Can't-Miss Holiday Events Near Oak Park In November
Get ready to kick off the holiday season with some serious cheer! As November rolls in, so do a host of festive events around Oak Park that are perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit.
From cozy craft markets to dazzling light displays, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the season’s magic. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, we’ve rounded up the must-see November events to add to your holiday calendar. Grab your coat, your friends, and maybe a warm drink—this month’s lineup is all about creating festive memories.
Wines in the Wild | November 9th
Raise your glass to a truly wild evening at Brookfield Zoo’s Wines in the Wild! On November 9, from 6pm to 10pm, enjoy the perfect pairing of animal encounters and wine tasting in the newly revamped Discovery Center. Guests can savor sips from wineries and distilleries across the U.S., sample delectable bites from the SSA Group, and even meet a few of the zoo’s animal ambassadors up close!
With a silent auction offering everything from rare wines to unforgettable travel packages, this event is a favorite for wine lovers and zoo-goers alike. Unwind, explore, and make it a night to remember—cheers to wildlife and wine!
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Winter Greens Market | November 15th to December 15th
Spruce up your winter decor at Oak Park Conservatory’s Winter Greens Market! From November 15 to December 15, you can browse a bountiful selection of fresh greenery—think balsam, fir, boxwood, and more—to add a natural touch of the season to your home. Looking to learn some pro tips?
Drop by on Saturday, November 16, from 10am to 1pm for an open house featuring live demos on how to craft stunning holiday containers and wreaths. Grab some refreshments, soak up the festive vibes, and leave with inspiration (and maybe a wreath or two!). No need to register—just bring your holiday spirit and get ready to deck the halls!
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Reindeer Run | November 16th
Gather the family for ‘holiday magic’ under the lights and a little endorphin boost to boot. Brookfield Zoo’s Reindeer Run run kicks off at 7pm and winds through the zoo, giving you a first glimpse of the popular and festive ‘Holiday Magic’ light festival.
This two mile family fun run welcomes runners of all ages including strollers. Every registered participant will receive a cozy Reindeer Run winter hat to commemorate the evening. Arrive early to check in, enjoy festive music, and fuel up with food and drinks available from 5:30 pm onward. Spots are limited, so don’t wait—register today and get ready to dash through the lights!
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Santa Arrival and Tree Lighting | November 17th
Mark your calendar for a day of holiday cheer at North Riverside Park Mall’s Santa Arrival and Tree Lighting on November 17! From 11am to 1pm, head to the North Court for a free, family-friendly Kid’s Club Holiday Event packed with fun.
Join Mayor Joseph Mengoni, the North Riverside Police, and Fire Departments as they welcome Santa with carolers and a dance party starting at noon at Entrance 1. This event is perfect for families looking to kick off the season with festive music, holiday magic, and memories to last all winter long.
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Holiday Sip and Stroll | November 21st
Toast to the holiday season with Brookfield Zoo’s newest adults-only celebration, Zoo After Dark: Holiday Sip & Stroll! On Thursday, November 21, from 5:30 to 9 PM, let the zoo light up your night with over two million twinkling LEDs, festive photo ops, and specialty holiday cocktails. Stroll through the dazzling North, South, and East Malls, cocktail in hand, as you explore exclusive displays and enjoy the zoo's magical transformation for the first time this year.
Choose a General Admission ticket for after-hours access, a holiday dance party at Swan Pavilion, and opportunities to spot zoo animals in open habitats. Or, go all in with the All-Inclusive Drink Ticket, which includes unlimited seasonal drinks like Mulled Wine, Spiced Rum Cider, and Hot Buttered Cranberry Cider in a keepsake cup. With festive spins on the Carousel and Ferris Wheel to top off your night, Holiday Sip & Stroll is the perfect start to the season—rain, snow, or shine! Get your tickets now, and let the merriment begin!
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Holiday Magic | Late November Through December
Get ready for a sparkling winter wonderland at Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic, Chicagoland’s beloved lights festival and a perfect family tradition! This dazzling event transforms the zoo into a sea of over two million twinkling lights featuring animal themed displays that you have to see to believe. Wander through Candy Cane Lane, where Santa’s mailbox awaits, or take a stroll along the Sparkling Coast for an enchanting coastal light show. The zoo's glowing tunnels, giant animal illuminations, and beautifully decorated trees (courtesy of local community groups) make this a holiday spectacle that truly lives up to its name.
This year you’ll find a brand-new Holiday Market to explore, featuring seasonal food, hot cocoa, and unique gifts at The Nut Hut and Cranberry Bar. Need a warm break? Head to the indoor exhibits or catch a holiday-themed Dolphins in Action presentation! This year’s Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo is a feast for the eyes and a warm escape from the chilly Chicago winter.
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