Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival (Michigan Avenue)
Sat, Nov 2111:00 AM – 7:30 PM · Saturday before Thanksgiving, November 21, 2026; Festival booths open 11 AM; Tree-lighting parade 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM; Fireworks at 6:55 PM
North Michigan Avenue (Magnificent Mile)600 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 · 1.0 mi approx. from ChicagoDirections
All ages welcome; stroller accessible; family daytime activity booths at Lights Festival Lane (Pioneer Court)
FreeCompletely free public parade viewing and fireworks display
About this adventure
Ranked as the third largest parade in the United States and the nation's largest nighttime parade, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is Chicago's official holiday kickoff, held annually the weekend before Thanksgiving. More than one million spectators pack North Michigan Avenue from Oak Street south to Wacker Drive. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse lead the grand evening procession as Grand Marshals, magically illuminating more than one million twinkling LED lights on 200 boulevard trees along the way. The parade features 40+ lighted floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, and concludes with a fireworks show over the Chicago River.
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