Festivals + Celebrations
Festival season doesn’t stop in the Windy City.
Discover vibrant food, music, culture, and more all year long at one of Chicago's acclaimed festivals. Immerse yourself in the festivities, then retreat to the comfort of your room, where our premier accommodations and convenient location create an unforgettable stay in the heart of the city.
Chicago Event Highlights
Journey Chicago | October 2025
Journey Chicago is a citywide, intercultural festival of art, ideas, and performance. With dozens of partner organizations, the family-friendly festival highlights the cultural diversity of Chicago through talks, exhibitions, and live performances across neighborhoods throughout October.
The 61st Chicago International Film Festival | October 15 - 26
Now in its 61st year, the Chicago International Film Festival is North America’s longest-running competitive film festival, bringing global cinema to the heart of the city. Audiences can expect an extraordinary lineup of dramas, thrillers, documentaries, comedies, and more, featuring programs such as Black Perspectives, OutLook, International Comedy, After Dark, and City & State, which spotlight Illinois filmmakers. Featuring in-person screenings with select films presented with closed captions, the Festival is an essential experience for cinephiles seeking both fresh voices and acclaimed works from around the world.
312 Comedy Festival | November 4 - 9
This multi-day celebration of stand-up comedy features performances from more than 20 top comedians across six Chicago venues.
31st Black Harvest Film Festival | November 7 - 16
Celebrating its 31st year, the Black Harvest Film Festival continues its tradition of amplifying Black voices and stories through the power of cinema. Showcasing short and feature-length films from across the diaspora, the festival highlights emerging creators alongside legendary auteurs. From historical narratives to groundbreaking contemporary stories, the lineup offers a profound exploration of Black identity and cultural expression. Held at the Gene Siskel Film Center, this annual showcase is a cornerstone of Chicago’s cultural calendar and a must-attend for film lovers.
Zoolights at Lincoln Park Zoo | November 15 - January 5, 2026
Don’t miss ZooLights, a spectacular Chicago holiday tradition featuring more than one million sparkling lights and festive displays throughout the historic zoo.
The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival | November 22
Kick off the holiday season at this magical evening parade, including a dazzling procession, fireworks, and the official lighting of Michigan Avenue’s iconic trees.
Chicago Thanksgiving Parade | November 28
Head to historic State Street to catch the annual Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, with giant floats, dancers, horses, special guests, and more.
Christkindlmarket Chicago | November 21 - December 24
Grab a mug of hot wine and peruse artisan vendors and traditional foods during this open-air holiday bazaar, styled after traditional Christmas markets in Germany.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony | November 21
Don’t miss the annual Christmas tree lighting, a century-old holiday tradition that draws crowds to admire the city’s glittering tree in Millennium Park.
Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier | November 29, 2025 - January 5, 2026
Navy Pier shines during Light Up the Lake, featuring holiday lights, a skating rink, fireworks, artisan markets, and activities for all ages.
Ice Skating at Millennium Park | November 2025 - February 2026
Grab your skates and enjoy some classic winter fun in Chicago’s famous Millennium Park. Check out the two pop-up ice rinks offering scenic views of the snowy skyline.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Navy Pier | TBA
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Chicago with a spectacular fireworks show at Navy Pier, lighting up the night sky over Lake Michigan at the stroke of midnight.
