Glow Time! Can’t-Miss Holiday Light Extravaganzas

Chicago is ready to flip the switch—and you can be there when it happens. Here are the most brilliant light displays around town.

By rtlisasnart October 17, 2015

Chicago is ready to flip the switch. You’ll hear oohs and aahs when streets, shopping centers and parks light up for the holidays — and you can be there when it happens. If you can’t make the kick-off ceremonies, don’t worry: these hotspots will stay brilliantly lit through the end of December. Click through our guide to the best and brightest.

Aurora Festival of Lights

This is a super-sized light display that's worth the trip. Wind your way down a one-mile stretch of illuminated magic at Phillips Park. You'll feel like you stumbled into Santa's workshop when you see the animated displays (toys! trains! snowflakes!) and trees lit up along the roadway. The drive-through showcase is free.

Nov. 27-Dec. 27
Nightly, 5 p.m.
Phillips Park
1000 Ray Moses Dr.
Aurora
Online: aurorafestivaloflights.com