Ongoing

Dinosaur Explorer Exhibit at Gail Borden Public Library

Gail Borden Public Library - Main Branch 270 N Grove Ave, Elgin

Dinosaur Explorer journeys through the wildest, wackiest, and most wonderous dinosaurs and examines human physiology through the lens of these magnificent creatures. Although they lived millions of years before us, dinosaurs adapted to not only survive, but to thrive on planet earth. Whether it be feeding or family dynamics, intelligence or interpersonal relationships, Dinosaur Explorer asks: where do we see […]

Karas Christmas Pop-Ups

From Snow Globes to Sleigh Bells… Your Holiday Adventure Starts Here! Step into the magic of the season with Karas Christmas Pop-Ups - six unique holiday experiences, each with its own dazzling theme! Every location is bursting with twinkling lights, festive treats, and merry surprises to delight all ages. Snap a selfie at one of our Instagram-worthy backdrops and make this holiday one to remember! Pictures […]

Christmas Light Show at Goebberts Farm in Pingree Grove

Goebbert's Farm 42W813 Reinking Road, Pingree Grove

Take a magical journey through our apple orchard, transformed into a glowing winter wonderland filled with synchronized lights, holiday scenes, and festive music. Guests remain in their vehicles for the entire drive-thru as they wind through the illuminated path. The experience typically lasts 12–20 minutes, depending on traffic. Larsen’s Light Show is a fully programmed 30-minute show featuring the iconic […]

Annual Holiday Extravaganza at Danny’s Pizza

Danny's on Douglas 231 Douglas Ave., Elgin

We love hosting our annual Christmas show at Danny's every year. We also love to give back with a toy drive. Bring a toy for Toys for Tots! Prizes= $100 and MORE for the Holiday Sweater Contest! Take your Photo with Santa! Santa Donations go to Chicagoland Dog Rescue! Christmas song sing along to get in the spirit! Hear live […]

Visit with Santa at Alexanders Cafe

Alexander's Cafe 1725 N State St., Elgin

Santa and Mrs. Claus are making a special stop at our restaurants! Bring your family and friends to enjoy delicious food, festive fun, and a visit with the jolliest guest of all. Don’t forget your camera - Santa can’t wait to hear what’s on your wish list!

Rosie’s Breakfast with Santa

Rosie O'Hare's Public House 702 Water St., East Dundee

Santa returns to Rosie’s!Saturday, December 13, 2025We will have Special kids breakfast menu that will include pancakesalong with our Saturday Irish American breakfast  platter, Veggie Scrambler, Bangers and mashed, Adult French Toast and Eggs w/Corned beef hash We will have Christmas Cookies and small gift for kids Santa will stay 9-noon.Breakfast 9-11 then after that we will switch to lunch!

Breakfast With Santa at Villa Olivia

Villa Olivia Country Club 1401 W Lake St, Bartlett

Get ready for a magical morning featuring an early visit from Santa. Enjoy a plated breakfast, holiday activities, and festive music. Children will share their holiday wishes as they snap a memorable photo with Santa. All guests must pre-register. Limited highchairs and booster seats are available. Assigned seating will be arranged prior to the event. Please do not arrive earlier […]

Recurring

Pizza with Santa at Pasta Mia

Pasta Mia 116 Bartlett Plaza, Bartlett

Come eat, laugh and celebrate with Santa at Pasta Mia (116 Bartlett Plaza, Bartlett, IL)! Order lunch for your family and enjoy the fun with Santa

Village of Bartlett Cocoa Crawl

Bartlett Public Library District 800 S. Bartlett Road, Bartlett

Village of Bartlett Cocoa Crawl -Saturday, Dec. 13 -11 a.m. to 3 p.m. -Participating Businesses throughout Bartlett. Join a fun filled day of supporting local businesses and sampling cocoa beverages -- some hot, some cold and even some for those 21 years and older. The Cocoa Crawl's first stop of the day on Saturday, December 13 is the Bartlett Public […]

Whatnots & Whimsies Vintage Holiday Market

Whatnots & Whimsies 211 E Chicago St., Elgin

Step into a Nostalgic Christmas Past at Whatnots & WhimsiesSaturday December 1311:00am to 5:00pm  Shop early! The first 20 purchases receive a complimentary ornament." Our Vintage Holiday Market is the perfect place to find those unique one of a kind gifts that say “I Thought Of You!” Our warehouse has been transformed into a Magical Vintage Wonderland Market, filled with […]

Make LeeWards Style Ornaments at the Museum

Elgin History Museum 360 Park Street Elgin, Elgin

An Elgin Christmas tree is not complete without an ornament from LeeWards. For decades LeeWards sold craft supplies and decorations from their flagship store on State Street and in catalogs sent around the world. Bring the kids to the museum between 12-3pm to make your own LeeWards style sequin ornament to take home. This activity is best for kids 6 […]

$5.00

Holly Days Holiday Pop-Up Market at Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley

Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley 56 S Grove Ave, Elgin

The Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin is hosting a Holly Days Holiday Pop-Up Market on Saturday, December 13 from 12 PM- 6 PM. This market will take place inside the lobby of the Habitat for Humanity building at 56 S Grove Ave, Elgin, IL 60120. Appropriate vendors for this market include those offering handmade holiday-themed goods and wares ideal for […]

Jingle Brews Holiday Market at Black & Gray Brewing Co.

Black & Gray Brewing Co. 311 Barrington Ave, East Dundee

Save the date for Jingle Brews Holiday Market at Black & Gray. -Saturday, Dec. 13 -Noon to 6 p.m. -Shop. Drink. Be Merry. *Now accepting vendor applications: https://form.jotform.com/252924147501150 Confirmed Vendors:Black & Gray Brewing Co.Whimsy - Saged & StonedA&J CreationsBleurootSparkle Chic Permanent Jewelry Please check the event organizer's social media for all updates.

Recurring

Santa’s Trolley Express at the Fox River Trolley Museum

Fox River Trolley Museum 365 S La Fox Street, South Elgin

All Aboard for Holiday Magic at the Fox River Trolley Museum! Celebrate the season with a heartwarming holiday train ride that’s bursting with nostalgia, joy, and festive wonder! Climb aboard our beautifully decorated 1950s vintage elevated cars and journey down an authentic train line dating back to 1896—an unforgettable adventure your entire family will cherish. As the train rolls along, […]

$38.00

Elgin Symphony Orchestra presents the annual Holiday Spectacular at Hemmens Cultural Center

Hemmens Cultural Center 45 Symphony Way, Elgin

Holiday Spectacular -Saturday, December 13, 2025 -2:30 PM and 7:30 p.m. -Hemmens Cultural Center45 Symphony Way, Elgin The Elgin Annual Holiday Tradition: come experience this festive holiday performance including favorite carols, new spins on modern favorites, and an appearance by Santa Claus. Chad Goodman, conductor Elgin Master Chorale Integrity School of Dance Ticket Information Prices: Gold $68 / Red $42 / […]

Pictures with Santa and The Grinch at El Patio of Elgin

El Patio Restaurant 64 S. Grove Ave, Elgin

Join us for a fun holiday event at El Patio. Snap a Picture with Santa and the Grinch while making lasting memories with family and friends. Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and tasty mini-conchas to warm your spirits, available while supplies last. Celebrate the season in a cozy atmosphere.

Rookies Rochaus Presents National Artist Just Surrender & Friends

Rookies Rochaus 96 W Main St West, Dundee

Rookies Rochaus is proud to present 20 Years of "If these Streets Could Talk" Party with Just Surrender and  guest bands Freshman 15, Rookie of the Year, Goldwaite, and Under the Lights All Ages 6:00 pm Doors Show begins 7:00 pm Tickets start at $20 Included with the purchase of tickets to this event: 10% off at the Village Squire […]

Ugly Sweater Party at Mott’s Lounge

Mott's Lounge 175 N. Main St., Burlington

Get ready for our Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Party! Break out your wildest, funniest, or most outrageous holiday sweater and join us for a night of laughs, festive drinks, and Christmas cheer.