30+ Free Holiday and Christmas Events in Chicago for Kids

Looking for free Christmas events in Chicago this season? We've got a list of over 30 fun free holiday events in Chicago for kids.
Free Christmas events in Chicago for kids and other holiday fun are everywhere this season, including long-standing annual holiday events like Zoo Lights at the Lincoln Park Zoo, Naper Lights in the western suburbs, and the city's Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Along. While all of the holiday and Christmas events in Chicago on this list are free, be aware that many still require tickets for time reservations.
Click through the the event listings for details, including times and location information, and keep an eye on our action-packed Event Calendar—there's always something new to do in the Chicago area. For more seasonal ideas, check out our Guide to Holiday and Christmas Activities.
Free Holiday and Christmas Events for the 2022 Season
Places featured in this article:
Downtown Naperville
Merchandise Mart
Phillips Park
Daley Plaza
Millennium Park McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Millennium Park
Central Park
Lilacia Park
The Promontory (and various other locations)
Sunset Knoll Recreation Center
TownSquare
Yorktwon Shopping Center
Glen Art Theatre
Oak Park Avenue Tinley Park
Vittum Park
Austin Town Hall Park
Blodgett House Museum
Palos Heights Parks and Recreation
1919 Walnut Avenue
Dan Ryan Woods