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Best of November: Day of the Dead, Thanksgiving Parade, and More Things to Do in Chicago

Harry Potter: Magic at Play made our list of best things to do in November. Photo courtesy of Harry Potter: Magic at Play
Harry Potter: Magic at Play made our list of best things to do in November. Photo courtesy of Harry Potter: Magic at Play
10/30/22 - By Maureen Wilkey

November brings plenty of things to do, as Chicago gears up for holidays from Veterans Day to Thanksgiving and full steam ahead to Christmas. Don’t miss our favorite kid-friendly events and activities in Chicago this month. 

Kick off the month with Day of of the Dead celebrations in Hermosa, Marquette Park, and Hanover Park. Continue the fun with Chicago International Children's Film Fest, where you might see a future Academy Award winner. Take a solemn moment to talk to kids about Veterans Day by doing a craft at Cantigny or visiting the Pritzker Military Museum and Library. Light shows are coming back for the holidays—perennial favorites at the Morton Arboretum, Chicago Botanical Gardens, and Lincoln Park Zoo will have you mesmerized yet again! And of course, there's the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, back in person after a year hosted on a virtual platform. 

For more fun things to do check out our Fall Bucket List or our Day Trip and Weekend Guide—and don't forget to book tickets for these Holiday Train Rides!

We’re adding more events to our family activity calendar every day, so don’t forget to check it frequently.  

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Photo courtesy of the Amaze Light Festival
Photo courtesy of the Amaze Light Festival

Things to Do in Chicago with Kids this November 2022

Hermosa Noche de Calaveras

November 2—Hermosa
Celebrate Dia de Muertos with music, performers, activities, ofrendas, restaurant specials, free goodies and more! The festival runs along Armitage Avenue between Pulaski and Kostner. READ MORE

The Tortoise and the Hare

Wednesdays through Fridays, November 3-23—Belmont Cragin
The Hare is ready to win all the blue ribbons again at this year’s Stringbean Valley County Fair when an unlikely challenger comes to town. Soon the race is on! But who will win first place? The “slow and steady” Tortoise? Or the “fast and furious” Hare? This show features a cast composed of silly animals and an exciting, photo-finish ending.  The Tortoise and the Hare is a one-hour musical based on the original fairy tale. It features a hilarious script written by Jesus Perez, with original songs composed by Paige Coffman. READ MORE

An Afternoon with Rob Harrell at Des Plaines Public Library

November 3—Des Plaines
Graphic novel author and illustrator Rob Harrell visits Des Plaines Public Library to talk to his youth fans. Harrell is the author of 2023 Caudill nominated book Wink, Monster on the Hill which was recently adapted into a movie. READ MORE

First Friday at Sugar Skull City

November 4—Aurora
Celebrate Day of the Dead in Downtown Aurora. Families can take a self-guided tour of downtown businesses with sugar skulls painted on their windows, participate in a sugar skull scavenger hunt, learn how to make their own sugar skulls and paper picado, and enjoy Day of the Dead specials from local merchants. Live music, art, and Latin dancing will take over the downtown on the first Friday of November. READ MORE

Hanover Park Day of the Dead Dance

November 4—Hanover Park
Celebrate Mexican heritage with a Latin music, authentic Mexican food, and face painting. The event also includes craft tables, a Dia inspired photo booth, and games like Loteria for both kids and adults. READ MORE

Dia de Los Muertos Celebration at Marquette Park

November 4—Chicago Lawn
Celebrate Day of the Dead at Marquette Park with family portraits from artist in residence Carlos Flores, and performances by Mexican Folkloric Dance, and the Marquette Park Composers Workshops. View ofrendas and exhibition from local schools and play games with family and friends. READ MORE

Chicago International Children's Film Festival

November 4-20—Lincoln Park
The 40th annual Chicago International Children's Film Festival features high quality international independent films for kids of all ages. Guests can choose from dozens of new films from many different countries along with workshops, director presentations, and seminars, at Facets Cinema in Lincoln Park or virtually. READ MORE

Ninja Pirate Princess and Ghost Pirate Prince

Fridays through Sundays, November 4-13—Elmhurst
GreenMan Theatre presents two family-friendly one act plays about what happens when one chooses to go against the "fairytale script" and become their own character. Shows are at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 1 p.m. on Sundays. READ MORE

Tiny Great Performances at DuPage Children's Museum

November 5 and 12—Naperville
The DuPage Children's Museum introduces young people to the arts in a family-friendly setting with performances from cultural groups from around the region. Performances feature music, dance, storytelling, theatre, and more. READ MORE

Girls Day of PLAY

November 5—Citywide
Girls can learn and engage in sports, arts and crafts, and fun during these events in Chicago parks on a day off from public school. Events take place at Hale Park, Rosedale Park, Independence Park, Gill Park, Loyola Park, Kosciuszko Park, Welles Park, Harris Park, West Pullman Park, Sherwood Park, Hayes Park, Mann Park, and Sherwood Park. READ MORE

Diwali: The Festival of Lights

November 5—Aurora
Enjoy Indian culture, food, music, performances, clothing, jewelry, and more at Fox Valley Mall. The event includes fireworks at 8:15 p.m. READ MORE

Lightscapes at Chicago Botanic Garden

November 11-January 8—Glencoe
Go for a stroll down a mile-long path filled with holiday wonder at the Chicago Botanic Garden. READ MORE

Gobbler Hobbler and Mashed Potato Mile

November 14—Oswego
Gobblers big and small can run off some calories before Thanksgiving at this annual scenic run on the Waubonsie Trail. Two water stations will be set up along the course, which begins and ends at Oswego Civic Center. READ MORE

Let It Shine Light Show

November 12-January 9—Northbrook, Aurora, and Schaumburg
Northbrook Court and Wintrust Field present dazzling light shows featuring archways, giant candy canes, glowing snowmen, and more that families can enjoy from the comfort and safety of the car. Lights are synchronized to holiday classics that families can listen to while driving through the attraction. READ MORE

Brookfield Zoo Veteran's Day Celebration

November 11—Brookfield
Families can salute the armed forces with a free day at Brookfield Zoo, including many celebratory events. The zoo will display veterans' memorabilia and vehicles at the Discovery Center and host a presentation about Ambassador Animals at 11 a.m. Families can also enjoy performances by the Legacy Girls and Jesse White Tumblers and a posting of the colors and singing of the National Anthem. READ MORE

Balloons Under the Sea with Smarty Pants

November 9 and 12—Glendale Heights
Kids can journey under the sea with balloon artist Smarty Pants, who will make a giant balloon shark and climb into a six-foot giant fishbowl balloon. Kids will learn about ocean life at this event, which has two shows on Wednesday and Saturday. READ MORE

Free Admission Day to Pritzker Military Museum and Library

November 10 and 11—Downtown
Veterans and non-veterans alike can visit the Pritzker Military Museum and Library for free on November 10 and 11. Check out the exhibit Life Behind the Wire: Prisoners of War. READ MORE

Veterans Day Commemoration Ceremony

November 11—Museum Campus
Honor the City of Chicago's veterans at this commemorative ceremony at Soldier Field. Dress in business attire or Service Dress Uniform to thank those who have served in wartime and during peace. READ MORE

Veterans Day Family Activities at Cantigny

November 11—Wheaton
Honor the bravery of American troops with cards and letters to the troops or by taking part in missions for scouts that show how we can give back to those who have served. READ MORE

Harry Potter: Magic at Play

Thursdays through Sundays, November 11- January 29—Magnificent Mile
This fall, wizards and witches of all ages are invited to experience and celebrate a Wizarding World of their own at Harry Potter™: Magic at Play when it makes its worldwide debut at Chicago’s iconic Water Tower Place on Friday, November 11. Created by Superfly X and Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment, the first-of-its-kind interactive experience will allow fans of all ages to engage with the Wizarding World like never before through 30,000 square feet of hands-on magical interactivity including games, exploration, sensory activations and more that celebrate Harry’s own journey in... READ MORE

WTTW Kids Learn & Play at Northtown Library

November 14—West Ridge
Little WTTW and PBS fans can join this live participatory learning experience with host Miguel de Leon at the Chicago Public Library's Northtown Branch. Preschoolers will develop social emotional skills, and practice math, language, and literacy. The program encourages movement, communication, and fun. READ MORE

Harvest Pow Wow

November 12-13—Wheaton
Touring a tipi, making arrowheads, watching presentations about horses and birds of prey, and listening to Native American music are just a few of the activities available for children at SOARRING's Annual Harvest Pow Wow. Dancers and drummers will perform continuously throughout most of the festival, and families can also sample Native American foods and learn more about Native American Culture. READ MORE

Ballet 5:8 Presents Ver la Música, Oír la Danza at the National Museum of Mexican Art Nov. 12

November 12—Pilsen
Ballet 5:8 presents Ver la Música, Oír la Danza at the National Museum of Mexican Art on Saturday, November 12 at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to continue celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month and give back to the community. Ver la Música, Oír la Danza is available one day only with free performances to the public READ MORE

Second Saturdays: Giving Back

November 12—Wheaton
Cantigny Park offers a family-friendly history lesson on the second Saturday of each month. In November, the park teams with the Hines VA Hospital to give families the chance to give back by writing cards to patients. Several other "speed volunteering" activities will be available to benefit local non-profits. READ MORE

Elmhurst Children's Theater Presents Seussical

November 11-13—Bensenville
Elmhurst Children's Theater performs the tale of several of Dr. Seuss's most beloved characters, including orton the Elephant, Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Mayzie La Bird. The story of the power of friendship, loyalty, family and community appeals to all ages. READ MORE

Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum

November 19- January 7—Lisle
Visitors walk a one-mile path with thousands of lights in displays illuminating the trees, accompanied by music. An awe-inspiring display illuminates the new Grand Garden. Visitors can enjoy some old favorites and new displays. Stop along the way to roast s'mores around a campfire or drink a hot beverage from concession stands.  READ MORE

Second City Showdown

November 12-13—Rogers Park
The Chicago Park District invites National Wheelchair Basketball Association teams from across the Midwest to a tournament at Broadway Armory Park. Games are scheduled from 9:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Spectator admission is free. READ MORE

ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo

November 19- January 1—Lincoln Park
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo has been a favorite holiday event for more than 25 years, with light displays and seasonal activities throughout the zoo. The event is free on Monday evenings, and $7 most other weekdays, and $10 on weekends and premium dates. READ MORE

110th Annual Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

November 18—Downtown
Chicagoans of all ages can enjoy the annual lighting of the Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park in this event. The event will also include fireworks and many musical and theatrical performances. READ MORE

Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza

November 18-December 24—Downtown
The 25th annual Christkindlmarket features holiday themed drinks, snacks, shopping, and games outside the Daley Center. READ MORE

Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville

November 18-December 31—Wrigleyville
Fröhliche Weihnachten! Taste a lit bit of Germany during the holiday season at this authentic outdoor market. READ MORE

Millennium Park Art Market

November 18-20—Downtown
The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and Columbia College Chicago host an art market in Millennium Park, where art lovers of all ages can browse one-of-a-kind items, including jewelry, fashion, painting, sculpture, prints, drawings and more from student artists—just in time for holiday shopping! READ MORE

Reindeer Run

November 19—Brookfield
Run with the animals at Brookfield Zoo's annual Reindeer Run. The course is entirely within the zoo and allows runners to be the first to see the Holiday Magic lights. Music, drinks, food and animal ambassadors will be on hand after the run. READ MORE

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

November 19—Downtown
Chicago's Magnificent Mile hosts the annual Lights Festival, complete with a parade of lights with Grand Marshalls Minnie and Mickey Mouse. The event includes booths full of family friendly activities, including pictures with Santa. The parade of floats, giant helium balloons, exciting marching bands, celebrities, musical performances, Santa Claus, and more begin at 5:30 p.m., helping illuminate the more than 200 trees along The Magnificent Mile. READ MORE

Western Suburbs Jingle Bell Run

November 20—Wheaton
Jingle all the way to one mile or 5K at this family fun run benefitting the Arthritis Foundation. The registration fee includes jingle bells for runners' shoes, a t-shirt, and a medal after finishing the race. READ MORE

Sparkle Light Festival

Wednesdays through Sundays, November 18-December 27—Rosemont
Rosemont’s Impact Field will shine a little brighter with the debut of Sparkle Light Festival. Scheduled to open Friday, November 17, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking immersive display of millions of holiday lights amongst outdoor holiday activities including train rides, winter tubing and themed mazes.  READ MORE

Turkey Basketball Free Throw Contest

November 19—West Lawn
Kids compete to see who can make the most free throws at this Thanksgiving themed event. Gobble, gobble! READ MORE

The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party

November 19-20 and 26-27—West Loop
Four adorable Beatrix Potter favorites come to life in this mesmerizing, interactive trunk and puppet show, complete with original music. Levers are pulled and cranks are turned to reveal images that surprise and delight. Charming storytellers interweave the classic narration and guide gentle interactive moments, recruiting young watchers to join the adventure. After the show, come up on stage to gently play with the puppets and take pictures. Then, head to the lobby for a festive spread of chocolate milk and cookies! READ MORE

Amaze Light Festival

November 20- January 8—Tinley Park
Don’t miss the chance to explore this holiday season at the Amaze Light Festival in Chicago! This wonderland of light welcomes guests of all ages to an all-immersive storybook experience highlighting its five-themed worlds of displays and activities. At the Amaze Light Festival, you can find yourself mesmerized by colossal 3D lighted decor and photo opportunities around every corner from dancing with festive trees to holiday music and dynamic live performances. Visit the holiday market and then stop in and grab a treat at Sparky’s Sweet Spot. Enjoy savory and sweet culinary treats, as... READ MORE

The Music of David Bowie for Kids

November 20—Pilsen
Rock 'n Roll Playhouse presents a variety tunes originally by David Bowie in a show designed specifically for kids. Paired with games, movement, and stories, the music of this rock icon is part of kids' inspiring journey into music. READ MORE

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade

November 24—Downtown
Chicago's Thanksgiving Parade will have the theme of "Where Grateful Hearts Gather." Families can watch as floats, bands, and dignitaries travel along State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street. READ MORE

KidSpace: Noah's Jam Jam Bourree

November 20—Evanston
Noah's Jam Jam Bourree presents a live, energetic, engaging, and socially distanced show for kids ages 1-8. The show introduces music as an important part of the learning experience because it is engaging and interactive. READ MORE

National Take a Hike Day

November 17—Palos Township
Celebrate National Take a Hike Day with a five-mile hike led by a naturalist through Country Lane Woods. READ MORE

Turkey Trot Family Fun Run/Walk at Horner Park

November 19—North Center
Join the Chicago Park District and Chicago Area Runners Association for the final 'Go Run of the season, a one-mile family-friendly run/walk at Horner Park. Register in advance at https://www.cararuns.org/gorun. READ MORE

Willow Springs Winter Fest

November 19—Willow Springs
Enjoy this new event in Willow Springs that culminates with a tree lighting and fireworks! Families can shop for holiday gifts from local vendors, enjoy trolley and wagon rides, roast marshmallows for s'mores by the fire pit, drink hot cider or cocoa, and take a free picture with Santa at Willow Spring Village Hall. READ MORE

The Nutcracker Performed by Salt Creek Ballet at Hinsdale Central

November 26-27—Hinsdale
Salt Creek Ballet performs the holiday classic The Nutcracker at various locations throughout the Chicago area, including  in both matinee and evening shows at Hinsdale Central. The ballet takes audiences on a journey through toys that come alive, dancing snowflakes, and waltzing flowers. Kids can enjoy a Sugar Plum Party after the Sunday show, giving them a chance to step onstage, meet the cast, and enjoy refreshments in the winter wonderland. READ MORE

The Princess Bride in Concert

November 25-27—Downtown
Chicago Symphony Orchestra presents a showing of the classic The Princess Bride on screen while the orchestra plays alongside. Mark Knopfler's score is brought to life by the musicians. READ MORE

Happy Holiday Railway

November 26 and 27—Union
Enjoy a 40-minute train ride with a visit from Santa from the Illinois Railway Museum. The train ride includes hot chocolate, treats and gifts, and kids can see an amazing light display inside the museum. READ MORE

Annual Turkey Trot Hike

November 25—River Forest
Walk off the turkey and stuffing at this annual post-holiday hike at Trailside Museum of Natural History. The whole family is welcome! READ MORE

More Things to Do Near Chicago with Kids this Season

Polar Express Train Rides and Christmas Trains Near Chicago

Where can you still get Polar Express tickets? Check here. READ MORE

The Best Christmas Towns in the Midwest

Shop, visit Santa, and get into the holiday spirit with a trip to one of these idyllic Christmas towns. READ MORE

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Toys, wine, slime, and more fun ways to countdown to Christmas. READ MORE

Fall Bucket List for Kids: 37 Things To Do in Chicago This Fall

Enjoy harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, farm fun, and more. READ MORE

Places featured in this article:

Hanover Park Community Center
Various Chicago Parks
CPL Northtown Branch Library
National Museum of Mexican Art
Blackhawk Middle school
The Morton Arboretum
Northeastern Illinois University Physical Education Complex
Illinois Railway Museum
Trailside Museum of Natural History