Celebrate the Holidays in Oak Brook, Illinois

This winter, Oak Brook is bringing the season to life with festive experiences, flavors, and memorable activities great for the whole family. Oak Brook is an ideal destination for holiday outings and get-togethers!  From beloved annual traditions to unique events that bring the whole community together, Oak Brook’s holiday calendar is filled with wonderful ways to celebrate the season. 

EXPERIENCES

WINTER LIGHTS AT CENTRAL PARK // November 20-January 3, daily from 4:30-9:30 pm 

A beloved annual Oak Brook tradition returns this year as Central Park transforms into a dazzling wonderland lit up by thousands of twinkling lights. Visitors will enjoy a half-mile scenic walk featuring dancing trees, twirling icicles, cascading snowflakes, colorful illuminations and more. Winter Lights offers a magical experience for the whole family, including those with strollers and wheelchairs. 

HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING AT THE DRAKE OAK BROOK HOTEL // December 2, 4:30 pm

Kick off the holiday season with a festive outing at The Drake Hotel’s annual Holiday Tree Lighting. Guests can gather together and watch the tree illuminate the sky, while listening to live Christmas carolers and enjoying complementary hot chocolate and cookies. This free and public event also features a local food drive onsite so guests can bring canned goods and support the initiative. 

MISTLETOE AND MERRIMENT AT GRAUE MILL // December 5, 10 am - 12pm

Go back in time and experience the magic of a Victorian holiday at Graue Mill and Museum! This family-friendly celebration brings the 1850’s back to life, inviting guests to explore the museum dressed in festive 1850s clothes. Guests will enjoy hands-on corn‑grinding demonstrations, cozy readings from A Christmas Carol, and create their own Victorian era inspired holiday crafts to take home. Guests under 18 must attend with an adult. 

GINGERBREAD DECORATING AT LABRIOLA OAK BROOK // December 5-6 and 12-13 

Create sweet holiday memories at Labriola's annual gingerbread decorating event! Families can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet before decorating their very own gingerbread house. A special guest from the North Pole will also be in attendance, adding that extra sprinkle of holiday cheer to this activity. With multiple dates available throughout December, it’s a great opportunity for families to gather, get creative and start a new holiday tradition together. Tickets are available online here. 

HOLIDAY EXPRESS TO THE NORTH POLE // December 13, 1:30-2:30pm 

All aboard on a festive trip to the North Pole! Families can climb abroad at the Oak Brook Park District’s Family Recreation Center for a special trip to meet Santa at Central Park West. Along the way, passengers can holiday crafts, a bouncy house, and light refreshments. Perfect for children eager to meet Santa, this is a very fun outing to bring the North Pole to Oak Brook! 

DINING

LUCCA OSTERIA BRUNCH WITH SANTA // December 13, 10:30am - 2pm

Celebrate with a festive family brunch at Lucca Osteria. This special event invites guests to enjoy a family friendly buffet, take photos with Santa, and indulge in a build-your-own hot chocolate bar! Children can take part in holiday crafts while adults enjoy their meal. In the spirit of giving, Lucca Osteria will also host its annual Toys for Tots collection from November 1 through December 13, encouraging guests to donate a brand-new gift to children in need. It is a delicious way to celebrate the season while also giving back to the community. Reservations are available online.