The holiday season is in full swing at my house. The Christmas tree is decorated, my pup and I are wearing matching holiday sweaters, and my town has strung up the most beautiful twinkling lights that I just love walking past every day.
While there are many fantastic Christmas light displays that are worth the price tag, there are plenty of Chicagoland towns that put on their own free light displays in scenic parks and charming downtown areas. Plus, visiting a light display with free admission means you can put those savings towards hot cocoa, seasonal treats or supporting a nearby small business!
Discover more free holiday activities for Chicagoland families, from free visits with Santa to unforgettable holiday events with free admission.
5 Free Holiday Light Displays in Chicagoland
My go-to method for getting into the holiday spirit is to bundle up in your favorite winter gear; grab a travel cup of hot cocoa; and blast a Christmas radio station. Follow these steps and everyone will be feeling the Christmas cheer before you even arrive at these free holiday light displays.
These free attractions may not have all the razzle and dazzle as the ones that charge admission fees, but they are filled with twinkling lights, family photo ops, free visits with Santa and more free family festivities.
Christmas in the Commons
- Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 22, 2024
- New Lenox Commons, New Lenox
See the New Lenox Commons lit up in sparkling lights, complete with a 40-foot-tall lighted Santa Claus! There will be different free activities and visits from special guests each weekend. Meet live reindeer and characters like The Grinch and Buddy the Elf, enjoy ice carving and live entertainment and warm up with yummy eats from local food trucks. Check the Christmas in the Commons calendar to plan your family’s holiday outing in New Lenox.
Festival of Lights at Cosley Zoo
- Through Monday, Dec. 30, 2024
- Cosley Zoo, Wheaton
Twinkling lights await your family at Cosley Zoo’s annual Festival of Lights and Tree Sale. Families looking to purchase a holiday tree, wreath or greenery can find an amazing selection at this special holiday event. Plus, free admission means you can put your savings towards hot chocolate, available at the Wild Side Gift Shop.
Holiday Lights in Lilacia Park
- Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024 – Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025
- Lilacia Park, Lombard
Lilacia Park is known for the gorgeous lilacs and tulips that bloom each spring, but in the winter you’ll find the park decked out in holiday lights. The free light show is turned on from 4:30-10 p.m. daily. Families can visit every Friday-Sunday from 6-8 p.m. for visits with Santa, complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, and festive events like magical elf hunts and Polar Express Night. Check the park’s event calendar to find a fun event your kids will love.
Naper Lights
- Through Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024
- Downtown Naperville
This free 3D light display will wow your kids! Pick up a pair of 3D glasses, then stroll down Water Street, Foyo Plaza, Jaycees Park and the Riverwalk. The light show runs from 4-10 p.m. daily. Santa will make appearances on Dec. 6, 8 and 13. Live carolers will fill the air with merry Christmas tunes on Sunday, Dec. 15 at 4:45 p.m.
Winter Lights at Central Park
- Through Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025
- Central Park, Oak Brook
Take a magical half-mile walk through rainbow arches, past dancing trees and cascading snowflakes and discover more seasonal light displays. Plus, dogs are allowed on a leash which means the entire fam can enjoy the winter lights at Central Park!
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