Tour the retro-cool lighted decorations in Bayfront Festival Park, including a tree that dances to music, Dinosaurland and Penguin Park, and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. There's free hot chocolate, cookies, popcorn and marshmallows to roast over fire pits. Bring cash or food to donate to food shelves.
The free display in Olin Park is open from dusk to dawn. Candy canes are handed out till 10 p.m.
The season-long lights festival includes more than 500,000 lights throughout downtown's parks and streets.
This is the most authentic Old World Christmas market, with many German vendors who bring over toys, ornaments and sweets. There's a Children's Lantern Parade, appearances by the Christkind and entertainment most days. In Daley Plaza in the Loop.
In Riverside Park, see a holiday display of 3 million lights with music. It opens with a parade, and Santa and reindeer are there every night through Dec. 23, with a live Nativity some nights. There are also carriage rides, an ice rink with free use of skates, and free s'mores at fire pits.
This free light show on Lake Winnebago includes animated scenes and trees that dance to 20 minutes of music played on 87.9 FM (you can listen on your car radio).
Admission to the annual display of 2.5 million lights at the Lincoln Park Zoo is $7-$10 per person. Tickets are free on some Mondays. Reserve time slots in advance.
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