Oak St. during 2019 Mag Mile Lights Festival. (Photo by Candace Jordan)
The holiday season will kick off in grand style on Saturday, November 23, with the return of the beloved Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival®. Celebrating its 33rd year, this iconic event transforms downtown Chicago into a winter wonderland, attracting as many as one million spectators. Headlined by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World® Resort, the festival brings a magical mix of floats, giant balloons, music, and fireworks.
Crowd at 2019 Mag Mile Lights Fest. (Photo Candace Jordan)
This year’s festival will feature a brand-new Chicago River lighting spectacle and the debut of Super-colossal Santa Kermit, a 60-foot-tall balloon, the tallest ever to march down North Michigan Avenue. Also joining him is Animal, another beloved Muppet balloon, standing at 50 feet. Additional highlights include updated lighting on Walt Disney World® Resort's lead float and enhanced pyrotechnics for the grand finale with Santa Claus.
Event Details:
- What: The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival® and Parade
- Where:
- Lights Festival Lane: Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan Ave.
- Parade Route: South on North Michigan Ave., from Oak St. to Wacker Dr., then east on Wacker to Upper Columbus.
- Fireworks: North Michigan Ave. and the Chicago River.
- When:
- 11am–4pm CST: Lights Festival Lane activities
- 5:30pm–7:30pm CST: Parade and Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular
- Cost: Free
- Website: TheMagnificentMile.com
Parade Highlights
The parade steps off at 5:30pm with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse leading 40 glittering floats, marching bands, and the breathtaking Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular. New for 2024, Mickey and Minnie will also illuminate select blocks along the route near the Chicago River with a new lighting display.
Make It a Weekend
Turn the festival into a full weekend getaway by exploring exclusive hotel packages and indulging in festive dining options. The Magnificent Mile Holiday Guide, available on the event’s website, offers more details on holiday offers and experiences.gg
Watch from Home
Can’t make it in person? The parade will be broadcast in 202 markets nationwide between November 24 and December 31. Check local listings for details.
Don’t miss this spectacular celebration of lights, music, and holiday magic!
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