Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
The nation's largest nighttime holiday parade lights up a million bulbs on the Mag Mile, capped by fireworks over the river.
- Dates: November 21, 2026
- Where: North Michigan Avenue, Oak St. south to Wacker
- Neighborhood: Streeterville / River North
- Cost: Free
Schedule
- Sat, Nov. 21 — Hours: Lights Festival Lane 11am–4pm; parade steps off ~5:30pm from Oak St.; fireworks after
What to expect
Mickey and Minnie Mouse are 2026 grand marshals, leading floats, marching bands and Santa as trees light block by block, followed by fireworks on the Chicago River.
Tickets
Free
Transit
Red Line to Chicago or Grand. Michigan Ave closes to traffic for the day.
Family-friendly
A top family event of the year — bring layers and a thermos.
Local tips
- Stake out a spot on the east side of Michigan by 4pm.
- The fireworks are best viewed from the river near the DuSable Bridge.