The most wonderful time of the year has arrived, and Chicago is ready to celebrate. From tree lighting ceremonies to parades and zoo lights, the Windy City is transforming into a winter wonderland perfect for making memories. We’ve rounded up some of the biggest holiday events of the city to make sure you don’t miss a thing this magical time of year.

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade

An absolute classic, the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday. Join thousands of locals and visitors for a massive, colorful procession complete with the country’s best marching bands, live music, holiday floats, acrobats, equestrians, cultural performances, celebrity guests, and enormous helium balloons.

This free parade will take place on State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street on November 26 at 7:45 – 10 a.m. You’ll want to get there early for a prime viewing experience on State Street since the crowd forms fast, or purchase VIP tickets for guaranteed seating with the best views, along with private restrooms and warm drinks.

113th Annual City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting

What gets you in the holiday spirit more than a tree lighting ceremony? You can’t miss the Annual City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting on November 20. At the iconic Millenium Park, they’ll be giant screens, seasonal goodies, live entertainment, and a fireworks finale along with the gorgeous, larger-than-life 50-foot tree.  

Arrive at 6:00 p.m. to witness the whole show, and enjoy the lit-up tree until January 10. The best part of the event? It’s completely free. So gather your friends and feel all the holiday vibes at this stunning Chicago tradition to welcome winter.

Christkindlmarket Chicago (Daley Plaza)

Starting November 20 until Christmas Eve, enjoy the Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza. It’s the sweetest German-inspired holiday market for the whole family. The aroma of German holiday comfort food, festive music, and glimmering Christmas decorations make for a truly magical atmosphere that you have to experience. This one-of-a kind market is perfect for gift shopping, or just trying some delicious food from vendors from around the world.

The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

Get ready for one of Chicago's most dazzling holiday traditions! The 35th Annual Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival returns on Saturday, November 21, bringing a full day of festive entertainment, family-friendly activities, and holiday magic to Michigan Avenue.

The celebration begins with Lights Festival Lane from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring live entertainment, seasonal activities, and plenty of holiday fun. At 5:30 p.m., the spectacular nighttime parade takes over the Magnificent Mile, with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse leading the way alongside illuminated floats, marching bands, giant balloons, and Santa Claus himself. Watch as more than one million lights brighten the avenue's trees, then stick around for the fireworks spectacular over the Chicago River at 7:30 p.m. It's a can't-miss celebration that's sure to leave you feeling festive!

Lincoln Park ZooLights

Looking for a holiday experience that's more on the wild side? Lincoln Park ZooLights is back from November 20 through January 3, 2027, transforming the beloved zoo into a glowing winter wonderland with more than three million lights and hundreds of colorful displays.

Stroll through shimmering light tunnels, snap photos among the festive decorations, or take a ride on the Navy Pier Ferris wheel for beautiful views of the illuminated zoo and Chicago skyline. Warm up with hot chocolate, enjoy seasonal treats, and keep an eye out for roaming carolers and live ice-carving demonstrations on select nights. ZooLights runs from 4:30 to 9 p.m. on scheduled evenings.

Make Hotel EMC2 Your Home for the Holidays

From festive parades and sparkling light displays to cozy holiday markets, Chicago knows how to make the season unforgettable. Whether you're gathering with loved ones, checking off your holiday bucket list, or simply soaking up the city's festive atmosphere, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate.

Ready to experience Chicago's holiday magic? Book your stay at Hotel EMC2 and make this season one to remember.