| |

Christmas Markets Illinois 2025: Top Festive Events and Locations

BOOK CHRISTMAS TRAVEL NOW!
Find the best accommodations and airfares
Check availability at 5* hotels, guest houses and apartments rated "superb" or "exceptional" by visitors just like you.
NO RESERVATION FEES
CHECK AVAILABILITY FOR YOUR DATES HERE
 

31) Kane County Flea Market Holiday Special

YouTube video

At the end of November, you can check out the Kane County Flea Market Holiday Special in St. Charles, Illinois. Hundreds of trusted dealers and vendors set up shop here.

You’ll find antiques, refurbished furniture, sports memorabilia, and seasonal items with a holiday theme. The mix of old and new stuff makes shopping here kind of a treasure hunt.

The holiday edition adds festive touches everywhere. Sellers bring winter décor, Christmas ornaments, and handcrafted goods.

The crowd’s usually big, and there’s a fun energy in the air. You might even be able to haggle a bit—plenty of vendors are open to offers.

Here are the main details:

DatesAddressTimesPriceWhere to Stay NearbyWebsite
Nov 29 – Nov 30, 2025Kane County Fairgrounds, St. CharlesSat 12pm-5pm, Sun 7am-4pm$6, kids under 12 freeHotels near Kane County FairgroundsKane County Flea Market Holiday Edition

If you’re planning to go, try to get there early for the best finds. The location’s an easy drive from Chicago, so it’s convenient for groups or families. This event is great for collectors and anyone who likes a unique shopping experience.

32) Holiday Celebration at the Mansion in Elgin

YouTube video

What to Expect at the Event

Step into a historical holiday event at the Mansion in Elgin, where local traditions blend with festive decorations. The David Davis Mansion and Ewing Manor show off seasonal displays and period furnishings, so you get a peek at how folks celebrated the holidays long ago.

Actors in vintage outfits lead you through the rooms. They really bring the past to life, and you might even find yourself wondering what it was like to live back then.

Live music fills the air, and decorations brighten every corner. The event welcomes families, and the cozy setting makes everyone feel at home.

Advertisement
Advertisement
DISCOVER MORE  Traditions and Customs of American Christmas Markets: A Festive Guide to Holiday Shopping and Cheer

You’ll learn about local history while wandering through the mansion’s unique interiors. The whole place feels warm and inviting, honestly.

Here’s a table to help you plan:

DatesAddressHoursAdmissionPlaces to StayOfficial Site
December 5-7, 20251000 Monroe Dr, Bloomington, ILVarious$10 per adultHotels on Booking.comDavid Davis Mansion

You can book a hotel nearby through Booking.com if you want to stay close. Hours sometimes change, so it’s smart to check the website before heading out.

33) Oak Lawn Santa’s Workshop

YouTube video

Oak Lawn Santa’s Workshop gives families a cheerful spot to meet Santa and get into the holiday spirit. Kids and adults line up for photos with Santa, and there are easy craft stations to keep little hands busy.

The Pavilion glows with traditional holiday decorations. Classic Christmas music plays in the background, setting a relaxed mood.

After seeing Santa, you can wander through a small holiday market with local crafts and seasonal gifts. Sweet treats and unique finds fill the tables.

Organizers hold the event indoors at the Oak Lawn Pavilion, so you’ll stay warm and comfortable no matter the weather. It’s casual and easygoing, just how a holiday event should be.

Here’s what you need to know:

DatesAddressTimesCostWhere to Stay NearbyWebsite
December 1-24, 20259401 S. Oak Park Ave, Oak Lawn10:00 AM – 7:00 PMFree entry, photo packages priced varyHotels in Oak LawnDetails for Oak Lawn Santa’s Workshop

34) Holiday Shopping Event at Glenview Mansion

The Holiday Market at Glenview Mansion sets up shop in a historic spot. This annual event highlights local artisans, unique gifts, and tasty seasonal foods.

You’ll notice the festive mood as soon as you walk up. Lights twinkle, music plays, and classic holiday decorations pop up everywhere.

Advertisement
Advertisement

It’s easy to spend hours here. You can browse handmade crafts, sample fresh treats, and chat with small business owners about their work.

Families, couples, and groups of friends all seem to enjoy the relaxed vibe. Kids under 12 get in for free, which is a nice touch for families on a budget.

Vendors sell everything from ornaments to home goods and baked treats. The atmosphere makes it simple to slow down and find something memorable.

Here are the essentials:

DatesAddressTimesPricesNearby Hotels & StaysMarket Website
Nov 23 – Nov 261421 Milwaukee Ave, Glenview, IL10:00 AM – 6:00 PM$5 entry, free for kids under 12Hotels in GlenviewHoliday Market at Glenview Mansion

You’ll support local businesses and enjoy a traditional holiday event in a mansion setting.

DISCOVER MORE  Top 10 Christmas Markets in Massachusetts: A Festive Guide

35) Bolingbrook Macy’s Holiday Market

The Macy’s Holiday Market at the Promenade Bolingbrook brings together local sellers with handmade crafts, unique holiday décor, and specialty foods. You’ll find a good mix of festive items and a chance to support small businesses without leaving Bolingbrook.

Vendors change from week to week, so each visit feels a bit different. That keeps things interesting, honestly.

The market pops up on select Thursdays, giving you some flexibility with your plans. The open-air setup adds to the seasonal vibe, and there’s plenty of space to wander.

If you’re searching for practical gifts or specialty foods, you’ll find lots of options here. It’s a solid choice for holiday shopping.

Here’s the info you’ll want:

Advertisement
Advertisement
DatesAddressTimePriceAccommodation NearbyWebsite
June 13 & 27, July 11 & 25, August 8 & 22, 2025631 E Boughton Rd, Bolingbrook, IL 60440Various times$30 per week, $150 for seasonHotels near Promenade BolingbrookBolingbrook Macy’s Holiday Market

You can plan your trip and grab a hotel close by for extra convenience.

36) Festival of Trees at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library

If you’re in Springfield, Illinois during the holidays, don’t miss the Festival of Trees at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library. Inside, you’ll spot over 100 Christmas trees, each decorated with a different theme.

Some trees show off Illinois history or highlight Abraham Lincoln’s life. Others get creative with lights, ornaments, and handmade touches.

People of all ages come out for this event. The whole place feels welcoming and makes it easy to enjoy winter traditions.

If you want to learn about Illinois and Lincoln, you’ll get the chance while taking in festive displays. Admission is free, so families or groups don’t have to worry about tickets.

You don’t need to book in advance—just show up and take it all in.

You can make this stop part of a bigger tour of holiday markets and December fun. Booking.com has options nearby if you need a place to stay.

For the latest info, check the official Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum page.

DatesAddressTimesPricesWhere to Stay NearbyWebsite
November 29 – December 31, 2025112 N 6th St, Springfield, IL 627019:00 AM – 5:00 PMFree AdmissionHotels in SpringfieldAbraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

37) Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo’s Market

Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo’s Market gives you a classic winter experience, focusing on the simple joys of the season. You’ll see more than two million LED lights across the zoo, with displays like a giant gingerbread house and a “Sea of Lights.”

DISCOVER MORE  Christmas Market Pennsylvania 2024: Best Attractions and Activities
Advertisement
Advertisement

The whole place glows, and it’s honestly hard not to feel a little wonder. People of all ages seem to enjoy wandering the grounds.

At the market, you’ll find booths selling holiday items like handmade crafts, winter treats, and creative gifts. It’s a fun way to pick up presents and snacks you probably won’t see in regular shops.

Musicians and performers drop by throughout the evening, adding music and entertainment as you browse. It’s lively, but not overwhelming.

Vendors serve up warm drinks and food all around the zoo—think hot chocolate and local snacks. You’ll spot them along the main paths, so grabbing a break is easy.

If you want to dodge crowds, go on a weekday evening.

DatesAddressTimesPricesWhere to Stay NearbyWebsite
November 21-23, 28-29, and December 1, 4-7, 11-14, 18-21, 26-31, 20258400 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 605133–9 p.m.VariesNearby hotels on Booking.comBrookfield Zoo Holiday Magic

38) Winter Wonderland at Central Park Plaza

Essential Details: Schedule, Address, Hours, Entry Fees, and Helpful Resources

Winter Wonderland at Central Park Plaza brings outdoor ice skating to Illinois every holiday season. Twinkling lights hang above the rink, and you can glide across the ice under the stars.

Vendors set up booths with crafted ornaments, homemade treats, and holiday keepsakes. The smells and sounds really pull you in.

You can join family-friendly activities like ornament-making or face painting. Live performances keep the plaza buzzing with classic songs.

Lots of folks gather for hot chocolate and to hear community choirs. The place feels alive, even on chilly nights.

Here’s a quick guide for planning:

Event DatesAddressHoursAdmissionNearby LodgingOfficial Site
November 25 – December 24, 2025Central Park Plaza, 701 Smith St, Anywhere, ILDaily: 10am – 9pmFreeHotels near Central Park PlazaMore about Winter Wonderland at Central Park Plaza

Check for updates on schedules before you head out—sometimes things change last minute.

Advertisement
Advertisement

39) DeKalb Corn Fest Holiday Market

Every December, DeKalb Corn Fest Holiday Market mixes the best parts of summer and the holidays in downtown DeKalb, Illinois. You’ll spot rows of vendors selling handmade crafts, festive gifts, and all kinds of specialty foods.

Live music drifts through the air from local performers, setting a cheerful mood. Carnival rides pop up across the festival, so there’s plenty for all ages.

The Corn Boil stands out as a classic part of the fest. Volunteers serve up fresh, hot, buttery corn—honestly, it’s hard to beat that on a cold winter day.

Kids get to meet Santa and join in holiday-themed games and activities. The family-friendly vibe means everyone in your group finds something to enjoy.

If you’re thinking of going, check out the table below for dates, times, and other details. The official Corn Fest page has the latest updates, and you can browse DeKalb hotels if you need a place to stay.

DatesAddressTimesPricesWhere to StayWebsite
December 1-3, 2025Downtown DeKalb, ILFri: 5-10 PM  Sat: 11 AM-11 PM  Sun: 11 AM-5 PMFree (entry fee for rides and special areas)Find hotelsCorn Fest

40) Lockport Holiday Market at Lockport East High School

Every year, Lockport East High School fills up with the Lockport Christmas Crossing in Illinois. In 2025, this busy craft show takes place on November 22 and 23.

Over 220 makers set up tables with handmade gifts, ornaments, jewelry, crafts, and home goods. You’ll wander through aisles packed with original finds you won’t see in chain stores.

The Lockport Woman’s Club organizes this event. Their volunteers work hard to create a space where you can browse gifts, decorations, and food.

You don’t need tickets ahead of time. Prices just depend on what you buy inside.

Food booths pop up so you can grab a snack or lunch. If you want to stay overnight, Booking.com’s Lockport hotels are convenient.

For more info or updates, check the Lockport Woman’s Club website.

DatesNovember 22-23, 2025
Address1333 E. 7th Street, Lockport, IL
TimesSat 8:30am–5pm; Sun 9:30am–3:30pm
CostPrices vary by item
Where to StayHotels near Lockport on Booking.com
WebsiteLockport Woman’s Club

Christmas Market Closures

Due to econonic conditions and tariffs, some Christmas Markets may cancel their events due to lack of vendors. If you are aware of a closed market,or find errors on a listing or an image, please reach out on our Contact Us page so that we may update this post.