Enjoy the Holiday Season in Illinois

From the mesmerizing Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden to the unique skating adventure at Maggie Daley Park and the authentic European charm of the Christkindlmarket, there are so many events that promise festive fun in Chicago this holiday season. The city's blend of cultural richness, stunning light displays and heartwarming traditions makes celebrating the season in Chicago an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike. For more winter events, attractions and festive-themed road trip itineraries around the state, visit EnjoyIllinois.com.

Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe – 1 hour from Chicago

From radiant first-time light installations to beloved classics like the Winter Cathedral, the fifth-annual Lightscape at the Chicago Botanical Gardens returns to transform new sections of the Garden, such as the 5-acre Evening Island, into dazzling lightscapes. The sprawling grounds immersed in music, color and light are the perfect place to embrace the beauty of the season while enjoying festive food and drink. Lightscape is open through Jan. 7th, with adult tickets starting at $30 and children’s at $17. Click here to purchase your ticket and find more information.

Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon – Chicago

The Maggie Daley Skating Ribbon is dramatically different from typical ice rinks. This skating experience is surrounded by the city's stunning skyline and iconic skyscrapers. The rink follows a path twice the length of a lap around a traditional skating rink. Skating Ribbon tickets start at $16, with prices varying for skate rentals. The Skating Ribbon is an inviting and engaging experience for Chicagoans and visitors alike. Click here for more information.

The Christkindlmarket – Daley Plaza & Wrigleyville

Take a European holiday without leaving the city at two Chicago Christkindlmarket locations. This unique experience reflects an authentic German-style Christmas market where visitors can sample and shop products from all over the world. The smell of roasted nuts, spiced wine, German pretzels and bratwursts combined with the festive music and twinkling ornaments take your senses on a journey! The Chicago Christkindlmarkets in the Daley Plaza and Wrigleyville are open through Dec. 24th and admission is free. Click here for more information.

Photo credit Illinois Office of Tourism