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Travel
Events in Illinois
Chris Rand
| October 8, 2024 | 4 Minute Read
Adam Grason
Buckle up for an unforgettable journey through Illinois and Northern Indiana, where autumn leaves give way to winter wonderlands and spring's first whispers! From pumpkin festivals to model train shows, this action-packed lineup of events will have you falling head over heels for the Midwest's charm and excitement.
Calendar of Events
Beat the summer heat with these cool events in Illinois and northern Indiana.
Oct. 4–5 | NAPERVILLE
Don your lederhosen and dirndls for this Bavarian-style celebration in Naperville. Enjoy live Oompah, polka, country and even hip-hop music as you feast on traditional German fare.
Oct. 4–6 | HIGHWOOD
The Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival
Get ready for a gourd-geous time at this pumpkin–packed extravaganza! Carve to your heart's content and witness the magical nightly lightings of pumpkin–filled walls.
Oct. 4–6 | CHICAGO
Raise a glass to the finest vintages at this Chicago wine lover's paradise. Sip, savor and socialize as you sample a bounty of delicious wines and gourmet food pairings.
Oct. 5 | NORMAL
Immerse yourself in creativity at this artistic showcase in Uptown Normal. Browse the works of over 100 talented local and nationally acclaimed artisans and craftspeople — and perhaps even take home your own unique masterpiece.
Oct. 20 | CHICAGO
Chicago Railroadiana and Model Train Show and Sale
All aboard for this train enthusiast's dream event in Saint Charles! The Kane County Fairgrounds come alive with a day featuring miniature marvels and railway relics.
Oct. 20 | EDWARDSVILLE
Experience small-town charm at its finest in Edwardsville's Leclaire Park. Enjoy live music, peruse craft booths, find your next great read at the used book sale and keep the little ones entertained with fun children's activities.
Oct. 26–27 | GRAFTON
Hunt for hidden treasures at this bustling market in Grafton. Explore a diverse array of vendors and collectors offering antiques, collectibles and one-of-a-kind finds.
Oct 27 | CHICAGO
Relive your childhood at this nostalgic showcase of vintage and modern toys. From collectible action figures to rare board games, you'll find treasures that will make both kids and adults squeal with delight.
Nov. 8–9 | SPRINGFIELD
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at this charming market in Springfield. Browse wonderful vintage finds, seasonal goods and handmade treasures while taking in the festive atmosphere.
Nov. 9 & 24, Dec. 14 & 22 | SAINT CHARLES
Animal lovers, this one's for you! Get up close with a variety of creatures from lizards to exotic birds at this unique expo in Saint Charles.
Nov. 16 – Jan. 6 | CHICAGO
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
Visit the Museum of Science and Industry for a global tour of holiday traditions — without leaving Chicago. Admire over 50 trees decorated to represent different cultures, then enjoy special performances celebrating diversity.
Nov. 22 – Dec. 24 | CHICAGO
Step into a winter wonderland at this beloved German-style holiday market in the heart of Chicago. Sip on glühwein, shop for traditional ornaments and explore a festive atmosphere that signals the start of the holiday season.
Nov. 23 | CHICAGO
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Kick off the holiday season with this magical parade down Chicago's most famous shopping street. Watch as Mickey Mouse leads the way, illuminating over a million lights along the Magnificent Mile.
Dec. 7 | CHICAGO
Santa Hustle Chicago 5K and Kids Dash
Lace up your running shoes and don a Santa suit for this jolly race along Chicago's lakefront. Indulge in candy and cookie stations along the route, then celebrate your finish with milk and cookies.
Dec. 17 – 19 | OGLESBY
Holiday Light Tour at Starved Rock Lodge
Get into the holiday spirit at Starved Rock Lodge with this illuminated trolley tour. Sit back and enjoy festive trivia, fun jokes and cheerful Christmas music as you witness the area’s most stunning holiday displays.
Dec. 21 | BEVERLY SHORES
Winter Solstice Hike at Indiana Dunes National Park
Welcome the return of longer days with a peaceful hike through the snow-covered dunes. Learn about solstice traditions from around the world and warm up with hot cocoa around a bonfire.
Dec. 31 | CHICAGO
Navy Pier New Year's Eve Fireworks
Ring in the New Year with a bang at Chicago's iconic Navy Pier. Enjoy a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Michigan as you count down to midnight with thousands of revelers.
Jan. 3 | MICHIGAN CITY
First Friday at the Lubeznik Center for the Arts
Explore the vibrant art scene of Michigan City, Indiana, at this monthly event. Enjoy free admission to the galleries, meet local artists and participate in hands-on art activities.
Jan 8–12 | CHICAGO
Set sail for adventure at the Midwest's premier boating extravaganza. Browse hundreds of boats, from luxurious cabin cruisers to family-friendly pontoons, while enjoying interactive features, educational seminars and fun activities for the whole family.
Feb. 2 | WOODSTOCK
Kick off the festivities in the charming town where "Groundhog Day" was filmed. Watch the groundhog's prediction, take a walking tour of movie locations and enjoy a day of family-friendly activities.
Feb. 8–17 | CHICAGO
Rev up your engines for the nation's largest auto show at McCormick Place. Get up close to the latest models, concept cars and cutting-edge automotive technology.
Feb. 8–18 | CHICAGO
Experience the best of the Windy City's vibrant theater scene at discounted prices. Choose from a wide variety of shows, from Broadway hits to cutting-edge productions by local companies.