The holiday season in Chicago is almost upon us, and with it the return of one of the city’s favorite Christmas traditions.
The annual Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival will return for its 35th edition next month.
Here’s a look at the schedule and what to know.
Mag Mile lights fest ’26
The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival will once again take over Michigan Avenue on Saturday, November 21, unofficially ushering in the start of the holiday season in Chicago.
The parade will begin at the intersection of Oak Street and Michigan Avenue before continuing south along Michigan Ave., concluding at DuSable Bridge and Wacker Drive.
Along the way, paradegoers will watch the illumination of more than 1 million holiday lights across the Mag Mile’s 200+ trees.
The event will also feature appearances from parade Grand Marshals Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse and Santa Claus.
There will also be dozens of floats, marching bands, musical performances, and a fireworks spectacular.
