Christmas Markets Illinois 2025: Top Festive Events and Locations

When the holiday season rolls around, Illinois turns into a wonderland of Christmas markets. Stalls line up with local artisans, quirky gifts, cheerful decorations, and all sorts of specialty foods.

Towns across the state light up, and local vendors show off their best work. You’ll see family-friendly events everywhere, mixing big city sparkle with small-town warmth.

You can wander through these markets, sipping mulled wine or munching on roasted nuts and bratwurst. It’s fun to hunt for that one-of-a-kind handmade piece you didn’t know you needed.

Many places host tree lightings and bring in live music. Outdoor German-style markets pop up too, full of European crafts and even Polish pottery.

Whether you’re gift shopping or just want to soak up the festive vibe, Illinois Christmas markets welcome everyone. Kids, grown-ups, and anyone in between will find something to love.

You’ve got plenty of choices—hotels, guesthouses, and apartments that travelers actually like. No reservation fees, which is always a bonus.

1) Christkindlmarket Chicago

Every year, the Christkindlmarket pops up at Daley Plaza, right in downtown Chicago. This outdoor market brings together German holiday traditions with that unmistakable Chicago flair.

You’ll find handmade ornaments, wooden toys, and festive gifts that you probably won’t see anywhere else.

Food is everywhere—vendors grill bratwursts, bake soft pretzels, and serve up warm spiced wine. The smell of roasted nuts drifts through the air, making it hard not to smile.

Families, friends, and just about anyone looking for a little holiday magic love this spot. Admission won’t cost you a thing, and there’s always something new to explore, from twinkling lights to unusual crafts.

Weekdays usually mean fewer crowds, so it’s a good time to visit if you’re not a fan of big crowds.

Plan your visit with these details:

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
November 21 – December 24, 2025	Daley Plaza, Chicago, IL	11:00 AM – 8:00 PM	Free entry	Hotels near Daley Plaza	Official Christkindlmarket Chicago website

It’s a laid-back way to enjoy seasonal sights, pick up gifts, or try out classic holiday food while you’re in Chicago.

3) Holiday Craft Party at Navy Pier

Key Event Information

The Holiday Craft Party at Navy Pier lets you dive into hands-on winter crafts. Supplies are all there, so you can make your own gifts or holiday decorations.

Families, couples, and groups of friends often show up for a fun, low-pressure day out.

Walking around, you’ll spot holiday treats and decorations that are basically begging for a photo. Festive music is always playing in the background.

Live entertainment is a regular thing, with musicians and performers adding energy to the place.

Ice skating is a big deal here. Bring your own skates or rent a pair for a small fee.

When you’re done, you can warm up with s’mores and hot drinks from local stands.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Where to Stay Nearby (Booking.com)	Website
November 24, 2025 – January 7, 2026	Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago	11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Sundays – Thursdays	Free entry, some activities require a fee	Hotels near Navy Pier, Chicago	Navy Pier Holiday Events

You’ll find plenty to do, whether you’re after crafts, food, skating, or just want to listen to live music. It’s a relaxed way to enjoy Chicago’s winter without fighting your way through crowds.

4) Naper Settlement Old World Holiday Market

What to Expect at the Market

Step into the Old World Christmas Market at Naper Settlement and you’ll feel like you’ve landed in a traditional German village. The event sits at 523 South Webster Street, surrounded by historic buildings and wooden booths strung with twinkling lights.

You can browse for handmade ornaments, seasonal crafts, and foods like soft pretzels and mulled wine. There’s usually music or live shows that help set a holiday mood.

If you need a place to stay, hotels in Naperville are easy to book through Booking.com. Entry is free, so you can wander as much as you want.

Food, crafts, and gifts are for sale if you feel like picking up something special.

Dates	Address	Times	Cost	Suggested Hotel Nearby	Website
Select dates Nov 23–Dec 24	523 South Webster St, Naperville, IL	Varies	Free entry; items for sale	Fairfield Inn & Suites Naperville	Naper Settlement Christmas Market

5) Alsip’s Holiday Tree Trail

Each year, Alsip’s Holiday Tree Trail transforms the area with rows of uniquely decorated Christmas trees. Every tree has its own style, from classic to modern, so there’s always something new to see.

Walking the light displays in the evening is a favorite for both locals and visitors.

As you follow the trail, you’ll spot festive lights and themed decorations everywhere. The event is family-friendly, so both kids and adults have a good time.

There are musical performances and food stands with hot drinks and snacks, which makes it easy to linger. You can snap holiday photos or visit Santa for a quick chat.

Here’s what you need to know:

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Nov 25 – Dec 31	5 PM – 10 PM	10255 Wicker Avenue, St. John, IN 46373	Free Admission	Hotels near Alsip Home & Nursery	Alsip’s Christmas Tree Lane

You can enjoy all the lights and festive setups for free. It’s a fun way to join in a local tradition and make some holiday memories with friends or family.

6) Winter Light Displays in East Peoria for 2025

You can dive into one of Illinois’ biggest holiday lighting events at East Peoria’s Festival of Lights. The festival turns 40 in 2025—kind of wild to think about.

They’ll kick things off on November 29, and the lights keep going through January 1. The Parade of Lights happens on November 23 this year, starting things off with huge floats and glowing decorations winding through the main streets.

Folepi’s Winter Wonderland greets visitors every night during the festival. You and your family can drive through tunnels and displays bursting with colorful lights.

The displays switch up a little each night, with animated figures and themed scenes. Folepi, the wooden soldier mascot, pops up all over the event.

You can pay at the gate with cash, credit, or debit. Pretty convenient.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
November 29, 2025 – January 1, 2026	123 Par 3 Lane, East Peoria, IL	Nightly	Variable, paid at entrance	Hotels in East Peoria	Festival of Lights

Driving through the displays feels like a tradition for a lot of families. Visitors from nearby states show up every year.

If you’re thinking about going, it’s smart to book a hotel close by ahead of time. The whole light show just makes winter feel a bit brighter, whether you’re with friends or family.

7) Arlington Heights Christkindlmarkt Holiday Market

At the Arlington Heights Christkindlmarkt, you get a taste of festive traditions straight from German Christmas markets. This outdoor event brings wooden vendor booths, all lit up, right into the center of Arlington Heights.

Local craftspeople and artisans sell handmade ornaments and gifts you just won’t spot in big chain stores. It’s a great place to actually find something unique for once.

Food really steals the show here. You can grab bratwurst, soft pretzels, and roasted nuts.

If you want to warm up, glühwein (that’s hot spiced wine) is there for the adults. Families can check out craft stations or simple games for kids.

Sometimes Santa swings by for photos, which kids seem to love.

Admission is free, so it’s easy to just drop in whether you’re a local or just passing through. The market stays open late, so you can visit during the day or at night.

Event Details

Dates	Location	Times	Cost	Nearby Stay	Event Website
November 24 – December 23, 2025	Arlington Heights, IL 60005	11 AM – 9 PM	Free Entry	Booking.com Hotels	Christkindlmarkt in Arlington Heights

Getting here is easy from nearby suburbs, and there’s plenty of parking or public transit options. Holiday music and the smell of baked treats set the scene, and honestly, it’s hard not to get in the spirit.

8) Mistletoe Market Experience in Ottawa

What You’ll Find at the Mistletoe Market

When you step into the Mistletoe Market in downtown Ottawa, Illinois, you’re greeted by an open-air setup that feels festive and welcoming. Local vendors fill Jordan Block Park with booths packed with handcrafted items, unique gifts, and homemade snacks.

The atmosphere buzzes with energy, and the twinkling lights make the whole place feel extra cheerful. You can wander at your own pace.

This market sits right in the heart of Ottawa, so it’s got that small-town charm that’s hard to fake. Whether you’re after a handmade ornament or just a sweet treat, there’s always something worth checking out.

For planning, here’s a quick rundown:

Feature	Description
Dates	December 14, 2025
Times	Friday: 4pm – 8pm Saturday: 11am – 7pm Sunday: 11am – 4pm
Address	Jordan Block Park, downtown Ottawa, Illinois
Admission Cost	Free
Nearby Booking	Find places to stay near Ottawa, Illinois
Official Website	Visit Ottawa IL

9) Kris Kringle Holiday Market in Elgin

Every winter, the Kris Kringle Market in Elgin brings together a lively mix of local crafts, food, and seasonal activities. As you wander through downtown, you’ll spot vendors selling handcrafted gifts and festive snacks.

Most of these items come from local artisans, so you’re bound to find something original.

Foodies can snack on roasted nuts, fresh pretzels, or sip warm spiced drinks right from the stalls. The market also sets up special activities for kids—think face painting or live holiday singing.

With all the lights and decorations, the whole downtown feels extra festive.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning a trip:

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Where to Stay Nearby	Market Website
Dec 1 – Dec 3, 2025	Downtown Elgin, IL	10 AM – 7 PM	Free	Hotels near Elgin, IL, on Booking.com	Kris Kringle Market Elgin details

Locals and visitors both flock here, and the market really brings everyone together for a few festive days.

10) Holiday Lane Handmade Gifts Fair in West Dundee

The Holiday Lane Handmade Gifts Fair pops up every December in West Dundee. It’s a fun spot to hunt for unique presents.

Local crafters pack Sandwich High School with their creations, so you can browse everything under one roof. Admission is free, and everyone’s welcome.

You’ll find tables loaded with hand-knit scarves, painted ornaments, and jewelry you won’t find anywhere else. Sellers bring plenty of seasonal decorations too, so it’s easy to pick up something special for your home.

Holiday music and simple festive touches make the fair feel lively.

While you shop, you get to support local artists and pick out gifts for friends or family. The vibe is friendly and relaxed.

You can take your time wandering the booths—no need to rush.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December 2025	Sandwich High School, Dundee	Sat 10am-3pm, Sun 11am-3pm	Free Admission	Booking.com hotels in Dundee	Holiday Lane Craft Fair