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- calendar_today November 2, 2026
Norwegian Spruce Set to Light Up Millennium Park
A 50-foot Norwegian spruce, donated by a Campton Hills family, has been chosen to be the centerpiece of Chicago's holiday festivities. The tree will be displayed in Millennium Park for the 113th annual City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Tree Selection and Preparation
The impressive spruce is being removed from the donor family's yard on Monday morning and will make its journey to Millennium Park on Wednesday, in advance of the tree lighting. The official lighting ceremony is scheduled for Friday, November 20, at 6 p.m.
A Century-Long Tradition
The City of Chicago has hosted an annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony since 1913, when it first began in Grant Park. Since then, it has moved locations, spending time at Daley Plaza before finding its current home in Millennium Park in 2015. The tradition continues to draw crowds and marks the beginning of holiday celebrations in downtown Chicago.
Features of This Year's Ceremony
This year's event will offer multiple viewing areas throughout Millennium Park, complete with large screens and a festive atmosphere. Seasonal treats will be available to attendees, and the main stage will be set up along Washington Street, near the Chicago Cultural Center. Following the illumination of the Christmas tree, the evening will conclude with a fireworks display, adding to the festive spirit of the occasion.
The Tree's Holiday Stay
After the ceremony, the Norwegian spruce will remain illuminated in Millennium Park for visitors and residents to enjoy through Sunday, January 10.
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival Follows
Chicago's holiday festivities continue the next day, Saturday, November 21, with the 35th annual Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. The festival kicks off at Pioneer Court, 401 North Michigan Avenue, running from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The parade starts at 5:30 p.m., traveling south on North Michigan Avenue from Oak Street to Wacker Drive, before a grand fireworks show at N. Michigan Ave. and the Chicago River from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
This year’s Magnificent Mile festival features performances by rock band Neon Trees, Broadway star Michael James Scott, and Motown and disco singer Thelma Houston. The event is free and open to the public, offering more entertainment and holiday spirit in downtown Chicago. For more information, the public can visit themagnificentmile.com.
Source: wgntv.com.
