noon. It's a fantastic way...