5 winter festivals in Chicago, from Christkindlmarket to Lunar New Year
These festivals last long beyond December's holidays.


Spending the holiday season in Chicago means tons of fun winter festivals to explore, with everything from German-inspired Christmas markets to Lunar New Year lion dances. With so much to experience, it can be overwhelming deciding which to travel for. To help whittle down the choices, we’ve put together five of the best winter festivals in Chicago that’ll please out-of-towners and locals alike.
For a trip to Europe without leaving Chicago: Christkindlmarket

Inspired by the German market in Nuremberg of the same name, Christkindlmarket made its way to Chicago in the late 1990s and is now one of the most iconic celebrations in the city. Each year, the market features stalls with handmade gifts perfect for a thoughtful holiday present, tasty German schnitzels and currywurst, boot-shaped mugs and glühwein, and so much more. The original winter festival takes place in Daley Plaza starting in late November and lasts through the end of the year. A smaller, family-friendly iteration of the market (this time with an ice skating rink) can also be found in Wrigleyville.
For a tree-lighting parade: Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Considered the official kick-off to the holiday season in mid-November, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a free, two-day festival that includes a holiday parade, an interactive wonderland with holiday-themed activities, festival booths, and more for families and friends alike. Attendees especially love the tree lighting ceremony and the fireworks display at the end. The festival’s parade route takes place on Chicago’s famous Magnificent Mile and features grand marshals Mickey and Minnie Mouse, plus appearances by Santa and other famous holiday characters.
For a family-friendly experience: ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo

Held at the Lincoln Park Zoo, this local tradition lights up the iconic zoo with millions of dazzling holiday decorations meant to spark holiday cheer. Unlike many other zoos across the country, the Lincoln Park winter festival keeps the animal exhibits open during much of the event, making for one of the most unique holiday experiences. There is also live ice carving, Christmas carolers, holiday crafts, and a pop-up bar serving spiced wine and other festive drinks. Don’t forget to take a photo with Santa and your favorite zoo animals. ZooLights tickets are $5, but the event is free on Mondays.
For a adults-only winter festival: Chicago Winter Wine Fest
Also held at the Lincoln Park Zoo, this non-traditional winter festival is all about those 21 and up. Put on your best ugly Christmas sweater and join other wine enthusiasts at the Chicago Wine Fest, with over 35 different wines to taste from around the world. Tickets to the one-night event include wine tastings, light snacks, and live holiday-themed entertainment, making for a grown-up outing to celebrate the season. The event also offers VIP tickets that get you early access to beat the crowds and one-on-ones with representatives who can answer any questions you may have about the premium wines on display.
For a Lunar New Year celebration: Argyle Lunar New Year Celebration

Boasting colorful parades, extravagant floats, and more, Chinese New Year in Chicago comprises several popular events in January and February attended by thousands. Uptown United, a non-profit aiming to revitalize the city’s Uptown neighborhood, has put on the Argyle Lunar New Year Celebration on Argyle Street for more than 40 years. The winter festival features cultural performers from a variety of Asian and Asian American backgrounds, artisanal vendors, and more than 20 community groups focused on innovative change. There is also a winter festival held annually in the heart of Chinatown. The neighborhood hosts a Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade with a lion dancing team, floats, marching bands, and more. Check the city’s tourism board’s website for a full calendar of Lunar New Year events.