Things to do Nov. 24-30: Navy Pier's Light Up the Lake, tree lightings, holiday markets, 'Nutcracker' and more

Ongoing

Fall Flower Show: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Sunday, Nov. 26, at Wilder Park Conservatory, Church Street and Prospect Avenue, Elmhurst. A seasonal display of fall flowers. epd.org.

Winter Arts & Crafts Expo: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays, through Dec. 20, at the Evanston Art Center, 1717 Central St., Evanston. Features one-of-a-kind pieces by more than 150 selected artisans in jewelry, ceramics, fiber, metal, glass, paintings, photography, mixed media and more. Free entry. evanstonartcenter.org.

Yuletide Treasures: 9 a.m.to 5 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 23 at the DuPage Art League, 218 W. Front St., Wheaton. One-of-a-kind gifts, all handmade by local artists. Free parking is available on Front Street and in the parking garage across the street. dupageartleague.org.

Christmas Around the World and Holiday of Lights: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through the first week of January at the Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. The museum's annual celebration features a four-story, floor-to-dome Grand Tree, surrounded by a forest of more than 50 trees and displays decorated to represent the holiday traditions from cultures around the globe. Museum admission. msichicago.org.

Chicago Christkindlmarket: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, through Dec. 24, at Daley Plaza. 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. German-style outdoor market featuring international and local vendors selling a variety of wares. Free. christkindlmarket.com/daleyplaza.

Illumination, Tree Lights: Time slots from 4:30-8 p.m. daily through Jan. 6, (except Monday, Nov. 27) at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Holiday light display featuring 18 lighted installations, including two new and four returning favorites with enhanced experiences. $12.80-$39. mortonarb.org.

Lightscape: 4:30-9:15 p.m. select days through Jan. 7 at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Take an after-dark stroll through an array of illuminated displays from new installments to favorites like the Winter Cathedral. In advance: $30-$34 for adults, $17-$19 for kids 3-12; day of: $33-$37 for adults, $19-$21 for kids 3-12. chicagobotanic.org/lightscape.

Santa's Rock 'N' Lights: 5-10 p.m. daily through Sunday, Jan. 1, at the Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. Drive-through animated lights show. $29.99-$36.99. santasrocknlights.com.

“Downton Abbey — The Exhibition”: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays through March 31 at Westfield Old Orchard Shopping Center, 4905 Old Orchard Center, Skokie. See never-before-seen elements from the show, including original costumes, production-used props and exclusive footage from “Downton Abbey.” $27-$64. downtonexhibition.com.

“Beautiful: The Carole King Musical”: 1 and 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays; 7:30 p.m. Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; and 1 and 5 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 30, at Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. The inspiring true story of Carole King's journey from teenage songwriter to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Ticket prices start at $55. marriotttheatre.com.

Dickens Holiday Village: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily from Thursday, Nov. 23, to Jan. 1 at Kringle's Christmas Village, 510 Orchard St., Antioch. Public art exhibit featuring lifelike figures representing scenes from the Dickens era. Free. antiochchamber.org.

Aurora Christkindlmarket: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursdays; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays; and through Dec. 24 at RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora. German-style outdoor market featuring international and local vendors selling a variety of wares. Free. paramountaurora.com/events/christkindlmarket.

Winter Lights: 4:30-9:30 p.m. daily from Thursday, Nov. 23, through Sunday, Jan. 7, at Central Park, Jorie Boulevard and Forest Gate Road, Oak Brook. A free half-mile illuminated walk along paved pathways. Closed during inclement weather. obparks.org/winterlights.

Big & Bright Trail of Lights Festival: 5-9 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, through Dec. 31, at Sonny Acres Farm, 29W310 North Ave., West Chicago. Holiday lights show includes a Christmas Market, photo ops, fire pits, s'mores, hot chocolate, adult specialty drinks and more. $10-$15. sonnyacres.com.

“Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley”: 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 17, at the McAninch Arts Center Playhouse Theatre, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. Buffalo Theatre Ensemble presents this sequel to “Pride and Prejudice” in which Mary Bennet, the bookish, unmarried middle sister, yearns for more in life when an expected guest joins the Christmas festivities at Pemberley. Post show event with the director and actors Friday, Nov. 24. $42-$44. atthemac.org.

Rosemont's Chicago Wolves Ice Rink: Noon to 10 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 21. Free admission. Bring your own skates or rent skates on-site for $8. ParkwayBankPark.com.

Sonny Acres Farm Holiday Market: 4-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 4-9 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 23, at Sonny Acres Farm, 29W310 North Ave., West Chicago. Hayrides, petting zoo, specialty food vendors, entertainment and more. Free entry. sonnyacres.com.

Sparkle Light Festival: Various times and dates through Sunday, Dec. 31, at Impact Field, 9850 Balmoral Ave., Rosemont. Stroll through five illuminated villages, visit Santa, ice skate, take a free train ride on the “Holly Trolley” train and go tubing down the Alpine Slide. Festive food and beverages for purchase. $18-$70. Parking at Impact Field's parking garage is $5. For a schedule of hours and tickets, see sparklerosemont.com.

ZooLights: 4:30-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 4:30-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, through Jan. 7, at Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago. Lighted displays, photo ops and interactive programming. $10 Fridays and Saturdays, $7 most weekdays, free on Mondays. lpzoo.org/event/zoolights.

The Second City's Holiday Revue “What The Elf”: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 23, at Copley Theatre, 8 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. Sketch comedy skewering the holidays. $42. paramountaurora.com.

“A Christmas Carol”: Various times and dates through Sunday, Dec. 31, at the Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. High-end production of Charles Dickens' classic. $25-$75. goodmantheatre.org.

Long Grove Vintage Days: Through Dec. 23 in downtown Long Grove, 145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Carriage rides Fridays through Sundays; holiday caroling; merchant open houses and promotions; and Santa visits from noon to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Nov. 24-26. Free. longgrove.org/festival/holiday-season.

“The Snow Queen”: Various times through Sunday, Dec. 31, at the Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. A new musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's fantastical coming-of-age adventure that inspired the Disney movie “Frozen.” Tickets start at $15.75. MarriottTheatre.com.

Friday, Nov. 24

Festival of Lights and Christmas Tree Sale: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, through Dec. 31 at Cosley Zoo, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton. Thousands of twinkling lights and Christmas trees, wreaths, greenery and hot chocolate for purchase. Lights come on at 3 p.m. Free admission; donations appreciated. cosleyzoo.org.

Chicago TARDIS: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Nov. 24-26, at the Westin Chicago Lombard, 70 Yorktown Center, Lombard. This fan event returns for its 24th year and “Doctor Who's” 60th anniversary featuring actors and behind-the-scenes people from “Doctor Who,” plus the Britrock Karaoke Party, the Don't Blink Dance Party, audience participation events, dealers room and more. General admission weekend pass tickets are $100, $50 for kids 6-12. One-day tickets are $40, $20 for Friday and $50, $25 for Saturday and Sunday. Online fees apply. Get tickets at EventBrite.com. facebook.com/chicagotardis.

“A Christmas Carol”: 10 a.m. and noon Fridays and Saturdays and 10 a.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, from Friday, Nov. 24, through Dec. 30 at Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. Charles Dickens' holiday tale. drurylanetheatre.com/Theatre-for-Young-Audiences.

WNDR Museum's Winter WNDRland — “Iced In”: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays, and noon to 8 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, from Friday, Nov. 24, through Monday, Jan. 15, at WNDR Museum, 1130 W. Monroe St., Chicago. The museum will be transformed into an icy winterscape for guests to explore the expansive chill of the winter season. General admission tickets start at $32. wndrmuseum.com.

Light Up The Lake: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays, from Nov. 24 through Dec. 31 at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Outdoor ice skating, ax throwing, outdoor firepits, light displays, live music, a holiday artisan market, fireworks on Saturdays and more. Free, fees for some activities. navypier.org.

Festival of Arts & Crafts: 2-7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. Handcrafted goods from more than 300 artisans from 11 different states. Admission: $5; free for kids 11 and younger. stepbysteppromotions.com.

“The Illusionists — Magic of the Holidays”: 2 and 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at the Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago. A showcase featuring the jaw-dropping talents of incredible illusionists. Recommended for ages 5 and older. $55-$150. broadwayinchicago.com/shows/the-illusionists-magic-of-the-holidays/.

Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic: 3-9 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Nov. 24-26, and Thursday, Dec. 1, and other dates through Dec. 31 at Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. See more than two million twinkling LED lights. Entertainment from 5-8 p.m. at North Pole at The Pavilions featuring Those Funny Little People, Juggling Elves, pictures with Santa, roaming carolers and ice carving at the Nature Stage. Advance tickets are not required for North Gate entry, but are required for South Gate entry. $20.95-$29.95. czs.org/HolidayMagic.

Grayslake Tree Lighting and Holiday Festival: 3-7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, on Center Street from Seymour to Slusser in downtown Grayslake. Santa will be on hand from 3-7 p.m., plus carriage rides, Giving Trees and more. Countdown to the tree lighting is at 5:30 p.m. Free. grayslakechamber.com.

Lake Forest Tree Lighting Holiday Celebration: 3-6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, in Market Square, 264 Market Square Court, Lake Forest. Live music, kids' activities, food and beverages, carolers, a Lake Forest Dance Academy performance and Santa. Free. lfparksandrec.com.

Black Friday Night Market: 4-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro, 3905 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. Features fine handmade goods by local artists, including fine and funky jewelry, watercolors, knitwear, textiles, natural soy candles, scented soap, children's goods and more. (312) 605-0405 or facebook.com.

Elk Grove Village Holiday Tree Lighting: 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at Village Green, 901 Wellington Ave., Elk Grove Village. Refreshments at 4 p.m. with a concert by The Cryan' Shames at 4:30 p.m. Following the concert, Mayor Johnson will throw the switch to light up the village's holiday tree. Fireworks follow the tree lighting, announcing the entrance of Santa. Hot chocolate and cookies will be provided. Free. elkgrove.org.

Woodstock Lighting of the Square: 4-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, in historic Woodstock Square. From 4-8 p.m., there will be holiday carolers, kids' activities, charitable opportunities and more. At 7 p.m., see the lighting of tens of thousands of twinkling lights illuminating park trees and Square buildings. Santa makes a grand entrance before the lighting ceremony to greet children and take photos. Free. woodstockilchamber.com.

Arlington Heights Tree Lighting: 4:30-6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at North School Park, 307 N. Evergreen Ave., and Harmony Park, 7 S. Vail Ave., Arlington Heights. The countdown to the lighting of the tree and park will take place at 5 p.m. in North School Park. Hop a trolley and enjoy holiday fun at Harmony Park from 4:30-6:30 p.m., including an ice carver, a reindeer, a giant ornament of lights, photo stations and a free professional photo. Trolleys will be looping between Harmony Park and North School Park from 3:45-6:45 p.m. Free. vah.com/treelighting.

Downers Grove Tree Lighting Ceremony: 4:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at the Main Street train station, 5001 Main St., Downers Grove. Free. To make an ornament for the tree, visit downers.us/events.

Wheaton Night of Lights ceremony: 4:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at Adams Park, off Wesley and Main streets, Wheaton. Fourth annual holiday display featuring more than 55,000 bulbs and an animated light display at the fountain. Continues through Jan. 7. Free. downtownwheaton.com/nightsoflights.

Glen Ellyn Holiday Walk: 5-8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, on Main Street and Crescent Avenue, Glen Ellyn. Holiday Walk at 5 p.m. with music around the Christmas tree on Main Street. Santa will emerge from the firehouse at 6 p.m. and start his march down Main Street to light the star on top of the tree at 6:30 p.m. Photos with Santa at the firehouse from 7-8:30 p.m. glenellynchamber.com/holiday/.

Light the Lights: 5-7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at Wyman Green, Park and Vernon avenues, Glencoe. The annual holiday lighting ceremony features family-friendly activities throughout the downtown, including train rides, live music by Rosie and the Rivets and Liz Berg, photos with Santa at Writers Theatre, meet characters from “Frozen” and more. Free. villageofglencoe.org.

St. Charles Holiday Homecoming Weekend: 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, with the Lighting of the Lights ceremony on the First Street Plaza, St. Charles. On Saturday, Nov. 25, there's a free showing of “Elf” at 10 a.m. at the Arcada Theatre; doors open at 9 a.m. The Electric Christmas Parade with decorated parade floats, high school marching bands and special guest Santa Claus steps off at 5:30 p.m. Saturday down Main Street. Santa's House is open from 1-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Nov. 25 through Dec. 21, on First Street Plaza. Free. stcholidayhomecoming.com.

Round Lake Beach tree lighting: 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at the Cultural and Civic Center, 2007 N. Civic Center Way, Round Lake Beach. Music, Santa and Mrs. Claus, cookies, hot cocoa and more. Free. rlbciviccenter.com.

Schaumburg Tree Lighting Ceremony: 6-8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Holiday caroling begins at 6 p.m. Santa will be escorted by the Schaumburg Fire Department and will arrive at 6:30 p.m. to light the tree at the Jack Siegel Memorial Plaza. Santa will meet with children in the Prairie Center's Maggie Atcher Theatre, where parents/guardians are encouraged to bring their cameras for photos. Bring nonperishable food items for the Schaumburg Food Pantry. Free. prairiecenter.org.

Wheaton Christmas Parade: 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, in downtown Wheaton. The parade steps off at Wesley and Wheaton avenues and proceeds south to Front Street and then east on Front to Cross Street. Head over to the new pavilion on Liberty Drive and Main Street for the tree lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. downtownwheaton.com/christmasparade.

Antioch Tree Lighting and Parade: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, in downtown Antioch. The parade travels down Main Street and ends with the lighting of the village Christmas tree. Free. antioch.il.gov.

Libertyville Tree Lighting: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, in Cook Memorial Park, 413 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. Festivities begin at 6:30 p.m., with the tree lighting at 7 p.m. Free. libertyville.com.

Downtown Wheaton Christmas Tree Lighting: 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, near Main Street and Liberty Drive, Wheaton. The city and Downtown Wheaton Association's second annual ceremony after the parade. Enjoy the tree daily from 4-10 p.m. through Jan. 7. downtownwheaton.com/christmastree.

Festival of Lights Parade: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at Williams and Brink streets, Crystal Lake. Santa Claus comes to town for the parade and stays for the lighting of the community Christmas tree in the Brink Street Market courtyard. The parade starts at West Woodstock and North Caroline streets and heads south to West Crystal Lake Avenue, east to Grant Street, northeast to East Woodstock Street, and southeast to North Williams Street. downtowncl.org.

Naperville Holiday Parade of Lights: 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24. Steps off from the Centennial Beach parking lot and heads east on Jackson Avenue, north on Webster Street, past the viewing stand, west on Van Buren Avenue, and ending at Naper Elementary School. Pre-parade entertainment at 6:45 p.m. on the broadcast stage at Webster Street and Jackson Avenue. The parade includes brightly lit floats, performers, parade units and Santa. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Naperville and Downtown Naperville Alliance. napervillerotaryparade.org.

“The Nutcracker”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph Drive, Chicago. Be transported to a winter wonderland filled with vibrant characters and toy soldiers with the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine's production. $55-$95. harristheaterchicago.org.

“White Christmas”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays and 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 24 through Dec. 16, at 900 Foster Ave., Medinah. Overshadowed Theatrical Productions puts on a holiday show featuring Irving Berlin's music. $18-$25. overshadowed.org.

Theatre 121's “White Christmas”: 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 25-26, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock. Irving Berlin's “White Christmas.” $10-$26. woodstockoperahouse.com.

“Christmas With Elvis”: Various dates and times from Friday, Nov. 24, through Saturday, Jan. 7, at The Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St., Chicago. The dramedy tells the story of a lonely, anxious and slightly angry woman who discovers, on Christmas Eve, that her ex-husband is getting remarried. Before she can indulge in her misery, the ghost of Elvis Presley appears in her apartment. Contains adult themes and language. $50-$75. chopintheatre.com.

Bar Humbug @ Lighthouse Immersive: Various dates and times Friday, Nov. 24, through Dec. 30 at Lighthouse ArtSpace Chicago, 108 W. Germania Place, Chicago. A pop-up bar experience with wall-to-wall holiday scenes, long tables and plush banquettes, live musicians and DJs playing holiday classics. 21 or older. Tickets start at $12. thebarhumbug.com.

“The Immersive Nutcracker — A Winter Miracle”: Various dates and times Friday, Nov. 24, through Dec. 31 at Lighthouse ArtSpace Chicago, 108 W. Germania Place, Chicago. This 30-minute immersive experience, set to Tchaikovsky's music, weaves the classic tale of Marie and her toy nutcracker. Follow them on their magical adventure through the Land of Sweets, brought to life by renowned ballet dancers and innovative projection mapping technology. $29.99. immersive-nutcracker.com.

Saturday, Nov. 25

Run Fox Run 5K: 8 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at Fox Run Golf Links, 333 Plum Grove Road, Elk Grove Village. $25. Register at elkgroveparks.org.

Holiday Pop-up Shop: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 25 and Dec. 9, at Arts in Bartlett, 215 S. Main St., Bartlett. Local artisans and crafters will be selling unique items. Free. artsinbartlett.org.

Marmion Christmas Craft Show: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at Marmion Academy's Regole Field House and Alumni Hall gym, 1000 Butterfield Road, Aurora. Enter through doors 7 and 16. More than 200 crafters and vendors, lunch from Belgio's Catering and freshly baked pies sold by the Flannigan Rifles Drill Team. A Bloody Mary & Mimosa Bar will be available on Sunday for those 21 and older. Admission: $5 for ages 12 and older. marmion.org.

Chicago Artisan Market Ravenswood: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 25-26, at the Artifact Events Building, 4325 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago. Artisans will be selling fashion, home goods, art and food. $8 in advance; $10 at the door; free for kids younger than 12. chicagoartisanmarket.com.

Handmade Holiday Craft Fair: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at Elara Convention Center, Holiday Inn Crystal Lake, 800 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake. Handmade works by local artists, crafters, bakers and chefs. Free. artisan-markets.com.

Holiday Cheers Sips of the Season: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, in Elgin. Over 20 downtown businesses offer hot cocoa with festive toppings, warm apple cider, mint mocha, Ponche Navideño, warm tea and more. Order a commemorative Holiday Cheers insulated cup for $25 at downtownelgin.com/hollydays.

Holiday Craft Fair: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at the Village Barn, 2 Lagoon Drive, Hawthorn Woods. Vendors and businesses will be selling unique and handcrafted items. Free. vhw.org.

Holidays at The Haight: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at The Haight, 166 Symphony Way, Elgin. Sip and shop from a curated collection of over 40 local makers and their goods. It is also one of the 20 stops in downtown Elgin's annual Sip & Stroll from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free entry. facebook.com/thehaight166.

Santa House Visits: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays, noon to 3 p.m. Sundays, and 6-8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, from Nov. 25 through Dec. 23, at Williams and Brink streets, Crystal Lake. Bring your camera for a visit with Santa in his Santa House. Free. downtowncl.org.

Santa's Craft Corner: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 25 through Dec. 9, in the Cosley Zoo Kiebler Room, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton. Visit Santa at the zoo, make a craft and tour the zoo. Admission includes crafts, refreshments and a visit with Santa. Bring a camera. No advanced registration required. $20 per household at the door (cash or credit cards accepted). cosleyzoo.org/santas-craft-corner-2.

Spring Valley Holiday Craft Fair: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 25-26, at Spring Valley Nature Center, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Handcrafted gift items including jewelry, home decorations and more. The Spring Valley Nature Club will be selling food and beverages. Free. parkfun.com.

Breakfast with Santa at Drury Lane: 10:30 a.m. Saturdays, Nov. 25 through Dec. 23, at Lucille at Drury Lane, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. Meet Santa, make doughnuts, dine on brunch and then see a production of “A Christmas Carol” (tickets not included). Adults: $40; kids 3-12: $30; free for kids 2 and younger. lucillerestaurant.com/holiday-events.

Family holiday movies: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at the Glen Art Theatre, 540 Crescent Blvd., Glen Ellyn. Screening of “Arthur's Christmas.” Free. glenellynchamber.com/holiday.

Holiday C.A.R.E. Faire: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at Oakton Community Center, 4701 Oakton St., Skokie. Pet photos with Santa, baked goods, silent auction items, raffle prizes and unique giftable items from vendors. Proceeds will go to C.A.R.E. to help homeless pets in the Chicago area. Free entry. carenorthshore.org/faire.

The Fox Valley “Nutcracker”: 1 and 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, and 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at the Batavia Fine Arts Centre, 1250 W. Wilson St., Batavia. Fox Valley Ballet presents “The Nutcracker,” showcasing students from local dance studios alongside professional dancers. $20.50-$45.50. foxvalleynutcracker.com or bataviafineartscentre.org.

Salt Creek Ballet's “The Nutcracker”: 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, and 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at the Hinsdale Central auditorium, 5500 S. Grant St., Hinsdale. Salt Creek Ballet's holiday tradition. After the Sunday matinee, join the Sugar Plum Party, an annual family event. Shop the Nutcracker Boutique featuring themed holiday decor and ornaments. $42-$50. saltcreekballet.org.

Fox Lake Festival of Lights: 3-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at Millennium Park, 23 Rollins Road, Fox Lake. Kriss Kringle Winter Market located at the Community Garden Green will be open from 3-6 p.m. The parade is at 5 p.m. at Grant Community High School, 285 E. Grand Ave., Fox Lake, followed by the tree lighting at Millennium Park and the opening of the Santa Cottage. foxlake.org.

Holiday in the Park & Parade: 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at Jackman Park, 1011 Lehigh Ave., Glenview. Follow the parade down Glenview Road from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church going west to Jackman Park. Festivities in the park include a visit with Santa, hay rides, a train ride for kids, carolers, cookies, hot chocolate and popcorn. Free. business.glenviewchamber.com.

Vernon Hills' Tree/Menorah/Kwanzaa Lighting: 4:30-5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at the Vernon Hills Golf Course, 291 Evergreen Drive, Vernon Hills. Join the village of Vernon Hills, Countryside Fire Protection District, Vernon Hills Police Department and the Vernon Hills Park District as they light the Village Tree, Menorah and Kwanzaa displays. Free. vernonhills.org.

Elgin Tree Lighting Ceremony: 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at Festival Park's Splash Pad, 132 S. Grove Ave., Elgin. Santa and city officials turn on the holiday tree lights. cityofelgin.org.

Holiday Parade Watch Party & Dinner: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. The inaugural parade watch and dinner party with a reserved spot along the Main Street sidewalk. Or watch the parade from Rock 'N Ravioli. Strolling carolers and dine from the Italian buffet. Limited tickets. $25. arcadalive.com.

Prospect Heights Tree Lighting: 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at Gary Morava Center, 110 W. Camp McDonald Road, Prospect Heights. Join Mayor Pat Ludvigsen for the annual Prospect Heights holiday tree lighting and Santa visit, sponsored by the Prospect Heights Garden Club and Lions Club. Christmas carols and refreshments. prospect-heights.il.us.

For King + Country's “A Drummer Boy Christmas — The 2023 Tour Experience”: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at NOW Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. $29.99-$205. nowarena.com.

“A Christmas Carol”: Various times and dates from Saturday, Nov. 25, through Dec. 24 at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. For ages 5 and older. For tickets, see metropolisarts.com.

Sunday, Nov. 26

CPKC Holiday Train: 9-9:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at the Pingree Grove train station, 14N042 Reinking Road, Pingree Grove. 24th annual holiday train with Australian country duo Seaforth and Canadian singer Kiesza. Train arrives about 15 minutes before. Bring nonperishable items for the Northern Illinois Food Bank. Reinking Road will be closed during this event. cpkcr.com.

Brunch with Santa at Drury Lane: 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 26 through Dec. 18, at Lucille at Drury Lane, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. Dine on brunch with Santa and then see a production of “Cinderella” (tickets not included). Adults: $85; kids 5-12: $30; and free for kids 4 and younger. lucillerestaurant.com/holiday-events.

John Hersey High School Charles Dickens Carolers: 1:15 and 2:15 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at Prospect Heights Public Library, 12 N. Elm St., Prospect Heights. Under the direction of Sara Michael, this a cappella choral group will perform a variety of traditional holiday and madrigal music in traditional Charles Dickens' period attire. In-person seating is limited. Free. Register at phpl.info.

“Elf in Concert”: 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont. $47-$52. rosemont.com/theatre/event/elf-in-concert.

Cookies & Churros with Santa: 2:30-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at Flores Banquets, 240 N. Throop St., Woodstock. After the annual Woodstock Christmas Parade, enjoy Cookies and Churros with Santa. Free. Sponsored by the City of Woodstock, Hispanic Connections, and the Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry and other sponsors. woodstockilchamber.com.

Itasca Winter Wonderland: 4-5:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at the Usher Park gazebo, 203 S. Walnut, Itasca. Santa, Mrs. Claus and their North Pole companions will join the holiday tree lighting by the village and park district. Music from the Holiday Dickens Carolers, a holiday performance from the Inner Prestige Dancers, and hot chocolate and cookies. Free. itasca.com.

Batavia Celebration of Lights: 5-7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at the Batavia Riverwalk, 151 Island Ave., Batavia. Holiday craft activities, a community singalong, Batavia Community Band, ceremonial tree lighting at 5:30 p.m., a visit with Santa in Santa's Warming House, story hour, visits with reindeer and Christmas Tree Lane. Free hayrides with a donation of food or $1 cash, which benefits the Batavia Food Pantry. Free. bataviaparks.org.

Bret Michaels' Parti-Gras Holiday Party: 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. $89. arcadalive.com.

An Evening with Chevy Chase and National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation: 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at the Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago. $49.75-$89.75. chicagotheatre.com.

Monday, Nov. 27

Santa's Naperville Workshop: 5-8 p.m. weekdays and noon to 8 p.m. weekends, from Monday, Nov. 27, through Dec. 21, at Paddleboat Quarry Rentals, 441 Aurora Ave., Naperville. Visit with Santa. Pet Night on Nov. 28; special needs night Nov. 29-30. There will be no on-site registration or walk-ups available. $10-$15. Register at napervilleparks.org/santasworkshop.

Glendale Heights Tree Lighting Ceremony: 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 27, at Civic Center complex, 300 Civic Center Plaza, Glendale Heights. Local choral groups will perform holiday music and the mayor and Santa Claus will light up the Civic Center complex. Free. glendaleheights.org.

Holiday Movie Night: 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 27, at Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. See “Frozen.” Doors open at 6:15 p.m. $1, cash only at the door. paramountaurora.com.

Wednesday, Nov. 29

Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas: 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 29, at St. Mark's Historic Chapel, 320 Franklin St., Geneva. Jenny Riddle shares stories behind beloved Christmas songs, based on Ace Collins' book of the same title. Optional 9 a.m. breakfast in the Atrium cafe of The Little Traveler, 404 S. Third St. $25-$35. Register in advance at littletraveler.com.

Luminaria Walk: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 29, through Saturday, Dec. 2, at Veteran Acres, 431 N. Walkup, Crystal Lake. Stroll under the stars along the lit trail through Veteran Acres. $1 per person or $5 per family donation appreciated. Donations go toward future Nature Center education programs. crystallakeparks.org/special-events.

“Mrs. Claus! A Holiday Musical”: Various dates and times from Wednesday, Nov. 29, through Dec. 23 at the Apollo Theater, 2550 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. Chicago Kids Company-Theater for Children presents this holiday classic. Join Mrs. Claus as she teams up with the new Elf Class of 2023 to find Santa's missing list in time for Christmas. For kids 2-10. $10-$22. (773) 205-9600 or chicagokidscompany.com.

Thursday, Nov. 30

Craft & Vendor Fair: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, at McHenry Senior Center, 3519 N. Richmond Road, McHenry. Annual craft and vendor fair. (815) 344-3555 or seniorservicesassoc.org.

Naperville Garden Club Cup of Cheer House Walk, Holiday Market and Tea: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, and Friday, Dec. 1, at Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873, 908 Jackson Ave., Naperville. Tour four Naperville homes decorated for the holidays. The market with holiday home decor is open to the public without an event ticket from noon to 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1. Tickets are $45-$60. napervillegardenclub.org.

Weed Ladies Winter Sale: 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, Nov. 30 through Dec. 8, at Naper Settlement's Daniel House, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. Creative seasonal floral arrangements designed by the Weed Ladies of the Naperville Heritage Society. Free entry. napersettlement.org.

Lincolnwood Lights: 5-6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Village Hall Promenade, 6900 Lincoln Ave., Lincolnwood. The village's tree lighting, plus the School District 74 Chorus and Mia Cejovic will perform a variety of holiday music, the Lincolnwood Library staff will read a story and Santa will be arriving by fire truck. lincolnwoodil.org.

Artisan Gift Sale — Christmas at Fine Line: 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 1-2; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 4-5, at Fine Line Creative Arts Center, 37W570 Bolcum Road, St. Charles. Annual event brings together over 60 artists selling one-of-a-kind items. Free entry. fineline.org/pages/christmastime-at-fine-line-holiday-show.

Rolling Meadows Holiday Celebration Tree Lighting: 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Rolling Meadows Historical Museum, 3100 Central Road, Rolling Meadows. cityrm.org.

“The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, Nov. 30 through Dec. 8, and 1 and 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 2-10, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Tchaikovsky's timeless ballet follows courageous young Clara on her journey through an enchanted land of dancing snowflakes to the court of the Sugar Plum Fairy. $26-$38. prairiecenter.org.

“Absurd Person Singular, A Christmas Farce”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 30 through Dec. 23, at Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. Alan Ayckbourn's comedy follows three couples, in three kitchens, on three successive Christmas Eves. $22-$28. steelbeamtheatre.com.

Chris Isaak, “It's Almost Christmas Tour”: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. The two-time Grammy Award nominee performs his hits and yuletide favorites. $45-$95. geneseetheatre.com.