Winter Wonderland
Wonder Works Children's Museum 6445 West North Avenue, Oak ParkWinter Wonderland and Photos with Santa
Western Springs Tower Green 914 Hillgrove Avenue, Western SpringsWeek of Events
Caring Santa is Coming to Town
Caring Santa is Coming to Town
CARING SANTA IS COMING TO TOWN Caring Santa is back! Make your reservation for a private photo experience for chidren with special nees by Clicking Here! Woodfield Mall will be hosting 2 Caring Santa events this year. To make your reservation for this private event for children with special needs, go to the Reservation Page, scroll...
NCG Free Holiday Family Film Fest
NCG Free Holiday Family Film Fest
Join us for this fun-filled, FREE family event! All neighborhood NCG locations will be participating and TICKETS ARE FREE! NEW THIS YEAR! In addition to one regular show each day of the festival, there will also be a Sensory Friendly show each day! December 8-10: The Grinch (2018) December 15-17: Elf December 18-24: The Polar...
Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland
From December 7th to 11th, Wonder Works will transform into a Winter Wonderland. Two special friends will be available for hugs and pictures: the Winter Princess and Ursa the Wonder Polar Bear. Story time will be winter themed and we will feature a variety of stations and play materials celebrating the magic of snow and...
Meet Santa at ABT Electronics
Meet Santa at ABT Electronics
This holiday season, bring your family and friends to meet Santa at the Atrium! Enjoy a magical experience and create lasting memories with a free photo opportunity with Santa Claus. Free to attend. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Places to See Santa.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Carriage rides are one of our most beloved activities during our Vintage Holidays season. Passengers are invited to sit back and take in the nostalgia of our historic downtown as the clattering of horse hooves lead the way. Ride Dates November 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26 December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23...
Santa Photos
Santa Photos
Meet Santa Claus & Get a Free Toy*! Make lasting holiday memories! Santa’s waiting to say hello and ho ho ho! Bring your little ones for a visit, a photo, & a toy* with Santa Claus. Come to Room 410 Commons Drive, between Sephora and Holm Studio, and start making memories that will last a...
Christmas in the Valley
Christmas in the Valley
Experience an 1880s holiday season in Schaumburg, when Victorian decorations and traditional German foods filled the home with light and warmth, while family members prepared special handmade gifts to share. Enjoy traditional holiday treats, crafts for children, marshmallows and warm beverages around a bonfire, and even a visit by Father Christmas! Park at St. Matthew...
Winter Wonderland and Photos with Santa
Winter Wonderland and Photos with Santa
With the holidays quickly approaching, it’s time to get ready for the Western Springs Business Association’s Winter Wonderland and Photos with Santa! Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 2 from 12:00–5:00 pm at theTower Green. Santa will arrive via firetruck at 12:30 pm sharp to kick off the event. You can also look forward to...
Paper Bag Fairy Houses
Paper Bag Fairy Houses
Stop by with your family to create light up paper bag houses, perfect for fairies or other small creatures! Supplies are limited to 50 participants.
Strolling Carolers
Strolling Carolers
Enjoy the sounds of strolling carolers in downtown Downers Grove. Confirm times as schedule varies daily.
Sundays with Santa
Sundays with Santa
Running November 26 - December 17. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Places to See Santa.
Complimentary Visits with Santa
Complimentary Visits with Santa
Visit Santa in his gingerbread house at the corner of Main Street and Curtiss Street. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Places to See Santa.
Jolly Jingle Fest
Jolly Jingle Fest
Join us for a fun and family-friendly winter celebration! There will be games for kids, prizes, photo ops, food/drinks (for purchase from My Cocina food truck), and even a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus! No registration is required--just drop in. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Places...
Santa’s House
Santa’s House
Santa has returned to the North Pole to get his sleigh ready for Christmas Day, but don't worry! He'll be back next year from November 25th through December 23rd. He will be there every Saturday and Sunday from 1 - 4 p.m. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of...
A Night in Bethlehem
A Night in Bethlehem
~Petting Zoo ~ Bethlehem Marketplace ~ Live Nativity ~ Hands-on Activities For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Churches with a Live Nativity.
Live Nativity
Live Nativity
Join us at The Compass Church Naperville Campus and experience the joy and wonder of the true Christmas story. Your family will be guided through five scenes with recorded narration, effects, and live actors and animals. This is a free event that will take between 20-30 minutes to experience and most of the event will...
Night in Bethelem and Live Nativity
Night in Bethelem and Live Nativity
All Are Welcome! Free Family Event! You will be able to visit the interactive town of Bethlehem. In Bethlehem, you will be able to taste foods from the time period & make crafts to take home. Next you will listen to the story of Jesus's birth. Then you will visit the outside manger, where you...
Chanukah at Candycopia
Chanukah at Candycopia
In partnership with Temple Har Zion, join us in celebrating Chanukah with candle lighting, a Chanukah story, and of course, some candy! For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Hanukkah Events.
Drive Through Christmas Nativity
Drive Through Christmas Nativity
Add Immanuel to your holiday lights and sights list. Stop by the parking lot to drive through our nativity scenes featuring live actors and hear the true story of the first Christmas! (In the case of a rainout, this event will be rescheduled for Dec 17.) For information on more events like this,...
Christmas in the Commons
Christmas in the Commons
The Village of New Lenox is continuing its Christmas in the Commons tradition with another year of lights and holiday festivities in the Village Commons. Christmas in the Commons will be taking place on the dates listed below, so be sure to mark your calendars! Events are free with no admission ticket required. The incredible...
Caroling Campfire
Caroling Campfire
REGISTER BY THE FRIDAY BEFORE. Do you hear those bells jingling and ring ting tingling too? Come on, it's lovely weather for a cozy campfire with you! Bring the family for a night of spreading cheer by singing loudly for all to hear around this winter campfire. We will sing holiday songs, tell stories and...
Holiday Lights and Visits with Santa
Holiday Lights and Visits with Santa
Enjoy Lombard Park District’s annual holiday lights display in Lilacia Park! Charming holiday displays illuminate the park 4:30-10pm daily with magical light shows, tree decorations, a gingerbread house and so much more! Youngsters can visit with Santa Claus, enjoy a spectacular show with complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, and visit with their favorite holiday characters....
Annual Menorah Lighting with Chabad Lincoln Park
Annual Menorah Lighting with Chabad Lincoln Park
Celebrate Hanukkah at NEWCITY! Menorah Lighting | DJ Ken's Disco Party | Arts & Crafts | Jelly Donuts & Latkes | Adult Beverages Join us for a dazzling celebration of light and joy at our Menorah Lighting Extravaganza! This festive event promises an evening filled with warmth, laughter, and the spirit of Hanukkah. Gather with...
Pet Photos with Santa
Pet Photos with Santa
Bring your pets to pose with Santa! Your pets are part of the family too, so don't miss this fun opportnity for then to see Santa too! November 19th from 6:30PM - 8PM December 10th from 7:30PM - 9PM Pet photos will be at the Ice Palace in Grand Court. Reservations are not required for...
Paws in the Park
Paws in the Park
Calling all dog lovers! Get ready for some tail-wagging fun. Starting on June 5, we’re thrilled to announce that Mondays will be designated as “Paws in the Park Days” (excluding holidays like Labor Day and Indigenous People’s Day). So, grab your four-legged companion, hop in the car, and get ready for some Barks and Recreation...
Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland
From December 7th to 11th, Wonder Works will transform into a Winter Wonderland. Two special friends will be available for hugs and pictures: the Winter Princess and Ursa the Wonder Polar Bear. Story time will be winter themed and we will feature a variety of stations and play materials celebrating the magic of snow and...
Brookfield Zoo Free Admission Day
Brookfield Zoo Free Admission Day
Free admission is available to guests on the following dates: October 3 – November 23, 2023: Tuesdays and Thursdays December 4 – December 19, 2023: Mondays and Tuesdays January 2 – February 29, 2024: Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays For more information about events like these, check out our roundup of Museum Free Days.
Grinch Photo Pop-Up
Grinch Photo Pop-Up
We will have a photographer, activities and snacks. We’re also helping the Grinch spread holiday cheer by collecting for Toys for Tots. If you’d like to help, please bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate.
Hanukkah Hangout
Hanukkah Hangout
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a story from 5-5:30 pm. Then, learn how to play the classic Hanukkah game of dreidel. Twenty name tags (children only). For grades 3-5. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Hanukkah Events.
Dual Language Storytime: Polish
Dual Language Storytime: Polish
Experience rich culture and beautiful languages from around the world during our dual language storytimes! Books, rhymes, and songs will be shared to help foster an appreciation for the many languages spoken throughout our wonderful multicultural community. The activities presented are family oriented with stories suitable for the youngest ages. This program welcomes both Polish...
Dual Language Storytime: Russian
Dual Language Storytime: Russian
Experience rich culture and beautiful languages from around the world during our dual language storytimes! Books, rhymes, and songs will be shared to help foster an appreciation for the many languages spoken throughout our wonderful multicultural community. The activities presented are family oriented with stories suitable for the youngest ages. This program welcomes both Polish...
Holiday Cards
Holiday Cards
Help brighten the holidays for Elderwerks clients and staff with handmade holiday cards. All are welcome to decorate cards with stickers, markers, and more! Drop in.
Brookfield Zoo Free Admission Day
Brookfield Zoo Free Admission Day
Free admission is available to guests on the following dates: October 3 – November 23, 2023: Tuesdays and Thursdays December 4 – December 19, 2023: Mondays and Tuesdays January 2 – February 29, 2024: Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays For more information about events like these, check out our roundup of Museum Free Days.
Pet Photos with Santa
Pet Photos with Santa
Tuesday, November 14, December 5 & December 12 11:00am - 8:00pm (Break 3:00pm - 4:00pm) Yorktown Center welcomes you and your pet companions for Pet Photos with Santa during this purr-fect event! Your pet is welcome to sit pretty for Santa and you can fetch keepsake photos of all the fur-raising fun. All well-behaved pets...
Language Labs Presents Language Story Time – Spanish
Language Labs Presents Language Story Time – Spanish
Introduce your little one to a new language as we enjoy songs, stories, and a craft presented by teachers from The Language Labs. This story time will feature a Las Posadas Celebration!
Hanukkah Storytime
Hanukkah Storytime
Celebrate Hanukkah with us in this special Storytime! (All ages, preschoolers with an adult)
Dome Photo Magnets
Dome Photo Magnets
Drop-in and create a dome refrigerator magnet perfect for gift giving. If you want to personalize it with a picture of yourself then bring one that can be trimmed to no more than 1.5-inches. We will also have pictures you can choose from, as well as some you can draw or color. This drop-in program...
Gingerbread Story Stroll
Gingerbread Story Stroll
Enjoy listening to a Gingerbread story while strolling through the library, followed by refreshments and a special activity. Open to ages 3-12, Limited seating. Registration required.
Hanukkah Craft
Hanukkah Craft
Create a drinking straw dreidel. We will be using hot glue guns. Ages 7 and up. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Hanukkah Events.
Polish Storytime
Holiday Cheer Family Storytime
Holiday Cheer Family Storytime
The best way to spread holiday cheer is reading aloud for all to hear. Join us at the library for fun stories, songs, and crafts about December holidays! Please register each child who will attend.
St. Lucia Celebration
St. Lucia Celebration
4:45 p.m. procession up Clark Street starting at the Museum 5 p.m. at the Christmas tree on Catalpa 7 p.m. at Ebenezer Lutheran Church Celebrate St. Lucia Day with Lucia candidates representing Swedish-American organizations throughout the Chicago area. Listen to the choir sing and watch as one of the girls is crowned the Lucia. Andersonville’s...
Sensory Sensitive Cookies with Santa
Sensory Sensitive Cookies with Santa
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED The Park District of Oak Park and WSSRA welcome families with sensory issues to an evening at Cheney Mansion and a visit with Santa! Bring your camera for your photo with Santa in the Cheney Library. Appropriate activities will be available while you wait along with cookies and beverages! For information...
Tall Tales and Silly Songs – Holiday
Tall Tales and Silly Songs – Holiday
Musician Todd Downing is back with his Tall Tales & Silly Songs – this time with a holiday twist! Ages 0-11 — Registration required.
Nutcracker Night
Nutcracker Night
For all ages. For over 100 years, The Nutcracker has been performed globally as a Christmas tradition. If you can't make it to a live production this year, join us as we watch the filmed performance of the Nutcracker Ballet, danced by the Ballet of the Slovak National Theatre. Light refreshments. Doors open at 5:45...
Free Pictures with Santa
Free Pictures with Santa
Santa will be at Usher Park Gazebo. Please bring your camera to capture this special moment. The Itasca Park District will collect toys for Toys for Tots and non-perishable goods for the Itasca Food Pantry. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Places to See Santa.
Holiday Movie Night
Holiday Movie Night
Join us for a special night of holiday magic as we watch The Polar Express on the big screen! Each child will also receive a Golden Ticket! Hot chocolate will be served, and additional snacks and non-alcoholic & alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.
Family Game Night
Family Game Night
Whether your family prefers board games, card games, or anything in between, we've got something everyone will enjoy! Games vary from session to session. Caregiver participation is required. Limit 50 participants. No registration is required. Participants will be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Taylor Swift Night
Taylor Swift Night
...Are you ready for it? Celebrate Taylor Swift's birthday with a listening party, crafts and snacks! Make the friendship bracelets, paint your own mirrorball, dress up as your favorite Era and have fun being a Swiftie with fans just like you! Registration Required.
Winter Wonderland Green Screen
Winter Wonderland Green Screen
Experience the magic of our green screen and travel to a winter wonderland!
Free Thursday Evenings
Free Thursday Evenings
Celebrate the season and experience all that Aurora has to offer when visiting the Christkindlmarket. The Aurora Regional Fire Museum will offer FREE admission on Thursday evenings from 4-7pm as part of our extended hours November 17 - December 23. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Museum Free...
Merry Madness
Safety Skills for Kids
Safety Skills for Kids
Join Red Cross volunteers to learn personal and family preparedness and safety skills, local hazards, and basic coping skills through a “Learn, Practice, Share” framework. Gain useful disaster preparedness and survival skills. This program is part of Red Cross' Pillow Case Project and each participant will receive a sturdy pillowcase to be able to build...
Holiday Wrapping Party
Holiday Wrapping Party
Drop by anytime to wrap your holiday gifts! We'll provide wrapping paper, supplies to decorate bags, and wrapping assistance! Kids can drop by to have Library staff help them wrap their holiday gifts. We'll have a wrapping station, gift bag decoration, and staff will be available to provide assistance! All you need to bring is...
Movie Screening: Stealing Christmas
Movie Screening: Stealing Christmas
A burglar on the run is mistaken for a Santa hired to promote a Christmas tree farm. He decides to stick around for the 3-week run and ends up casing the local bank. He finds himself torn between his criminal past and the widowed woman and her daughter whom he is growing close to.
Juggling Funny Stories
Juggling Funny Stories
You'll be laughing out loud as nationally known family entertainer Chris Fascione brings children's stories to life with his high-spirited and innovative performances. Full of energy, humor and imagination, Chris creates colorful characters through his unique combination of acting, storytelling, comedy, and juggling. Fun for the whole family! Sponsored by The Friends of the Library.
NCG Free Holiday Family Film Fest
NCG Free Holiday Family Film Fest
Join us for this fun-filled, FREE family event! All neighborhood NCG locations will be participating and TICKETS ARE FREE! NEW THIS YEAR! In addition to one regular show each day of the festival, there will also be a Sensory Friendly show each day! December 8-10: The Grinch (2018) December 15-17: Elf December 18-24: The Polar...
Ice Fairy Storytime
Ice Fairy Storytime
The Ice Fairy will visit our library for this magical winter storytime! We'll read stories, sing songs, and stay to take photos with the Ice Fairy. For children of all ages and their caregivers.
Holly Jolly Days
Holly Jolly Days
Celebrate the wonder and joy of the holiday season with holiday crafts, stories, and more at Holly Jolly Days! Learn how reindeer shoes are made with a special story-time and demonstration by the blacksmith at the forge. Create your own holiday crafts to take home in the Meeting House. Listen to Christmas stories in the...
Winter Reading Kickoff and Pajama Party
Winter Reading Kickoff and Pajama Party
Wear your PJs and enjoy our winter themed activities! Ages 12 and under with an adult. No registration required.
Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt
Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt
Bring a flashlight to hunt down candy canes after dark! Participants will be divide into three age groups; each group has a designated time. This even will occur "rain or shine", so please arrive dressed for the weather with your own flashlight and collection bag.
Family Movie Night – Noche de cine familiar
Family Movie Night – Noche de cine familiar
Enjoy a movie night at the library! Today's feature is The Princess and the Frog (G). The movie will be shown in English with Spanish subtitles. Register to save your spot but walk-ins are welcome if there is space to accommodate. For families. This in-person program will be held at South Branch.
Winter BINGO
Winter BINGO
Brrr.. it's cold out there. Stay inside and win some prizes while we play Winter BINGO! Note: There are 2 sessions of this program, please only sign up for one time slot.
Holiday Pajama Extravaganza
Holiday Pajama Extravaganza
Enjoy stories, crafts, music and refreshments as we celebrate the holiday season. Guest appearance by Santa! For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Places to See Santa.
Slices with Santa
Slices with Santa
REGISTER IN ADVANCE OR PAY AT THE DOOR Did you know that next to cookies and milk, Santa’s favorite food to eat is PIZZA! Santa’s joining us for a pizza party & we want you to be there! This drop in event includes pizza, crafts and a visit with the jolly guy himself, Santa. Both...
Dumpling Day
Dumpling Day
Ages 3 and older with a caregiver. Enjoy hands-on activities before settling in for a short movie with a snack. Limit: 20. Free tickets distributed 30 minutes before the program.
Live Nativity
Live Nativity
Oswego Presbyterian Church has a Live Nativity Fri, Dec 15 and Sat, Dec 16, 6-8pm. Come anytime to see the performance, enjoy hot cocoa and cookies, pet the animals and listen to music. Free to everyone. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Churches with a Live Nativity.
Holiday Lights and Visits with Santa
Holiday Lights and Visits with Santa
Enjoy Lombard Park District’s annual holiday lights display in Lilacia Park! Charming holiday displays illuminate the park 4:30-10pm daily with magical light shows, tree decorations, a gingerbread house and so much more! Youngsters can visit with Santa Claus, enjoy a spectacular show with complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, and visit with their favorite holiday characters....
Drive-Thru Live Nativity
Drive-Thru Live Nativity
Come see the Christmas story come to life on December 15th and 16th from 7pm-8:30pm! Drive through and experience beautiful scenes with real actors that tell the story of our Savior Jesus' birth! For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Churches with a Live Nativity.
Allegro Community Chorus Winter Concert: Get Happy! Songs for the Holidays and Some that are Not
Allegro Community Chorus Winter Concert: Get Happy! Songs for the Holidays and Some that are Not
Allegro’s annual Winter Chorus Concert. Under the direction of Kevin Kelly, join us for an evening of beautiful music and lively songs! This show is live only. Tickets are $11.00.
Township Super Toy Drive
Township Super Toy Drive
Drive-Thru Toy Drive Collection! Help Hanover Township Supervisor Brian McGuire fill a trailer full of new, unwrapped gifts for the township's annual Toy Drive! Accepting toys for ages newborn - 15 years old. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Toy Drives and Donations.
Breakfast with Santa
Breakfast with Santa
Santa Claus is coming to town! Join us at the Glendale Lakes Golf Club for a delicious Breakfast with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Fill your plate as high as you can at the all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast then wash it down with a swig of coffee or juice. Family photos can been taken with Mr. and...
Home for the Holidays
Home for the Holidays
9 AM: Free showing of The Polar Express at Lake Theater 12 PM – 3 PM: Try different flavors of hot cocoa during the free Hot Chocolate Walk! 11 AM – 3 PM: Visit with Santa 11 AM – 3 PM: Enjoy live music throughout the district! More information coming… For information on more events...
NCG Free Holiday Family Film Fest
NCG Free Holiday Family Film Fest
Join us for this fun-filled, FREE family event! All neighborhood NCG locations will be participating and TICKETS ARE FREE! NEW THIS YEAR! In addition to one regular show each day of the festival, there will also be a Sensory Friendly show each day! December 8-10: The Grinch (2018) December 15-17: Elf December 18-24: The Polar...
Christmas Stories with Mrs. Claus
Christmas Stories with Mrs. Claus
Enjoy storytime, activities, and holiday cheer with Mrs. Claus! Brought to you by Party Like a Princess.
Annual Toy Drive and Parade
Annual Toy Drive and Parade
The parade will head south on Main Street, from St. Charles Rd to Wilson Ave. Bring your donations out to the parade route! For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Places to See Santa.
Free Family Holiday Movies
Free Family Holiday Movies
Saturdays Thanksgiving to Christmas. All movies start at 10:30am at the Glen Art Theatre.
Roving Naturalists
Roving Naturalists
Watch out as you explore the Conservatory – you may run into a Roving Naturalist! On Saturdays from 10:30am to 2:30pm, Nature Educators will provide activities for kids of all ages at Roving Naturalist stations. This program is included in all reservations to visit the Conservatory, book your reservation ahead of time here: here (link opens in...
Latin American Marketplace
Latin American Marketplace
Mark your calendars, the DuPage Hispanic Alliance is hosting the Midwest's largest artisan Latin American Marketplace at Fox Valley Mall from December 16 to 17. Find authentic, unique and rare items from a variety of countries south of the border. Vendors will be selling everything from hand-crafted clothing, artisan jewelry, bi-lingual literature, mouth-watering pastries and...
Santa and Mrs. Claus at the W Tent
Santa and Mrs. Claus at the W Tent
Ho, Ho, Ho! Santa and Mrs. Claus visit Downtown Wheaton this holiday season, and they want to see you! This is the perfect time to take a picture with Santa and even check if you made the nice list this year. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Places...
150 Years of Hinsdale for the Holidays
150 Years of Hinsdale for the Holidays
Join us for this free event in Burlington Park featuring gingerbread cookie decorating, horse-drawn carriage rides, and visits with Santa. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Places to See Santa.
Super Saturday: Music and Dance from Around the World with Chicago Cossacks
Super Saturday: Music and Dance from Around the World with Chicago Cossacks
All ages. Chicago Cossacks is a Ukrainian music and dance ensemble that showcases formally trained musicians with traditional instruments and dance from around the world. Their music highlights a variety of styles including Eastern European, French, Greek, Italian, Klezmer, Latin, Romani and more. Limit 120. Free tickets distributed 30 minutes before the program.
Meet Santa at ABT Electronics
Meet Santa at ABT Electronics
This holiday season, bring your family and friends to meet Santa at the Atrium! Enjoy a magical experience and create lasting memories with a free photo opportunity with Santa Claus. Free to attend. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Places to See Santa.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Carriage rides are one of our most beloved activities during our Vintage Holidays season. Passengers are invited to sit back and take in the nostalgia of our historic downtown as the clattering of horse hooves lead the way. Ride Dates November 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26 December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23...
Holiday Magic: Hot Cocoa, Mingle, and Holiday Gift Making
Holiday Magic: Hot Cocoa, Mingle, and Holiday Gift Making
Come join us and enjoy the simple pleasures of the holiday season with your child! Sip an indulgent cup of cocoa while working together to make gifts for family and friends. You’ll leave with a set of handmade treasures to enjoy and share! Guidepost Montessori is proud to host this free event for the wider...
Pop-Up Performance – Amundsen String Quartet
Pop-Up Performance – Amundsen String Quartet
On December 16, between 11-11:45am, the CAC will feature a pop-up performance by the Amundsen High School string quartet! The ensemble will perform classical and contemporary music, bringing holiday cheer.
Paint an Alebrije Community Art Project
Paint an Alebrije Community Art Project
Help artist Gloria Contreras of Xicantl paint an 8 foot tall Axolotl Alebrije. This is a free activity, and all paints will be provided. This experience can only be found at the Latin American Marketplace at the Fox Valley Mall. Gloria started Xicantl in 2021 and has already made a huge splash in Chicago with...
Train Museum Open House
Train Museum Open House
Come to Veteran’s Park and explore the Bensenville Train Museum! The train will be open one Saturday per month with drop-in hours from noon to 4 p.m. Explore the history of trains in Bensenville on a real 1920s engine! Complete a different craft or activity each day. Try them all!
Holly Jolly Days
Holly Jolly Days
Celebrate the wonder and joy of the holiday season with holiday crafts, stories, and more at Holly Jolly Days! Learn how reindeer shoes are made with a special story-time and demonstration by the blacksmith at the forge. Create your own holiday crafts to take home in the Meeting House. Listen to Christmas stories in the...
Strolling Carolers
Strolling Carolers
Enjoy the sounds of strolling carolers in downtown Downers Grove. Confirm times as schedule varies daily.
Complimentary Visits with Santa
Complimentary Visits with Santa
Visit Santa in his gingerbread house at the corner of Main Street and Curtiss Street. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Places to See Santa.
Santa’s House
Santa’s House
Santa has returned to the North Pole to get his sleigh ready for Christmas Day, but don't worry! He'll be back next year from November 25th through December 23rd. He will be there every Saturday and Sunday from 1 - 4 p.m. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of...
Gingerbread House Contest
Gingerbread House Contest
Join us in the Arts & Culture Center on the main floor for our Gingerbread House Contest! Bring your creation between 11 am - 12:30 pm or stop by and vote for your favorite house between 1-3 pm. Enjoy a showing of Elf at 1 pm!
Bluey Play Day
Bluey Play Day
This episode of Bluey is called Play Day! Grab your families and join us for an afternoon of playing family games made popular by the hit TV show, "Bluey!" (Babies–Grade 5 with an adult)
Animal Homes Hike
Animal Homes Hike
Bring the family on a guided hike to discover where our local animals will spend the winter.
Christmas Carols of Olde England
Christmas Carols of Olde England
Have you ever wondered why most of our Christmas songs have a decidedly English Victorian feel to them? Discover the origin stories or your favorite carols while listening to some of your favorite songs!
Family Matinee Movie: Abominable
Family Matinee Movie: Abominable
Are you YETI to party? Chill out and enjoy an afternoon family movie and a sweet treat. Rated PG; 97 minutes. Caregiver required.
Retro Hour
Retro Hour
Enjoy retro-themed activities from the '80s and '90s. Listen to vinyl records, play retro video games, read old-school comics, or watch old cartoons. Drop-in event for grades 6-8.
Presto! Holiday Concert
Presto! Holiday Concert
Schaumburg’s award-winning youth orchestra teams up once again with the Schaumburg Choral Programs’ excellent ensembles for a heartwarming family concert. Classical compositions, holiday pops and contemporary works will help create a harmonious, welcome break to the busy season. Shows are at 3:00pm and 7:00pm.
Winter Bonfire
Winter Bonfire
Join us as we celebrate the beginning of winter with a large bonfire, artmaking, nature walks and more.
Christmas in the Commons
Christmas in the Commons
The Village of New Lenox is continuing its Christmas in the Commons tradition with another year of lights and holiday festivities in the Village Commons. Christmas in the Commons will be taking place on the dates listed below, so be sure to mark your calendars! Events are free with no admission ticket required. The incredible...
Living Nativity Event
Living Nativity Event
Come see a reenactment of the Christmas story! Everyone is invited to pet the animals following each presentation. Refreshments provided between reenactments. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Churches with a Live Nativity.
Live Nativity at Faith
Live Nativity at Faith
This year, the spirit of Christmas will be alive at Faith, as we host our annual outdoor Live Nativity on Saturday, December 16th at 6:00 PM. The journey will take you back in time to the birth of our Savior. Shepherds peacefully tend to their flocks, while Mary and Joseph look after the child in...
Campfire, Carols and Chestnuts
Campfire, Carols and Chestnuts
REGISTER IN ADVANCE Enjoy the festive season like they would have back in the day by a cozy campfire with friends and family. Enjoy hot cider or hot chocolate and try your hand at roasting chestnuts. Stroll around the island for an optional starlit hike or hang back by the fire, where caroling will take...
Winter Wonderland Week After Hours Movie: The Nutcracker and the Four Realms
Winter Wonderland Week After Hours Movie: The Nutcracker and the Four Realms
Have you ever wanted to travel to another realm? Wear your pajamas, put on your slipper socks, and get cozy with us for a cozy movie night of The Nutcracker and the Four Realms to kick off Winter Wonderland Week at the library! There will be popcorn and other snacks to munch on.
Live Nativity
Live Nativity
Oswego Presbyterian Church has a Live Nativity Fri, Dec 15 and Sat, Dec 16, 6-8pm. Come anytime to see the performance, enjoy hot cocoa and cookies, pet the animals and listen to music. Free to everyone. For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Churches with a Live Nativity.
Holiday Lights and Visits with Santa
Holiday Lights and Visits with Santa
Enjoy Lombard Park District’s annual holiday lights display in Lilacia Park! Charming holiday displays illuminate the park 4:30-10pm daily with magical light shows, tree decorations, a gingerbread house and so much more! Youngsters can visit with Santa Claus, enjoy a spectacular show with complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, and visit with their favorite holiday characters....
Drive-Thru Live Nativity
Drive-Thru Live Nativity
Come see the Christmas story come to life on December 15th and 16th from 7pm-8:30pm! Drive through and experience beautiful scenes with real actors that tell the story of our Savior Jesus' birth! For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Churches with a Live Nativity.
Winter Fireworks
Winter Fireworks
New for the winter season! Navy Pier’s free dazzling Award-Winning fireworks display will now feature Saturday shows this winter! Get cozy on the Pier and enjoy the spectacular winter display. WINTER FIREWORKS SCHEDULE Saturday, November 25 at 9PM Saturday, December 2 at 9PM Saturday, December 9 at 9PM Saturday, December 16 at 9PM Saturday, December...
We do our best to provide comprehensive, accurate and useful information about events and activities. This information (such as times and locations) is gathered from press releases, websites, signs around town and word of mouth. However, details change and people make mistakes, so please confirm the details before you go. Kidlist is not responsible for any problems that occur while participating in activities listed on this site.
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Click on the button above to submit an event to the Kidlist calendar. We welcome everyone to submit events, given that they are family-friendly, free and/or drop-in, and are local for families in the west and northwest suburbs of Chicago. All submitted events are reviewed by the Kidlist team.