A festive event with Santa and his friends runs from Nov. 17-Dec. 23.

The whole family will enjoy this heart-warming story of the first Christmas tree ship, and the family who risked their lives to fill Chicago with the Christmas spirit. Performances are from Nov. 23 to Dec. 30. The schedule is Wednesdays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m, Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 1 p,m.

Includes Gingerbread Story-time, Tree Lighting Ceremony, Gingerbread Man Hunt, Gingerbread House Contest, visits with Santa in his Gingerbread House, Small Business Saturday, Gingerbread Boy and Girl perusing town, and Complimentary Carriage Rides. For more information, visit www.downtowndg.org or call (630) 725-0991.

Learn how to identify tracks, learn which animals hibernate and which ones are active.

Experience an evening of necklace and bracelet bling gift making and surprise family members. Decorate a wooden jewelry box to add to the gift ensemble. Create wrapping paper to conceal the surprises. Then decorate holiday cookies.

Exhibit includes numerous artifacts, photographs and other documentary items that tell the story of Chicago's iconic candy makers, including Snickers, Lemonheads, Butterfingers and Cracker Jack.

One of the Chicago area's largest and most spectacular holiday light displays, encompassing a 1.8-mile drive-through course. Features larger-than-life holiday characters, children-oriented figures, and mythical creatures, plus architectural lighting. A special visit from Santa takes place on Dec. 7-9, 15-16 and 21-23.

Adjacent to Macy's in the fountain will be giant ornamental display. The three holiday trees display light shows set to music. A walk-through tree will be located near the Koi Pond. As you approach, the lighting changes. There will also be a skating rink near Bloomingdales that launches Nov. 17 (weather permitting). The price to skate per person is $12 and $10 if you bring your own personal skates.

A skating rink near Bloomingdales opens Nov. 17 (weather permitting). Hours are Monday through Thursday noon to 9 p.m., Friday noon to 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Holiday hours may be extended, visit westfield.com for details.

Santa spends time and takes pictures withCSRI families and those with special needs only. Plus, check out St. John's Festival of Lights at Prairie West Park.