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48 Fun Holiday Events For Kids In Western Suburbs – Chicago Parent

March 14, 2021 Published by

Celebrate the holidays in the Western Suburbs with the whole family! Read some of our picks below and find the most updated list on our calendar. Don’t forget to check out other kid-friendly holiday events in the city, North/Northwest Suburbs and South Suburbs.

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas Holiday Exhibit

When: Nov. 7-Dec. 22

Where: Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster Street, Naperville

A historic look at a seminal story written in 1823 that continues to endear itself to contemporary audiences. Told through community-provided collections in partnership with the Golden Glow of Christmas Past.

Wheaton Holiday House Walk

When: Nov. 16

Where: Town Square Wheaton, 271 Town Square, Wheaton

Many of Wheaton’s most beautiful homes, decorated for the season, are open to the public with Flight members as your guides. The homes are all located in historic downtown Wheaton. New this year, guests may enjoy a coffee and cookie break while taking in the stained glass of St. Paul Lutheran Church.

Festival of Lights Tree Lighting

When: Nov. 16

Where: The Promenade Bolingbrook, 631 E. Boughton Road, Bolingbrook

Visit with Santa and enjoy holiday activities before the lighting of the tree. Activities include cookie decorating, ornament making, costume character meet & greet, balloon artists and more. Tree lighting begins at 6:15 p.m.

Winter Lights Holiday Walk

When: Nov. 22

Where: Water Street Mall, 24 E. Downer Place, Aurora

The twinkling lit streets will be filled with live music, costumed characters, live ice sculpting, local art, food vendors, festive photo-ops, live reindeer, trackless train and Christkindlmarket. The official City of Aurora Holiday Tree will be illuminated by Mayor Weisner, Miss Merry Christmas and Mr. Jack Frost.

Illumination: Tree Lights

When: Nov. 23-Jan. 5

Where: The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle,

Illumination brings lights and nature together to transform a wintertime walk in the woods into an awe-inspiring experience. Walk a mile-long path to marvel at trees illuminated in colors and interact with lighted trees that respond to voice or touch.

Naper Lights

When: Nov. 26-Dec. 27

Where: Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St.,

 » Read More

Best Halloween Events For Kids In Chicago And Suburbs

March 11, 2021 Published by

When spooky season arrives in Chicagoland, local businesses and attractions go all out to offer plenty of Halloween fun for kids. The best part is that you can celebrate Halloween during the whole month of October!

Chicago and the suburbs offers a variety of kid-friendly events featuring costume parades, hands-on activities, trick-or-treating and so much more. Here are some of our spooktacular picks you don’t want to miss.

Looking for more fun things to do with kids this fall? Check out our fall family guide!

City Photo credit: Color Factory Photo Credit: Peppa Pig World of Play
Brick-or-Treat Presents: Monster Party at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago

Sept. 29-Oct. 31, 2023

Join the Monsters as they take over LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago to enjoy boo-tastic activities and a limited time 4D Halloween movie, ‘The Great Monster Chase!’. Also, a glow-in-the-dark LEGO zone, haunted MINILAND scavenger hunt, not-so-scary giveaways and more. Come in costume.

Jack O’ Lantern World in Lake Zurich

Sept. 29-Oct. 29, 2023

Walk through thousands of hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns created by more than 50 artists make up 17 immersive and whimsical fall displays. Enjoy food and beverage from some of your favorite local food trucks.

Peppa’s Spooktacular Halloween Storytime Event! at Peppa Pig World of Play Chicago

Oct. 1-31, 2023

Families with littles can join Peppa Pig World of Play Chicago for a special Halloween story, meet and greet with Peppa, activity trail and more.

The Halloween Experience at Camp Big Timber

Oct. 6-29, 2023

Enjoy Chicagoland’s only Halloween music and light show drive-thru at Camp Big Timber. It’s all spooky and never scary. For all ages.

The Great Highwood Pumpkin Fest & Skeleton Invasion

Oct.

 » Read More

Fun Ways To Celebrate Leap Day In Chicagoland

March 11, 2021 Published by

Leap Day comes around once every four years on the last day in February. Although Leap Day is not an official holiday, it’s still a fun day to celebrate.

Check out these Leap Day events in and around Chicagoland to enjoy as a family.

Leap Day Celebration at Gage Park Branch

Feb. 29, 2024

All ages can visit Gage Park Branch for a Leap Day Celebration with games and crafts. Registration required.

Leap Day Story Time at Garfield Ridge Branch

Feb. 29, 2024

Children ages 3-5 can join the Garfield Ridge Branch for a fun story time to celebrate Leap Day. Registration required.

Leap Day Family Swim at Goldfish Swim School – Mundelein

Feb. 29, 2024

Enjoy a fun, family-friendly event at Goldfish Swim School – Mundelein to celebrate Leap Day. RSVP required.

Leap Day Family Swim at Goldfish Swim School – Naperville

Feb. 29, 2024

Enjoy a fun, family-friendly event at Goldfish Swim School – Naperville to celebrate Leap Day. RSVP required.

Leap Day Family Swim at Goldfish Swim School – Northbrook

Feb. 29, 2024

Enjoy a fun, family-friendly event at Goldfish Swim School – Northbrook to celebrate Leap Day. RSVP required.

This article originally published on Feb. 16, 2016. It has been updated with the most recent information. 

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Kari Zaffarano

Kari Zaffarano

Kari Zaffarano is a mom of one and Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Coordinator. She tracks down the best events every week and shares the inside scoop with families in print and online. She enjoys reading, traveling and exploring new places with her son.

 » Read More

Exciting Father’s Day Events To Make Dad Feel Special

March 11, 2021 Published by

This Father’s Day, whether you’re celebrating Dad at breakfast or brunch, or hitting the trails for a walk or fishing expedition, the father figure in your life is sure to enjoy his day with an event on this list.

There are also plenty of ideas to help the kids make their own cards and gifts for Dad.

Looking for more fun things to do with kids? Check out our summer family guide!

This article was recently updated on May 9, 2024 by Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Coordinator, Kari Zaffarano. The update included her updating Father’s Day events in Chicagoland and adding new Father’s Day events for families. Questions? Please reach out to kari@chicagoparent.com.

Father’s Day Events near me in Chicago Father’s Day Craft at Vodak-East Side Branch

June 13, 2024

Ages 3-13 can come out to Vodak-East Side Branch to celebrate your father figure with a special craft for Father’s Day.

Father’s Day Premier Plus Brunch Cruise on the Chicago River

June 16, 2024

Spend Father’s Day on the water with an upscale brunch that includes a chef-prepared dinner, wine and cocktails, live entertainment and incredible views of Chicago. For all ages.

Father’s Day Signature Dinner on Lake Michigan at Navy Pier

June 16, 202

Spend Father’s Day on the water with a chef-prepared dinner, cocktails and incredible views of Chicago. For all ages.

Father’s Day Events near me in the North/Northwest Suburbs Father’s Day Forest Find at Heller Nature Center

June 16, 2024

Dads accompanying their children or grandchildren can work together to solve a Father’s Day scavenger hunt. For ages 6-plus. Registration required.

Lambs Farm Father’s Day Brunch at Magnolia Cafe & Bakery

June 16, 2024

 » Read More

Exciting Chicagoland Events For Tweens And Teens

March 11, 2021 Published by

It seems like teens and tweens are always looking for something fun to do. Now that school is back in session and your older kids will want to hang out with new friends outside of the classroom, you’ll want to find some activities that you approve of, too. We’ve compiled a list of fun (and safe) events that are sure to be a hit!

Check out our online calendar for even more family events and things to do with teens.

Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibition at Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago

Jan. 15-April 21, 2024

The longest-running exhibition of African-American art in the U.S. features more than 100 dynamic works of art from amateur and professional African-American artists from around the nation, as well as a youth category which features work by a dozen area high school artists.

In The Heights at Marriott Theatre

Jan. 24-March 17, 2024

In The Heights is a 2008 Tony Award Winning musical about a vibrant community in New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood. It was created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, who was also the creator of Hamilton.

Billy Elliot The Musical at Paramount Theatre

Feb. 7-March 24, 2024

See the musical about an 11-year-old English boy named Billy Elliot who stumbles upon a ballet class during his weekly boxing lesson. Hear music by Elton John at this performance.

Titanic: The Exhibition at Westfield Old Orchard

Feb. 16-April 21, 2024

This immersive touring exhibition is a narrative journey that brings to light the fates of the passengers and crew aboard the sinking ship, Titanic.

Red Clay Dance Company presents Afro-Caribbean Dance at Douglass Branch

Feb. 20, 2024

Teens ages 13 and up can enjoy a lecture and demonstration,

 » Read More

Free Things To Do With Kids In Chicagoland

March 10, 2021 Published by

The Chicago area offers so much family fun ranging from amazing museums, thrill-seeking attractions and unique desserts. But when going out with kids, we know some of these excursions can get really expensive. 

Sometimes we want to visit a kid-friendly place without spending a dime. Lucky for us, Chicago and the surrounding suburbs offer some great, free options for families. We gathered some of our favorite free things to do with kids in Chicagoland — both indoor and outdoor!

And if you’re looking for more budget-friendly ideas, find free local events in our online calendar and save the dates for these upcoming free museum days.

City Photo Credit: Choose Chicago/Abel Arciniega
Chicago Cultural Center

Exploring in this grand old building can be a ton of fun on its own (it’s home to the world’s largest Tiffany stained glass dome). There are also free art exhibits, dance events and concerts.

Garfield Park Conservatory

Tropical palms and delicate exotic flowers will make you think that you’re not in Chicago as you explore Garfield Park Conservatory. Families can spend plenty of time at the Elizabeth Morse Genius Children’s Garden, too.

Harold Washington Library Center

Neighborhood libraries are great, but this library located downtown is pretty amazing. Inside, you’ll find the Thomas Hughes Children’s Library that offers activities and learning materials for kids of all ages.

Henry C. Palmisano Nature Park

Once a landfill, this nature park has transformed to an urban oasis where families can explore wetland terraces and get a great view of our great city skyline.

Lincoln Park Conservancy

Located steps away from the free Lincoln Park Zoo, this conservatory brings fresh, green foliage and plants to a Victorian-style Glass House. Stroll through a Palm House, an Orchid House, a Fern Room and an impressive show house.

 » Read More

41 Fun Holiday Events For Kids In North/Northwest Suburbs – Chicago Parent

February 20, 2021 Published by

Celebrate the holidays in the North/Northwest Suburbs of Chicago with the whole family! Read some of our picks below and find the most updated list on our calendar. Don’t forget to check out other kid-friendly holiday events in the city, South Suburbs and Western Suburbs.

Santa HQ at Fashion Outlets of Chicago

When: Nov. 8-Dec. 24

Where: Fashion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont

Santa HQ invites families to experience the wonder of Santa’s workshop in the digital and social media age. In addition to a custom photo opportunity with Santa Claus, visitors can use the workshop’s magic mirror to transform into one of Santa’s elves. Guests can virtually change their elf’s outfits, receive customized “Magic Mirror” collector cards and more.

Christmas Town at Summerfield Zoo

When: Nov. 15-Dec. 24

Where: Summerfield Farm & Zoo, 3088 Flora Rd., Belvidere

Check out Santa’s Reindeer Barn with Santa’s entire sleigh team of reindeer, then visit with Santa Claus. Kids will earn a “stable elf” diploma and take part in baby reindeer flight school training sessions.

Lightscape

When: Nov. 22-Jan. 5

Where: Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe

Along a mile-long path, the night comes alive with color, imagination, and sound, from a playful choir of singing trees to a spectacular waterfall of light. At times, you’ll find yourself in the center of it all — stepping inside a cathedral of golden light, walking down an avenue of luminous linden trees, moving through colorful ribbons of light.

A Christmas Carol

When: Nov. 22, 23, 24, 29, 30, Dec. 1, 6, 7 & 8

Where: Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock

Join Ebenezer Scrooge as he journeys through the Christmases of Past, Present, and Christmas Yet to Come with his ghostly guides. Let the merry Christmas carols, enchanting children, wonderful characters, and colorful costumes welcome you into the Christmas season.

Long Grove Holiday Festivities

When: Nov. 23-Dec. 23

Where: 308 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove

An old-fashioned celebration comes alive in a picture-perfect holiday setting! Victorian buildings trimmed in lights, a covered bridge and cobblestone walkways lined in luminaries in beautiful historic Long Grove.

 » Read More

20 Fun Holiday Events For Kids In South Suburbs – Chicago Parent

February 19, 2021 Published by

Celebrate the holidays in the South Suburbs with the whole family! Read some of our picks below and find the most updated list on our calendar. Don’t forget to check out other kid-friendly holiday events in the city, North/Northwest Suburbs and Western Suburbs.

‘A Christmas Story’ Comes Home

When: Nov. 9-Dec. 31

Where: Indiana Welcome Center I-80/94 & Kennedy Ave., Hammond, Indiana

Visitors to the Indiana Welcome Center are welcome to relive favorite childhood memories of in anticipation of Christmas as they gaze at animated window displays depicting scenes from the holiday movie classic.

Jingle Mingle

When: Nov. 15

Where: Burr Ridge Village Center, 701 Village Center Drive, Burr Ridge

Kick off the holidays with giveaways, train rides, crafts, letters to the military and a tree lighting.

Light Up The Park

When: Nov. 19

Where: Apollo Recreation Center, 12521 South Kostner Avenue, Alsip

Join Mrs. Claus, Prairie Jr. High Band and Choir and the preschool class in celebration of the holiday season. After the outdoor oooh-ing and ahhh-ing at the lit tree, head into the warm gymnasium for carols, cookies, and cocoa.

Holiday Tree Lighting at Lake Katherine

When: Nov. 29

Where: Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens, 7402 Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights

Activities include a visit with Santa Claus, real reindeer, crafts, face painting and story time, plus hot chocolate and cookies.

Home for the Holidays at the Rialto

When: Nov. 25-Dec. 23

Where: Rialto Square Theatre 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet

Festivities include holiday movies, concerts and plays, including a Teddy Bear Tea on Nov. 29; a showing of the movie “The Polar Express” at 2 p.m. on Nov. 30; “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” the musical at 7 p.m. on Dec. 11 and a showing of the 1947 version of “Miracle on 34th Street” at 11 a.m. on Dec. 14. The season kicks off at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 25 with “A Very Rialto Christmas,” a family concert for the family.

Light Up the Holidays Festival & Parade

When: Nov. 29

Where: Chicago street between Van Buren and Jackson,

 » Read More

Magical Holiday Events For Kids In Chicagoland

February 19, 2021 Published by

Celebrate the holidays in Chicagoland with the whole family. You and your kids can enjoy the magical winter season with holiday lights, Santa visits, Hanukkah events and more.

We highly recommend you get tickets to these popular experiences before they sell out! Here are some of our favorite holiday events, but find even more events on our calendar.

City The Beatrix Holiday Party Tea Party

Nov. 4-Dec. 24, 2023 (Saturdays-Sundays)

Enjoy an interactive trunk and puppet show, which includes original music. A communal tea party follows the show. Recommended for ages 8 and under.

Christkindlmarket Chicago

Nov. 17-Dec. 24, 2023

Enjoy one of Chicago’s most beloved shopping traditions in-person and online with treats and gifts from Germany and beyond.

Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville

Nov. 17-Dec. 31, 2023

Enjoy a special edition of the Chicago German-American Holiday Market. Includes hot beverages, German food and gift shopping.

City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting

Nov. 17, 2023

See Millennium Park’s epic Christmas tree, a 45-foot Colorado blue spruce, lit up for the first time of the season. It will remain on display until the beginning of the new year.

ZooLights

Nov. 17, 2023-Jan. 7, 2024

  • Address: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago
  • Cost: $7-$10/Tuesdays-Sundays, free/Mondays; fees for additional encounters and activities

Enjoy a twinkling winter wonderland complete with festive activities, such as visits with Santa, a holiday pop-up bar, sweet treats of all kinds and more.

A Christmas Carol

Nov. 18-Dec. 31, 2023

Join Ebenezer Scrooge as he journeys through his past,

 » Read More

COVID-19 Updates | Choose Chicago

March 13, 2020 Published by

Chicago is now open with no restrictions, following local and state guidance. Many Chicago establishments continue to follow additional safety measures. Learn more about the latest COVID-19 updates in Chicago.

Latest updates

  • Masks: Chicago currently has no mask requirement for indoor spaces or public transportation. Individual businesses may still require masks.
  • Proof of vaccination: Chicago has lifted its proof of vaccination requirement for public spaces. Individual businesses and events may still require proof of vaccination.
  • Gatherings: There are currently no limits on social gatherings or events.

Travel

  • Visitors to the U.S. no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Restaurants

  • Chicago restaurants and bars are currently open for indoor dining, outdoor dining, delivery, and takeout with no restrictions on capacity or table size.

Attractions and events

All attractions and events are subject to changes and closures. We strongly recommend confirming the status of attractions and upcoming events by reaching out directly to the attraction, venue, or ticket provider.

Attractions

Events

  • Public and private events have resumed with no required capacity limits.

Hotels

  • Chicago hotels are open and welcoming guests. Please check with individual hotels for information about availability.

Health & safety

  • The health and safety of our residents and visitors is of the utmost importance to us. Learn about health and safety precautions at Chicago’s restaurants, businesses, hotels, airports, and more.

Healthy travel tips

We encourage all visitors to use their own discretion and follow all travel best practices recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.

 » Read More

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