Things to do Dec. 5-11: Tree lightings, Dickens in Dundee, Jingle Bell Jubilee and more

Starts before Friday

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, there will be campfires, hot cocoa, cookies, Candy Cane Forest and Mrs. Claus. $1 per person or $5 per family donation appreciated. crystallakeparks.org/special-events.

“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.

“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.

Friday, Dec. 5

Naperville Garden Club’s Cup of Cheer Home Tour, Holiday Market & Tea: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, for $45. Preview day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, for $60. Tour four homes showcasing holiday decor. Tea features homemade cookies and beverages with a commemorative teacup and saucer or mug. Holiday Market features handcrafted and curated items at the Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873, 908 W. Jackson St. (nonticket holders welcome from noon to 4 p.m. Friday). Tickets available at napervillegardenclub.org or Baird & Warner Realtors, 836 W. 75th St., Naperville; John Greene Realtors, 1311 S. Route 59, Naperville; and The Growing Place, 25W471 Plank Road, Naperville. Proceeds support the club’s community programs, scholarships, civic beautification projects and educational initiatives.

Geneva Holiday House Tour: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in Geneva. Five homes decorated for the holidays by local decorators open their doors to visitors for self-guided tours. Tickets are $42 at genevachamber.com/events/holiday-house-tour.

MainStreet Libertyville’s First Fridays: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, on Main Street in Libertyville. Music, refreshments and more. Free. mainstreetlibertyville.org.

International Gem and Jewelry Show: Noon to 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. Jewelry, fashion accessories and gift show. $6 in advance, $8 at the door; kids younger than 9 are not permitted. intergem.com.

Dickens in Dundee: 3-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, and 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in East and West Dundee. In West Dundee on Friday: Tree-lighting ceremony at 7 p.m., Gingerbread House Making, Festival of Trees, holiday craft shows, A Christmas Carol: Scrooge’s Reclamation, Santa’s Petting Zoo and Dundee Lions’ Christmas tree sales in Grafelman Park. New this year in East Dundee: Santa’s East Side Market from 3-9 p.m. Friday with 15 artisan vendors at the Depot, 319 N. River St. Tree-lighting ceremony and Santa arrives at 5:45 p.m. with “The Christmas Schooner” cast of the Dundee Township Park District Theater, Living Windows from 6-8 p.m., visits with Santa from 6-9 p.m. with free hot chocolate and cookies, “Those Funny Little People” Toy Making Elves, Frozen Robins Caroling Quartet, character appearances, free horse-drawn carriage rides and more. On Saturday: The Riverside Parade of Lights steps off at 6:30 p.m. at South Lincoln Avenue and North Sixth in West Dundee, then heads north to cross the Main Street bridge in Carpentersville, then south on Washington/Water Street to East Dundee, ending at Railroad Street around 7 p.m. dickensindundee.org or eastdundee.net.

Des Plaines Holiday Tree Lighting: 4-6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Metropolitan Square, just north of Miner Street, Des Plaines. Students and community groups decorate holiday trees at 4 p.m. in the Square; food trucks and live performances from 4:30-6:15 p.m.; Santa arrives at 4:45 p.m.; and the tree lighting is at 6:30 p.m. On Saturday, the indoor artisan market featuring local makers runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Des Plaines Public Library, 1501 Ellinwood St. Free. desplainesil.gov.

Oswego Christmas Walk: 4:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, in downtown Oswego. Performances by local choirs, Santa’s reindeer, live ice sculpting, an inflatable sled hill, annual tree lighting and an emergency vehicle light parade. oswegoil.org.

Addison Christmas Tree Lighting: 5-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Village Green, 1 Friendship Plaza, Addison. Train and sleigh rides in the Village Green, holiday craft fair, Living Nativity at St. Paul, historical museum open house and visits with Santa in the gazebo. The Goodrich Caroling Group will perform. School groups will perform before the tree lighting at 8 p.m. Hot chocolate by the Kiwanis Club, popcorn by Knights of Columbus and other food vendors. Free. ithappensinaddison.com.

First Pour Fridays: 5-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at the Callahan Community Center, 150 Houston St., Batavia. Ages 21 and older can sample wines from local vintners paired with small bites. $20 in advance or $25 at the door. bataviaparks.org/special-events.

Hinsdale Christmas Walk: 5-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, in the downtown Hinsdale business district. Holiday tree-lighting ceremony, meet-and-greet with Santa, traditional carousel and trackless train rides, and vendors with holiday treats and games. Free. hinsdalechamber.com/christmas-walk.

Holiday Express: 5-8 p.m. Fridays, Dec. 5 (sensory-friendly night), 12 and 19, and 2-7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 6-7, 13-14 and 20-21, at Blackberry Farm, 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora. Twinkly lights, holiday music, holiday hay wagon rides and steam engine train rides that run a three-quarter-mile loop around Lake Gregory for “Destination: Virtual North Pole.” The train and hay wagon are ADA-accessible. $10 for 1 and older. Tickets: blackberryfarm.info/special-events/holiday-express/.

Home for the Holidays Lighted Christmas Trail: 5-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, 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.

Hometown Holiday: 5-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Community Park, 5 Park View Lane, Hawthorn Woods. Visit with Santa, holiday music, tree lighting, cocoa and a cookie treat, an inflatable gingerbread bounce house and more. Free. vhw.org/223/Hometown-Holiday.

Snow Much Fun!: 5-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Veterans Memorial Park, 55 E. Richmond St., Westmont. Outdoor games, selfies in Santa’s sleigh and the giant snow globe, community-decorated Christmas trees, mule-drawn wagon ride, inflatable slide (fee), s’mores, food truck and Santa visits inside the Gregg House. Huskies of the Valley dog sledding team will demonstrate speed and endurance skills. The museum celebrates the 60th anniversary of “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Free. hollydaysfestival.com.

Hanover Park Tree Lighting Ceremony: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Ontarioville Plaza, 1931 Ontarioville Road, Hanover Park. Carols, reindeer, mini train rides, hot cocoa and cookies, games, s’mores, face painting and photos with Santa. hpil.org.

Lincolnshire Lights: 5:30-6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Village Green Center, 100 Olde Half Day Road, Lincolnshire. Tree-lighting celebration and a drone show. Free. lincolnshireil.gov.

Visit With Santa: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Foxford Hills Golf Course, 6800 Rawson Bridge Road, Cary. Kids can visit with Santa. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. Free. Register: caryparkdistrict.org.

Carol Stream Holiday Tree Lighting: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Carol Stream Town Center, 960 N. Gary Ave., Carol Stream. Hosted by the village, Carol Stream Park District and the Carol Stream Public Library. Holiday crafts and activities for kids, performances by the West Chicago High School Choir and local student dance and pom groups, petting zoo, hot cocoa, cookies, a visit from Santa Claus and The Grinch, and the lighting of the village tree. New this year, a large LED screen truck will showcase the tree-lighting countdown, Santa’s arrival and live performances, allowing guests to enjoy the event from multiple viewing areas. Free. carolstream.org.

Family Movie Night: 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Kies Recreation Center gym, 155 E. St. Charles Road, Elmhurst. Watch the animated “Grinch” movie. Bring a blanket. $15-$20. Register: epd.org.

Geneva Christmas Walk: 6-9:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Fourth and James streets, Geneva. The Great Tree and more will be lit on the courthouse lawn. Also, the first candy cane of the season, Santa Claus, carolers, a live Nativity, window displays, chestnuts roasted over open fires, Santa Lucia, holiday refreshments and more. genevachamber.com/events/christmas-walk.

Gilberts Visits with Santa: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at the Gilberts Village Hall, 87 Galligan Road, Gilberts. villageofgilberts.com.

Krampusnacht Bazaar and Market of Shadows: 6-10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, and 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Light Lounge at Vern’s Tavern, 77 S. Riverside Drive, Elgin. A bazaar featuring artisan wares and eerie oddities. After 7 p.m. Saturday, wear a Krampus costume, ugly Christmas sweater or Nightmare Before Christmas attire for a Krampusnacht Krawl through downtown businesses. facebook.com/KrampuslaufElginIL.

Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Alongs: 6 p.m. Fridays, Dec. 5, 12 and 19, at Millennium Park, Wrigley Square, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago. Free. chicago.gov.

Warrenville Holly Days: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Tracy Place and Warren Avenue, Warrenville. Santa’s arrival parade with the lighting of the city holiday tree, free horse-drawn carriage rides, fire pits, hot cocoa and cookies, visits with Santa and entertainment by local school groups. Merry Market featuring crafters, bakers and more at the city hall. Free. warrenvilleparks.org.

Blizzard Bash: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Community Recreation Center, 100 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Games, crafts, pizza, hot chocolate and a goody bag. $20-$25. wheelingparkdistrict.com.

Streamwood’s 41st annual Luminaria: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at the village hall, 301 E. Irving Park Road, Streamwood. The Municipal Campus will be filled with light as luminaria line the village hall, police station and Veterans Memorial. Free. streamwood.org.

Barrington Dance Ensemble’s “The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Barrington High School, 616 Main St., Barrington. Tickets start at $25. barringtondance.org.

Fourth annual Holiday Community Sing-Along: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Christ Church United Church of Christ, 1492 Henry, Des Plaines. Hosted by Christ Church, First United Methodist of Des Plaines, St. Martin’s Episcopal and Trinity Lutheran Church of Des Plaines. Refreshments will be served afterward in Wobbe Hall. christchurchuccdesplaines.org.

“The Little Town of Christmas”: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 5-6, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Playhouse 38, 321 Stevens St., Suite P, Geneva. A comedy package of 12 Yuletide sketches. $15; $20 at the door. GenevaParks.org/Playhouse.

“Nutcracker All Jazzed Up”: 7 p.m. Fridays, Dec. 5 and 12, and 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 6 and 13, 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, uptempo, family-friendly experience. $11. bartlettparkdistrict.com.

Palatine Concert Band Holiday Concert: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine. Under the direction of Frederick Lowe, the band performs traditional and holiday music. $10 adults; $8 seniors and students; and $3 kids 12 and younger. cuttinghall.org.

Village Singers’ “We Wish You A Merry Holiday” Concert: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Peace Lutheran Church, 1050 S. Old Rand Road, Lake Zurich. The chorus sings three- and four-part harmony. Silent auction 30 minutes before each show. Free refreshments after the show. $15; free for kids younger than 12. facebook.com/VillageSingers1.

Axiom Brass Holiday Concert: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock; 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Wesley United Methodist Church, 14 N. May St., Aurora; and 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, at First Congregational Church, 256 E. Chicago St., Elgin. Chicago-based quintet performs classical masterpieces, new works and holiday favorites. $25 or $15 for students; Woodstock tickets $25-$30. woodstockoperahouse.com or chambermusiconthefox.org.

Cole In Your Stocking: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Ravinia’s Martin Theatre, 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. Pianist Kevin Cole performs holiday songs. $40. ravinia.org.

Joffrey Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”: Various times and dates Dec. 5-28 at the Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago. Tony Award-winning Christopher Wheeldon’s kaleidoscopic reimagining of “The Nutcracker” set amid the spectacle of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Ticket prices vary by day and start at $60. joffrey.org.

Holiday Brass Concerts: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Norris Cultural Arts Center, 1040 Dunham Road, St. Charles; 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at St. Anne Catholic Community, 120 Ela St., Barrington; and 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Worship Center, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg. Elgin Symphony Orchestra brass and percussion sections perform holiday music, including arrangements of “The Nutcracker,” “Sleigh Ride,” “Joy to the World” and more. $25, $5 for students; Barrington concert is free. elginsymphony.org.

Home for the Holidays: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at the Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Featuring Peabo Bryson, Sheena Easton, Ruben Studdard and Ilya Serov. Tickets start at $56. geneseetheatre.com.

“Miracle on 34th Street”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5-13, at Albright Community Theatre, 100 N. Island Ave., 3rd floor, Batavia. By chance, Kriss Kringle, an old man in a retirement home, gets a job working as Santa for Macy’s. $18-$23. albrighttheatre.com.

The Newberry Consort Presents “A Flamenco Christmas”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, 4220 N. Sheridan Ave., Chicago; 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Galvin Hall, Northwestern University, 70 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston; and 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th St., Chicago. The Newberry Consort partners with Arte Puro to present a new, high-energy Christmas concert featuring flamenco music of Spain and Latin American holiday music, as well as live flamenco dancing. $25-$70, $10 for students with ID, and free for kids 16 and younger. newberryconsort.org.

Salt Creek Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, and 1 and 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd. Skokie. A full-length production performed by a professional company with guest soloists. Tickets start at $28. saltcreekballet.org/the-nutcracker.

St. Charles Singers Candlelight Carols: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at St. Michael Catholic Church, 310 S. Wheaton Ave., Wheaton, and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, 307 Cedar Ave., St. Charles. The St. Charles Singers, led by artistic director Jeffrey Hunt, present the 41st annual concert with guest artist guitarist Goran Ivanovic. The choir will celebrate a world of carols with music from Mexico, Spain, France, Norway, Japan, Poland, Wales, England, Germany and the U.S. $50-$60, $12 for students. stcharlessingers.com.

Wheaton College Christmas Festival “All Ye Faithful”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, and 4 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Edman Memorial Chapel, 401 E. Franklin St., Wheaton. Annual concert by Wheaton College Conservatory of Music featuring the story of Christmas. Tickets start at $17.70. wheaton.edu/calendar-of-events/.

GreenRoom’s First Fridays Improv: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Hemmens Theatre in the Round, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Improv comedy. $15-$20. hemmens.org.

Saturday, Dec. 6

Gurnee Breakfast With Santa: Three seatings: 8-9:15 a.m., 9:30-10:45 a.m. and 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Viking Park, 4374 Old Grand Ave., Gurnee. Dine on breakfast with Santa. Each child will receive a gift to take home. $13-$18. gurneeparkdistrict.com.

Holiday Flower Show: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily in December and 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Jan. 1-17 at Wilder Park Conservatory, 225 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. Free. epd.org.

Breakfast with Santa at Poplar Creek: 8:30 and 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Bridges of Poplar Creek Country Club, 1400 Poplar Creek Drive, Hoffman Estates. Bring a camera for photos with Santa. $30.95 for 13 and older; $19.95 for kids 4-12; and free for kids 3 and younger. Register with Jennifer Fuller at (847) 781-3658. heparks.org.

Lions Charities Reindeer Run 5K: 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, starting at Main and Wesley streets, Wheaton. 14th annual chip-timed race presented in partnership with the Wheaton Park District and Lions Club Charities. All runners will receive a long-sleeve tech T-shirt and antlers. $40, $45 on race day. Virtual race option, which must be completed Dec. 6-15, is $35. Register: bit.ly/2XwBzlK.

34th annual Cookie Walk & Craft Fair: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Journey of Hope, 751 W. Army Trail Road, Bartlett. Homemade cookies sold by the box, 30 craft/vendor booths selling holiday items, cookie cookbooks for sale, lunch for purchase and Santa. Free. Johumc.org.

Breakfast with Santa at the Pavilion: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Pavilion Community Center, 1000 Wellington Drive, Elk Grove Village. Breakfast with Santa, who will be available for photos. Registration is required. $20 for kids 3-13, $23 for adults for residents; $21/$25 for nonresidents; $5 for kids 2 and younger. elkgroveparks.org.

Lambs Farm Breakfast with Santa: 9 and 10:30 a.m. and noon Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6-7 and 13-14, at Lambs Farm, 14245 W. Rockland Road, Libertyville. Dine on brunch at the Magnolia Cafe & Bakery, make crafts and meet Santa. $19.95, $7.95 for kids 2 and younger. For reservations, call (847) 362-5050. lambsfarm.org.

Santa’s Workshop: 9-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Rolling Meadows Community Center, 3705 Pheasant Drive, Rolling Meadows. Cookie decorating, hot cocoa, and pictures with Santa. Registration required. rmparks.org.

Whoville Holiday Bash: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 6, at Lincoln Center, 935 Maple Ave., Downers Grove. Grinchy games, holiday treats, and photo ops with Mr. Grinch and Santa Claus. Meet Cindy Lou Who and create Who-themed keepsakes. $20-$30. Register at dgparks.org.

Bethlehem Marketplace: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the First United Methodist Church of Palatine, 123 N. Plum Grove Road, Palatine. Kids can make holiday crafts. Free. fumcp.org/bethlehem-marketplace.

Chilly Chili 5K/2K: 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Schaumburg Golf Club, 401 N. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. Timed 5K or 2K fun run. After the race, enjoy a bowl of chili and a beer (21 and older) or soft drink. $25 for the 2K, $60-$65 for the 5K. parkfun.com.

“Duke It Out! Nutcracker”: 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Nichols Concert Hall, Music Institute of Chicago, 1490 Chicago Ave., Evanston. This unique Nutcracker performance pits the classical (Tchaikovsky) and jazz (Duke Ellington/Billy Strayhorn) versions of the holiday favorite. Curated by Dance Chicago, the program features members of Braeburn Brass and Music Institute of Chicago Ensemble-in-Residence, Quintet Attacca. $20. musicinst.org.

Happy Holiday Railway: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6-7, at Illinois Railway Museum, 7000 Olson Road, Union. Embark on a 40-minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa and see an animated light show while listening to holiday music. 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 the ticket. Trips at 11:30 a.m., 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 4, 5 and 6 p.m. Arrive 30 minutes beforehand. $25. Tickets: irm.org/event/happy-holiday-railway.

Hometown Holiday Family Fun Day: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Elmhurst History Museum, 143 N. York St., Elmhurst. Santa and his friends will be on hand for photo opportunities, plus history games and trivia from the Elmhurst History Museum, holiday face painters, DJ, free hot chocolate, coffee and treats and more in the heated tent near the City Centre Fountain Plaza. Free. elmhursthistory.org.

Running of the Elves 5K Run/Walk: 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, starting and finishing at Huntley Square. 5K race at 10:30 a.m. on village paths. Dash for kids 5-12 at 10 a.m. and 1-mile walk at 10:45 a.m. $30, $20, $10. Register: portal.clubrunner.ca/2382.

Santa’s Craft Corner: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Cosley Zoo, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton. Admission includes crafts, refreshments, a zoo tour and a visit with Santa. 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.

Wilmette Holiday Happenings: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in downtown Wilmette. Santa visits, a giant snow globe, curling in Ouilmette Way, live performances, and New Trier carolers at 4:15 p.m., New Trier Drumline at 4:45 p.m., tree lighting at 5 p.m. at the village hall and more. Free. wilmette.gov.

Winterfest: 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Bridges of Poplar Creek Country Club, 1400 Poplar Creek Drive, Hoffman Estates. Horse-drawn carriage rides, hot cocoa, s’mores station, iceless skating, cookie decorating, games, vendor giveaways and more. Free. heparks.org/event/winterfest.

Des Plaines Winter Fair: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Des Plaines Public Library, 1501 Ellinwood St., Des Plaines. Indoor artisan market featuring local makers. Take a historic trolley tour of the city guided by the Des Plaines History Center. Advance registration required for the trolley tours. Free. desplainesil.gov.

Holiday Faire: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Saints Peter and Paul Greek Orthodox Church, 1401 Wagner Road, Glenview. Homemade Greek food, visit with Santa and more. Free; donations accepted. ssppglenview.org.

Holiday Open House at Barrington’s White House: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington. Tour the decorated historic mansion, visit with Santa, and enjoy cookies and refreshments. Free; registration is required. barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Itasca Pictures With Santa: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, and Sundays, Dec. 7 and 14, and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, at Usher Park gazebo, 203 S. Walnut, Itasca. Bring your camera for free 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.

Krampus Bazaar: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6-7, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Presented by The World Oddities Expo, including vendors with taxidermy, insects, macabre art, jewelry, home decor and more; tattoo artists; performances; demonstrations and workshops including owl pellet dissections and butterfly pinning; and more. Tickets start at $20, free for kids with an adult. worldodditiesexpo.com/chicago-il.

Kane County Flea Market: The event scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6-7, has been canceled due to the forecasted inclement weather. kanecountyfleamarket.com.

M3 Dance’s “The Nutcracker”: Noon and 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, and noon Sunday, Dec. 7, in the Hemmens Main Stage Theater, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. A fresh take on this classic tale featuring artists from well-known ballet and contemporary companies. Reserved seating. $32.50-$43. (847) 931-5900 or online at hemmens.org/tickets.

Randall Oaks Zoo Winterfest: Noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 6-21, at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Holiday lights, community decorated trees, Santa visits, bonfire and visit the animals in the new World of Wonders heated animal building. $6, free for kids 1 and younger and U.S. military with ID. dtpd.org/winterfest.

Santa’s Workshop at Wilder Mansion: Noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Wilder Mansion, 211 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. Kids can purchase kid-priced and kid-friendly holiday gifts. No registration required. Free. epd.org.

A Very Merry Huntley: Noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Town Square, 11704 Coral St., Huntley. Running of the Elves 5K at 10 a.m., handbell concert at noon, a cookie walk from 1-4 p.m. at First Congregational, Kriss Kringle Market from 2-7 p.m., trackless train rides, hot cocoa, cookies, live reindeer and voting for your favorite decorated tree from 3-6 p.m. Pasta dinner from 4-6 p.m. at the Legion Hall. Caroling in the Square at 4 p.m. New this year, a holiday parade with Santa and Mrs. Claus at 5 p.m., with the lighting of the square, visits with Santa in the gazebo at 5:15 p.m. and a holiday fireworks show. huntley.il.us.

“Art Deco Nutcracker ”: 1 and 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. Bringing Jazz Age glamour to the classic holiday favorite. $22-$59. aacenterfordance.org.

Holiday Tea: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Elgin History Museum, 360 Park St., Elgin. The “Merry & Bright” program features soprano Kathleen Monson and friends performing Christmas songs with a classical twist. Dine on sweet and savory treats. Social hour at 1 p.m., with the performance at 1:30 p.m. $10. Register: elginhistory.org.

Holly Jolly Days: 1-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6-21, at Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. Learn how reindeer shoes are made with a storytime and demonstration by the blacksmith at the forge. Christmas stories in the schoolhouse, crafts, roasting chestnuts over an open fire, and take a family photo at the Victorian Christmas photo stop. The Weed Ladies will be selling handmade floral arrangements. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. Last entry at 5 p.m. $6; free for kids younger than 4. napersettlement.org/hollyjollydays.

Holly Jolly Holiday: 1-5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Wauconda Park District Community Center, 600 N. Main St., Wauconda. Indoor holiday activities from 1-5 p.m. A one-mile fun run/walk at 2 p.m. Outdoor holiday carolers by the decorated tree at 4:45 p.m. Outdoor tree lighting with Santa at 5 p.m. near the front entrance. Plus, pictures with Santa, local vendor market, trolley rides, crafts, entertainment, food and more. Free. waucondachamber.org.

Alma Dance Theater’s “The Nutcracker”: 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Batavia Fine Arts Centre, 1250 W. Wilson St., Batavia. Features international ballet stars and actors from around the world, Alma Dance School’s students, guest stars, and children from the school’s special needs program. $52-$61. bataviafineartscentre.org/events.

A Black Ensemble Holiday Spectacular: 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 6 and 13, and 2 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 7 and 14, at the Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N. Clark St., Chicago. A musical celebration featuring classic and contemporary holiday hits. Tickets start at $47. blackensembletheater.org.

Candlelight at Durant House: 2-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6-7, at the Durant House Museum and Sholes School in LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles. Step back in time and enjoy the holidays in 19th-century Illinois. $5, $1 for kids. Timed entries: ppfv.org/candlelight.

It’s a Wonderful Life in Lake Bluff!: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in downtown Lake Bluff. Lake Bluff Public Library winter open house from 2-4 p.m.; Holiday Artisan & Craft Market from 2-5 p.m. on Scranton Avenue, adjacent to the Village Green; holiday music from 4-5 p.m.; Lighting of the Orbs at 5 p.m. on Lake Bluff Village Green and more. Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast with Santa from 7 a.m. to noon at Grace United Methodist Church; registration required at LakeBluffParks.org. Most events are free. lflbchamber.com.

Jingle Bell Jubilee: 2-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in Lombard. Tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. at Lilacia Park, 150 S. Park Ave. From 2-6 p.m. at Helen Plum Library, a photo booth and Holiday Lights glasses (while supplies last), a scavenger hunt from 2-4:30 p.m., and Eastwind Vocal Ensemble from Glenbard East at 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. From 4:30-5:30 p.m., sing Christmas carols at First United Methodist Church. At Maple Street Chapel, listen to Josiah Reade Ringers, First Church’s handbell choir, from 4:30-5 p.m. and then Kilty Pleasure for the annual sing-along until 7 p.m. maplestreetconcerts.org. Glenbard East Honors Orchestra Concerts at 6 and 6:30 p.m., as well as hot cocoa and crafts in the Lombard Bible Church gym. Cookie Walk from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Calvary Church. Artist painting portraits onto keepsake ornaments, Candy Cane Lane along Park Avenue and more. Free trolley running from 4:30-8:30 p.m. Lombard Fire Department will be at the park district’s office, 227 W. Parkside Ave., collecting toys for the toy drive benefiting Teen Parent Connection and Toy Express. lombardparks.com/jubilee.

Roselle Winterfest: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Petal Porch & Petal Plaza on Prospect Street in Roselle. Live performances, holiday market, food trucks, kids’ activities and more. Grinch Dance Party at 3:30 p.m. Stop by the Roselle Public Library District to vote for the best gingerbread house. Holiday tree lighting with Santa at 5 p.m. Food trucks (Tievoli Pizza Truck, Travelin’ Tom’s and Kona Ice) on Prospect Street. Roselle Penguin Parade with five new penguins displayed around downtown Roselle. Free. roselle.il.us/425/Roselle-Winterfest.

Santa’s Cottage: 2-5 p.m. and 6:30-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Santa’s Cottage, 300 Plaza Circle, Mundelein. Kids can visit Santa in a unique, cozy house. Free. mundeleincommunityconnection.org.

Silvertones’ “It Feels Like Christmas”: 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in the Ray Morrill Community Center Memorial Room, 1777 S. Blanchard St., Wheaton. Wheaton Park District’s Silvertones’ holiday concert. $10 in advance or $13 at the door. wheatonparkdistrict.com.

New Tradition Chorus Holiday Concert: 2:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6-7, at the Glenview Community Church, 1000 Elm St., Glenview. The a cappella chorus will present “Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” featuring traditional Christmas songs and Hanukkah favorites. Tickets are $20-$24. newtradition.org.

Barrington’s Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting Ceremony: 3-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in downtown Barrington. Free hot chocolate, ice-carving demonstrations, family activities, visit with Santa at Barrington’s White House and more. Performance by the BHS Madrigals at 4:30 p.m. and tree-lighting ceremony at 5 p.m. Free. barrington-il.gov.

Jay & The Americans Christmas Show: 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Des Plaines Theatre, 1476 Miner St., Des Plaines. $56.75-$88.75. desplainestheatre.com.

Lights of Lisle: 3-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in downtown Lisle. Mr. and Mrs. Claus greet visitors to the Museums at Lisle Station Park, 921 School St., during Once Upon a Christmas, which includes crafts and refreshments from 3-7 p.m. Food and beverage vendors, live ice carving and the tree-lighting ceremony at 5 p.m. at the village hall. Sing along with the St. Joan Choir at 3 p.m. at Burlington Avenue and Main Street. Luminaria will be displayed throughout downtown starting at 3 p.m. Santa Parade steps off at 4:30 p.m. from Spencer and School streets, heads west to Main Street, south on Main, then east on Burlington Avenue to the village hall parking lot at Burlington and Center avenues. Free. villageoflisle.org.

Mundelein Winter Tree Lighting Festival: 3-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Courtland Commons, 400 E. Courtland St., Mundelein. Santa’s Cottage opens at 2 p.m. School choirs and local musicians perform at 3 p.m. Kiddie train rides, ice sculpting, Disney Princesses, story time, letters to Santa, a Kriss Kringle Market, games, crafts, food vendors, hot chocolate and treats, the Mayor’s Seasonal Message, the Mundelein Queens, lighting of the village Holiday Tree, fireworks and a second session of Santa’s Cottage after the fireworks. Free. mundeleincommunityconnection.org.

“Home But Alone No More” book signing: 3:30-5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Gorton Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest. Book-signing with John Abendshien, the original owner of the Winnetka “Home Alone” house and author of the book. Free. homebutalonenomore.com.

Algonquin Miracle on Main: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, on Main Street in Old Town Algonquin. Live holiday performances, Old Town holiday displays, live ice sculpting, live reindeer, trackless train rides, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, kids’ activities and the tree lighting at 5:15 p.m. Opening at 3 p.m., the Merry Market features over 20 artisan vendors selling handmade goods, seasonal gifts and treats on Main Street, between Washington and Madison streets. Free. algonquin.org.

Christmas by Candlelight: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Stacy’s Tavern Museum, Glen Ellyn History Center, 800 N. Main St., Glen Ellyn. holiday craft activities and see Stacy’s Tavern decorated for the holidays by Twig and Bloom Garden Club. Free. gehs.org.

CLC Choral Ensembles Holiday Concert: 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Mainstage Theatre at the College of Lake County, 19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake. $6-$7. jlcenter.clcillinois.edu.

Elburn Christmas Stroll: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in downtown Elburn. Holiday-themed activities, Kriss Kringle Market at Obscurity Brewing, crafts, live reindeer, balloon artist, treats and more. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive on the fire truck for the tree lighting at 4 p.m., and they will be at the library from 5:15-7 p.m. Kaneland High jazz band performs at 4:30 p.m. and Madrigals at 6 p.m. elburn.com/christmas-stroll/.

Holiday in the Hollow: 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in Sabatino Park, 1 Thorobred Lane, Sleepy Hollow. Music by Sleepy Hollow Elementary School, Circle-of-Cheer Christmas trees, Santa visits, and lighting of the trees and flagpole. Free. sleepyhollowil.org.

Jingle Bell Jubilee at Victorian Cottage: 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Victorian Cottage Historic House Museum, 23 W. Maple St., Lombard. Gingerbread Way holiday market features glow items, candles, warm drinks, cotton candy and more. See the Gingerbread House Contest entries and vote for your favorite. Face painting and kids’ crafts at the Carriage House. Take a tour of the Victorian Cottage with costumed interpreters and the Canterbury Carolers. Free tickets available at 4 p.m. at the Carriage House, with tours starting at 5:45 p.m. Lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. lombardhistory.org.

Joyful Traditions: 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Ruggard Gazebo, 10 W. Park Blvd., Villa Park. View the community decorated Christmas trees along the Prairie Path, take pictures with Santa and costumed characters, plus pony rides, a petting zoo and food trucks. Take a ride on the trolley to the library and historical society. villaparkchamber.org.

St. Nick’s Holiday Mart: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Villa Park Public Library, 305 S. Ardmore Ave., Villa Park. Vendors will be selling a variety of merchandise. Light refreshments and door prizes. vppl.info.

Winter Wonderland at the Oaks: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 419 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook. Wear an ugly Christmas sweater, hike the woods following a lantern-lit trail, then warm up inside with hot cocoa, tea or cider. Make holiday nature crafts and dine on hot dogs and s’mores. Free. reconnectwithnature.org.

Downtown Evanston Holiday Light Celebration: 4:30-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Evanston’s Fountain Square, corner of Davis Street, Orrington and Sherman avenues, Evanston. Annual tree lighting event with the mayor, Santa and Mrs. Claus and more. Entertainment from the Evanston Children’s Choir at 4:30 p.m. and the Northwestern Community Singers at 5:10 p.m. Tree lighting at 5 p.m. Free. downtownevanston.org/treelighting.

Hot Cocoa with Anna & Elsa: 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Blackberry Farm, 150 S. Barnes Road, Aurora. Join the “Frozen” sisters for a hot cocoa party with sing-along and photo opportunities. $15. Register: foxvalleyparkdistrict.org.

Merry & Bright, Lighting the Tree: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Bartlett Park, Oak and North avenues, Bartlett. Cookies, cocoa, horse-drawn wagon rides, a DJ spinning holiday music, food trucks and more. Santa arrives at 5 p.m. Laser Light Show at 7 p.m. Free. bartlettil.gov.

Wayne Tree Lighting: 4:30-5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Historic Depot building, off Army Trail Road, Wayne. Free. villageofwayne.org.

West Chicago Frosty Fest: 4:30-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in downtown West Chicago. Tree-lighting ceremony at 4:30 p.m. in front of the Fox Community Center, 306 Main St. Holiday shopping and crafts at Fox Community Center and Gallery 200, 103 W. Washington St. Fa La La La Lane at American Legion, 123 Main St., with D33 Ballet Folklorico at 5 p.m., Gary Elementary Choir at 5:30 p.m., Leman Mariachi at 6 p.m., and West Chicago High School A Capella at 6:30 p.m. Along Main Street, window decorating contest, horse-drawn trolley rides, The Chicago Carolers from 4:30-5:30 p.m., Elves — Funny Little People at 5:30 p.m., ice sculpture carving, Frosty Fest ice sculpture, alpacas and reindeer, electric train and more. The North Pole at Republic Bank, 101 Main St., with visits with Mr. & Mrs. Claus after the tree-lighting ceremony. Food vendors near a heated tent. Free. westchicago.org/frosty-fest/.

Frosty & Friends Parade: 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in downtown Westmont. Parade, which heads down Cass Avenue from Chicago Avenue to Quincy Street, kicks off the monthlong Holly Days Winter Festival with entertainment, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, downtown business open houses, treats and more. westmontparks.org.

Grand Kyiv Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”: 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6; 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13; and 2 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 14 and 21, at the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. Tickets start at $53. athenaeumcenter.org/events/2025/nutcracker.

Making Spirits Bright: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Riverfront Park, 25 E. State St., North Aurora. Holiday Lights Parade at 5 p.m., with the park lighting around 5:15 p.m. and Santa visits from 5:30-7 p.m. Find all the hidden penguins and get a prize from 5:15-7 p.m. Also, live reindeer, Santa’s Workshop Craft Corner and Holiday Food Drive for the Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry. Lights will remain up through the new year. northaurora.org.

Santa’s Village Magical Christmas Drive-Thru: 5-9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 5-6, and Dec. 12-14, 19-23 and 26-30, at 601 Dundee Ave., East Dundee. See the light displays synchronized to holiday music from your car. Visit with Santa at the end. $29.99 per vehicle, $5 discount for season-pass holders. (847) 426-6751 or santasvillagedundee.com.

The Second City’s “Jack Frost Roasting on an Open Fire”: 5 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Belushi Performance Hall, 425 Fawell Blvd, Glen Ellyn. Interactive comedy revue. Contains adult themes and language. $32-$49. atthemac.org.

Island Lake Tree Lighting: 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the village hall, 3720 Greenleaf Ave., Island Lake. Spaghetti dinner with Santa and lighting of the village tree. villageofislandlake.com.

Riverside Parade of Lights: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. Parade steps off at South Lincoln Avenue and North Sixth in West Dundee, then heads north to cross the Main Street bridge in Carpentersville, then south on Washington/Water Street to East Dundee, ending at Railroad Street around 7 p.m. dickensindundee.org or eastdundee.net.

DancEncounter “A Christmas Cracker”: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Batavia Fine Arts Centre, 1250 W. Wilson St., Batavia. bataviafineartscentre.org.

Elmhurst Choral Union Handel’s “Messiah” Part 1: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg. Bring nonperishable food items in support of a local food charity. $20 for adults and $10 for kids 17 and younger. elmhurstchoralunion.org.

Jim Witter’s “Christmas Memories”: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Elgin Community College Arts Center, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Features “Winter Wonderland,” “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” and more. $50 for adults and $20 for kids 12 and younger. eccartscenter.org.

MCC Ensembles Holiday Concert: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Free. mchenry.edu/events.

Nothing But Treble’s “Brightest & Best Holiday Joy in Song”: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at First Congregational Church, 256 E. Chicago St., Elgin. Suggested donation: $20. nbtelgin.com.

Canadian Brass: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. Imaginative takes on holiday favorites. $50. ravinia.org.

The Four C Notes: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock. Tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. $40. woodstockoperahouse.com.

Heart of the Holidays: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Stage Left, 125 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock. Special holiday reunion concert with Cassandra Vohs-Demann and John Hegner. $27. woodstockoperahouse.com.

WT Productions’ “Seasonal Stars”: 8 p.m. Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 6-14, at The Bit Theater, 4034 Fox Valley Center Drive, Aurora. This new collection of six short plays looks at Christmas and the winter holidays from different perspectives. For PG-13 audiences. $25. wtproductions2.weebly.com.

Sunday, Dec. 7

Great Midwest Train Show: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. Over 110 exhibitors showing new and used model trains, accessories, parts and more. $7 online or $8 at the gate; cash only. Free for kids 11 and younger with an adult. trainshow.com.

Santa’s Flight to Schaumburg: 9-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Schaumburg Regional Airport, 905 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Buffet breakfast or lunch, holiday music and crafts while waiting for Santa in the airport’s hangar. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. $30-$35; free for kids 2 and younger. Registration required. parkfun.com/event/santas-flight-to-schaumburg.

Bloomingdale Maker’s Market: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, in the parking lot of Old Town, Third and Franklin streets, Bloomingdale. Rain or shine. Vendors, entertainment, food trucks and more. facebook.com/thebloomingdalemakersmarket.

Wheeling Santa’s Breakfast: 10 a.m. to noon Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Chevy Chase Country Club, 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling. Holiday breakfast and photos with Santa. $59.98, $26.95 for kids 6-17, and free for kids 5 and younger. Registration recommended. wheelingparkdistrict.com.

A Festival of Lessons and Carols: 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Alice Millar Chapel, 1870 Sheridan Road, Evanston. Portraying the Christmas miracle with readings and music from medieval to modern with brass, strings, organ and choir. Free. artscircle.northwestern.edu.

Community Holiday Tea: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington. Hot tea, scones, finger sandwiches, champagne, wine and more. For women 21 and older. $92.55. barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Annual Holiday Cookie, Sweets & Treats Walk: Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, in downtown Naperville. At check-in, ticketed attendees will receive a Cookies & Sweets bag and a map of participating businesses. Guests can collect one treat per ticket per stop. Tickets are $25. Three check-in times: noon, 12:30 or 1 p.m. downtownnaperville.com.

Merry Cary Holiday Parade & Festival: 12:30-3:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at 100 W. Main St., Cary. Parade steps off at 1 p.m. on Main and Wulff streets, heads east on Main to Jandus Road. Meet Santa and The Grinch, pony rides, sleigh rides, carolers, activities, music and more. Free. carygrovechamber.com.

Holiday Hoopla: 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Community Recreation Center, 100 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Kids’ games, crafts and photos with Santa. Free. wheelingparkdistrict.com.

“A Charlie Brown Christmas”: 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. Jazz trio Mr. Chair plays the Vince Guaraldi album and holiday favorites. $30. ravinia.org.

Carriage rides on the historic Woodstock Square: 2-4:30 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 7 and 14, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock. woodstockilchamber.com.

“Christmas in The Air”: 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Des Plaines Theatre, 1476 Miner St., Des Plaines. A family-friendly, Broadway-style holiday song and dance review. $56.75-$78.75. desplainestheatre.com.

Fox Valley Orchestra’s “Holiday Potpourri”: 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Marmion Abbey, 850 Butterfield Road, Aurora. Holiday music featuring “Christmas Overture,” “Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring,” “Polar Express” and “Stille Nacht.” $21, $19 for seniors and students, and $13 for kids 8 and younger; $16-$25 at the door. foxvalleyorchestra.org.

Geneva Steeple Walk: 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7. Four historic Geneva churches host a 20-minute music performance. Concertgoers are split into two groups, with one group beginning at United Methodist Church of Geneva and the other at Geneva Lutheran Church, then First Church of Christ Scientist and Unitarian Universalist Society of Geneva. Performers include The Chromatics, Batavia High School, Genuine Brass, The Hogmires and Zazz Jazz Combo. $20 by Dec. 4. Tickets: genevafoundationforthearts.org/events.

St. Charles Sunday Concert: 2-3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the St. Charles Public Library Carnegie Community Room, 1 S. Sixth Ave., St. Charles. The Sterling Brass Quartet, the premier brass ensemble of the EYSO Chamber Music Institute, performs. Free. scpld.org.

Warrenville Sunday Music Matinee: 2-3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Warrenville Public Library, 28W751 Stafford Place, Warrenville. Geof Bradfield, a modern jazz trio, performs. Free. Register: warrenville.com/events.

American Wind Band Holiday Concert: 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, in the Hinsdale South High School auditorium, 7401 Clarendon Hills Road, Darien. Includes music from “Peanuts,” Carols of Alfred Burt, jazzy arrangements of contemporary holiday music, a traditional Hanukkah Salute and more. Free. americanwindband.org.

Beyond Glee “Reflections of Christmas”: 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, in the Community Center’s Memorial Room Auditorium, 1777 S. Blanchard St., Wheaton. Contemporary renditions of festive songs. $10 in advance; $12 at the door. wheatonparkdistrict.com.

Candlelight at the Museum: 3-7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Garfield Farm Museum, on Garfield Road, Campton Hills. Interpreters wearing period clothing will share what life was like for people during the height of the horse-and-wagon era. $5, $4 for kids younger than 13. garfieldfarm.org.

Festival Chorus of Harper College Christmas Concert: 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Harper College Performing Arts Center, 1200 Algonquin Road, Palatine. Eighty choral voices and a professional 45-piece orchestra will perform holiday choral masterpieces featuring “The Many Moods of Christmas” arranged by Robert Russel Bennett, “This Year” by Jacob Narverud and “Evening Prayer” by Ola Gjeilo. Food and Donations will be collected for Faith Feeds Food Pantry. $20; $15 for seniors, students and Harper faculty/staff; free for 12 and younger. harpercollege.edu/boxoffice.

Fox Valley Concert Band “Home for the Holidays”: 3-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, in the Norris Cultural Arts Center, 1040 Dunham Road, St. Charles. Free; donations encouraged. fvcb.org/wp.

Shine, A Chanukah Celebration: 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Techny Prairie Activity Center, 180 Anets Drive, Northbrook. A community Hanukkah celebration, in collaboration with Congregation Beth Shalom, featuring music, cookie decorating and crafts. $15 for residents, $19 for nonresidents, and free for kids 2 and younger. nbparks.org.

Voices Unlimited Chorus’ “A Christmas Invitation”: 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, hosted by Immanuel Lutheran Church, 310 E. Main St., East Dundee. Holiday concert combines sacred and secular Christmas music. $10, $5 for kids 11 and younger. Contact David Barth at davidabarth@comcast.net.

“A Bing Crosby Christmas With Jared Bradshaw”: 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Shepherd of the Prairie Lutheran Church, 10805 Main St., Huntley. Broadway’s Jared Bradshaw band with a trio singing the harmonies of the Andrew Sisters and hits including “Jingle Bells,” “Ac-cent-tchu-ate The Positive,” “Mele Kalikimaka” and “White Christmas.” Free; donations welcome. bit.ly/SOTPARTIST.

Chicago a cappella “Holidays a cappella”: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville. A mix of classics and rarities, from “Let It Snow” and “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire” to music from Australia and Puerto Rico. Partnering with DuPage PADS to collect supplies for the Interim Housing Center. $10-$55. northcentralcollege.edu/show/calendar.

CLC Wind Ensemble Holiday Concert: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, in the Mainstage Theatre at the College of Lake County, 19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake. $8-$9. jlcenter.clcillinois.edu.

Family Holiday Stroll: 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, in downtown Naperville. Naper Lights holiday display, Santa will greet kids in Jaycees Park by the Great Tree, 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.

The Glory of Christmas: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights, 302 N. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights. Chancel Choir, Men’s Chorus, Youth Choir, Handbell Choirs and orchestra perform their annual Christmas concert featuring “The Many Moods” by Robert Shaw. Free. firstpresah.org.

Living Nativity: 4 and 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 40W720 Plank Road, Elgin. An outdoor Living Nativity presentation with live animals. Free. stpauluccelgin.org.

Winter’s Tales: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Grace Lutheran Church, 7300 Division St., River Forest. Spirito Singers will perform holiday favorites like “Up on the Housetop” and “(Everybody’s Waitin’ for) The Man with the Bag,” Benjamin Britten’s masterwork “A Ceremony of Carols” performed with harpist Autumn Selover and more. $27, $22 for students and seniors 65 and older with ID. spiritosingers.org.

Holiday Lights in Lilacia Park: 4:30-10 p.m. daily, Dec. 7 through Jan. 5, at Lilacia Park, 150 S. Park Ave., Lombard. Holiday displays light up Lilacia Park with an array of animated light shows, decorated trees, a gingerbread house and more. Visit with Santa Claus and other holiday characters, plus free hot cocoa and cookies. Magical Elf Hunt on Dec. 7. lombardparks.com/holiday-lights.

Montgomery Tree Lighting & Visit with Santa: 4:30-7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Montgomery Village Hall, 200 N. River St., Montgomery. Hosted by the village and the Greater Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. Santa Claus arrives at about 5 p.m. by the Montgomery & Countryside Fire District fire engine, musical performances by schoolchildren and local singers, strolling carolers, free hot chocolate and cookies, kids’ giveaways and crafts. Festival of Trees on display through Dec. 27. montgomeryil.org.

A Wickedly Popular Christmas Light Show: 4:30-9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Cantigny, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Special light show based on the new “Wicked” film. Advance tickets: $25 for adults, $15 for kids 3-15; at the gate: $19-$30. cantigny.org.

Bedazzled: A Holiday Cabaret: 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Oil Lamp Theater, 1723 Glenview Road, Glenview. A music-filled journey celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, the winter season, family and more. $30. oillamptheater.org.

Holiday Cabaret: The Best Time of the Year: 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Students and Celebration Singers from the Metropolis School of the Performing Arts will perform a variety of holiday music. $15 for adults, $12 for students. metropolisarts.com.

The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show: 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago. BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon perform a holiday show. Tickets start at $52.95. msg.com.

Joseph A. Favero Memorial “Do It Yourself” Messiah: 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Waukegan High School, Trapp Auditorium, 2325 Brookside Ave., Waukegan. Presented by the Waukegan Symphony Orchestra and Concert Chorus. $20. waukeganparks.org/wsocc.

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

Rain’s “A Beatles Christmas Tribute”: 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Beatles tribute and holiday favorites. Tickets start at $49.95. geneseetheatre.com.

Holly Jolly Trolley: Sunday evenings, Dec. 7 and 14, in downtown Glen Ellyn. Hop aboard the classic Victorian trolley for a 30-minute narrated tour of the festive downtown and decked-out homes. Tickets required. downtownglenellyn.com/events-calendar.

Monday, Dec. 8

Movie Mondays: 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, at Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. See 2003’s “Elf.” $1 tickets at the door; cash only ($20 bills or less). Concessions (credit/debit cards accepted). paramountaurora.com/series/movie-mondays.

103.5 KISS FM’s Jingle Ball: 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, at the Allstate Arena, 6920 Mannheim Road, Rosemont. Audrey Hobert, Jessie Murph, Nelly, Ravyn Lenae, Reneé Rapp, Teddy Swims, Shinedown, Jackson Wang, Zara Larsson and a special sing-along moment from “K-POP Demon Hunters.” Tickets start at $54.45; parking is $25. rosemont.com/allstate.

Tuesday, Dec. 9

Flute Choir Christmas Mini-Concert: 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at the Armerding Center for Music and the Arts lobby, 520 Kenilworth, Wheaton. Hosted by the Wheaton College Conservatory of Music. Free. wheaton.edu.

Batavia High School’s “Winter Wonderland”: 6 and 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at Batavia Fine Arts Centre, 1250 W. Wilson St., Batavia. About 400 Batavia High School student musicians perform holiday-inspired music in 75 minutes or less. Tickets: bataviafineartscentre.org.

A Chanticleer Christmas: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at the Chicago Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. The Grammy Award-winning men’s chorus performs carols, Christmas songs and festive spirituals. $45. cso.org.

Chamber Music Concert: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at the Armerding Center Recital Hall, 520 Kenilworth, Wheaton. Hosted by the Wheaton College Conservatory of Music. Free. wheaton.edu.

ECC Concert Choir: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at the ECC Blizzard Theater, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Under the direction of Kathi Bernhard, the choir performs classical masterpieces, contemporary works and global choral traditions. $10-$12. eccartscenter.org.

A Very Merry Metropolis Holiday Concert: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, and 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Featuring the Metropolis Children’s Choir and local musicians. $35. metropolisarts.com.

Wednesday, Dec. 10

Christmas Tour: 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, Dec. 10-20; 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Sunday and Monday, Dec. 21-22; and noon and 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, at the Victorian Cottage Historic House Museum, 23 W. Maple St., Lombard. Take a 45-minute guided tour of the Victorian Cottage Historic House Museum decorated for the holidays. $5, free for kids 12 and younger. Tickets: lombardhistory.org.

Critics Classics: 1 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at Elk Grove Theatre, 1050 Elk Grove Town Center, Elk Grove Village. See “Three Days of the Condor.” Hosted by the Chicago Film Critics Association. $9 or $7 matinee; $7-$6 for 60 or older, $1.50 booking fee. classiccinemas.com.

CLC Concert Band Holiday Concert: 4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, in the Mainstage Theatre at the College of Lake County, 19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake. $8-$9. jlcenter.clcillinois.edu.

Nick’s Pix: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at Lake Theatre, 1022 Lake St., Oak Park. Veteran movie critic Nick Digilio hosts the monthly film series. See Tim Burton’s 1992 “Batman Returns.” $9, $7 for 60 or older and kids 2-11, plus fees. classiccinemas.com.

Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour 2025: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at the Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Tickets start at $59.95. geneseetheatre.com.

A Timeless Christmas with The Lettermen: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. Classic holiday carols and standards. $46.75-$88.75. arcadalive.com.

A Carpenters’ Christmas: 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Singer and playwright Lisa Rock and her six-piece band bring the music of The Carpenters’ holiday celebrations to life. Tickets start at $43. rauecenter.org.

Ugly Sweater Dine-Around: Wednesday, Dec. 10, at participating Glen Ellyn restaurants. Enjoy discounted food and drinks while sporting festive attire. downtownglenellyn.com.

Thursday, Dec. 11

The Colonel’s Christmas Tour at the McCormick House: 4-5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at the McCormick House, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Guided by McCormick House director Will Buhlig and a horticulture staff member, the hourlong 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.

Ana Gasteyer’s “Sugar & Booze Holiday Spectacular”: 7 and 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at Space, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston. $38.77. evanstonspace.com.

“Christmas at the Wade — Our Finest Gifts We Bring”: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at Marion E. Wade Center Bakke Auditorium, 351 E. Lincoln Ave., Wheaton. A lecture and Christmas celebration with Emily Hunter McGowin and Richard Hughes Gibson. Festive treats and book signings to follow. Free. wheaton.edu.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s “Wild & Swingin Holiday Party”: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at the Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Swing and jazz. Tickets start at $43.90. geneseetheatre.com.

ECC Jazz Ensembles: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at the ECC Blizzard Theater, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Directed by Shawn Maxwell. $10-$12. eccartscenter.org.

Ron Hawking Celebrates Christmas With the Legends: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington. Holiday show featuring hits from Tom Jones, Frankie Valli, Elton John, Neil Diamond and a birthday tribute to Frank Sinatra. $49.87; free for students 18 and younger with a paid adult. barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Jingle Belles Comedy: 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. “3 Funny, Festive Females” featuring Ana Belaval, Andrea Darlas and Joanna Clark and hosted by John Da Cosse. Tickets start at $34. rauecenter.org.

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.

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

Yuletide Treasures: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, through Dec. 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 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.

“A Christmas Carol”: 10 a.m. and noon Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 27; 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Dec. 9-23; 10 a.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays through Dec. 18; 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. Breakfast with Santa includes photos with Santa and Drury Lane’s Christmas tree for $50 for adults and $30 for kids 5-12. Dinner with Santa is $30-$60. drurylanetheatre.com.

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.

Downtown Santa House: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays 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.

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, 3-9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays through Dec. 31, at Gallagher Way, 3635 N. Clark St., Chicago. Holiday hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 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, 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.

Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Holiday Magic: 3-9 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through Dec. 21, and Friday Dec. 26 through Sunday Jan. 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. $20.95-$34.95. 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. 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 Dec. 23-24 and Dec. 31 through 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 through Dec. 17. Electric Illumination for 21 and older from 4:30-9:30 p.m. Dec. 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. Fridays through Sundays through Jan. 4; plus Dec. 22-24, 29 and 31 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. Tuesdays through Sundays, through Dec. 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.

“Elf The Musical”: 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, and 1 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 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.

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.

“The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays and 1 and 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, through Dec. 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.

“A Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays, 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.

“I’ll Be Seeing You”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays and 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, 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.

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. Bring a donation of household or personal items for Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans. $25. wheatondrama.org.

“Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 21, 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.

“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, and 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. Walk through downtown to see the decorated windows. Free. downtownglenellyn.com/events-calendar.

The Hawthorn Christmas Experience: Through Dec. 24, Lower Level, Macy’s Court, at Hawthorn, 122 Hawthorn Center, Vernon Hills. Visit Santa in a festive holiday setting. Includes a sensory-friendly Santa from 9-10:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, and a Pet Photo Night from 4-7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8. Reservations are encouraged; guests who book in advance receive a free personalized phone call from Santa before their visit. Santa photo packages start at $39.99. visithawthorn.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.

“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.