There’s something warm about a community coming together in the cold, hot chocolates in hand, holiday music twinkling, waiting for the oohs and aahs as the city or village tree is lit.
This year, it feels even more special to take part in our favorite holiday traditions again. Kick off the holiday season with these exciting tree light ceremonies in Chicago and the suburbs.
City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting in Millennium Park
Nov. 18, 2022
- Address: 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago
See Millennium Park’s epic Christmas tree lit up for the first time of the season at this holiday event. It will remain on display until the beginning of the new year.
Holiday Lights in Downtown Aurora
Nov. 18, 2022
- Address: Downtown Aurora
See the winter lights in downtown Aurora, along with a tree lighting and firework display. There will also be a Christmas parade.
Light Up the Park in Rosemont in Parkway Bank Park
Nov. 19, 2022
- Address: 5501 Park Place, Rosemont
Rosemont’s Parkway Bank Park entertainment district kicks off the holiday season with its annual Light Up The Park tree lighting.
Light Up The Holidays & Parade in Downtown Joliet
Nov. 25, 2022
- Address: Downtown Joliet
This year’s event will include a tree lighting, North Pole Market, North Pole Park, horse-drawn carriage rides, a parade and firework show.
Tree Lighting in Wilder Park
Dec. 1, 2022
- Address: 175 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst
Join the Elmhurst Park District as it kicks off the holiday season in Wilder Park and lights the more than 60 community trees. Kids can visit with Santa while enjoying games, photo opps, holiday music, food trucks and more.
Geneva’s Great Tree Lighting and Christmas Walk in Downtown Geneva
Dec. 2, 2022
- Address: 113 S. Third St., Geneva
The Christmas Walk begins at 6 p.m. Santa will arrive and the tree will be lit between 6-6:30 p.m. The courthouse lawn becomes illuminated with lights, too.
Holiday Lights in Homewood
Dec. 2, 2022
- Address: Martin Avenue and Ridge Road, Homewood
Throughout downtown Homewood, see costumed characters such as Elsa, Anna, Olaf and more. Also, Santa will flip the switch for the annual tree lighting ceremony.
