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Chicago Holiday Weekend Guide: Tree Lighting Friday, Mag Mile Parade Saturday, Christkindlmarket Openings

Official schedules let residents plan free traditions plus ticketed light shows across the region.

Overview

  • Chicago’s official Christmas tree lighting is set for Nov. 21 at 6 p.m. in Millennium Park after a 5 p.m. pre-show, with a fireworks display following the ceremony.
  • The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival takes place Nov. 22 with Lights Festival Lane from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., a 5:30 p.m. parade along Michigan Avenue, and fireworks over the Chicago River around 7:15 p.m.
  • Christkindlmarket opens Nov. 21 in Daley Plaza and at Aurora’s RiverEdge Park, with the Wrigleyville/Gallagher Way market debuting Nov. 23 and offering free admission with traditional food and gift vendors.
  • Lincoln Park Zoo’s ZooLights begins Nov. 21, featuring more than 3 million LED lights plus attractions including a Ferris wheel and light tunnel, operating on ticketed dates through Jan. 4.
  • Looking just beyond the weekend, Paul McCartney concludes his Got Back tour in Chicago with two United Center shows on Nov. 24–25, as listed by the venue.