One of the best Christmas traditions in Illinois is to load into the car and drive around and see the neighbors' Christmas lights. But why settle for seeing homes with three strands of lights? There are some homes out there where people really went ALL OUT. So make the drive--these 8 Illinois homes are worth it.
1. You gotta see this Park Ridge synchronized lights display in person to really appreciate it.
2. If you love the Blackhawks, you are going to LOVE the Larsen lights show (Elburn) this year.
3. This Paxton home will make you feel like you are at the club.
4. If you are a fan of "Frozen," you will absolutely love this Naperville home.
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5. Country music lovers will appreciate this Christmas lights show in Plainfield.
6. You will not believe that this Bloomingdale home's Christmas lights were done by a THIRTEEN year old.
7. People from Effingham and the surrounding areas travel to see this home.
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8. You've never quite heard a version of Amazing Grace like the music played at this home, which has a synchronized lights show.
Do you think your home has the best Christmas decorations? Give yourself a shout out in the comments.
'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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
