FreeCity of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting & Millennium Park Ice Rink
Through Jan 10Nov 20 – Jan 10 · 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM · Tree Lighting Ceremony: Friday, Nov 20, 2026 at 6:00 PM (pre-show at 5:00 PM, fireworks at 6:30 PM). Tree remains lit nightly through Jan 10, 2027. McCormick Tribune Ice Rink open Nov 20, 2026 – Jan 31, 2027 daily 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (weather permitting). Friday Holiday Sing-Alongs on Dec 4, 11, and 18 at 6:00 PM.
Millennium Park (McCormick Tribune Plaza)201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602 · 0.5 mi approx. from ChicagoDirections
All ages (free admission; penguin skate aids available for young beginner skaters)
FreeFree admission to Millennium Park, tree viewing, and ice skating rink (advance online reservation required for skating slots). Ice skate rentals $16–$20 per pair.
About this adventure
Chicago's official holiday centerpiece, the 113th Annual City of Chicago Christmas Tree illuminates Millennium Park near Michigan Avenue and Washington Street. A towering 50-foot Norway Spruce donated by an Illinois family is adorned with tens of thousands of multicolor LED lights. On Friday, November 20, the opening lighting ceremony features live choral performances, guest appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a dazzling fireworks show launching over Cloud Gate ('The Bean'). The tree remains glowing each evening through early January. Directly below the tree at McCormick Tribune Plaza, the iconic Millennium Park Ice Rink offers open-air ice skating backdropped by Chicago's historic Michigan Avenue streetwall skyscrapers. Skating admission is completely free with advance reservation, and skate rentals are available on-site. On Friday evenings in December, Millennium Park also hosts community holiday sing-alongs featuring local youth and community choirs.
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