‘Tis the season to celebrate in the Middle of Everything. From the glistening lights of Galena to the festive magic of Chicago's Magnificent Mile, you’ll find Illinois has everything on your wish list. So, bundle up and meet the reindeer before their big night. Raise a toast in a cozy snow globe. And even get a taste of the North Pole as you sip, shop and stroll through authentic Christkindlmarkets. Ready to start a new tradition?
Keep it Cozy Sweepstakes
This holiday season, Enjoy Illinois and Fox River have teamed up to help you celebrate the magic of winter with an Illinois trip giveaway. Enter for your chance to win a $1,500 winter escape in Illinois and other cozy prizes—including Fox River's Original Sock Monkey.
Dazzling Lights and City Nights
Dashing from light festivals to star-studded shows, enjoy the wonderful activities that are happening all around Illinois.
Be merry in Chicago
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See bright lights near the big city
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Dash through Illinois
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Holiday Light Shows in Illinois
Throughout the holiday season, Illinois shines bright from top to bottom with festive lights. Parks, gardens, museums, and historic districts all become breathtaking shows of winter wonder, one more magical than the last.
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Holiday Season for Families in Chicago
During the holiday season, Chicago turns into a winter wonderland of magical family-friendly events. Remember holiday light shows and unforgettable activities such as meeting Santa and creating lifelong memories.
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Holiday memories to last a lifetime
Have a jolly good time with family and friends at festive events found all across the Middle of Everything
Holiday Shopping Highlights in Illinois
Experience the joy of holiday shopping across Illinois, where festive storefronts and seasonal markets make gift-hunting a treat. From the sparkle of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile to cozy small-town boutiques and pop-ups throughout the state, discover the best spots to check off your gift list.
Illinois made gifts crafted with love
A home-made gift made in Illinois is always crafted with devotion and care. From handcrafted pottery to delicious festive treats, you’re bound to find the perfect gift in Illinois this year.
Check out the best holiday activities in Illinois
Christkindlmarket
Chicago | A German-style Christmas bazaar – replete with gift vendors, food trucks, plenty of spiced glühwein, and heavy doses of holiday cheer.
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Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch
Over 5,000 Christmas trees and a herd of bonified Alaskan reindeer create a novelty seekers’ wintery paradise in Rantoul.
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Very Merry Marion
This fun holiday festival in downtown Marion has activities for the whole family that you won't want to miss.
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Rockford All Aglow
Filled with 300,000 sparkling holiday lights, be sure to check out the outdoor gardens at Nicholas Conservatory.
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LondonHouse Rooftop
This iconic holiday experience guarantees festive fun high in the sky with heated igloos, whimsical décor, sparkling lights, and breathtaking Chicago skyline views.
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Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon
A magical, urban winter experience and a staple of Chicago that features a 40-degree climbing wall set against the backdrop of the iconic city skyline.
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Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch
Get up close and personal with some adorable alpacas! Capture holiday memories with family and friends across this beautifully decorated ranch.
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Lightscape, Chicago Botanic Garden
The magic and whimsy of nature in winter come alive in this acclaimed after-dark, illuminated holiday event.
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Enjoy Illinois Inspiration Guide
Find unexpected ways to enjoy Illinois in this biannual inspiration guide that explores every corner of the state. Each issue offers a mix of travel stories, stunning photography and timely trip ideas that'll help you make the most of each season.