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Holidays in Chicago

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Chicago loves to celebrate, which is why we’re home to world-famous holiday traditions. Watch the Chicago River turn green on St. Patrick’s Day, admire millions of twinkling holiday lights on Michigan Avenue, and see a stunning fireworks display light up the sky over Lake Michigan. Learn all about our Chicago-style celebrations here.

AbA Christkindlmarket cropped

Winter holidays

Spectacular light displays, charming markets, scenic ice rinks, and a magical parade usher in Chicago’s merry and bright winter season.

Chicago fireworks

New Year's Eve

Ring in the New Year with an unforgettable evening in Chicago, featuring swanky parties, spectacular fireworks, bucket list dining, and more.

www.AdamAlexanderPhoto.com©Adam Alexander Photography 2019

Valentine's Day

Romantic restaurants, intimate bars, and lots of big-city glamour. Here's how to have an unforgettable Valentine’s Day in Chicago.

Lunar New Year in Uptown

Lunar New Year

Ring in Lunar New Year with cultural, musical, and culinary events all around the city.

A Seadog boat cruises on the green river

St. Patrick's Day

Come experience the luck of the Irish in Chicago, home to one of the most famous St. Patricks Day celebrations in the world.

Navy Pier

Memorial Day

Celebrate the beginning of summer with Memorial Day weekend festivals, live music, sporting events, boat cruises, and more.

Fireworks at Navy Pier

Fourth of July

The nation’s biggest summer holiday comes to life with fireworks along the waterfront and more one-of-a-kind events.

Pullman

Labor Day

Goodbye summer, hello fall. Get the inside scoop on Chicago-style Labor Day celebrations.

Arts in the Dark parade

Halloween

Tricks, treats, parties, and pageantry make the city a place of mystery and magic over Halloween season.

Little Village arch for Day of the Dead

Day of the Dead

Celebrate Día de los Muertos in Chicago with traditional events, colorful cultural celebrations, and art exhibits.

Little Village arch for Day of the Dead; photo by Roxy Delgado
Turkey balloon float in front of Macy's at the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade

Thanksgiving

From festive feasts to downtown parades, there are plenty of ways to feel right at home during Thanksgiving in Chicago.

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