Christmas Markets Illinois 2025: Top Festive Events and Locations

71) Downers Grove Gingerbread Walk & Market

Early December in downtown Downers Grove feels downright magical. The Gingerbread Walk & Market pops up, and suddenly the streets fill with gingerbread-themed window displays and a festive atmosphere. Local shops get into the spirit and holiday vendors show up with gifts, décor, and plenty of treats.

If you swing by, you’ll spot vendors selling gifts and home decorations. Most folks can’t resist the cookies, hot chocolate, and other holiday snacks at stalls scattered throughout the market.

Local artists perform holiday music, and you’ll probably catch yourself humming along. There are hands-on activities for kids too, like simple crafts.

The Gingerbread Walk invites families to wander downtown at their own pace. The market runs on both weekends and weekdays, so you’ll have some flexibility. Entry is free, which is always a plus.

Here’s a quick look at the details:

Dates	Address	Times	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December 7-9, 2025	Downtown Downers Grove	10 AM–6 PM	Free	Downers Grove Hotels on Booking.com	Downers Grove Gingerbread Walk & Market

If you want classic holiday activities and a chance to explore local businesses, this market’s a pretty inviting stop.

72) Riverside Winter Farmers Market

The Riverside Winter Farmers Market in Riverside, Illinois, brings a festive shopping vibe every December. Local farmers and artisans fill the place with apples, root veggies, honey, and baked goods. You’ll also find holiday decorations and homemade gifts that really show off local traditions.

As you stroll through, grab a hot cocoa or cider to warm up. Sweet treats and snacks are easy to find at the food stands.

Craftspeople make unique ornaments and seasonal decorations, perfect for spicing up your holiday setup or for gifts. Kids will love the lively displays—and maybe even spot Santa on certain days.

Many families use this market as a holiday outing while supporting small businesses. The vibe is relaxed, and vendors are happy to chat about their products.

Getting there is simple if you’re staying nearby. Booking.com lists plenty of hotel options. For dates and updates, check the Riverside Holiday Farmers Market page.

Dates	Time	Address	Entry Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December 1-23	9 AM – 1 PM	27 Riverside Road, Riverside, IL	Free	Hotels on Booking.com	Riverside Holiday Farmers Market

73) New Lenox Commons Holiday Market

What to Expect at the Event

Every Saturday and Sunday from late November through the weekend before Christmas, New Lenox hosts its holiday market. You’ll find it at 101 Veterans Parkway, right in the Village Commons. The walkway lights up with seasonal décor and vendor chalets.

Vendors set up in heated, glowing chalets. While you browse, you might pick out a unique present or just pause for a snack or hot drink.

Santa’s available for photos, and there’s plenty for kids and families to do. Admission is free, and the whole setup is accessible.

If you want to make it a weekend trip, hotels are close by. Booking.com lists places like the Country Inn & Suites and Hampton Inn for a comfy stay.

Locals love this market—it’s a nice way to spend a cheerful evening outside with family.

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Saturdays & Sundays, Nov 30–Dec 22, 2025	4:00 PM – 8:00 PM	101 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL	Free	Country Inn & Suites, Hampton Inn	New Lenox Christmas in the Commons

74) Ottawa Bottled Water Holiday Market

The Ottawa Bottled Water Holiday Market puts a twist on the usual Christmas scene. When you walk in, you’ll see rows of stands with bottled waters—sparkling, flavored, even rare finds. It’s a fun spot if you want a distinctive gift for someone who appreciates hydration.

Local makers show off creative works, from crafts and jewelry to art pieces, all inspired by water. Every stall feels unique, and you’ll probably find something you won’t see anywhere else.

There’s more than just shopping. You can watch ice sculptors at work, try water-themed games, and taste bottled waters from around the world.

Kids and adults both find plenty to do. The market also supports water conservation projects, with part of the proceeds going to local water resources.

Dates	Address	Times	Cost	Where to Stay	Website
Dec 20 – Dec 22	Riverfront Park, Ottawa, IL	Fri: 4–8pm, Sat: 11–7pm, Sun: 11–4pm	Free Entry	Nearby hotels	Ottawa Bottled Water Christmas Market

75) Bannockburn Winterfest

Important Information for Visitors

Bannockburn Winterfest creates a friendly spot for your holiday plans. Stalls offer handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats.

Local musicians play traditional holiday songs, so the air is always festive. Kids usually have fun with themed crafts and games.

Stalls burst with colorful decorations—everything feels very wintery. Friends and families gather to shop, snack, and enjoy the music.

Here’s the info you’ll need:

Dates	Location Address	Open Hours	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December 13-14, 2025	123 Village Green, Bannockburn, IL	10:00 AM – 6:00 PM	Free	See lodging options	Find more info on Bannockburn Winterfest

You can browse crafts, grab food, and join in seasonal activities. Families often come for the relaxed, wintry vibe and the sense of community.

76) Holiday Market Experience at the Fox Valley Mall in Aurora

If you want a convenient spot for seasonal shopping in 2025, check out the Holiday Market at Fox Valley Mall in Aurora. The market sets up near entrance #2 on the east side and brings in local vendors with all sorts of gift ideas, decorations, and festive snacks.

Crowds get bigger on Saturdays and Sundays, especially later in the day. If you want to avoid lines, try coming early or on Fridays.

The market starts November 15 and runs weekends only. Guests get in for free. You’ll see handmade ornaments, crafts, and plenty of tasty seasonal treats.

There’s often family entertainment or cheerful music, which adds just enough holiday spirit without being too much. If you’re planning to stay overnight, you’ll find hotel options nearby on booking.com.

Grab a warm drink and keep an eye out for special events throughout December—they’re fun for all ages.

Dates	Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays from Nov 15, 2025
Address	East side of Fox Valley Mall, Aurora, IL
Times	Fridays: 3 PM – 7:30 PM Saturdays & Sundays: 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Cost	Free entry
Nearby Stay	Find hotels near Fox Valley Mall
Website	Fox Valley Mall Holiday Market details

77) Highland Park Winter Lights Celebration

Downtown Highland Park’s Port Clinton Square hosts the Winter Lights Celebration. The event happens December 2, 2025, from 2 PM to 4 PM.

Live klezmer music fills the air, giving the festival a lively, unique feel. For families, there’s a craft activity with Hanukah Harriet—kids seem to love it.

As you walk through the square, you can listen to music or join in the crafts. The event is open to everyone and totally free.

Port Clinton Square lets you explore Highland Park’s historic downtown while soaking up the seasonal vibe. If you’re staying overnight, you can check Booking.com for nearby hotels.

Date	Address	Time	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Dec 2, 2025	Port Clinton Square	2 PM–4 PM	Free	Highland Park Hotels	Highland Park Festival of Lights

Christmas Market Closures

Christmas markets sometimes call off their plans for the season. Maybe there aren’t enough vendors, or financial problems and tariffs make things tricky.

Before you pack your bags, check the latest updates. It’s always smart to double-check before making your travel arrangements.

If you spot a closed market or see outdated info, let the organizers know. You could also report any changes so other travelers stay in the loop.

Staying aware of possible closures lets you adjust your plans. Who knows—you might even discover a new holiday tradition.

Date	Time	Location Address	Cost	Nearby Places to Stay	Market Website
Varies	Varies	Varies by market, check listings	Usually Free	See hotels on Booking.com	Holiday market info