Christmas 2017: Naperville Holiday Event Guide

NAPERVILLE, IL — Lovely weather for a sleigh ride together, wouldn't you say? Christmas fever may soon come to an end, but there are still plenty of things to do in and around Naperville, no matter what your budget! Many of these events require registration, and some are very popular, which is why we suggest calling ahead. We'll keep adding to the list as new events crop up, so checking back frequently for updates.

Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum: Goes Thru Jan 1, but closed Dec. 24 - 26. If you're not a member there is a chance to save on tickets. Tickets are for both a specified date and time, starting at 4:30 each evening. Admission ends at 8:30, and the exhibition closes an hour later. The Ginkgo Restaurant will also be open. These tickets tend to sell out fast. Located at 4100 Illinois 53 in Lisle.

Christmas Lights Map: Take a gander at Naperville's most elaborate holiday lights from the comfort of your own car, courtesy of The Believe House.

Sledding: The following locations close at dusk:

• Arrowhead Park, 711 Iroquois Avenue
• Brook Crossings, 1015 95th Street
• Country Lakes Park, 1835 North Aurora Road
• Gartner Park, 524 W Gartner Road
• May Watts Park 804 S. Whispering Hills Drive
• Rotary Hill, 440 Aurora Ave.

Holiday Carriage Rides in Downtown Wheaton: Enjoy complimentary rides throughout scenic Downtown Wheaton from Martin Memorial Plaza. Dec. 23 from noon 'til 3.

Naperville Public Library Presents Jingle Bell Express: Sing along with American Eagle Productions for this fast-paced revue, featuring over 20 favorite holiday songs for children to enjoy! Friday, Dec. 22, 11 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. at the Nichols Library community room.

Santa House: What do you want for Christmas? Click here for details.

Christkindlmarket: This is the only suburban outdoor German market, and welcomes 208,000 people annually. The market (FREE admission) is the perfect place for visitors to stroll the beautiful Naper Settlement museum grounds, shop, eat and drink at a variety of German and European vendors.
Opens Nov. 24 through Dec. 17, Thursdays thru Sundays only.

• Thursdays: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
• Fridays and Saturdays: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
• Sundays 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
• The week of Christmas:
  • Monday - Thursday, Dec. 18-21: 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
  • Friday - Saturday, Dec. 22 & 23: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
  • Sunday, Dec. 24: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
    

5th Annual NaperLights: The Naperville Sunrise Rotary has partnered with Naper Settlement for the FREE holiday lights extravaganza at the settlement.

Nov. 24 - Dec. 23, Thursdays through Sundays

• Thursdays, 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Fridays and Saturdays, 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Sunday, 4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m.
• Additional special hours: Dec. 18 - 21, 4:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Christmas in the Fabulous 1950s Exhibit at Naper Settlement: Runs Nov. 14 - Dec. 24. Explore mid-century modern traditions and fun fads in Naper Settlement’s holiday-themed, post-World War II exhibit, Home for the Holidays: Christmas in the Fabulous 1950s. Find out more about Naper Settlement here.

Santa at the Settlement: Santa and Mrs. Claus will be taking requests at Naper Settlement Nov. 25, Dec. 2, 9 & 16 from 9 a.m. - noon. Visitors will be able to share their wishes in their letter to Santa, craft two ornaments in Santa’s Workshop and prepare a magical treat for Santa’s reindeer in the Reindeer Food Factory. Be sure to visit Mrs. Claus’ Bakery to help her decorate cookies, then gather ‘round for story time. Bring your cameras for a special photo with Santa! Call 630-420-6010 to register.

Trolley Holiday Lights Tour: Public tours start Dec. 1. This is a popular event, so get your tickets soon. $18 per person to see either the north or south side of town (one hour), $36 for both (two and a half hours). Public openings for trolley tours are very limited.

Naperville Public Library is offering way more than books this year. It's A Wonderful Life is playing at the 95th Street location Tuesday, Dec. 12 at 10 a.m. That same location is offering a DIY ugly sweater ornament afternoon at 2:30 Dec. 7. Spots are limited. Check out the Naperville library's website for events and classes for adults, teens and children.

Victorian Holiday Traditions: The Dec. 3 Naper Settlement event that explores Victorian-era Christmas traditions is sold out.

Did we miss your event? Send us an email at Naperville@patch.com to be added to the list.

If you're willing to venture out, check out surrounding guides in Aurora, Oswego and Yorkville, too. Plus, it's never too early to start thinking about New Year's Eve!

Image of Jefferson Avenue: Caitlin Ketel