Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is one of the most magical places to be during the holidays because the holiday season has every type of holiday event you can imagine. From the German-style Christkindlmarket to ZooLights at the Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago never disappoints.

Their holiday season kicks off right before Thanksgiving with the city’s annual Lights Festival along Michigan Avenue. Walt Disney World partners with the city for a parade that gets any crowd in the perfect holiday mood. From surprise guests to exciting performances, the parade ends with the lighting of the trees on Michigan Avenue to indicate the start of the holidays.

Other events during their Christmas season include Christmas Around the World at the Museum of Science and Industry with many trees displaying the customs of families worldwide, Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier with carnival rides, and ice skating.

And you can’t miss the Illumination at the Morton Arboretum, which features a walk through many lighted trees while drinking hot cocoa and hearing carolers. Don’t miss an incredible chance to spend your Christmas in a city that goes all out for the holidays.