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November is always an exciting time in Chicago. Halloween has just passed and Thanksgiving and the holiday season is approaching.
Chicago has an annual winter celebration which has been a local tradition for over 30 years. It marks the start of the holiday season in Chicago. And that is the Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. This year, it will be on November 22, 2025.
The festivities will kick off at 11 am at Pioneer Court at 401 North Michigan Avenue in River North. Families can explore an interactive wonderland of holiday themed activities. Admission is free!
Santa will be there for wish lists and photos. Enjoy live entertainment throughout the afternoon, tasty treats and more family friendly activities.
The festival will be followed by the grand tree lighting parade on Saturday evening, beginning at 5:30 pm. The parade route travels south on North Michigan Avenue, starting at Oak Street and ending at Wacker Drive. Along Michigan Avenue, there will be the illumination of one million lights on more than 200 trees. It is the largest nighttime parade in the United States.
Grand Marshals Mickey Mouse and Minnie will be leading the parade. You’ll see marching bands from all around the country. You’ll see one glittering, colorful floats after another. On some of these floats and local and national artists will be performing.
There will be giant helium balloons depicting classic characters. You’ll see Santa Claus himself on the grand finale float to usher in the holiday season.
Following the parade, you’ll see a spectacular riverfront fireworks display over the Chicago River at approximately 7:15 pm. The fireworks will be held near the DuSable Bridge with spectators lining Wacker Drive to get the best views.
Traveling to Chicago
Would you like to visit Chicago for the festival parade and fireworks? If so, you should check out our Chicago Budget Travel Guide.
And while you’re visiting Chicago, enjoy its distinctive, delicious cuisine. The following restaurants were named the best restaurants in Chicago by the users of TripAdvisor.
- Miss Ricky’s
- The Purple Pig
- Gina’s East
- The Dearborn
- Shaw’s Crab House
- Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe
- Quartino Ristorante
- Oleo E. Piu
- Amber Restaurant Chicago
- Lou Michael’s