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You Won’t Want To Miss These Incredible Fireworks Shows In Illinois This Year

Comprehensive guide to Independence Day fireworks displays in Illinois for 2017.

Published Jun 20, 2017

Written by 

Elizabeth Crozier

If you find yourself typing "fireworks near me" into the search bar, look no further than this complete list of Independence Day fireworks displays in Illinois.

We've featured our favorite Fourth of July fireworks displays in Illinois both in 2015 and 2016. This year, we wanted to spotlight five major shows in addition to compiling a list of all Independence Day fireworks displays in Illinois for 2017. Here are all the wonderful and spectacular fireworks displays in Illinois this year:

1. Champaign County Freedom Fireworks

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Facebook/Champaign County Freedom Celebration
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Facebook/Champaign County Freedom Celebration

Fireworks have been part of this event for nearly 70 years, and they begin at dusk on July 4. You'll want to be at the University of Illinois parking lot E14 (just west of Assembly Hall), 1800 S 1st St. in Champaign for the best views.

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2. Evanston 4th of July

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Facebook/Evanston Fourth of July Association, Evanston, Illinois
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Facebook/Evanston Fourth of July Association, Evanston, Illinois

The fireworks on July 4 are just one of several holiday events in this Chicago suburb. The annual event also includes a parade and kids' fun run. Fireworks take off over Lake Michigan at Sheridan Rd. & Church St. at 9:15 p.m.

3. Naval Station Great Lakes July Fourth Celebration

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Facebook/Naval Station Great Lakes July 4th Celebration
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Facebook/Naval Station Great Lakes July 4th Celebration

This two-day event takes place July 3-4 at The United States' only Navy bootcamp. Fireworks go off at Ross Field, 530 Farragut Ave B, Great Lakes, and additional events include a Firecracker 5K and a street fair with food vendors and rides.

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4. Stockton Fourth of July Celebration

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Facebook/Stockton 4th of July Celebration
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Facebook/Stockton 4th of July Celebration

Every year on July 4, fireworks light up the skies over Stockton Memorial Park in Stockton. Earlier in the day, locals enjoy food vendors, car shows, bounce houses, tractor pulls, and more.

5. Fourth of July at Navy Pier

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Flickr/Marit & Toomas Hinnosaar
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Flickr/Sherry J. Ezhuthachan

Though Navy Pier shoots off fireworks throughout the summer, the best time to see them is July 4 at 600 E Grand Ave. in Chicago. Spend the day shopping, dining, and riding the Ferris Wheel before rushing to the Dock Stage for the best views.

Don't stop scrolling now! There are plenty more fireworks displays all around the state. This list is organized by county, so you can find the one nearest to you. Most are free and begin at dusk, which will be after 9:00 p.m. - but we recommend showing up early with your blankets and lawn chairs to get the best seats.

Bond County

  • Bond County Bicentennial Celebration, July 2, Downtown Greenville at E College Ave.
  • Belvidere Heritage Day, June 25, Boone County Fair Grounds, 8791 Illinois 76 in Belvidere.
  • Walnut Hometown Celebration, July 2, behind Bureau Valley North High School, 323 S. Main St. in Walnut.
  • Tolono Fun Day, June 24, West Side Park in Tolono.
  • Gifford Celebration, June 24, Emord Park, Main St. in Gifford.
  • Rantoul Firecracker Classic, July 3, behind the Rantoul National Aviation Center, 6 Aviation Center Dr. in Rantoul.
  • Stonington Summerfest Fireworks, June 25, Ponting Field, Co Hwy 4.
  • Casey July 4th Fireworks, July 4, Fairview Park in Casey.
  • Flora Kiwanis 4th of July Fireworks, July 4, Charley Brown Park, RR 2.
  • Carlyle Lake Fireworks Spectacular, July 1, Carlyle Lake in Carlyle.
  • Albers Blast Off Parade and Fireworks, July 3, Jaycee Park Pavilion, Park Ave. in Albers.
  • Mount Prospect Lions Club Festival, June 30 and July 4, Melas Park,1326 W. Central Rd.
  • Rockin' In The Park Concert & Fireworks, July 4, MB Financial Park, 5501 Park Place in Rosemont.
  • Alsip Fun Fest Fireworks, June 17, Prairie Jr. High Ballfields,119th and Kostner Ave. in Alsip.
  • Orland Hills Party In The Park, June 24, Kelly Park,16670 S Haven Ave.
  • Thunder Over Midlothian, June 30, Memorial Park,14500 S Sawyer in Midlothian.
  • Wheeling Fourth of July, July 1, Chicago Executive Airport,1020 Plant Road.
  • Burbank Park Independence Day Celebration, July 1, Michael Looney Park, 77th and Narragansett East.
  • Northwest Fourth Fest, July 2, Sears Centre Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Pkwy. in Hoffman Estates.
  • Bridgeview July 3rd Celebration, July 3, Bridgeview Park District, 8100 S Beloit.
  • Palos Heights Independence Day Celebration, July 3, Memorial Park, fireworks over Lake Katherine, 76th Ave. and College Dr.
  • Wilmette Independence Day Fireworks, July 3, Gillson Park, Sheridan Road and Michigan Ave.
  • Evergreen Park Parade and Fireworks, July 3, Duffy Park, 9101 S. Ridgeway in Evergreen Park.
  • Palatine Jaycees Hometown Fest, July 3, Community Park, 250 E Wood St. in Palatine.
  • Lemont Park District Freedom Days Fireworks, July 3, Centennial Park,16028 127th St.
  • Glencoe July 4 Celebration, July 4, Lakefront Park, 55 Hazel Ave.
  • South Holland Fourth of July, July 4, Veterans Memorial Park, 160th Place and South Park Ave.
  • Orland Park Independence Day, July 4, Centennial Park,15600 West Ave.
  • Tinley Park Fourth of July, July 4, McCarthy Park, 16801 W 80th Ave.
  • Streamwood Fourth of July, July 4, Dolphin Park, S. Park Blvd.
  • Elk Grove Lions Club Fireworks, July 4, Lions Park, Lions Drive & Elk Grove Blvd.
  • Park Forest Fourth of July Celebration, July 4, Central Park, 410 Lakewood.
  • Winnetka Fourth Fest Fireworks, July 4, Duke Childs Field, 321 Willow Rd.
  • Barlett Fourth of July, July 4, Apple Orchard Park in Bartlett.
  • Hinckley Family Fun Fest & Fireworks, June 24, Hinckley-Big Rock High School, 700 E Lincoln Hwy.
  • Sandwich Fourth of July Celebration, July 2, Sandwich Fairgrounds, 1401 Suydam Rd.
  • DeKalb Municipal Band & Fireworks Display, July 4, Hopkins Park,1403 Sycamore Rd.
  • Farmer City Raceway Fireworks, June 30, Farmer City Raceway, 850 North Grove St.
  • Arthur Freedom Celebration, July 1, Jurgens Park, south side of the high school, 301 East Columbia.
  • Lisle Eyes to the Skies, June 30, July 1-2, Lisle Community Park, Short St.
  • Ribfest Fireworks, July 3, Knoch Park, 724 S. West St. in Naperville.
  • Wheaton Fourth of July Celebration, July 3, Graf Park, 1701 Manchester Rd.
  • Lemont Park District Freedom Days, July 3, Centennial Park, 16028 127th St.
  • Warrenville Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks, July 4, Cerny Park, River Rd.
  • Elk Grove Lions Club Fireworks, July 4, Lions Park, Lions Drive & Elk Grove Blvd.
  • Carol Stream Fourth of July, July 4, Town Center Gazebo, Gary Ave and Lies Rd.
  • Bensenville LibertyFest, July 4, Redmond Recreational Complex, 735 E. Jefferson.
  • Westmont July 4 Fireworks, July 4, Ty Warner Park, Plaza and Blackhawk Dr. in Westmont.
  • Downer's Grove - Woodridge July 4 Fireworks, July 4, Zigfield Troy Golf, 75th St. and Lemont Rd. in Downers Grove.
  • West Salem Fourth of July, July 1, Centennial Park in West Salem.
  • Grundy County Fair, July 3, Grundy County Fairgrounds, Illinois Rt 47 in Morris.
  • McLeansboro 4th of July, July 4, McLeansboro City Reservoir.
  • Grafton Independence Celebration, July 1, Grafton Riverfront, Front St.
  • Shenandoah Star Spangled Rodeo, July 1-2, Shenandoah Riding Center, 200 N. Brodrecht Rd. in Galena.
  • Hanover Days, July 3, VFW Club, Fillmore St.
  • Elks Lake Fireworks, July 1, Elks Park, Bluebird Ln. in Goreville.
  • Dundee Township Fireworks, June 24, Meadowdale Park, Besinger & Maple Ave. in Carpentersville.
  • Northwest Fourth Fest, July 2, Sears Centre Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Pkwy. in Hoffman Estates.
  • Barlett Fourth of July, July 4, Apple Orchard Park.
  • Batavia July 4th Sky Concert Fireworks, July 4, best viewing from Engstrom Park, 326 Millview Dr.
  • Aurora Independence Day Fireworks, July 4, RiverEdge Park, 360 N Broadway St.
  • Grayslake Family Picnic and Fireworks, July 1, Central Park, 100 Library Ln.
  • Celebrate Fox Lake Fireworks Display, July 1, Northwest End of Nippersink Lake in Fox Lake.
  • Six Flags Great America July 4th Fest, July 2-4, Six Flags Great America Theme Park,1 Great America Pkwy. in Gurnee.
  • Deerfield Family Days, July 3, Brickyards Park, Fountain View Dr.
  • Mundelein Community Days, July 3, Kracklauer Park,100 N. Seymour Ave.
  • Hawthorn Woods Fireworks, July 3, Community Park, 42 Park View Ln.
  • Wauconda Independence Day Fireworks, July 3, Cook Park, 700 N Main St.
  • Lake Zurich Independence Day, July 4, Paulus Park, 200 South Rand Rd.
  • Libertyville Fireworks, July 4, Butler Lake Park, 500 Lake St.
  • Round Lake Beach Fireworks, July 4, Cultural Center Outdoor Stage, 2007 N Civic Center Way in Round Lake Beach.
  • Vernon Hills 4th of July Fireworks, July 4, Century Park, 1001 Lakeview Pkwy.
  • Peru Fourth of July Fireworks, July 4, view from Peru Mall's west parking lot, 3940 IL-251.
  • Amboy Fireworks Festival, July 2, Downtown Amboy, Main St.
  • Emington 3rd of July Celebration, July 3, Downtown Emington, Main Street and North 3000 E Rd.
  • Dwight 4th of July, July 4, Dwight Grade School, 801 S Columbia St.
  • Atlanta Independence Day Fireworks, July 2, ballpark at W North St. and 6th St.
  • Macon Speedway Fireworks, June 24, Macon Speedway, 205 N Wiles St.
  • Maroa Freedom Festival, July 1, Maroa High School, 610 W Washington Street Rd.
  • Staunton Homecoming, June 25, Staunton Firemen's Park, 900 E Montgomery.
  • Brighton Independence Day, July 1, Schneider Park, 414 N Maple St.
  • Carlinville Independence Day Celebration, July 2, Macoupin County Fairgrounds, Route 4.
  • Bethalto Cornerstone Fireworks, June 25, St Louis Regional Airport, 8 Terminal Dr.
  • Alton / Godfrey Fireworks on the Mississippi, July 3, Alton Riverfront Park in Alton.
  • Godfrey Family Fun Fest, July 4, Glazebrook Park, 1401 Stamper Ln.
  • Patriots In The Park, July 4, Coolidge MIddle School, 3231 Nameoki Rd. in Granite City.
  • Highland 4th of July Fireworks, July 4, Glik Park, 12525 Sportsman Rd.
  • Centralia American Legion 4th of July, July 4, Fairview Park, 1000 East Broadway in Centralia.
  • Metropolis Fourth of July, July 1, Harrah's Metropolis Casino - between Ferry St. and Metropolis St., 100 E Front St.
  • Brookport Fourth of July, July 1, The Park in Brookport.
  • Cary Summer Celebration, June 30, Lions Park, 1200 Silver Lake Rd.
  • McHenry July Fourth Fireworks, July 1, Petersen Park, 4300 Petersen Park.
  • Wonder Lake 4th of July Celebration, July 1, Wonder Lake, E Lakeshore Dr.
  • Crystal Lake Fireworks, July 2, Crystal Lake Main Beach Area, 300 Lake Shore Dr.
  • Pistakee Bay Fireworks, July 8, Oak Park Lounge, fireworks over the bay, 801 W. Oak Grove Rd. in Johnsburg.
  • Saybrook Stars and Stripes Celebration, June 24, W Harrison St.
  • Lake Bloomington Fireworks, July 4, Lake Bloomington in Hudson.
  • Columbia July 4th Celebration, July 4, American Legion Park, 375 E. Locust St.
  • Raymond Fireworks, July 1, Memorial Park.
  • Lake Lou Yaeger Fireworks, July 4, Marina 1, Lake Lou Yaeger in Litchfield.
  • Chillicothe 4th of July, July 4, Three Sisters Park, 17189 N. Route 29.
  • Peoria Red White & Boom, July 4, Downtown Peoria along the riverfront, Water St.
  • Monticello Freedom Festival, July 3, Lodge Park, Garfield Ave.
  • Pine Lakes Resort Fireworks, July 1, Pine Lakes Resort, 1405 Lakeview Heights in Pittsfield.
  • Steeleville Independence Day, July 4, American Legion Park, 303 S. Chester St.
  • Olney 4th of July Fireworks, July 4, Olney City Park, 502 White Squirrel Cir.
  • Rock Island Red White & Boom, July 3, Schwiebert Riverfront Park over the Mississippi River100 17th St.
  • East Moline Independence Day, July 3, East Moline Riverfront at the Quarter, 7th St.
  • Lake Springfield Marina Rock the Dock, June 23, Lake Springfield Marina, North End Lake Clubs, 17 Waters Edge Blvd.
  • Williamsville Fourth of July Celebration, June 25, Samuel H. Jones Park, Main St.
  • Capital City Celebration, July 1, 2nd St. in Springfield.
  • Frierdich Fireworks Summer Celebration, June 24, Three Springs Park, 2250 Frank Scott Parkway E in Shiloh.
  • Caseyville Picnic & Fireworks, July 1, Caseyville Park, 40 W Reynolds.
  • Dupo Picnic in the Park, July 4, Dupo Community Park, 900 Bluffview Elementary Dr.
  • Cedarville Summer Celebration, June 24, 430 W. Washington St.
  • Freeport Sky Concert, July 2, Stephenson County Fairgrounds, 2250 S Walnut Rd.
  • StarView Vineyards Reds Whites & Brews, July 1, StarView Vineyards, 5100 Wing Hill Rd. in Coben.
  • Dan Boat Club Fireworks, July 1, Danville Boat Club, 15750 Boat Club Rd.
  • Nashville Fourth of July Fireworks, July 4, Nashville Memorial Park, E. Memorial Dr. in Nashville.
  • Prophetstown July 4 Fireworks, July 4, Prophetstown State Park, East Riverside Dr. and Park Ave.
  • Homer Community Fest, June 22, Township Sports Fields, 14354 W. 151st St.
  • Joliet Fourth of July Fireworks, July 1, Bicentennial Park, 201 W. Jefferson St.
  • Bicentennial Park 4th of July Fireworks, July 1, Bicentennial Park, 201 W Jefferson St.
  • Lakewood Falls Fireworks Show, July 1, Bruce Ponti Park, 13909 S Budler Rd. in Plainfield.
  • Romeoville Independence Day, July 3, Village Park, 900 W. Romeo Rd.
  • RibFest Fireworks, July 3, Knoch Park, 724 S. West St. in Naperville.
  • Patriotic Picnic and Fireworks, July 3, Plainfield Central High School, 24120 W. Fort Beggs Dr. in Plainfield.
  • Lemont Park District Freedom Days Celebration, July 3, Centennial Park, 16028 127th St.
  • Park Forest July 4th Celebration, July 4, Central Park, 410 Lakewood.
  • Beecher Fourth of July, July 4, Firemen's Park, 673 Penfield St.
  • Old Settlers Days, June 18, Settlers Park, E Hawick St. in Rockton.
  • Rockford Fourth of July, July 4, Davis Park, 211 N. Main St.
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Did we miss any Illinois fireworks displays? Tell us which ones you'll be attending this year!

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Experiences|Events

7 Light Displays in Illinois That are Pure Holiday Magic

Updated Nov 11, 2024

Written by 

Linze Rice

The day after Thanksgiving there are two things on my mind: "Can I get any holiday shopping done without fighting a crowd?" and "Where are the closest Christmas lights near me?". Being from the northern region of the state, I've always admired the Christmas lights in Illinois. Whether it's a single, over-the-top house, a coordinated neighborhood, a lit-up Main Street, or a drive-through light show, there is no shortage of dazzling displays all over the map. These Illinois light shows will become more popular as Christmas Day draws closer, so be sure to visit them early to avoid the crowds! Nothing gets me more into the holiday spirit than a beautiful holiday light show, and these displays would put anyone in the holiday spirit--even the Grinch!

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Here, I've rounded up some of the best Christmas lights in Illinois — so let's take a look!

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Christmas lights at night, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, Dec 2017 like for the last 60 years this public place is decorated by a team of workers

1. ZooLights — Lincoln Park, Chicago

One of the most unique and beloved Christmas light displays in Illinois is found at Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo. Known as ZooLights, the festival showcases millions of lights across the zoo's grounds, with synchronized music, shimmering string lights, glowing shapes, festive fields, and concession stands with sweets and warming beverages. The event runs from November to January (ending Jan. 5, 2025) with tickets ranging from $7-10. And while the lights are exceptionally beautiful, don't forget to visit the animals, too! Check out Lincoln Park Zoo's website to learn more about one of the best Christmas light displays in Chicago, Illinois.

2. Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum — Lisle

Just outside Chicago, there's a one-of-a-kind display of Christmas lights in Lisle, Illinois. The Illumination: Tree Lights show at The Morton Arboretum splashes light throughout its 50 acres of enchanted woodlands, adding color and sound to create a unique, nature-based experience unlike any other. Visitors walk along a 1-mile path while enjoying the sights and serenading sounds of holiday music. Snacks, drinks, and s'mores await you at the end of your journey — or watch the show's finale on Meadow Lake as you dine at the Visitor Center's Ginkgo Restaurant. The event runs through Jan. 4, 2025, and tickets range from $16-44 for the public, with discounts available for members. Visit The Morton Arboretum's website for tickets.

3. Festival of Lights — Rockford

For those seeking drive-through Christmas lights in Illinois, the Festival of Lights display has been a community favorite since 1989. For over 30 years, these spectacular Christmas lights in Rockford, Illinois have illuminated the grounds of Sinnissippi Park. Over 85 pre-fab and handmade displays wow spectators as they cruise through this favorite free event. Tune your radio station to holiday tunes that sync up with the show, and BYOHot chocolate for an extra-cozy experience. Pro tip: If you go on a weekend, you just may see Santa, himself! Get all the details at the Festival of Lights' website.

4. East Peoria Festival of Lights — East Peoria

The Christmas lights in East Peoria, Illinois are in a league of their own. Folepi's Winter Wonderland, put on by the East Peoria Festival of Lights, is a must-see annual tradition that weaves vehicles through an awe-inspiring display that lasts over a mile. It's one of the best drive-through Christmas light shows in Illinois — and it's got the trophy to prove it. In 2020, it won an episode of ABC's Great Christmas Light Fight for its amazingly massive displays. See it while you can — the show ends on New Year's Day. Regular vehicles pay $10, while small buses and motorcoaches pay $30-150. Start planning your visit by checking out the East Peoria Festival of Lights website.

5. Mattoon Lightworks — Mattoon

Each year, thousands of visitors are drawn to the Christmas lights in Mattoon, Illinois. Its famous drive-through lights display is free to the public and showcases an impressive collection of twinkling arches, trees, and shapes that glisten against the night sky. Bright bulbs form snowflakes, reindeer, and Santas that bring joy to the hearts of all who view them. The show is open from 5-9 p.m. on the weekends, and runs through Christmas. Get all the latest info from the City of Mattoon, Illinois — Lightworks' Facebook page.

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6. Holiday Lights Fair — Du Quoin

Those adventuring through Christmas lights in Southern Illinois know the Holiday Lights Fair in Du Quoin is a must-see. For over 20 years, the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds have transformed into a winter wonderland filled with fanciful displays in the shapes of gingerbread houses, trees, snowflakes, and more. The first three weekends in December also have food and craft vendors, live music, train rides, door prizes, Santa visits, model train displays, and so much more. The holiday cheer isn't just confined to the outdoors either, the Exhibition Hall also showcases Christmas trees and all the glad tidings one could hope for. Admission is $10 per family vehicle or $1 per person on commercial carriers and tour buses. Check out the Du Quoin Tourism website for more info.

7. Candy Cane Lane — West Frankfort

We also can't mention Christmas lights in Southern Illinois without shining a spotlight on the heartwarming Candy Cane Lane in West Frankfort. The must-see attraction began in 1988 by art teacher Tim Murphy and his father, who put up creative displays at different homes, many handcrafted by him. In fact, the spectacle was so fantastic, it was also featured on ABC's Great Christmas Light Fight. Sadly, Mr. Murphy passed away in 2021 — although his love for Christmas was so infectious that the community and city of West Frankfort came together to carry on the tradition. Today, the display is over five city blocks long. The drive-through (or walking-friendly) light display features over 30,000 lights and nearly 100 displays. Start planning your visit by checking out the City of West Frankfort website and the Candy Cane Lane public Facebook group.

Now the next time you wonder, "Are there any Christmas lights near me?" you can just pull up this handy map and list to begin your adventure. Are there any other amazing Christmas light displays in Illinois that come to mind? Share this article with someone you can't wait to view these Christmas lights in Illinois with. Don't forget to dress for the weather! Winter in Illinois is known to be cold, and you want to dress warmly. There's a Norwegian saying: There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.

So layer up!

And if this still isn't enough, check out this top-rated nostalgic Christmas treasure hunt downtown Chicago! Of course, winter in Illinois is more than twinkling lights (but we do love them). Check out our ultimate guide to winter activities in Illinois and start planning some epic winter adventures! You might even be inspired to spend a weekend away at this picture-perfect resort that's just perfect in the winter.

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Experiences|Events

Visit 9 Christmas Light Displays in Illinois For a Magical Experience

Discover some of the best Christmas light displays in Illinois, ranging from zoo exhibits to drive-through shows.

Updated Nov 11, 2024

Written by 

Stephanie Andrews

'Tis the season to spread a little Christmas merriment by checking out some Christmas lights in Illinois! Whether you have little ones who can’t wait to see Santa or you just really love experiencing the twinkling lights, these are some of the best Christmas lights in Illinois that are certain to dazzle. Bundle up in a comfy coat and sip on a comforting cup of hot cocoa. If you've been curious about Christmas lights near me, here are some fantastic Illinois Christmas lights, and they will absolutely brighten up our ever-lengthening winter nights. You might even be inspired enough to set up your own Christmas light displays.

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A small-town Christmas display centered around the village gazebo

1. McFerren Park Christmas Light Show, Hoopeston

Even though this light show is fairly new, don’t let that dissuade you. This is the perfect outing for the family. The town of Hoopeston has banded together to make this free festival of lights in Illinois a possibility. Enjoy the jubilant displays, and thousands of lights and drive under beautifully lit arches. Be sure to visit with Santa and maybe even do a little Christmas shopping in Hoopeston before leaving. Enjoy the lights from the Saturday after Thanksgiving until early January.

To learn more, visit the Light Up McFerren Park Facebook page.

2. Lincoln Park Zoo ZooLights

Kicking off another amazing year, ZooLights just keeps getting bigger and better! If you manage to brave the city between the end of November and early January, then checking out ZooLights in Lincoln Park is a must. This light display takes up the entire length of the zoo. Enjoy free crafts, exciting events, and limitless cheer. The live ice sculptures will dazzle and the warm spiced wine will make you feel merry and bright. This event always brings a smile to people's faces. ZooLights in Lincoln Park takes place from November 15, 2024, until January 5, 2025. Tickets to ZooLights range from $7-10.

To learn more about one of the best Christmas light displays in Illinois, visit Lincoln Park Zoo's website.

3. Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum: 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle

It’s really quite hard to beat the pure beauty that Illumination has created over the lush, ethereal landscape of the arboretum. Enjoy the views as LED light fixtures dance along the waters. Enjoy this peaceful illuminated landscape from November 16, 2024, until January 4, 2025. The 2024 season boasts 17 displays that highlight the beauty of trees in winter.

To learn more, visit Morton Arboretum's website. This is one of the most popular holiday light shows in Illinois, so we recommend getting your tickets early! Visit the Morton Arboretum early in the season to escape the crowds.

4. Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic—Brookfield

Just like the folks at the Morton Arboretum, the Brookfield Zoo is also using some amazing projection to create their own annual holiday spectacle. The breathtaking light show is sure to be a hit with the whole family and nothing sounds more entertaining than seeing trees dance to festive holiday classics. With chainsaw ice carving, carolers, and an appearance from Santa, this is a holiday treat not to be missed. The festivities kick off at the end of November and run until December 31, 2024.

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For more information about ticket prices and hours, visit Brookfield Zoo's website.

5. Coulterville Holiday Lights Display, 102 W. Grant St. Coulterville

Come and enjoy the magic of over one million lights, over 400 wooden figurines, large 300-piece ceramic villages, a healthy dose of holiday movies, and a real-life Candyland. That’s right! If you were a fan of this old-school board game then you’ll love jumping right into this enchanted and delicious world. All of this magic can be found at the Coulterville Holiday Lights Display. This jolly tradition is one of the best things to do at Christmas in Illinois. Catch this awesome Illinois light show from December 7, 2024 until December 27, 2024.

Learn more about this beloved event by visiting the Coulterville Holiday Light Display on Facebook.

6. Holidays Lights in Lilacia Park

When the holiday spirit floats through the air, be sure to head to Lombard and enjoy the festive annual lighting celebration right in Lilacia Park. It’s a great way to kick off the holidays. The light display will be here for your enjoyment from early December through early January. Take the kids to see Santa and Rudolph, enjoy a warm mug of cocoa, and ride the Gold Metal Express. You're going to love every minute of it.

Learn more about this whimsical holiday light display.

7. Chicago Around the World and Holidays of Lights

A little unique from the traditional Christmas light displays you may be used to, this beloved tradition at the Museum of Science and Industry always dazzles. This year's event kicks off in mid-November. Come and stare at their grand four-story Christmas tree. If you really love decorations, then you won’t want to miss the magnificent trees decorated for different cultures. Come see all the hard work these thousands of volunteers put into making Christmas come alive while also learning about the holiday traditions of other cultures around the globe.

To learn more about Christmas Around The World, visit The Museum of Science and Industry website.

8. Candy Cane Lane- West Frankfort

This incredible display was the brainchild of a local art teacher back in the '80s and Candy Cane Lane is still alive and well today. For four weeks in December enjoy up to 30,000 lights and over 500 different holiday characters that sprawl along the five blocks of festive homes. Don’t even think about going near West Frankfort and missing this must-see holiday favorite and one of the best Christmas light displays in Illinois.

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To learn more about Candy Cane Lane visit their Facebook page.

9. Geneva Christmas Walk

If it’s good enough for The Ellen Show then it’s certainly good enough for us! Kick off your festivities by watching the glorious tree lighting in early December. Enjoy carolers, roasted chestnuts, and a free carriage ride through the town. Don’t miss the Holiday House Tour on select dates in December and enjoy five of the most beautiful homes that have certainly come alive with the Christmas spirit. It might even inspire some unique decorating ideas for your own home this season.

To learn more about the Geneva Christmas Walk, another one of the best Christmas light displays in Illinois visit their website.

This joyful season comes but once a year. What are your favorite things to do this time of year? We might not be able to list all the beautiful light displays happening around the state, so be sure to share which ones lit up your holidays, and made the season just a little bit brighter for you. Still wondering about Christmas lights near me in IL? If you’ve discovered other Christmas lights in Illinois worth checking out let us know with a comment.

If you're looking for more festive fun, stop by this one-of-a-kind German Christmas market in Illinois.

Don't let seasonal depression keep you indoors all winter. Even with the minimal hours of daylight, there are still plenty of winter activities in Illinois to keep you entertained all winter long. Check out our upcoming winter predictions for Illinois so you can start planning your epic adventures.

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