The holiday season in Chicago unofficially kicks off this Friday, November 22, with the annual 111th Annual City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting in Millennium Park.
One of Chicago’s most beloved holiday traditions, a trip to the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is the perfect way to ring in the festive season.
Pre-show entertainment begins at 5pm, with musical performances from the Chicago children’s choir Uniting Voices, gospel group Nate Martin and Sign, singer Zion Ali, and others.
The official ceremony begins at 6 p.m., concluding with the tree lighting and fireworks.
Street closures will go into effect Friday morning ahead of the evening’s festivities. Portions of Michigan Avenue, Washington Street, and other downtown throughways will be closed to vehicle traffic beginning at 10am.
This year’s city Christmas tree stands over 50 feet tall, and will be on display near the intersection of Michigan Ave. and Washington St. from November 22 through January 8, 2025.
Click here to view the full list of street closures and learn more information.