4 dated events
Christmas lights season runs from the start of November to the first week of January: drive-through and walk-through light shows, festivals of decorated trees, seasonal ice rinks and visits with Santa. A holiday market or a holiday concert is a different evening out and is not listed here, and nor is an autumn lantern or light festival that opens before November.
4 dated events across 4 attractions, soonest first. Many run on selected evenings only and several are ticketed separately — the venue’s own page, linked under every quote, is the one to check before you set off.
Nov 21 – 22 · 10:00 amEvent
Elgin History Museum, Elgin
Families book 15-minute time blocks to take photos with Santa at the historic Nancy Kimball Cobblestone House. Saturday runs 10am–4pm, Sunday 10am–2:30pm. Visitors bring their own cameras for festive holiday photos.
Check event details and ticket requirements with the venue.
“Saturday, November 21 from 10am - 4pm Sunday, November 22 from 10am - 2:30pm”
Nov 27 – Dec 20Event
Ellwood House Museum, DeKalb
Families step inside the beautifully decorated 1879 mansion and enjoy a festive guided tour through all four floors, filled with dazzling trees, twinkling lights, and timeless holiday charm.
Check event details and ticket requirements with the venue.
“Fri, Nov 27, 2026”
Dec 10 – 13Season
DuPage County Historical Museum & Wheaton Park District Administration Building, Wheaton
Families enjoy a popular holiday train ride with Santa, then visit the DuPage County Historical Museum afterward for cookies, hot chocolate, cartoons, and crafts.
Venue admission is free; event tickets may differ.
The venue: “Admission to the DuPage County Historical Museum is free.”
Check event details and ticket requirements with the venue.
“December 10 - December 13”
Dec 12Event
Edwards Place Historic Home, Springfield
Guests learn tea customs while participating in a program based on L. Frank Baum's The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus. The event includes tea, tea foods, gifts, and original programming from Whimsy Tea Company.
Check event details and ticket requirements with the venue.
“December 12, 2026, 1PM”
