Winter Wonders Await: Your Guide to Must-See Events in the Western Burbs
- John Salidas
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Winter in DuPage County offers a rich variety of festive experiences that bring communities together and brighten the chilly months. Whether you are looking for dazzling holiday lights, family-friendly winter activities, or unique local traditions, the western suburbs have something special for everyone. This guide highlights the best winter events DuPage County has to offer in 2025 and early 2026, helping you plan memorable outings with family and friends.
Holiday Light Displays to Brighten Your Evenings
One of the most beloved winter festivals DuPage 2025 features is the Naper Lights in Naperville. Starting November 27 and running through December 31, this free outdoor display lights up the Riverwalk with thousands of sparkling bulbs. It’s a perfect spot for an evening stroll or a festive photo opportunity.
Just a day later, Wheaton kicks off its Nights of Lights at Adams Park on November 28. This event runs until January 4, 2026, showcasing over 55,000 holiday lights that transform the downtown park into a winter wonderland. Nearby, the Cosley Zoo Festival of Lights also begins on November 28 and continues through December 30. This event combines holiday lights with a Christmas tree sale and a festive zoo atmosphere, making it a hit for families looking for unique holiday experiences.
In Lombard, the Holiday Lights at Lilacia Park start on December 7 and run until January 5, 2026. This annual event features animated light displays, beautifully decorated trees, a gingerbread house, and family activities that capture the spirit of the season.
Family-Friendly Winter Activities in DuPage County
For those searching for family friendly winter activities DuPage offers several ongoing options throughout the season. Naperville hosts the Naperville Trolley Holiday Lights Tour daily in December, providing a cozy way to see the town’s best holiday decorations without the hassle of parking or walking long distances.
The Rink at Block 59 in Naperville offers outdoor ice skating throughout the winter season. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh air and exercise, with a festive atmosphere that appeals to all ages. Be sure to check the daily schedule for weather updates.
Naperville also presents Holly Jolly Days at Naper Settlement in early to mid-December. This event includes holiday crafts, storytelling, and activities designed to engage children and families in seasonal fun. Additionally, the Holiday Home Tour & Holiday Market hosted by the Garden Club offers decorated house tours, a holiday market, and a tea experience, typically held in early December.
Unique Winter Events in Glen Ellyn and Beyond
Looking ahead to January 2026, Glen Ellyn hosts its annual Charity Chili Cook-Off, a community-focused event where local restaurants compete to create the best chili. This event is a great way to warm up after enjoying other winter festivals DuPage 2025 offers and to support local causes.
Throughout the winter, many forest preserves in DuPage County offer winter walks and light hikes. These activities provide a peaceful way to enjoy nature’s quiet beauty during the colder months. Town centers in Lombard, Wheaton, Naperville, and Glen Ellyn also maintain festive downtown decorations, adding charm to everyday errands or evening outings.
Local community centers host a variety of indoor and outdoor family events, and museums offer small cultural programs that keep the winter season engaging and educational.
Planning Your Winter Outings in the Western Suburbs
If you’re wondering about winter things to do near me Chicago suburbs, these events provide a great starting point. The western suburbs offer a mix of free and ticketed events, many designed with families in mind. From the dazzling holiday lights DuPage County is known for to interactive experiences like the Cosley Zoo Festival of Lights and the Naperville holiday trolley, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the season.
For those interested in Lombard winter events, the Lilacia Park lights are a must-see. Wheaton winter events like Nights of Lights and the Cosley Zoo festival provide festive options close to home. Naperville winter events offer a wide range of activities, from skating to holiday markets, while Glen Ellyn winter events add community flavor with unique gatherings like the chili cook-off.
Final Thoughts on Enjoying DuPage County Holiday Events
Winter festivals DuPage 2025 bring warmth and joy to the cold months, offering opportunities to connect with neighbors and create lasting memories. Whether you prefer strolling through illuminated parks, skating outdoors, or exploring holiday markets, the western suburbs have events that fit your interests and schedule.
Plan ahead to catch your favorite events, dress warmly, and bring your loved ones to experience the magic of the season. These Christmas events western suburbs Chicago provide a perfect way to celebrate traditions and discover new favorites close to home.|
📅 Winter Events in DuPage County — Sorted by Date
Starting November 27, 2025
Naperville – Naper Lights
Runs: Nov 27 – Dec 31, 2025
Free outdoor holiday light display along the Riverwalk.
Starting November 28, 2025
Wheaton – Nights of Lights (Adams Park)
Runs: Nov 28, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026
55,000+ holiday lights decorating the downtown park.
Wheaton – Cosley Zoo Festival of Lights & Tree Sale
Runs: Nov 28 – Dec 30, 2025
Holiday lights, Christmas tree sale, festive zoo atmosphere.
Starting December 7, 2025
Lombard – Holiday Lights at Lilacia Park
Runs: Dec 7, 2025 – Jan 5, 2026
Annual animated lights, decorated trees, gingerbread house, family activities.
December 2025 (Dates Vary / Ongoing Within Season)
Naperville – Naperville Trolley Holiday Lights Tour
Runs: Daily tours throughout December 2025
Holiday-light sightseeing around town.
Naperville – The Rink at Block 59 (Outdoor Ice Skating)
Runs: Throughout winter season
Seasonal ice rink—check daily schedule for weather updates.
Naperville – Holly Jolly Days at Naper Settlement
Typical range: Early to mid-December 2025
Holiday crafts, storytelling, family activities.
Naperville – Holiday Home Tour & Holiday Market (Garden Club)
Typical range: Early December 2025
Decorated house tours + market + holiday tea.
January 2026
Glen Ellyn – Charity Chili Cook-Off
Likely date: January 2026 (exact day announced annually)
Local restaurants compete, community-focused winter event.
Season-Long Winter Activities (Evergreen)
These don’t have fixed dates but run all winter:
• Forest preserve winter walks & light hikes
• Downtown holiday decorations (Lombard, Wheaton, Naperville, Glen Ellyn)
• Indoor/outdoor family events at local community centers
• Museums and small cultural events throughout winter
Comments