Things to do Nov. 28 to Dec. 4: Tree lightings, ‘Nutcrackers’ and more

Friday, Nov. 28

Cosley Zoo Festival of Lights and Christmas Tree Sale: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, Nov. 28 through Dec. 30, except 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 24 and 31, at Cosley Zoo, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton. Closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Thousands of twinkling lights, plus Christmas trees, wreaths, greenery and hot chocolate for sale. Proceeds benefit Cosley Zoo. Free admission during the festival. Lights turn on at 3 p.m. cosleyzoo.org/festival-of-lights-tree-sale.

“A Christmas Carol”: 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 28, and continuing at 10 a.m. and noon Saturdays, Nov. 29-Dec. 27; 10 a.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, Dec. 3-18; 10 a.m. and noon Fridays, Dec. 5-26; 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Dec. 9-23; 7 p.m. Wednesdays, Dec. 10 and 17; and 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 22, at Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. Set in Victorian-era London, see Charles Dickens’ classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and the spirited ghosts that visit him one fateful Christmas Eve. Presented by Drury Lane Theatre for Young Audiences. $42-$62. drurylanetheatre.com.

Happy Holiday Railway: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28; Saturdays, Nov. 29 through Dec. 20; Sundays, Nov. 30 through Dec. 21; and Monday, Dec. 22, at Illinois Railway Museum, 7000 Olson Road, Union. Take a 40-minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus and enjoy an animated light show and holiday songs. Treats and hot chocolate will be served. Quiet car #7658 will feature traditional lights and decorations. Also, see the holiday lights throughout the campus, including the animated snowplow display and holiday light tour in Barn 6, available for viewing day or night. Rides on historic Chicago streetcars included with ticket. Trips at 11:30 a.m., 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 4, 5 and 6 p.m.; arrive 30 minutes early. Opening weekend includes a fireworks display at 5:45 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Nov. 28-30, weather dependent. $25. Tickets: irm.org/event/happy-holiday-railway/.

Chicago TARDIS 2025: Noon to 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at the Westin Chicago Lombard, 70 Yorktown Shopping Center, Lombard. 26th annual Doctor Who event featuring guests from the series, including the ninth Doctor Christopher Eccleston and Fugitive Doctor Jo Martin, panels, cosplay contests, workshops and more. $40-$275; $20 for kids 6-12. chicagotardis.com.

Festival of Arts & Crafts Show: 2-7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. Shop for handcrafted products from 305 crafters. $5. stepbysteppromotions.com.

Grayslake Festival of Lights & Holiday Market: 2-6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, in downtown Grayslake. Holiday street market, Santa and Mrs. Claus, reindeer, crafts, parade at 4:30 p.m. followed by the tree lighting, carriage rides, food vendors and more. Photos with Santa at Heritage Center from 2-4 p.m. Arts Alliance Show from 4-7 p.m. at the village hall and Heritage Center Giving Trees Display from noon to 6 p.m. Free. grayslakechamber.com.

Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Holiday Magic: 3-9 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Nov. 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 Dec. 4. $20.95-$34.95. brookfieldzoo.org/HolidayMagic.

Fox Valley “Nutcracker”: 3 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28; 1 and 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29; and 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at the Batavia Fine Arts Theatre, 1250 W. Main St., Batavia. Fox Valley Ballet production features more than 130 performers from nearly 30 local dance studios performing side by side with professional dancers in Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic. $38-$59. Tickets: foxvalleynutcracker.com.

Lake Forest Tree Lighting Holiday Celebration: 3-6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, in Market Square, 264 Market Square Court, Lake Forest. Holiday movie at Gorton Community Center at 1 p.m. Kids’ activities, food and beverages, carolers, Lake Forest Civic Orchestra, Lake Forest High School Festival Brass Ensemble, caroling by the Lake Forest High School Choristers, Lake Forest Dance Academy dancers, Santa Claus and more. Free. lfparksandrec.com.

Elk Grove Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony: 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, at Charles J. Zettek Municipal Complex, 901 Wellington Ave., Elk Grove Village. Refreshments, Storytime with the Board at 4 p.m., Elk Grove Express train rides, The Box Tops concert at 4:30 p.m., tree-lighting ceremony and fireworks at 5:30 p.m. and more. Free. elkgrove.org.

Woodstock Lighting of the Square: 4-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, in historic Woodstock Square. Holiday carolers, kids’ activities and more. At 7 p.m., see the lighting of tens of thousands of twinkling lights illuminating park trees and Square buildings. Plus, the annual Opera House Christmas Tree Walk opens featuring dozens of trees decorated by area organizations. Santa arrives before the lighting ceremony to greet children and take photos. Free. woodstockil.gov.

Arlington Heights Tree Lighting: 4:30-6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, at North School Park, Arlington Heights Road and Eastman Street, Arlington Heights. Holiday-inspired music, dance performances, hot cocoa and treats. Join the countdown to flip the switch to turn on over 80,000 lights. There will be a countdown at Harmony Park with live reindeer, ice carving and more. Trolleys with Dickensian characters will loop between the two parks. Free. ahpd.org.

Downers Grove Tree-Lighting Ceremony: 4:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, at the Main Street train station, 5001 Main St., Downers Grove. See Santa and listen to music from the Downers Grove High School District 99 marching band and the Downers Grove Choral Society. downtowndg.org.

Glen Ellyn Holiday Walk: 5-7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, on Main Street and Crescent Avenue, Glen Ellyn. Gathering for the Holiday Walk begins at 5 p.m. on Main Street. Santa will emerge from the firehouse and start his march down Main Street to light the star on top of the tree at 6 p.m. Photos with Santa at the firehouse at 6:30 p.m. glenellynchamber.com/holiday.

Light The Lights: 5-7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, in Wyman Green, corner of Park and Vernon Avenue, and other locations in downtown Glencoe. Light up the park includes the 6-foot, 3D light-up display of Glencoe’s ZIP code (60022), live music from Rosie and the Rivets (bring lawn chairs), photos with the characters of “Frozen” and Santa, trackless train rides, holiday shopping and more. Activities at Tudor Court include live reindeer, kids’ carnival rides, and photos with Santa, a bar, and live music at Writers Theatre. Crafts and sensory room at Glencoe Public Library. Tunnel of lights connecting Park Avenue and Tudor Court. Food and beverage vendors with picnic tables and heaters located in the Village Court parking lot. Free. villageofglencoe.org.

St. Charles Holiday Homecoming Weekend: 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, with the Lighting of the Lights ceremony at 5 p.m. on the First Street Plaza, St. Charles. Music and photos with Santa until 7 p.m. On Saturday, Nov. 29, 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 Santa Claus, steps off at 5:30 p.m. Saturday down Main Street, from Sixth Street to Fourth Avenue. Santa’s House will be open from 1-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Nov. 29 through Dec. 21, on First Street Plaza. stcholidayhomecoming.com.

Schaumburg Tree Lighting Ceremony: 6-8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Visit with Santa, caroling, entertainment and refreshments. Free. prairiecenter.org.

Wheaton Christmas Parade and Nights of Lights opening: 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, in Adams Park, Main and Wesley streets, Wheaton. The sixth annual holiday light display returns with over 55,000 bulbs and an animated fountain. The Christmas Parade steps off at 6 p.m., traveling from Wheaton Avenue and Wesley Street to Cross Street, concluding with the annual Christmas tree lighting at 7 p.m. at the south pavilion. The holiday display continues from 4-10 p.m. daily through Jan. 4. Free. visitdowntownwheaton.org/events.

Antioch Tree Lighting and Parade: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, in downtown Antioch. The parade will travel from Park Avenue to Main Street to Orchard Street, ending at Sequoit Creek Park, 845 Main St., followed by the lighting of the village Christmas tree. Free. antioch.il.gov.

Libertyville Tree Lighting: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, 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. mainstreetlibertyville.org.

Festival of Lights Parade: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, in downtown Crystal Lake. The parade theme, “Twinkling Lights & Candy Delights,” kicks off the season with Christmas Tree Lane transforming Brink and Grant streets into a winter wonderland with trees decorated by local clubs and organizations. On Luminary Nights from 5-8 p.m. Thursdays, Dec. 5-19, meet Santa, sip cocoa and walk the downtown streets lit by luminary candles. downtowncl.org.

Naperville Holiday Parade of Lights: 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, in downtown Naperville. Pre-parade entertainment will begin at 6:30 p.m. on the broadcast stage at Webster and Jackson streets. Parade 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. The parade includes brightly lit floats, performers, parade units and Santa. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Naperville and Downtown Naperville Alliance. napervillerotaryparade.org.

“I’ll Be Seeing You”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays and 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Nov. 28 through Dec. 20, at Overshadowed Theatrical Productions, 900 Foster Ave., Medinah. An Overshadowed original production about heroes who fought for freedom. $21-$32. overshadowed.org.

“Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 28 through Dec. 21, plus 2:30 p.m. Saturdays starting Dec. 5, 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 performed by Phil Timberlake. $30-$55. lifelinetheatre.com.

“It’s A Wonderful Christmas Carol”: 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29; 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.

Saturday, Nov. 29

Run Fox Run 5K: 8-10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Fox Run, 333 Plum Grove Road, Elk Grove Village. Run or walk. Registration required. $25. elkgroveparks.org.

Wheaton French Market: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Main and Liberty streets, Wheaton. Outdoor market offering fresh produce, flowers, handcrafted goods, specialty foods, jewelry, crafts, baked goods and more. bensidounusa.com/wheaton.

Marmion Christmas Craft Show: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at Marmion Academy’s Regole Field House and Alumni Hall gym, 1000 Butterfield Road, Aurora. Nearly 300 crafters and vendors and lunch from Belgio’s Catering. A Bloody Mary & Mimosa Bar available on Sunday for ages 21 and older. Admission: $5 for ages 12 and older. Free parking. marmion.org.

Santa’s Craft Corner: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 29 through Dec. 13, at Cosley Zoo, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton. Admission includes crafts, refreshments, a zoo tour and a visit with Santa. Santa’s Craft Corner is held in the Kiebler Room, located on the second floor of the large barn, accessible by stairs. No advanced registration required. $20 per household at the door (cash and credit card accepted). cosleyzoo.org/santas-craft-corner.

Downtown Santa House: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Nov. 29 through Dec. 21 (times may vary), in the Civic Center pedway off Main Street in Glen Ellyn. Take a photo with Santa. Free. downtownglenellyn.com/events-calendar.

Salt Creek Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”: 1 and 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, and 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at Hinsdale Central auditorium, 5500 S. Grant St., Hinsdale. After the Sunday matinee, “The Sugar Plum Party” features the field house transformed into a Winter Wonderland with hot cocoa, coffee, sweet treats, activities, and the chance to get photos and autographs from dancers. $48-$58. saltcreekballet.org/the-nutcracker.

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

Vienna Boys Choir’s “Christmas in Vienna”: 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Chicago Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. The Vienna Boys Choir performs Austrian folk songs, classical masterpieces, popular songs and holiday favorites. Tickets start at $39. cso.org.

Bloomingdale Kriss Kringle Market and tree-lighting ceremony: 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Old Town Bloomingdale, 111 Third St., Bloomingdale. Local vendors sell food, crafts, gifts, pet items, holiday decor, wood crafts, accessories and more. Plus, Charles Dickens Carolers, kiddie train rides, face painting, games, food and drinks, Gingerbread Village display and Park District Museum holiday show. Drone light show and tree lighting at approximately 6 p.m. villageofbloomingdale.org.

GO Waukegan Winter Hot Chocolate Walk: 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Jack Benny Plaza, 140 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Hosted by the Waukegan Park District and held in conjunction with the tree-lighting ceremony. Free. waukeganparks.org/programs/go-waukegan.

Holiday in the Park & Parade: 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Jackman Park, Glenview. The parade follows Glenview Road from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, west to Jackman Park. Festivities include Santa, hay rides, kids’ train ride, carolers, cookies, hot chocolate and popcorn. Free. glenviewchamber.com.

Vernon Hills’ Holiday Light Celebration: 4:30-5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Century Park, 1001 Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills. See the lighting of the Village Tree, Menorah and Kwanzaa displays. Free. vernonhills.org.

Elgin Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at DuPage Court, Elgin. Holiday Cheers Beverage Crawl from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., photos with Santa from 10-11:30 a.m., Holiday Trolley from noon to 5 p.m., Santa’s Workshop from 1-3 p.m., Storytime with Susie Claus from 2-4 p.m., and carolers from 3-5 p.m. Tree lighting at 5 p.m., when Mayor David Kaptain and Santa Claus will switch on the holiday lights. The tree will remain lit through Jan. 12. elginil.gov/2499/Winter-Holiday-Events.

Fox Lake Festival of Lights and Parade: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Millennium Park, 23 Rollins Road, Fox Lake. Parade is at 5 p.m. from Grant Community High School, 285 E. Grand Ave., to Millennium Park, followed by the tree lighting and songs from the Grant Community High School Choir and the Merry Maskers costumed singers. Visits with Santa from 6-7 p.m. foxlake.org.

Light Up The Garden: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Bridges Beer Garden, 1400 Poplar Creek Drive, Hoffman Estates. Carolers, hot cocoa and more. Free. heparks.org.

Prospect Heights Annual Tree Lighting: 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Gary Morava Center, 110 W. Camp McDonald Road, Prospect Heights. Join Mayor Pat Ludvigsen for the annual tree lighting and Santa visit, sponsored by the Garden Club and Lions Club, as well as Christmas carols and refreshments. Free. phparks.org/special-events.

Winter Wonder Lights kickoff: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Peck Farm Park, 4038 Kaneville Road, Geneva. Courtyard illumination at 5 p.m., family visits and photos with Santa (pre-registration required), hot cocoa and s’mores by the fire pit, Letters to Santa and holiday music. Lights will be on from 5-10 p.m. daily through Jan. 1. Free. genevaparks.org.

Fox Valley Opera’s Yuletide Tidings of Comfort and Joy: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 320 Franklin St., Geneva. Handel’s “Messiah” plus other festive favorites performed by the Fox Valley Opera Chorus and professional soloists. Join a Hallelujah chorus sing-along. Free with suggested donation. foxvalleyopera.org.

Guitarra Azul: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Bethel United Church of Christ, 315 E. St. Charles Road, Elmhurst. Rumba flamenca and Latin jazz with percussion and fiery Spanish guitars. $28.52-$39.19. Tickets: musicatbethel.com/.

Heartache Tonight: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Eagles tribute. Tickets start at $44. rauecenter.org.

“Jim Brickman Live! The Gift of Christmas”: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 8501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. Holiday classics and Brickman’s biggest hits. Tickets start at $36.20. northshorecenter.org.

“Sleeping at Last: Home for the Holidays”: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at The Auditorium, 50 E. Congress Parkway, Chicago. Sleeping At Last and the Chicago Philharmonic reunite to ring in the holidays. Tickets start at $53. auditoriumtheatre.org.

Sunday, Nov. 30

Bloomingdale Maker’s Market: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, in the parking lot of Old Town, Third and Franklin streets, Bloomingdale. Rain or shine. Features local vendors (home decor, jewelry, blankets, clothes and more), entertainment, food trucks and more. facebook.com/thebloomingdalemakersmarket.

Nurtured by Nature: 10-11 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at Raceway Woods Forest Preserve, 17N702 Western Ave., Carpentersville. Incorporates gentle stretching, deep breathing and a focus on awareness during gentle hikes designed to nurture the mind and body. For ages 18 and older. Free. Registration is required. kaneforest.com.

Artists Sunday Road Rally: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30. Geneva Foundation for the Arts, in collaboration with Patty Donahue, hosts its inaugural self-guided art tour of Geneva artists, studios and shops supporting local artists. Participating locations will host live demos, art exhibitions and event specials. Free. genevafoundationforthearts.org/events.

Chicago Festival Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”: 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet. 35th annual holiday classic features local dancers performing alongside the professional artists of Chicago Festival Ballet. $24-$35. rialtosquare.com/event/the-nutcracker.

Itasca Winter Wonderland Holiday Lighting and Market: 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, along South Walnut Street, between West Grove Street and West Bloomingdale Road, Itasca. From 2-6 p.m., the Holiday Market will be offering handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats. From 4-6 p.m., watch performances by the Holiday Dickens Carolers and the Inner Prestige Dance Team as Santa, Mrs. Claus and their Holiday Friends arrive. Plus, hot chocolate and cookies and photos with Santa. Thousands of twinkling lights and displays will illuminate the park nightly through Jan. 15. Free admission; donate a new, unwrapped toy for Toys For Tots or a nonperishable food item for Itasca Food Pantry. itascaparkdistrict.com.

Music of the Baroque’s “Handel’s Messiah”: 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at the George Van Dusen Theatre at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 N. Skokie Blvd., Skokie. Tickets start at $79. northshorecenter.org.

Warrenville Sunday Music Matinee: 2-3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at Warrenville Public Library, 28W751 Stafford Place, Warrenville. Alloy Horn Quartet performs. Free. Register: warrenville.com/events.

A Wickedly Popular Christmas Light Show: 4:30-9 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, 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.

Batavia Celebration of Lights: 5-7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at the Batavia Riverwalk, 151 Island Ave., Batavia. Holiday crafts, a community sing-along, Batavia Community Band performance, 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 with 25 trees. Free hayrides with a donation of food or $1 cash, which benefits the Batavia Food Pantry. Free. bataviaparks.org.

Flip the Switch Celebration: 5-9 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, in Community Park, 1800 Short St., Lisle. See the new Peppermint Path decked out in sparkling holiday decorations while sipping hot chocolate. Throughout December, take a self-guided Snow Stroll on Peppermint Path, which features festive photo ops and lighted displays from 5-9 p.m. Free. lisleparkdistrict.org/peppermintpath.html.

“Holiday Cheer” opening reception: 6-8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at Batavia Depot Museum, 155 Houston St., Batavia. During the Celebration of Lights, see the new exhibit featuring vintage Christmas cards and toys and more that continues through Dec. 14. bataviaparks.org.

“The Most Sketchiest Time of the Year”: 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. A holiday sketch comedy revue. $22. steelbeamtheatre.com.

Monday, Dec. 1

Christmas Musical Light Show: 4-9 p.m. daily, Dec. 1-25, 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.

Glendale Heights Tree Lighting Ceremony: 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1, at the village hall, 300 Civic Center Plaza, Glendale Heights. Local choral groups will perform holiday music as the mayor and Santa Claus light up the park at 7:15 p.m. Free. glendaleheights.org.

Movie Mondays: 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1, at Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. See 1983’s “A Christmas Story.” $1 tickets at the door; cash only ($20 bills or less). Concessions for purchase (credit/debit cards accepted). paramountaurora.com/series/movie-mondays.

Tuesday, Dec. 2

Flute Choir Christmas Mini-Concert: 10:30-11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at the Armerding Center for Music and the Arts lobby, 520 E. Kenilworth Ave., Wheaton. Hosted by Wheaton College Conservatory of Music. Free. wheaton.edu/calendar-of-events/.

Gingerbread Drink & Decorate: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2; Thursday, Dec. 4; and Wednesday, Dec. 10, at Fox Valley Winery, 5600 Route 34, Oswego. Decorate a gingerbread house and sip a complimentary “holiday spirit.” For 21 and older. $29-$39; includes a gingerbread house and decorations. Registration ends Wednesday, Nov. 26. Register: oswegolandparkdistrict.org.

Concert Winds Fall Invitational Concert: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville. North Central College Concert Winds, with visiting guest Plainfield East High School, will perform a concert of standard and contemporary band music. $7. northcentralcollege.edu/show/calendar.

“Elf The Musical”: 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, and 1 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 2-14; plus 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, and 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at The Auditorium, 50 E. Congress Pkwy., Chicago. Tickets start at $55.35. auditoriumtheatre.org.

Mark O’Connor’s “An Appalachian Christmas”: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at the George Van Dusen Theatre at North Shore Center, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. Instrumental and vocal Christmas classics in bluegrass and other American music genres. Featuring Maggie O’Connor. Tickets start at $48.30. northshorecenter.org.

MCC Guitar Ensemble and String Ensembles Concert: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Free. mchenry.edu/events/.

“Darlene Love — Holiday Show”: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame artist performs a special Christmas show. $56.75-$108.75. arcadalive.com.

“Home for the Holidays: An Evening With Levi Kreis”: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, and 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Tony Award-winner Levi Kreis blends jazz, soul and rockabilly Christmas classics and holiday favorites. $40. metropolisarts.com.

Pentatonix: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at the Allstate Arena, 6920 Mannheim Road, Rosemont. “Christmas in the City Tour.” Tickets start at $52.50. rosemont.com/allstate.

Wednesday, Dec. 3

Critics Classics: 1 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Elk Grove Theatre, 1050 Elk Grove Town Center, Elk Grove Village. Screening of “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.” Hosted by the Chicago Film Critics Association. $9 or $7 matinee; $7-$6 for 60 and older, $1.50 booking fee. classiccinemas.com.

Kids Only Holiday Shop: 2:30-6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at the Gorton Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest. Kids 4-10 can shop for gifts without their parents. $5. gortoncenter.org.

Holiday Wine Walk: 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, in downtown Naperville. Sip wine while shopping downtown. Tickets are limited. $50. downtownnaperville.com.

Luminaria Walk: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, Dec. 3-6, at Veteran Acres, 431 N. Walkup, Crystal Lake. Stroll the lit trail through Veteran Acres. On Saturday, Dec. 6, there will be campfires, hot cocoa, cookies, Candy Cane Forest and Mrs. Claus. $1 per person or $5 per family donation appreciated, which go to future Nature Center education programs. crystallakeparks.org/special-events.

Classic Movies at the Library: 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at St. Charles Public Library’s Huntley Room, 1 S. Sixth Ave., St. Charles. 1945 Holiday classic “Christmas in Connecticut,” with Barbara Stanwyck and Dennis Morgan. scpld.org/programs-events.

Stargazing Party: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Peck Farm Park Orientation Barn, 4038 Kaneville Road, Geneva. Fox Valley Astronomical Society hosts a short discussion, then heads outside to discover the stars, sky and planets through their giant telescope. If there’s heavy cloud cover, the stargazing will be canceled, but the lecture will be held. Dress for the weather. No registration required. Free. genevaparks.org.

“Christmas Together”: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at the Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont. With Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith and CeCe Winans. Tickets start at $64.45. rosemont.com/theatre.

ECC Concert Band: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at ECC Blizzard Theater, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Under the direction of Greg Matushek, the band celebrates tradition with a modern twist. $10-$12. eccartscenter.org.

Take 6: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. Along with soulful staples from their a cappella songbook, the group will perform their trademark takes on wintry tunes. $45. ravinia.org.

Thursday, Dec. 4

The Colonel’s Christmas Tour at the McCormick House: 4-5 p.m. Thursdays, Dec. 4-18, at the McCormick House, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Guided by McCormick House director Will Buhlig and a horticulture staff member, the tour begins in the Colonel’s hidden bar in Freedom Hall, where guests can sip a festive beverage. Arrive by 3:30 p.m. at the Visitors Center. $75, includes light show admission. Register: cantigny.org/event/colonels-christmas-12-4.

Elmhurst Tree Lighting in Wilder Park: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at Wilder Park, 175 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. Elmhurst Park District kicks off the holiday season with the lighting of the community trees surrounding the park. Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, meet-and-greet with Mickey and Minnie Mouse, holiday carnival games, live reindeer and festive onstage performances. Inside the mansion, cookies, ornament craft and story time. Food trucks include Sugar Mama’s Mini Donuts and Travelin’ Toms Mobile Coffee Truck. Wilder Park’s south parking lot and the Alexander lot at Elmhurst University will be open for parking. epd.org/news/tree-lighting-wilder-park.

Pizza with Santa: 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at the Community Center, 1777 S. Blanchard St., Wheaton. Enjoy pizza, a holiday craft and photo ops with Santa. $20-$25; max of two nonpaying adults per child. Register: wheatonparkdistrict.com/events/pizza-with-santa.

Naughty or Nice: 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. DuSable Drive, Chicago. Holiday trivia and crafts, see Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light, sip seasonal drinks, and snap selfies with Santa Claus and Krampus. $35; $30 for Griffin MSI members, includes free parking. For 21 and older with a valid ID. griffinmsi.org.

Rolling Meadows Holiday Celebration: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at the city hall lobby and parking lot, 3600 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Tree lighting, Santa visit, Plum Grove Middle School choir and DJ Jules, free goodies and hot cocoa for kids, while supplies last. Free. cityrm.org.

“A Charlie Brown Christmas” soundtrack live with the Chris White Trio: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at the Evanston History Center, 225 Greenwood St., Evanston. The Chris White Trio performs Vince Guaraldi’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” $20-$55. evanstonhistorycenter.org.

“A Cripple Creek Christmas Carol”: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4; 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, 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.

Elgin Sing-Along Messiah: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at Second Baptist Church, 1280 Summit St., Elgin. Annual community sing-along of selections from Handel’s “Messiah.” Showcasing Elgin-area musicians and vocalists from Elgin Symphony Orchestra, Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra, Midwest Opera Theatre and Elgin Master Chorale. Proceeds benefit Well Child Center. No experience necessary; chorus scores available at the door. $7, free for kids 12 and younger. elginsing-alongmessiah.org.

“Home for the Holidays”: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at Tivoli Theatre, 5021 Highland Ave., Downers Grove. Rick Lindy and the Jukebox Legends and Ocean’s Rat Pack perform classic hits and holiday favorites. Doors open at 6 p.m. Reserved seating. $34.50. classiccinemas.com.

MCC Concert Choir and Chamber Ensembles Concert: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Free. mchenry.edu/events.

“The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays and 1 and 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 4-14, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. The Schaumburg Dance Ensemble’s 30th production of the holiday classic. Tickets: $35-$50. prairiecenter.org.

ECC Steel Bands: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at ECC Blizzard Theater, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Under the direction of Scott McConnell, the band performs an eclectic mix of calypso, reggae, rock and more. $10-$12. eccartscenter.org.

The Klezmatics: Happy Joyous Hanukkah: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at Ravinia’s Martin Theatre, 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. Klezmer music performed by the Grammy Award-winning The Klezmatics. $45. ravinia.org.

Kenny G in “The Miracles Holiday & Hits Tour”: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. Holiday hits and fan favorites. $88.75-$138.75. arcadalive.com.

“The Skriker”: 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Dec. 4-5; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Theatre at Meiley-Swallow Hall, 31 S. Ellsworth St., Naperville. Drawing from British folklore, the eminent English playwright drops the Skriker, an ageless shape-shifter, into contemporary London. Contains mature themes and language. $14. northcentralcollege.edu/show/calendar.

Ongoing

McHenry Festival of Trees: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays through Dec. 28 at McHenry City Hall, 333 S. Green St., McHenry, and 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays 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.

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.

Dickens Holiday Village: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily 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.

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.

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. Special hours: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 22-23 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 24. Free. paramountaurora.com/events/christkindlmarket-2025.

Winterland at Gallagher Way: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays, and 3-9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays through Dec. 31, at Gallagher Way, 3635 N. Clark St., Chicago. Family-friendly activities and interactive experiences, neighborhood events, holiday rides, ice skating, visits with Santa and 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 through Dec. 31. Gallagher Ice Rink open through Feb. 15; skating starts at $8, skate rentals start at $16, with Discount Nights on Mondays and Tuesdays. Free entry. gallagherway.com.

Naper Lights: 4-10 p.m. 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.

Noël Lounge at the McCormick House: 4-10 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, 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: 4:30-9 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, through Dec. 20, and 4:30-9 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday, Dec. 21-23. 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.

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 Jan. 3 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.

ZooLights: Time slots start at 4:30 p.m. select dates 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.

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. Friday through Sunday, Nov. 28-30, 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.

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 the Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. Tickets start at $31. paramountaurora.com.

“A Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 28 through Dec. 21, and 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 23-24, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Charles Dickens’ tale of redemption, generosity and hope. $20-$49. metropolisarts.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, secrets are revealed and arranged engagements and meddlesome siblings come together for the holidays. $43-$45. atthemac.org.

Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, through 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.

“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.

Glen Ellyn Holiday Decorated Windows: Through Dec. 25 in downtown Glen Ellyn. Free. downtownglenellyn.com/events-calendar.

McHenry Holiday Scavenger Hunt: Through Dec. 12. Help Santa find his lost reindeer by looking for them 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.

“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.

Long Grove Vintage Holidays: 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.