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Five Things To Do in the Northern Suburbs: Dec. 5–7, 2025
Winter weather has arrived! Layer up, follow the holiday lights, and catch a few can't-miss events this weekend.
Start the season right at Holiday Light Celebration.
This celebration is packed with choirs, cocoa, and plenty of hometown charm. After kids' choirs, welcoming remarks, and a cappella sets, stay for the tree lighting with local officials and Santa & Mrs. Claus taking center stage. After the big glow-up, families can pop into The Merion for free photos with Santa, warm drinks, and sweet treats.
Date: Dec. 6
Time: 4:30–7 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Fountain Square, Evanston
More Info: downtownevanston.org
Explore Winter Wonderland.
Highland Park's Winter Wonderland spreads out across a maze of themed rooms, character meet-and-greets, and hands-on activities that feel tailor-made for kids but give adults plenty to enjoy, too. New this year: a dedicated Hanukkah room and an indoor iceless rink, joining the familiar mix of reindeer visits, cookie decorating, and a ride aboard the mini Polar Express. Try free hot cocoa and don't forget to bring your camera for photo ops with holiday characters like Buddy, Elsa, the Grinch, and Santa.
Date: Dec. 5
Time: 5:30–8 p.m.
Cost: $10+
Location: West Ridge Center, 636 Ridge Rd., Highland Park
More Info: pdhp.org
Have a day of festive fun at Holly Jolly Holiday.
Enjoy hours of indoor activities before everyone moves outside for the town's tree lighting. Families can make crafts, shop local vendors, try their luck in the cake walk, or stop for storytelling and glitter tattoos. A trolley connects the action, while carolers gather near the decorated tree ahead of Santa's big countdown. It's a come-whenever, stay-as-long-as-you-want afternoon with enough stations and surprises to keep you and the family entertained.
Date: Dec. 6
Time: 1–5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Wauconda Park District Community Center, 600 N. Main St., Wauconda
More Info: business.waucondachamber.org
Enjoy two days of festive fun at the Winter Lighting Celebration & Winter Market.
Deerfield makes a weekend of its holiday kickoff, starting with Friday's Winter Lighting Celebration at Village Hall. Live ice sculpting, tractor rides, carolers, and a spread of complimentary treats set the tone before the lighting celebration. On Saturday, the Patty Turner Center hosts the Winter Market, a sprawling showcase of local artisans, pottery studios, crafters, nonprofits, and food vendors, plus recurring appearances from Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Frozen Robins. With train rides, a giant snow globe, and steady live music, it's equal parts shopping trip and neighborhood festival.
Date: Dec. 5–6
Time: Fri 5–8 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Various Locations
More Info: deerfield.il.us
Celebrate Lake Zurich's biggest holiday event at Miracle on Main Street.
Get ready for the Miracle on Main Street takeover with a full afternoon of performances, rides, and holiday traditions anchored by a towering 30-foot tree. Families can visit Santa and his reindeer, jump between choir sets and DJ-led activities, or stop for hot cider, cocoa, and snacks from local groups. The Lions Club's Candy Cane Hunt adds a competitive twist, cycling through age groups with prizes and plenty of photo-friendly cheer.
Date: Dec. 6
Time: 3–6:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Rotary Park, 7 E. Main St., Lake Zurich
More Info: lakezurich.org
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