November in Chicago offers cozy indoor adventures, dazzling holiday light displays, seasonal food festivals, and immersive performances.
Whether you’re exploring museum exhibitions, ice skating outdoors, or enjoying festive neighborhood markets, there’s something for everyone this month.
Here’s your guide to things to do in Chicago in November 2025, featuring top events, seasonal festivals, ongoing experiences, and a curated list of must-see activities.
The Best Things to Do in Chicago This November
Use the navigation below to explore can’t-miss events, recurring city favorites, and editor-curated picks. Whether you’re seeking holiday events in Chicago, live performances, or immersive museum exhibits, November offers something for every Chicago explorer.
Top Events: Must-attend events of the month.
Recurring Chicago Events & Activities: Regular events worth adding to your calendar.
The Curated List: Personal recommendations for unique Chicago experiences.
Top November Events & Things to Do in Chicago
Here are 12 popular and curated events in Chicago this November.
Día de los Muertos Events
November is full of Día de los Muertos celebrations in Chicago. Most events take place the November 1st through 2nd Highlights include:
- Love Never Dies Ball at National Museum of Mexican Art
- Día de los Muertos Rooftop Celebration at Selva
- ICA Presents: Viva la Vida
- Día de los Muertos Brunch at Carnivale Chicago
312 Comedy Festival
November 4–9, 2025 | Multiple Venues
The 312 Comedy Festival returns for its third year, offering a week of non-stop laughter across six iconic Chicago and suburban comedy clubs.
The Other Art Fair Chicago
October 30 – November 2, 2025 | Artifact Events
The Other Art Fair showcases over 110 emerging artists, featuring interactive installations, live performances, and immersive experiences. Shop original artwork, explore artist-designed mini-golf holes, and attend artist-led workshops.
31st Annual Black Harvest Film Festival
November 7– 16, 2025 | Multiple Venues
Explore more than 70 Chicago premieres, including eight feature films and nine shorts programs from 14 countries. Special guest appearances include acclaimed visual artist Kahlil Joseph. Enjoy exclusive screenings, thought-provoking dialogues, and celebratory receptions.
Holiday Lights Tree Lighting & Cultural Festival at Griffin MSI
November 8, 2025 | Griffin MSI
Sparkling start to the holiday season with more than 50 twinkling holiday trees, international displays, live performances, seasonal samplings, and a countdown to the Grand Tree lighting with Santa Larry.
Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
November 21, 2025–January 4, 2026 | Lincoln Park Zoo
Zoolights at Lincoln Park Zoo transforms the zoo into a holiday wonderland with sparkling displays, interactive installations, and festive activities. Admission: $7–$10. My favorite time to visit is on Monday’s when it’s free for all visitors!
Watch the Millennium Park Christmas Tree Lighting
November 21, 2025 | Millennium Park
The Millennium Park Christmas Tree lighting is a magical start to the holiday season. Twinkling lights, live performances, and the festive energy of the city. Visit the evening of for big crowds with lots of holiday spirit or throughout the holidays season with your favorite hot drink from a nearby restaurant \.
The Christkindlmarket
November 21, 2025 | Chicago, Aurora & Wrigleyville
Chicago’s most beloved free German-style Christmas Market returns this holiday season. Explore vendor products from around the world, enjoy seasonal foods like bratwurst, pretzels, and spiced wine, listen to festive music, and shop for unique gifts in a safe outdoor setting. I always like to work backwards from the rest of the crowd and grab a pretzel and hot cocoa before starting my experience.
Chicago Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks
Chicago’s outdoor ice rinks offer a classic, family-friendly winter activity during Thanksgiving weekend:
- Maggie Daley Park | Opens November 14, 2025 | Ribbon-shaped trail, perfect for skaters of all levels.
- McCormick Tribune Ice Rink (Millennium Park) | Opens November 21, 2025 | Skate with iconic views near The Bean in downtown Chicago.
- Gallagher Ice Rink (Wrigleyville) | Opens November 23, 2025
Shop Small for the Holidays in Chicago
Support local businesses in November before the holidays or during Small Business Saturday at these Chicago markets:
- Lycee French Market
- Randolph Street Holiday Market
- Center on Halsted Holiday Market
- The New Lincoln Antique Mall – Small Business Saturday
- Chicago Artisan Market, Ravenswood
- The Vault Market Chicago
Holiday Pop-Up Bars
Get into the festive spirit with Chicago’s holiday-themed pop-ups. A favorite Chicago winter activity for many locals:
Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade
November 27, 2025 | 8:00 AM | State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph
The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade is a classic way to kick off the holiday season. Giant balloons, colorful floats, marching bands, and performances fill the streets with festive energy. It’s a blast to attend in person, and if you can’t make it, the parade is streamed live online. Haute Tip: Take the CTA to State Street downtown instead of driving,
Looking for Chicago events and things to do in Chicago this weekend? Check out the events calendar.
Ongoing Things to Experience in Chicago
Looking for activities available all month long? Check out these favorites:
- Teatro ZinZanni: Love, Chaos, & Dinner – Cabaret, cirque, comedy, and a gourmet multi-course dinner.
- Flyover in Chicago: Marvel at Chicago’s skyline and lakefront from a thrilling 30-minute immersive ride located at Navy Pier.
- ResortPass: Chicago Hotel Daycations – Access rooftop pools, spas, and lounges at luxury hotels without an overnight stay. Perfect for a cozy November recharge.
- 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck Admission: Tower above Chicago from the 94th floor of 875 N. Michigan Avenue, enjoying panoramic views, grab a cocktail at CloudBar, or try the exhilarating TILT experience.
- Museum Free Days: Take advantage of free or discounted admission at museums.
- Interactive Museums: Capture Insta-worthy photos in interactive museums like the Museum of Ice Cream, Museum of Illusions Chicago or the colorful Color Factory.
- Weekday Events: Break your routine with free movies in the park, neighborhood festivals, happy hour specials, and concerts happening Monday through Thursday.
The Curated List of Chicago Events in November
Here’s The Haute Seeker’s personal picks for must-see Chicago experiences this month:
Andersonville Autumn Restaurant Week
What: Neighborhood restaurants offer nine days of prix-fixe brunch, lunch, and dinner menus ranging from $35–$60. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and carry-out options available.
When: November 1–9, 2025 Where: Andersonville, Chicago
Link for more information: Andersonville Autumn Restaurant Week
Inaugural Exhibition & Cocktail Hour — The Darkroom Chicago
What: Join The Darkroom Chicago’s Inaugural Exhibition & Cocktail Hour—an evening of photography, community, and celebration. The evening will showcase photography created in The Darkroom’s programs, light bites and cocktails, live storytelling, and updates on youth programs and workshops.
When: November 1, 2025 | 5:00–8:00 PM Where: 871 N. Rush Street
Link for more information: The Darkroom Chicago
Six Scores for Yoko Ono
What: Experience performances of five scores from the 1960s and a new commission by Andrew Hansung Park, including works by Mieko Shiomi, Nam June Paik, Yoko Ono, and George Maciunas. Free with museum admission.
When: November 4, 2025 | 6:00–7:30 PM Where: Kovler Atrium, Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Link for more information: Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer (FoBAB) 2025
What: North America’s largest gathering of barrel-aged breweries and enthusiasts with 300+ unique wood-aged beer, cider, mead, and perry; panels, competition awards, Lager Lounge, and VIP/raffle experiences.
When: November 7, 2025 | 6:00–10:00 PM (Session 1) & November 8, 2025 | 1:00–5:00 PM (Session 2)
Where: Credit Union 1 Arena, 525 S. Racine Ave., Chicago, IL 60607
Link for more information: www.fobab.com
5th Annual Cookie Walk
What: The Midway Chamber of Commerce will host two neighborhood Cookie Walk routes where tote-bag ticket holders visit participating local businesses to collect free cookies from each stop.
When: Saturday, November 15, 2025 Where: Archer route (22+ cookies) and 63rd Street route (12 cookies).
Link for more information: Cookie Walk
Samara Joy — Live at Thalia Hall
What: Experience Grammy Award–winning jazz vocalist Samara Joy live in concert at Thalia Hall. Her velvety tone and timeless interpretation of jazz standards make this a can’t-miss night for music lovers.
When: Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | 7:30 PM Where:Thalia Hall
Link for more information: Thalia Hall
November in Chicago: Everything You Need to Know
November Weather & What to Expect
Should You Visit Chicago in November?
Should You Visit Chicago in November?
Absolutely! November is an ideal time to explore Chicago’s winter activities, including ice skating, holiday markets, festive light displays, and seasonal dining experiences. Crowds are smaller than summer, making it perfect for weekend getaways or exploring the city at your own pace.
What should I wear in Chicago in November?
What should I wear in Chicago in November?
Layering is key — sweaters, long-sleeve tops, jackets, scarves, hats, and gloves are essential for chilly mornings and evenings. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking the city streets, festival grounds, and holiday markets. Chicago wind can make it feel colder, so always have a warm jacket or coat handy.
What to Look Forward to in November
From twinkling lights to festive markets, November in Chicago is the perfect time to slow down, explore, and enjoy the season’s special moments. Whether you’re trying a new holiday treat, catching a performance, or finding a cozy spot to warm up, there’s always something to spark joy around the city.
Which November events in Chicago are you most excited to attend? Share your favorites or tips in the comments below!
