Things to do Nov. 21-27: Aurora Christkindlmarket, tree lightings, Thanksgiving events and more

Starts before Friday

Barrington Area Artists Association Art Sale: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, and 2-6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington. Members of the Barrington Area Artists Association, both professional and amateur artists, will showcase and sell hundreds of fine art pieces. Free; registration required at barringtonswhitehouse.com.

“Disney’s Lion King Jr.”: 6:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Nov. 20-21, and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 22-23, at the Wheaton Park District Community Center Memorial Auditorium, 1777 S. Blanchard Road, Wheaton. Children’s Playhouse production. Tickets are $10 at wheatonparkdistrict.com.

Friday, Nov. 21

McHenry Festival of Trees: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays Friday, Nov. 21, through Dec. 28 at McHenry City Hall, 333 S. Green St., McHenry, and 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays from Friday, Nov. 21, through Dec. 28 at McHenry Rec Center, 3716 Municipal Drive, McHenry. See decorated trees sponsored by local businesses and civic organizations. Vote for a favorite tree with a donation of canned nonperishable food or toiletries for Veteran’s Path to Hope. facebook.com/mchenryareachamber.

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, Nov. 21 to Dec. 24, at RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora. German-style outdoor market featuring international and local vendors selling a variety of wares. Special hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 27 and Dec. 24 and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 22-23. Free. paramountaurora.com/events/christkindlmarket-2025.

Millennium Park Holiday Market: Noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21-22, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago. Shopping, live entertainment and concessions. Free entry. choosechicago.com.

Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Holiday Magic: 3-9 p.m. Fridays through Sundays, Nov. 21-23, 28-30 and Dec. 4-7, 11-14, 18-21 and 26-31 and Jan. 1-4, at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. Lights festival featuring 3.5 million twinkling LED lights, a giant light-up maze, interactive light displays, light tunnels, a twinkling star walk-through experience, a Holiday Dolphin Show, Santa visits on select nights and a holiday market. Sensory-friendly on Dec. 4. $20.95-$34.95. brookfieldzoo.org/HolidayMagic.

Chicago Sports Spectacular: 3:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21; 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Sports memorabilia dealers, autograph signings, grading and authentification and more. Scheduled guests include Anthony Rizzo, Charlie Sheen, Ric Flair, Brian Urlacher, Lexie Hull, Christopher McDonald, Dennis Rodman, Emilio Estevez, Rick Sutcliffe, Reggie Jackson and more. $15 for Friday, $20 Saturday or Sunday; $10 for kids 6-10; and free for kids 5 and younger. chicagosportsspectacular.com.

Downers Grove Handmade Market: 4-10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at the Moose Lodge, 1030 Warren Ave., Downers Grove. Featuring Chicago-area crafters and artisans. Drinks for purchase from 5-9 p.m. Proceeds go to the club’s general fund. $15. Tickets: dgjwc.org/handmade-market.

Noël Lounge at the McCormick House: Opens 4-10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, and runs 4-10 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, Nov. 22 through Jan. 4, in the Noël Lounge at the McCormick House at Cantigny, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Also open 4-10 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays, Dec. 22-30. Closed Nov. 27, Dec. 23-24 and Dec. 31-Jan. 1. Experience the pop-up lounge in the elegant second-floor rooms with artisanal, shareable small plates and a curated wine list and signature craft cocktails. $20 booking deposit per person. Christmas at Cantigny Light Show purchase required. Tickets: cantigny.org/event/noel-lounge-11-21.

Christmas at Cantigny Light Show: Opens 4:30-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at Cantigny, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Runs 4:30-9 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, Nov. 22 to Dec. 20, and 4:30-9 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday, Dec. 21-23. Closed on Thanksgiving. Third annual event adds interactive elements and more illuminated gardens, including a new Northern Lights display in the Rose Garden. Explore the first floor of Col. McCormick’s decorated mansion and the display of hundreds of poinsettias. Sip hot cocoa or a festive cocktail at the hidden bar. Add the Christmas Spirits upgrade ($40), which includes three festive cocktails, each served at stations along the walk, including a special drink in the McCormick House Freedom Hall Bar, and take home a commemorative mug. Advance tickets: $15-$25 or $19-$30. Register: cantigny.org/event/light-show-11-21.

ZooLights: Time slots start at 4:30 p.m. select dates Friday, Nov. 21, through Jan. 4 at Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago. Features more than 3 million lights, including hundreds of luminous LED displays and festive experiences. $7-$12; free on select Mondays. lpzoo.org/event/zoolights.

Light Up Long Grove: 5-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, in downtown Long Grove. Kick off Vintage Holidays with tractor-pulled wagon rides, holiday shopping and dining, illuminated photo stations, festive street activities and the annual Bridge Lighting Ceremony at 7:30 p.m. with Village President Bill Jacob, followed by a live performance by the Fred Astaire Dancers and an appearance by Santa Claus. Shops will stay open late. Free. longgrove.org/festival/holiday-season.

Holiday Lights: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at Welton Plaza, 4343 Old Grand Ave., Gurnee. A festive holiday light display with firepits, s’mores, food trucks, craft stations and more. Special guests include the Gurnee Park District Above the Barre Dance Team, Gurnee Mayor Tom Hood, and Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Donate nonperishable food items for the Warren Township Food Pantry. Free. gurneeparkdistrict.com.

Woman’s Club of Evanston Holiday Bazaar: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at The Woman’s Club, 1702 Chicago Ave., Evanston. A juried holiday art and gift show with over 50 curated vendors showcasing clothing, accessories, home goods, décor, ceramics, glass, food, bath and body care and more. Free entry. wcofe.org.

Aurora Winter Lights Festival: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, on Downer Place, from Water Street to River Street, Aurora. At 6:30 p.m., Santa and Mrs. Claus lead the illuminated parade featuring reindeer, elves and special guests. After the parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with the mayor, will light the city’s holiday tree. See a drone show along the banks of the Fox River. Afterward, on Stolp Avenue, between Downer Place and Galena Boulevard, there will be food vendors, roaming costumed characters and music at Millennium Plaza. Photos with Santa will be at Grand Army of the Republic Military Museum, 23 E. Downer Place. Free. aurora-il.org.

City of Chicago’s 112th annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, in Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago. Chicago’s official Christmas Tree will be lit and remain illuminated through Sunday, Jan. 11. Free. choosechicago.com.

Moonlight Magic: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, in downtown Sycamore. Watch downtown storefronts come alive as local arts, theater and dance groups perform. Shops stay open late for Moonlight Sales & Holiday Magic. facebook.com/SycamoreIllinois.

Round Lake Beach Tree Lighting: 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at the Cultural and Civic Center, 2007 N. Civic Center Way, Round Lake Beach. Hot chocolate, cookies, Santa and Mrs. Claus and more. Free. rlbciviccenter.com.

Turkey Shoot Free Throw Contest: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at Techny Prairie Activity Center, 180 Anets Drive, Northbrook. Shoot free throws and win a turkey for first place. Second place receives a pie. $9 for Northbrook residents, $14 for nonresidents. nbparks.org.

“Are You Ready For It? A Taylor Experience”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, in the Belushi Performance Hall, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. Re-creating Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour with a live band and costume changes in a family-friendly show. Pre-show Swiftie party in the lobby at 6:30 p.m. with mocktails and cocktails; bring friendship bracelets. $35-$50. atthemac.org.

CLC Winter Dance Concert: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, and 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, in the Mainstage Theatre at the College of Lake County, 19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake. $11-$13. jlcenter.clcillinois.edu

ECC Club Cabaret “Make ’Em Laugh”: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21-22, at ECC SecondSpace Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Vocalist Tommy Hensel and special guests explore the playful side of Broadway’s musical theater. $35. eccartscenter.org/events/theatre/.

Elgin Theater Company’s “Love, Loss and What I Wore”: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21-22, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St., eighth floor, Elgin. The play, based on Ilene Beckerman’s book, explores women’s lives through the lens of their clothing and the memories they evoke. $23-$25. elgin-theatre.org.

Glen Ellyn-Wheaton Chorale’s 40th Anniversary Concert: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, and 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W. Brush Hill Road, Elmhurst. Theme is “Favorite Over the Years.” $15-$25. gewchorale.org.

Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas”: 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 21 to Dec. 14, at Playhouse 111, 111 N. Hale St., Wheaton. Wheaton Drama production. ASL performances Nov. 30 and Dec. 5. Bring a donation of household or personal items for Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans. $25. wheatondrama.org.

“It’s A Wonderful Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 22 and 29; 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23; 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28; and 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Theatre 121’s world premiere of this new holiday play, written by local playwrights Joel Bennett and Jeff Cook, blends the charm of “It’s a Wonderful Life” with the spirit of “A Christmas Carol.” $17-$35. theatre121.org.

North Central College Symphony Orchestra’s “Classical Mosaic”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at Wentz Concert Hall, 171 College Ave., Naperville. Excerpts from ballets, operas, operettas and other famous classical repertoire from composers Elgar, Strauss II, Bizet, Berlioz and Tchaikovsky. $7. northcentralcollege.edu/show/calendar.

“Rhinestone Cowgirls: Legendary Ladies of Country Music”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at Batavia Fine Arts Centre, 1250 W. Wilson St., Batavia. Three vocalists deliver renditions of hits by Patsy Cline, Tammy Wynette, Loretta Lynn, Martina McBride, Carrie Underwood and more. $41-$58. bataviafineartscentre.org.

“SpongeBob SquarePants The Broadway Musical”: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21-22, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Children’s Theatre of Elgin and Fox Valley Theatre Co. production. $14-$16. cteelgin.com.

“A Cripple Creek Christmas Carol”: 8 p.m. Fridays, Nov. 21 and Dec. 5; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 22 and Dec. 6; 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 23 and Dec. 7; and 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. A fresh take on Dickens’ classic by Raue Center School for the Arts students and adults. $10.50-$40. rauecenter.org.

McHenry Holiday Scavenger Hunt: Friday, Nov. 21, through Dec. 12. Help Santa find his lost reindeer by looking for Dasher, Dancer and the gang at local stores in McHenry. Present your completed card at the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce by Dec. 12 to pick a treat from the treasure chest and the chance to win a door prize. facebook.com/mchenryareachamber.

Santa’s Rock N Lights: Time slots vary by day but usually start at 4:45 or 5 p.m. and end at 9 or 10 p.m. Fridays through Sundays, Nov. 21-30, and Tuesdays through Sundays, Dec. 3-31, plus Mondays, Dec. 22 and 29, at the Kane County Cougars Stadium, 34W002 Cherry Lane, Geneva, and 3900 N. Rockwell St., Chicago. Drive-through light show featuring a mile of lights that dance in sync with music in larger-than-life displays. $29.99-$49.99 per car. santasrocknlights.com.

Saturday, Nov. 22

Wheaton French Market: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Main and Liberty streets in Wheaton. Outdoor market offering fresh produce, flowers, handcrafted goods, specialty foods, jewelry, crafts, baked goods and more. bensidounusa.com/wheaton.

Tom-A-Hawk Turkey Trot 5K: 8:45 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, along the Fox River in Aurora. Fifth annual run to benefit A+ Foundation for West Aurora Schools and the Aurora East Educational Foundation. runsignup.com/Race/IL/Aurora/TomAHawk5k.

Island Lake Holiday Craft Fair: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 22-23, at the village hall, 3720 Greenleaf Ave., Island Lake. Gifts, holiday decor, jewelry, crafts and more. Free entry. villageofislandlake.com.

Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Over 550 muscle cars, dealer-built Supercars and Corvettes, with automotive-related vendors and more. $40 in advance, $45 at the door; free for kids 12 and younger with a paid adult. mcacn.com.

Photos with Santa: 9:15 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Lake Ellyn Boathouse in Glen Ellyn. Take photos with Santa Ana the elves, plus treats, hot cocoa and crafts. Register for one 10-minute time slot. Glen Ellyn Parks Foundation fundraiser. Register: geparksfoundation.org/events.

Christmas on the Fox arts and crafts show: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 22-23, at the Kane County Fairgrounds Prairie Events Center, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles. Handmade items featuring Christmas floral and candies, jewelry, photography, paper crafts, a variety of apparel and accessories, whimsical folk art with holiday themes, homemade soup and dip mixes, handmade soap, wood signs and knitting. Holiday greens for sale from Heinz Brothers Greenhouse. $5. artoftheheartland.com/christmas-on-the-fox.

Holiday Craft Fair: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at The Club at Prairie Stone, 5050 Sedge Blvd., Hoffman Estates. Holiday items from local crafters. Free entry. heparks.org.

International Holiday Market: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Estonian House of Chicago, 14700 Estonian Lane, Riverwoods. Jewelry, local handicrafts, Scandinavian items, soaps, wellness products, baked goods, wood crafts, Estonian Christmas Sausage and more. Plus, a bonfire, grilled foods, Glogg, hot chocolate, hot cider and sweets. $5, free for kids younger than 16. chicagoeestimaja.com.

Photos With Santa: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, and 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the historic Nancy Kimball Cobblestone House, 302 W. Chicago St., Elgin. Book a 15-minute time block and take photos with Santa. Pets and props welcome. Craft activity and snacks in the basement. $30. Register: elginhistory.org.

Campton Township’s Christmas at Corron Farm: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Corron Farm, 7N761 Corron Road, St. Charles. Pictures with Santa, indoor holiday market, kids’ crafts, s’mores over a fire pit, hot cocoa, cider doughnuts and caroling. Free. camptontownship.com.

West Chicago Holiday Market: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 22-23, at the DuPage County Event Center and Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. Shop over 130 makers, craft at DIY stations, photo ops, snacks and drinks and more. VIP tickets ($20-$25) include early entry from 10-11 a.m. Saturday, an upgraded tote bag, and access all weekend. $10; free for kids younger than 12. Select a time slot via marketsformakers.com.

The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival: 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. The parade on North Michigan Avenue will feature Grand Marshals Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, floats with friends from Walt Disney World Resort, marching bands from across the country, musical celebrities, Santa Claus, The Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular and more. Free. themagnificentmile.com/lights-festival.

Wicked Witches Day Out: 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, check-in at 11:15 a.m. at the Rivalry Alehouse, Antioch. For 21 and older. Includes launch party at 11:30 a.m. at Rivalry Alehouse; townwide scavenger hunt from noon to 2:30 p.m.; a private screening of “Wicked: For Good” at 3 p.m. at the Antioch Theatre and more. $22. Registration required. antiochchamber.org.

“Elf — The Musical”: 1:30 and 7 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 22 and 29, and 1:30 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 23 and 30, at Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine. Musical based on the hit movie. $13-$30. cuttinghall.org.

An Almost Winter Day: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at SEBA Park, 151 S. Water St., South Elgin. S’more station, cookie decorating, balloon animals, craft station, snowball slingshot, letters to Santa, tree-decorating contest, ice sculptor and concessions. Pictures with Santa from 2-4:45 p.m.; bring your camera. Village tree lighting at 5 p.m. at Panton Mill Park. southelgin.com.

Light Up The Park: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Parkway Bank Park, 5501 Park Place, Rosemont. Visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, horse-drawn sleigh rides, carolers, skating and ice-sculpting. Rosemont Mayor Brad Stephens will arrive at 5:30 p.m. to illuminate the park with more than 80,000 holiday lights. Free. rosemont.com/thepark/event/light-up-the-park.

Wood Dale Tree Lighting: 3-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at city hall, 404 N. Wood Dale Road, Wood Dale. Tree-lighting ceremony at city hall, plus Santa, face painting, crafts, seasonal treats and ice carving. Also, a collection for Toys for Tots. Free. wooddale.com.

Woodridge Winterfest: 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Kagann Plaza, 5 Plaza Drive, Woodridge. Tree lighting at 5 p.m., photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, festive music, kids’ crafts, food trucks, a holiday market with 25 vendors, Touch-a-Truck and character visits. There’s Holiday Trolley service to the plaza from Cypress Cove Family Aquatic Park, 8301 S. Janes Ave. Winterfest Food Drive through Wednesday, Nov. 26, in collaboration with the West Suburban Community Pantry. Drop off donations at the event. Free. woodridgeil.gov.

Palatine Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony: 4:45-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Towne Square, Slade and Greeley streets, Palatine. Santa visits and pictures in the Towne Square gazebo, holiday music performed by the Palatine Children’s Chorus, and Santa will light the holiday tree. Free. palatine.il.us.

Hoffman Estates Friendship Tree Lighting: 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at the village hall, 1900 Hassell Road, Hoffman Estates. The mayor will be joined by Cub Scout Troop 297 to light the tree and kick off a festive fireworks display. After the fireworks, visits with Santa, entertainment by the Choral-Aires and light refreshments inside village hall. Nonperishable food and personal care item donations accepted for local food pantries. Free. hoffmanestates.org.

“An Evening of Dance”: 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 22-23, at Elmhurst University’s Mill Theatre, 253 Walter St., Elmhurst. End-of-term dance concert includes choreography by faculty and students featuring solos, duets and small and large group ensembles performing tap, ballet, jazz and modern/contemporary. $5-$15. elmhurst.edu.

Long Grove Vintage Holidays: Saturday, Nov. 22, through Wednesday, Dec. 24, in downtown Long Grove. Horse-drawn carriage rides on weekends, Santa in the village, caroling around town and more. Most events are free; reservations for carriage rides are $15 per seat. longgrove.org/festival/holiday-season.

Sunday, Nov. 23

Lincolnwood 48th Annual Turkey Trot: 6:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Proesel Park, 6915 Kostner Ave., Lincolnwood. This CARA-certified, USATF-certified, chip-timed 5K/10K race and 5K fitness walk features a flat, fast course. Kids 6 and younger can take part in the Drumstick Dash. All registered racers will receive a long-sleeved shirt, race bib and pins. Finishers will receive a finisher’s medal. $25-$45. runsignup.com/RACE/IL/LINCOLNWOOD/LWTURKEYTROT.

Scott Smith’s All Animal Expo: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles. Featuring vendors from the Midwest. $3-$8. allanimalexpo.com.

Sip, Shop & Santa: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Kuipers Family Farm, 1N318 Watson Road, Maple Park. Festive holiday drinks (hot cider, cocoa, etc.), local vendors and fresh-baked holiday goodies from the Orchard Shop. Santa visits from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. facebook.com/kuipersfamilyfarm.

Handmade Holiday Market: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Lincolnshire Marriott Resort, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. Shop from over 80 artists, bubbly for the first 100 guests, cocktails, paint ’n’ sip and more. $10; buy three tickets for the price of two. amdurproductions.com.

Winterland at Gallagher Way: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays, 3-9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Nov. 23 through Dec. 31, at Gallagher Way, 3635 N. Clark St., Chicago. Holiday hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 27 and Dec. 24 and 31; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Dec. 22-23 and 29-30; closed Dec. 25. Family-friendly activities and interactive experiences, neighborhood events, holiday rides, ice skating, visits with Santa Ana live music. Tree-lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5. Ride the Holiday Train along the Wrigley Field Concourse, with pricing starting at $5 per ride Nov. 26 through Dec. 31. Gallagher Ice Rink open Nov. 23 through Feb. 15; skating starts at $8, skate rentals start at $16, with Discount Nights on Mondays and Tuesdays. Free entry. gallagherway.com.

Spirito Singers’ “Welcome, Yule!”: 2-3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook. Spirito Singers’ Bravura ensemble celebrates the season with high school singers from the Chicago area singing holiday favorites. $20. lizzadromuseum.org.

Alyssa Allgood & Chris Madsen Quartet: 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Gorton Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest. Jazz from vocalist Alyssa Allgood and saxophonist Chris Madsen. $25. gortoncenter.org.

Fair Winds Woodwind Quintet: 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights, 302 N. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights. The woodwind ensemble of the Navy Band Great Lakes will perform classical, military marches and patriotic compositions. Free. firstpresah.org.

Sinfonietta Bel Canto’s “Hansel & Gretel”: 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Mayslake Hall, 1717 31st St., Oak Brook. For this fairy tale opera by Engelbert Humperdinck, the group will be joined by soloists and dancers from the VH Dance Center under the direction of Rachel Quinn. Sung in the original language with projected English translation. $10-$35. sinfoniettabelcanto.org.

A Wickedly Popular Christmas Light Show: 4:30-9 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 23 through Dec. 14, at Cantigny, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. This special light show features music from a favorite wicked witch and her bubbly best friend. Advance tickets: $25 for adults, $15 for kids 3-15; at the gate: $19-$30. Tickets: cantigny.org.

Holiday Magic and Tree Lighting Ceremony: 5-8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Green and Center streets, Bensenville. Santa arrives at 5 p.m., with the tree lighting at 5:15 p.m. Take photos with Santa from 5:15-8 p.m. Also, a petting zoo, pony rides, train rides, commemorative ornaments, hot cocoa, hot dogs, popcorn and giveaway treats, while supplies last. bensenville.il.us.

Tree lighting: 6-7:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at St. Alphonsus, 1429 W. Wellington Ave., Chicago. Tree lighting, holiday songs, doughnuts and hot chocolate, and meet Santa, Elsa and Olaf. Free. lakeviewroscoevillage.org.

“The Most Sketchiest Time of the Year”: 7 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 23-Dec. 21, at Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. A holiday sketch comedy revue. $22. steelbeamtheatre.com.

Monday, Nov. 24

Movie Mondays: 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 24, at Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. See 1992’s “The Muppet Christmas Carol.” $1 tickets at the door; cash only ($20 bills or less). Concessions for purchase (credit/debit cards accepted). paramountaurora.com/series/movie-mondays.

Tuesday, Nov. 25

“A Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Nov. 25-26 and Dec. 23-24, and 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 28 through Dec. 21, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Charles Dickens’ tale of redemption, generosity and hope. $20-$49. metropolisarts.com.

Wednesday, Nov. 26

Wing It Turkey Shootout Free Throw Challenge: 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Nov. 26, at Main Street Recreation Center, 501 Hill Ave., Glen Ellyn. Kids and adults compete for a chance to win a trophy and Thanksgiving turkey. Teams consist of one adult and one child (ages 6-7, 8-9, 10-12). Adults may compete with more than one child. Each team member gets 10 free throws. Concessions available. $10-$15. Register: gepark.org.

Thanksgiving Lego Party: 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, at the Northbrook Sports Center, 1730 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook. Kids 5-12 can create ships, UFOs, planes, cars and anything they can imagine with more than 100 pounds of Lego bricks and elements. Extreme Builders Post Party starts at 12:30 p.m. for extra building time; bring a nut-free lunch and a drink, and take part in the implosion of the six-foot tower made by the group. Fee; registration required. nbparks.org.

Turkey Testicle Festival: 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, at Parkside Pub & Grill, 11721 E. Main St., Huntley. 43rd annual festival for ages 21 and older. Music starts at 11 a.m. with Polly Says, followed by 7th heaven, Modern Day Romeos and Pino Farina Band. Four bus routes to the pub, starting at 3 p.m. Advance VIP pass: $75 or Jump the Line pass $30. $20 at the gate. parksidepub.com/ttf.

Mount Prospect Holiday Tree Lighting and Christkindlmarket: 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, at Busse Pocket Park, Emerson and Busse, Mount Prospect. Christkindlmarket from 4-7 p.m. inside village hall and tree lighting at 5 p.m. The Prospect High School Madrigals will sing holiday songs, and there will be cookies and hot chocolate provided by the Mount Prospect Lions Club. Free. experiencemountprospect.org.

Thanksgiving Turkey Toss: 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, at the Weber Leisure Center, 9300 Weber Park Place, Skokie. Kids 6-17 with a guardian can show off their basketball-shooting skills for prizes. $5. skokieparks.org.

Glen Ellyn Holiday Decorated Windows: Wednesday, Nov. 26, through Dec. 25 in downtown Glen Ellyn. Walk through downtown to see the decorated windows. Free. downtownglenellyn.com/events-calendar.

Thursday, Nov. 27

Naperville Noon Lions 5K Turkey Trot: 8-10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, at Naperville Central High School, 440 Aurora Ave., Naperville. 28th family-friendly 5K starting on Hillside Road. $42.60 for 15 and older until Nov. 22 or $47.93 until the day of; $30 for kids 10-14; $25 for kids 9 and younger. Register: napervilleturkeytrot.com.

Turkey Trot 4-Mile Run: 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, at Lake Ellyn Park, 645 Lenox Road, Glen Ellyn. Top two runners who most accurately predict their finish time win a treat. Prizes awarded for best costume. Open to all ages; no registration is required, but a waiver must be signed at the event. The Glen Ellyn Park District will be collecting nonperishable food items for Glen House Food Pantry. gepark.org/calendar.

Turkey Trot and Sammy Scurry: 8-11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, at Harper College, 1200 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine. Choose a 2- or 5-mile distance or, for the young ones, the Sammy Scurry. Free snacks and beverages. Registration required. $30; $10 for the Sammy Scurry. palatineparks.org.

Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot 5K: 9 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, at Park and Cottage Hill avenues, Elmhurst. 42nd annual fundraiser. $40. Register: dangibbonsturkeytrot.org.

Wauconda Turkey Trot: 9 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, at 118 S. Main St., Wauconda. 4-mile, chip-timed run around Bangs Lake or 2-mile fun run/walk down Main Street. Participants will receive a T-shirt and medal. Proceeds benefit the Wauconda/Island Lake Food Pantry. $44.79 for the 2-mile, $55.49 for the 4-mile, $23.39 for kids younger than 10. raceroster.com/events/2024/95094/2024-wauconda-turkey-trot.

Dickens Holiday Village: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily Thursday, Nov. 27, through Jan. 1 inside Kringle’s Christmas Village, 510 Orchard St., Antioch. Public art exhibit featuring lifelike figures representing scenes from the Dickens era. Free. antiochchamber.org.

Eaglewood Thanksgiving Jazz Brunch 2025: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, at Eaglewood Resort & Spa, 1401 Nordic Road, Itasca. Thanksgiving Jazz Brunch with live jazz, bottomless mimosas, holiday buffet with all the fixings, carving station and dessert. Adults: $65; kids: $20; $28.52 deposit per person. eventbrite.com.

Naper Lights: 4-10 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, through Jan. 1 in downtown Naperville. Display of holiday lights and music along Water Street, Foyo Plaza, Jaycees Park and the Riverwalk. Live Santa/Kriss Kringle by the big tree from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Dec. 5-7, 12-14 and 19-21, weather dependent. Family Holiday Stroll from 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, with an activity station in Hotel Indigo’s foyer, music on the plaza, cookies and cocoa on Water Street by Ben & Jerry’s and strolling elves. Free. naperlights.com.

Ongoing

Yuletide Treasures: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays through Nov. 29; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, Dec. 1-23; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 24, at the DuPage Art League, 218 W. Front St., Wheaton. The DuPage Art League’s annual show features one-of-a-kind gifts, all handmade by local artists, including painting, photography, ornaments, holiday and home decor, jewelry, woodwork, pottery, wearable textiles, greeting cards, candles and more. Free parking on Front Street and in the parking garage across the street. dupageartleague.org.

Christmas Around the World & Holidays of Lights: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Jan. 5 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 decorated to represent the holiday traditions from cultures around the globe. Museum admission: adults $25.95; kids 3-11 $14.95; free for members. griffinmsi.org.

Alex Ross — Heroes & Villains: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays through Sundays and Wednesdays and 2-8 p.m. Thursdays through Feb. 16, 2026, at the Bess Bower Dunn Museum of Lake County, 1899 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville. A larger-than-life presentation of the work of legendary comic book artist Alex Ross featuring heroes and villains from the Marvel and DC universes. Museum admission $3-$10, exhibit tickets $5-$10, and free for kids 3 and younger. LCFPD.org/planyourvisit.

Dinovember: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Nov. 30 at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Learn about dinosaurs at 1:30 p.m. daily during the Dino-keeper Chat. Plus, embark on the Dinosaur Scavenger Hunt; complete it and claim a prize at the gift shop. $6; free for kids 1 and younger or U.S. military with ID. dtpd.org/dinovember.

Illumination: Tree Lights: Time slots between 4:30 and 8 p.m. through Jan. 3 at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Displays of lights and music that highlight the beauty of trees in winter. Roast marshmallows for s’mores and enjoy a hot seasonal beverage from the concession tents along the trail. Illumination Dog Admission Nights on Wednesdays, Dec. 3-17. Electric Illumination for 21 and older from 4:30-9:30 p.m. Dec. 5, 12 and 19. The exhibition is closed select Mondays and Tuesdays and on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Tickets start at $20. mortonarb.org.

Harry Potter — A Forbidden Forest Experience: Time slots start at 4:30 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through Nov. 30 at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s Camp Duncan, 32405 N. U.S. Hwy. 12, Ingleside. Lights transform the landscape into a magical outdoor trail featuring creatures from the “Harry Potter” and “Fantastic Beasts” films. A themed village at the end of the trail offers food and drink (Butterbeer) and a gift shop. Tickets start at $31 for kids 3-12 and $46 for adults. HPForbiddenForestExperience.com.

Lightscape: 4:30-9:15 p.m. select dates through Jan. 4 at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Take a nighttime stroll through illuminated displays. Adults: $26 for members, $29 for nonmembers; kids 3-12: $14 members, $16 nonmembers; free for kids 2 and younger. chicagobotanic.org/lightscape.

Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas”: 7 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays, 1 and 5:30 p.m. Sundays, and 1:30 and 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Jan. 11 at Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. Tickets start at $31. paramountaurora.com.

“Georgiana and Kitty, Christmas at Pemberley”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 21 at Playhouse Theatre, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. In Buffalo Theatre Ensemble’s final installment in the Christmas at Pemberley trilogy (“Miss Bennet,” “The Wickhams”), secrets are revealed and arranged engagements and meddlesome siblings come together for the holidays. $43-$45. atthemac.org.

“A Christmas Carol”: Various times and days through Dec. 31 at the Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. Charles Dickens’ classic holiday story. Tickets start at $34. goodmantheatre.org.

“A Christmas Carol — A Live Radio Play”: Various times Fridays through Sundays, with select Wednesdays and Thursdays, through Dec. 28 at Oil Lamp Theater, 1723 Glenview Road, Glenview. Return to WBFR Studios on Christmas Eve in 1946 and follow Ebenezer Scrooge on his journey to find the true spirit of the holiday season, complete with live sound effects, radio jingles and more. $55. oillamptheater.org.

“Million Dollar Quartet Christmas”: Various times most Wednesdays through Sundays and some Tuesdays through Jan. 4 at the Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. Christmas musical in which Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley come together to celebrate the holidays at Sun Records studio. Tickets start at $70. marriotttheatre.com.