The Magical Chicago Festival that Replaced the Christmas Parade is Finally Back This November—And It’s Completely Free

If you’re looking forward to a Christmas parade in Chicago this year , well, sadly, there isn’t one. In lieu of a Christmas parade, the city celebrates the start of the holiday season with the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival in November. For 33 years, the city has been adorned with 200 decorated trees along the Magnificent Mile, one of Chicago’s most famous streets. This year, the parade will feature Grand Marshals Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse , along with fabulous floats showcasing beloved Disney characters . The celebration will also include sparkling holiday floats, marching bands, and, of course, Santa Claus himself. After all, a holiday celebration wouldn’t be complete without Santa. What is The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival 2025? --------------------------------------------------------------- The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival has become a cherished annual tradition in Chicago, marking the beginning of the holiday season. The event is a full-day celebration that kicks off on Saturday morning with Lights Festival Lane, a kid-friendly wonderland featuring holiday-themed activities. Attendees can enjoy photo opportunities with Santa Claus , balloon twisting, live music, and much more. In the evening, the festival culminates in a grand parade , with over 200 trees lining Michigan Avenue beautifully illuminated. When is The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival? ---------------------------------------------------------- The Chicago Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival will take place on Saturday, November 22, 2025 How much does the festival cost? ------------------------------------ It’s free! What’s the Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival? --------------------------------------------------------- The first part of the Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival starts at The Lights Festival Lane, located at Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan Ave . At night, the parade travels south along North Michigan Avenue, starting at Oak Street and ending at Wacker Drive, just after the DuSable Bridge. Can’t attend the festival? ------------------------------ The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival airs on ABC 7 Chicago live. Source: https://secretchicago.com/wintrust-magnificent-mile-lights-festival-chicago-2025-guide/