Things to do Dec. 13-19: ‘The Nutcracker,’ Dickens of a Holiday, Holly Jolly Days, holiday light shows and more

Friday, Dec. 13

International Gem & Jewelry Show: Noon to 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Shop directly from wholesalers, manufacturers and designers in a marketplace setting. Kids younger than 9 not permitted. $6 online, $8 at the door. intergem.com.

“Nutcracker All Jazzed Up”: Noon, 3 and 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 13-14, at the Bartlett Community Center, 700 S. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. Presented by the Bartlett Park District and Lisa’s School of Dance, the production includes local dancers performing to Tchaikovsky’s musical score reorchestrated into a modern, up-tempo, family-friendly experience. Tickets required. bartlettparkdistrict.com.

Holly Jolly Days: 3-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13; 1-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15; and 3-7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Dec. 19-20, at Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. Holiday crafts, stories and more. Children must be accompanied by an adult. $5; free for kids younger than 4. napersettlement.org/hollyjollydays.

Santa Splash: 5-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at the Wheeling Community Center Indoor Pool, 100 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Santa Claus makes a special appearance at the indoor pool, plus festive photos and treats. For kids 3-8. $10; fee includes open swim time after the event. Registration required. wheelingparkdistrict.com/recreation/special-events.

Holiday Movie in the Barn: 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at Community Park, 5 Park View Lane, Hawthorn Woods. Enjoy a holiday movie. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; movie starts at 6:30 p.m. vhw.org.

Holly Jolly Gingerbread House Workshop: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at Gary Morava Recreation Center, 110 W. Camp McDonald Road, Prospect Heights. $39 for a family of up to four. Registration required. phparks.org.

Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Alongs: 6 p.m. Fridays, Dec. 13 and 20, at Millennium Park, Wrigley Square, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago. Each week features a Chicago-area choral group leading guests in song. chicago.gov.

Santa Visits Lollipop Lane: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, and 2-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15, at Chamber Park Community Center, 131 N. Wolf Road, Wheeling. Santa and Mrs. Claus will pose for free photos with families. Cookies and commemorative ornaments for sale. Free. wheelinghistoricalsociety.com.

Family Gingerbread House: 6:30-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at the Community Recreation Center, 100 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Each group will receive one gingerbread house, frosting and candy for decorating. Each child will receive a gingerbread craft activity. Registration deadline is Dec. 11. For kids 3 and older. $35-$40. Registration required. wheelingparkdistrict.com.

‘Tis the Season 2024 Annual Dance Concert: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, and 2 and 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Prairie Lakes Theater, 515 E. Thacker St., Des Plaines. Artistry in Motion Dance Company presents its annual dance concert. Tickets on sale now. dpparks.org.

Cherish the Ladies — A Celtic Christmas: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at the Irish American Heritage Center, 4626 N. Knox Ave., Chicago. $35. irish-american.org.

Judith Svalander Ballet School’s “The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays, and 2 and 6 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 13-22, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Experience Clara’s magical journey with Svalander’s ballet company. $31-$51. woodstockoperahouse.com.

A Modern Jazz Christmas: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at the Armerding Center Concert Hall, 520 E. Kenilworth Ave., Wheaton. Faculty artist Kevin Brown presents a series of his modern jazz Advent and Christmas arrangements in a quintet featuring Wheaton alumnus Matt Peterson on keyboard, Wheaton faculty member Lucas Gillan on drums, saxophonist Andy Schlinder and bassist James Ross. wheaton.edu/calendar-of-events.

“Christmas in the Air”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at the Batavia Fine Arts Centre, 1250 W. Wilson St., Batavia. Rand Productions’ Broadway-style song-and-dance review, as told by Santa’s elves and starring precision dancers known as the Tinsel-toes, features a mix of classic holiday melodies, with modern favorites and original music. $50-$76. bataviafineartscentre.org/events.

“Elf” in Concert: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13; 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14; and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at Chicago Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. Watch the holiday film on a giant screen while members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra play John Debney’s score. $59-$150. cso.org/.

“It's a Wonderful Life, A Live Radio Play”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, and 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Batavia City Hall, 100 N. Island Ave., 3rd floor, Batavia. Albright Theatre Company’s production of the holiday classic as a live 1940s radio broadcast. $18-$23. albrighttheatre.com.

Sons of Serendip Christmas — Beyond the Lights: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at ECC Arts Center, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. A finalist on Season 9 of “America’s Got Talent,” this classical crossover quartet includes a harpist, cellist, pianist and lead vocalist. $37. eccartscenter.org/events/centerstage.

WT Productions “Seasonal Lights”: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 13-14, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at GreenMan Theatre, 232 S. York St., Elmhurst. In partnership with GreenMan Theatre Troupe, this new collection of six short plays looks at Christmas and the winter holiday season from different perspectives. For ages 13 and older. $25. wtproductions2.weebly.com.

Electric Illumination: 8:30-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 13-14, at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. A special late-night experience when ages 18 and older can enjoy a curated playlist of Diva Anthems synchronized to the light displays. A DJ will be stationed in Arbor Court. Hot chocolate, snacks, alcoholic beverages and s’more kits can be purchased in concession tents and enjoyed by the bonfires. Tickets start at $30 at mortonarb.org.

Saturday, Dec. 14

Algonquin Breakfast with Santa: Seatings every 30 minutes from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 14, at Cucina Bella, 220 S. Main St., Algonquin. All you-can-eat breakfast buffet, crafts and a visit with Santa. $32 for residents, $42 for nonresidents 13 and older; $25/$35 for kids 3-12; free for kids 2 and younger. rec.algonquin.org.

Breakfast with Santa by Share Our Spare: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Share Our Spare, 3800 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. Kids can meet and take a photo with Santa and make Christmas crafts. $40; free for kids younger than 1. one.bidpal.net/sosbreakfastwithsanta/ticketing.

Chicagoland Christmas Show: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15, at the Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. Over 100 vendors of toys, holiday decorations, crafts, collectibles and more. Plus, photos with Santa, ornament making, holiday characters, magicians, face painting and more. $10. chicagolandchristmasshow.com.

Jingle Bell Jog: 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Old Traughber Jr. High School, Franklin Street, Oswego. All participants receive a long sleeve shirt and jingle bells. Cocoa and cookies at the end of the race and an appearance by Santa. Register: oswegochamber.org/event/jingle-bell-jog.

Lambs Farm Breakfast with Santa: 9 and 10:30 a.m. and noon Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15, at Lambs Farm, 14245 W. Rockland Road, Libertyville. Brunch at the Magnolia Café & Bakery, kids’ crafts and a goody bag. $18.95, $7.95 for kids younger than 2. For reservations, call (847) 362-5050. lambsfarm.org.

Santa Brunch: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15, at Cantigny Golf Clubhouse, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Includes photos with Santa. $34 for adults, $26 for kids 5-12, and $10 for kids 4 and younger. A $50 deposit is required that will be applied to the final bill. Reservations: cantignygolf.com.

Santa Saturday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at The Richard H. Driehaus Museum, 50 E. Erie St., Chicago. Visit and take photos with Santa. $25; kids $13. driehausmuseum.org.

Doggy Grinchmas: 9:30 and 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Sheila Ray Adult Center, 225 E. Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove Village. Bring your dog and participate in a variety of activities. All participants will receive a souvenir picture with the Grinch. Dogs must be leashed; retractable leashes are not allowed. Registration deadline is Dec 11. elkgroveparks.org.

Dickens of a Holiday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, in downtown Libertyville. Photos with Santa in Cook Park, Children’s Holiday Shoppe at Petranek’s Pharmacy and Victorian Tea from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Libertyville Civic Center. Free; donations of nonperishable food items appreciated. mainstreetlibertyville.org.

Holiday movie: 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the York Theatre, 150 N. York St., Elmhurst. Elmhurst History Museum hosts a showing of “Elf.” $5. classiccinemas.com.

Santa Paws: 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 14, at Clayson House Museum & Library, 224 E. Palatine Road, Palatine. Price includes a souvenir photo of your pet with Santa, a stocking full of treats and a craft activity for your dog. For dogs only. Registration is required. $10-$15. palatineparks.org.

Santa’s Craft Corner: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Cosley Zoo, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton. Admission includes crafts, refreshments and a visit with Santa. Bring your camera. Held in the Kiebler Room on the second floor of the large barn, accessible by stairs. No advanced registration required. $20 per household at the door (cash or credit cards accepted). wheatonparkdistrict.com.

Scott Smith’s All Animal Expo: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles. Bimonthly show featuring vendors from the Midwest. $3-$8. allanimalexpo.com.

Winter Frostival: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, 110 W. Fremont St., Arlington Heights. Meet a real Ice Princess and Ice Queen, plus strolling carolers, winter animals, Santa Claus, storytime, crafts, cookies and cocoa. Free. ahpd.org/event/winter-frostival-2.

Winter Ravinia Farmers Market: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 14-15 and 21-22, at Wayfarer Theaters, 1850 2nd St., Highland Park. Indoor market for fresh local foods and artisan products. Free. RaviniaFarmersMarket.com.

Family Holiday Movies: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Glen Art Theatre, 540 Crescent Blvd., Glen Ellyn. Screening of “Elf.” Free. glenellynchamber.com/holiday.

East End Holiday Market: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15, at Upside Events, second floor, 440 Central Ave., Highland Park. 20 local vendors offering jewelry, clothing and custom gifts, permanent jewelry, holiday-inspired food and an after-party from 6-8 p.m. Free. info@enaz.com.

Holly Jolly Trolley: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Lombard Community Building. Lombard Park District’s inaugural event starts with crafts, coloring, hot cocoa, cookies and storytelling with Ms. Claus before the Winter Wonderland ride. The trolley heads to the log cabin, where Santa will greet each child and give them a holiday gift. Bring a camera. Register early, as seats on the trolley are limited. $25-$35. lombardparks.com/holly-jolly-trolley.

Arctic Express: 11:52 a.m. and 3:52 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15, at the Grayslake Train Station, Lake and St. Paul streets, Grayslake. Take a holiday train ride featuring an interactive story with music, singing, dancing and more. $25-$31. gurneeparkdistrict.com.

Ice Sculpture Cocoa Crawl: Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, around the Huntley Town Square. Custom-carved holiday animation-themed ice sculptures will be on display on the sidewalks. Tickets are for sale on the Huntley Area Chamber Facebook page and website for $18 for mug and s’mores, $15 for mug only and $5 for s’mores only. Mugs will not be sold on the day of the event. huntley.il.us.

LeeWards Style Ornaments: Noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Elgin History Museum, 360 Park St., Elgin. For decades, LeeWards sold craft supplies and decorations from their flagship store on State Street. Kids 6 or older can make their own LeeWards-style sequin ornament to take home. $5 per ornament. elginhistory.org.

Santa’s Cottage: Noon to 3 p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 14 and 21, at Santa’s Cottage, 300 Plaza Circle, Mundelein. Free. mundeleincommunityconnection.org.

Salt Creek Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”: 1 and 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15, at Belushi Performance Hall, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. This full-scale production features live accompaniment from the New Philharmonic, plus magical effects and scenery. $36-$46. saltcreekballet.org/the-nutcracker.

Jingle Bell Zumba: 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Birchwood Recreation Center, 435 W. Illinois Ave., Palatine. Dress in Christmas attire for this Jingle Bell Zumba party. $10-$15. palatineparks.org/event/jingle-bell-zumba-2.

LoMastro’s “The Nutcracker”: 2 and 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15, at the John & Nancy Hughes Theater at the Gorton Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest. Over 100 youth will perform alongside professionals in principle roles. $32-$41 in advance. lomastro.com/nutcracker.

Senior Suburban Orchestra’s Family & Friends Concert: 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ sanctuary, 5739 Dunham Road, Downers Grove. Features Gustav Holst’s “In the Bleak Midwinter,” Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride,” “Santa at the Symphony” and a Christmas sing-along. Donations welcome. seniorsuburbanorchestra.org.

Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Spectacular: 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Spectacular includes carols, new spins on modern favorites and an appearance by Santa Claus. $20-$65. elginsymphony.org.

New Tradition Chorus Holiday Concert: 2:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15, at the Glenview Community Church, 1000 Elm St., Glenview. The award-winning a cappella chorus will present “Celebrate the Spirit.” Tickets are $20-$25. newtradition.org.

Arlingtones Christmas Concert: 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. $5.20-$12.75. arlingtones.net.

Merry & Bright, A Victorian Christmas: 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Downers Grove Museum, 831 Maple Ave., Downers Grove. Learn about Victorian Christmas traditions, tour the holiday-decorated Blodgett houses and visit with Santa. Stroll the park on a luminary walk, view decorated trees, and warm up around a campfire with Victorian era carolers. $5 or $8 at the door. dgparks.org.

“We Need A Little Christmas”: 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Barrows Auditorium of the Billy Graham Center, 500 College Ave., Wheaton, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, 307 Cedar Ave., St. Charles. Northern Illinois Harmony Alliance production featuring over 60 barbershop singers from across the suburbs performing Christmas favorites and carols. $15-$25. Limited tickets at door. Tickets: chorusofdupage.com/events.

Luminare Christmas Mistletoe Madness Tour: 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. Led by former Mannheim Steamroller keyboardist and longtime musical director for Dennis DeYoung of Styx, the tour includes reimagined holiday classics and high-energy symphonic rock. $39-$79. arcadalive.com.

Winter Wonder Lights Celebration kickoff: 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Peck Farm Park, 4038 Kaneville Road, Geneva. Enjoy the holiday lights, plus crafts and cookie decorating, hot cocoa and s’mores by the fire pit, Letters to Santa and holiday music. Preregister for family visits/photos with Santa for $15-$20 per family via genevaparks.org.

Green Oaks Holiday Chorus concert: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1151 N. St. Mary’s Road, Libertyville. Choral selections, carols and popular Christmas songs. Free. Monetary donations go to PADS. (847) 362-3809.

“Jingle Moms”: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Comedy show featuring Ana Belaval, Jeanie Doogan and Chelsea Hood. $35-$45. rauecenter.org.

Monarch’s “The Nutcracker”: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Batavia Fine Arts Centre, 1250 W. Wilson St., Batavia. A twist on the classic ballet. Principal dancers from the Joffrey Ballet of Chicago will make a special guest appearance as the Cavalier and Sugar Plum Fairy. $41-$47. bataviafineartscentre.org/events/.

Wreaths Across America: Saturday, Dec. 14, at cemeteries across the suburbs. The nonprofit is dedicated to helping families honor their loved ones by sending wreaths to cemeteries, monuments and state houses across the country. For local events, go to wreathsacrossamerica.org.

Sunday, Dec. 15

Breakfast with Santa Claus: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, and Saturday, Dec. 21, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. Dine on breakfast in Rock ‘n Ravioli before entering the theater for a visit with Santa and other holiday characters. Each child will receive a gift. $40 for those 12 and older, $30 for kids 2-11. arcadalive.com.

Christmas at the Farm: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at Kendall County Historical Society, 7935 Route 71, Yorkville. Kids’ crafts, a storyteller, chestnut roasting, cookie icing and Santa Claus. lyonfarmkchs.org.

Buddy Rich Big Band Machine’s “A Groovy Christmas”: 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. Music from Buddy’s daughter, vocalist Cathy Rich, along with Emmy Award-winning drummer Gregg Potter and the 15-piece Buddy Rich Band. arcadalive.com.

Christmas Concert: 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. “Carols Old and New: A Celebration in Song and Scripture” features a combined choir, handbells, organ, piano and a sing-along. Freewill offering. faithlutheran-ah.org.

“Welcome Christmas” by Lake County Symphony Orchestra: 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at Village Hall Barn, 2 Lagoon Drive, Hawthorn Woods. Program features Barber Die Natalie and Alfred Reed Russian Christmas music. $40; $10 with student ID; free for kids 5 and younger. lakecountysymphonyorchestra.com.

A Living Nativity: 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 40W720 Plank Road, Elgin. An outdoor Living Nativity with real people and live animals, followed by carolers, cookies, hot cocoa and coffee. Photo opportunities and seating is available for those with disabilities. Free. stpauluccelgin.org.

Northwest Choral Society — A Northwest Christmas: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at Saint Raymond’s Catholic Church, Lincoln Street and Elmhurst Avenue, Mount Prospect. Holiday music and a Christmas bake sale. Cash or check only for tickets purchased at the door. $15-$20. nwchoralsociety.org/concerts/a-northwest-christmas.

“Holiday Gifts and Puccini Hits”: 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Norris Cultural Arts Center gallery, 1040 Dunham Road, St. Charles. Vocalists Diva Montell and Jeorge Holmes perform holiday classics and a tribute to opera composer Giacomo Puccini on the centennial of his passing in 1924. Accompanied by pianist Marilyn Gans. $10-$20. norrisculturalarts.com.

Tuesday, Dec. 17

“White Christmas” sing-along: 7 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 17-18, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Sing along with Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen at these special screenings of the 1954 Christmas classic. Concessions open at 6 p.m. $10. woodstockoperahouse.com.

Wednesday, Dec. 18

Itasca Holiday Trolley Lights Tour: 5-7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 18-19, starting at the Itasca Waterpark, 100 N. Catalpa St., Itasca. Sip hot cocoa while traveling around town to see the light displays at the Winter Wonderland and other sites. $10. Register: itascaparkdistrict.com.

Itasca Pictures With Santa: 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 18, at the Usher Park gazebo, 203 S. Walnut, Itasca. Take photos with Santa and pick up a holiday token. Donate a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots or a nonperishable food donation for the Itasca Food Pantry. itascaparkdistrict.com.

Joss Stone with the Chicago Philharmonic — “Merry Christmas, Love”: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 18, at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Parkway, Chicago. $54. auditoriumtheatre.org.

Thursday, Dec. 19

Chicago Christmas Classics Day Trip: 9 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 19. Day trip departs from the Wheaton Community Center. Explore holiday traditions from around the globe at the Griffin Museum of Science & Industry’s “Christmas Around the World.” Then have lunch at the Walnut Room on State Street. For ages 18 or older. $142. Register: facebook.com/wheatonparkdistrict.

Chicago Sinfonietta’s “Holidays of Joy”: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19, at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago. Led by guest conductor Chelsea Tipton II, with guest vocalist Alfreda Burke and featuring seasonal favorites such as “A Christmas Overture,” “Sleigh Ride,” “Winter Wonderland” and “Appalachian Carol.” $27-$82, $17 for students. chicagosinfonietta.org.

“The Magic of the Nutcracker”: 6:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Dec. 19-20, at the Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Dancenter North’s 36th anniversary performance featuring over 100 performers, elaborate sets and Tchaikovsky’s score. $18-$40. geneseetheatre.com.

“Rocky Mountain High Experience — A John Denver Christmas”: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19; 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21; and 1:30 and 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22, at Broadway Playhouse, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago. Rick Schuler’s holiday show features John Denver hits. $45-$100. broadwayinchicago.com.

“Sing Along with Santa — Prancing With the Stars!”: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19; 10 a.m. and noon Saturday, Dec. 21; and 10 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 22, at Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. SBT Youth production with a visit from Santa. $15-$20. steelbeamtheatre.com.

“A Very Brassy Christmas”: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19, at the Epiphany Center for the Arts, 201 S. Ashland Ave., Chicago. 3rd Coast Brass holiday concert series features the 10-piece brass ensemble playing music from holiday films, classic brass repertoire and Christmas songs. $30, $80 for a VIP table for two, or $160 for a VIP table for four. thirdcoastbrass.org.

Ongoing

Winterland at Gallagher Way: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays, through Sunday, Dec. 22, at Gallagher Way, 3635 N. Clark St., Chicago. Family-friendly activities and interactive experiences, neighborhood events, holiday rides, visits with Santa and live music. Free. gallagherway.com.

Holiday Flower Show: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Jan. 12 at Wilder Park Conservatory, Church Street and Prospect Avenue, Elmhurst. A seasonal display of holiday flowers. epd.org.

Christmas Around the World & Holidays of Lights: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. through the first weekend in January at The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. 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 representing holiday traditions from cultures around the globe. For tickets, see msichicago.org.

Dickens Holiday Village: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily through Jan. 1 at Kringle’s Christmas Village, 510 Orchard St., Antioch. Public art exhibit featuring lifelike figures representing scenes from the Dickens era. This year’s display will be indoors for easy viewing in case of weather, plus a few scenes outdoors on the sidewalks. Free. antiochchamber.org.

Poinsettia Sale: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, Dec. 11-15, at the Cantigny Visitors Center, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Annual holiday sale featuring 17 varieties and three different sizes of poinsettias. cantigny.org.

Aurora Christkindlmarket: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays; and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursdays, 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.

McCormick Tribune Ice Rink: 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. through Feb. 2 at Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago. 90-minute sessions. Free, but tickets are required. Skate rentals: $16 Monday through Thursday; $20 Friday through Sunday and holidays. chicago.gov.

Happy Holiday Railway: 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 14-15 and 21-22, at Illinois Railway Museum, 7000 Olson Road, Union. Aboard the train you’ll meet Santa, see the light and music show, and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. Trips at 11:30 a.m., 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 4, 5 and 6 p.m. Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled trip. $25. Tickets: irm.org/event/happy-holiday-railway.

Santa at Fashion Outlets of Chicago: 2 p.m. daily through Tuesday, Dec. 24, at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont. Visit with Santa. fashionoutletsofchicago.com.

Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic: 3-9 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays, Dec. 12-15 and 19-22, and Thursday through Tuesday, Dec. 26-31, at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. Features over 2 million twinkling LED lights, themed lighting areas, Santa visits through Dec. 22, Holiday Market, treats and sips and seasonal attractions. Zoo admission and parking fees apply. Advance tickets are required. brookfieldzoo.org//HolidayMagic.

Christmas Musical Light Show: 4-9 p.m. daily through Dec. 25 at the Bandshell on Skidmore, Antioch. Stay in your car and watch the lights on the band shell synchronized to holiday music playing on your car radio. The 20-minute shows run continuously. Free. antiochchamber.org.

Naper Lights: 4-10 p.m. daily through Wednesday, Jan. 1, in downtown Naperville. Display of holiday lights and music along Water Street, Foyo Plaza, Jaycees Park and the Riverwalk. Free. naperlights.com.

Illumination Tree Lights: 4:30-9:30 p.m. select days through Saturday, Jan. 4, at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. See 17 displays of lights set to music highlighting the beauty of trees in winter along a 1-mile, ADA-accessible, paved path. Roast marshmallows for s’mores and enjoy a hot seasonal beverage from the concession tents along the trail. The exhibition is closed select Mondays and Tuesdays and on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Tickets: mortonarb.org.

Lightscape: 4:30-9:15 p.m. select dates through Jan. 5 at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Take a nighttime stroll through illuminated displays. $32 for members, $34 for nonmembers for adults; $17/$19 for kids 3-12 in advance; $37/$39 for adults, $22/$24 for kids the day of. chicagobotanic.org/lightscape.

ZooLights: Time slots start at 4:30 p.m. select dates through Jan. 5 at Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago. ZooLights will feature more than 3 million lights, including hundreds of luminous LED displays and festive experiences. $7-$10; free on select Mondays. lpzoo.org/event/zoolights.

Christmas at Cantigny: 5-9 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays through Dec. 31; and Dec. 18, 22-23 and 30-31, at Cantigny, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Stroll through a half-mile, fully ADA- and stroller-accessible path featuring music-orchestrated light shows, festive decorations, huge flower sculptures and a 28-foot Christmas tree. This year, the light show expands into upper and lower display gardens. Take a tour of the renovated McCormick House. Weekdays: $8-$12 in advance or $10-$15 at the door; weekends: $15-$20 or $19-$30. Tickets: cantigny.org.

Holiday Express: 5-8 p.m. Fridays and 2-7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, through Dec. 22, at Blackberry Farm, 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora. Thousands of twinkling lights and holiday music. Admission includes unlimited rides on attractions, including the replica steam engine train and hay wagon. $10 for ages 1 and older. blackberryfarm.com.

Home for the Holidays Lighted Christmas Trail: 5-9 p.m. through Jan. 2 in Shiloh Park, starting at Port Shiloh Pool parking lot, 1501 Shiloh Blvd., Zion. Drive-through a lighted trail with over 50 displays and 100,000 lights. zionparkdistrict.com.

Santa House: 5-8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays; and noon to 3 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 22, in the Brink Street Market, Crystal Lake. Visit with Santa Claus. downtowncl.org/events.

Santa’s Naperville Workshop: 5-8 p.m. weekdays and noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 22 at the Paddleboat Quarry Rentals, 441 Aurora Ave., Naperville. $10-$15. No on-site registration or walk-ups available. Register in advance at napervilleparks.org/santasworkshop.

Holiday Lights in Lilacia Park: 6-8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 5-7 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 22, at Lilacia Park, 150 S. Park Ave., Lombard. Animated light shows, decorated trees, a giant gingerbread house and more. Visit with Santa Claus and other holiday characters, plus free hot cocoa and cookies. lombardparks.com/holiday-lights.

Joffrey Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays, and 1 and 6 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 27; plus 2 p.m. Thursdays, Dec. 19 and 26, Tuesday, Dec. 24, and Saturday, Dec. 28, at the Civic Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago. $36-$187. joffrey.org.

“The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Dec. 12-13, and 1 and 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Schaumburg Dance Ensemble performs Tchaikovsky’s timeless ballet. $30-$48. prairiecenter.org.

“Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 22, at Lifeline Theater, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago. Tom Mula’s production is staged as a one-man show through the eyes of the shackled Jacob Marley. $25-$45. lifelinetheatre.com.

“Matilda the Musical”: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 13-14, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at Playhouse 111, 111 N. Hale St., Wheaton. Wheaton Drama’s production of the musical based on Roald Dahl’s novel. $23-$26. wheatondrama.org/project/matilda-the-musical.

“The Wickhams, Christmas at Pemberley”: 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Dec. 12-14, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at Playhouse Theatre, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. Buffalo Theatre Ensemble’s production is a holiday tale about the confines of class and the generosity of forgiveness. $42-$44. atthemac.org.

“The Ultimate Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 22, at Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. John Westby’s modern adaptation of the classic “Christmas Carol” puts Charles Dickens on stage with an ensemble cast of mismatched locals to enact a Christmas story written by his friend, Ebenezer Scrooge, Esq. Mayhem and misanthropy ensue as Dickens assumes the role of Bob Cratchit, the Ghosts play hooky, and Tiny Tim won't stop rapping in church. $22-$28. steelbeamtheatre.com.

Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas”: 8 p.m. Fridays; 4 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 1 and 5 p.m. Sundays; 1 and 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays; 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, through Dec. 29, at the Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. Showbiz buddies and military comrades Bob Wallace and Phil Davis stage a winter pageant to save a struggling Vermont inn owned by their old commanding officer. Ticket prices start at $63. marriotttheatre.com.

The Beatrix Holiday Party: 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays, through Dec. 29, at the Chicago Children’s Theatre, 100 S. Racine, Chicago. Three storytellers narrate interactive performances of “The Tale of Tom Kitten,” “The Tailor of Gloucester,” “The Tale of Mr. Jeremy Fisher” and “The Tale of Peter Rabbit.” After the show, families gather in CCT’s lobby to play with the puppets, take pictures with the cast, enjoy Beatrix Potter-inspired crafts and holiday treats courtesy of Eli’s Cheesecake. Recommended for kids 8 and younger. $45.25. chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

Christmas at Cantigny, A Very Taylor Christmas: 5-9 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 29, except Dec. 22, at Cantigny, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Experience a special light show to songs from Taylor Swift’s eras. $15-$25, $19-$30. Tickets: cantigny.org.

“A Very Sketchy Christmas”: 7 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 22 at Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. Join The Well This is Awkward Players for an evening of irreverent sketch comedy. $15-$20. steelbeamtheatre.com.

“A Christmas Carol”: Various times and dates through Friday, Dec. 20, at Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. $30-$85. goodmantheatre.org.

“A Christmas Carol”: Various times and dates through Dec. 23 at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Appropriate for ages 5 and older; kids 3 and younger will not be permitted. $20-$45. metropolisarts.com/event/christmas-carol-2024.

“A Christmas Carol — A Live Radio Play”: Through Dec. 30 at Oil Lamp Theater, 1723 Glenview Road, Glenview. Return to WBFR Studios on Christmas Eve in 1946. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge on his journey to find the true spirit of the holiday season, complete with live sound effects, radio jingles and more. Recommended for ages 8 and older. $48 adults, $34 students. oillamptheater.org.

Highwood Holiday Light Village: Daily through Thursday, Jan. 2, at Everts Park, 111 North Ave., Highwood. Free. chamberhp.com.

Ice Skating at Rosemont’s Parkway Bank Park: Various hours and dates through Jan. 26 at Parkway Bank Park, 5501 Park Place, Rosemont. Skating is free. Bring skates or rent them on-site for $8. A schedule of ice-skating hours is at parkwaybankpark.com.

Long Grove Vintage Holidays: Through Tuesday, Dec. 24, in downtown Long Grove. Holiday walk, horse-drawn carriage rides on weekends, Santa in the village, caroling around town and more. longgrove.org/festival/holiday-season.

Santa’s Rock N Lights: Times vary by day through Tuesday, Dec. 31, at the Kane County Cougars Northwestern Medicine Field, 34W002 Cherry Lane, Geneva. Drive-through animated lights show. $29.99-$36.99. santasrocknlights.com/geneva.