Holiday Events in Evanston
Celebrate the holidays in Evanston all season long
Saturday, November 12
Light the way to your holidays on Central Street. Our shops are filled with treasures, and our restaurants serve delicious food. We encourage you to shop early this year and visit local shops to give a gift from the heart. When you invest your dollars at a local business, you are also investing in your local community.
Show your support, shop on Central Street, and make an impact!
November 19 through December 20
Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Evanston Art Center's Winter Arts & Crafts Expo is one of the Chicago area's largest and most celebrated shows. The Annual Expo showcases arts and crafts by over 140 selected artisans, featuring original, handmade works of jewelry, ceramics, fiber, metal, glass, painting, photography, mixed-media, and more.
Friday, November 18, 6 to 9 p.m. (Opening Night Party)
Saturday, November 19, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, November 20, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Women's Club of Evanston's Holiday Bazaar is a juried gift fair featuring artists and makers of handcrafted, one-of-a-kind gifts. Exhibitors include makers of fashion and accessories, gourmet foods, home decor, jewelry, and specialty items.
Thursday, December 1, 4 to 7 p.m.
Downtown Evanston
Stroll throughout downtown visiting shops, restaurants, and other businesses offering warm beverages and shopping or dining specials. Event is free but please RSVP. ID will be required if you want to have alcoholic beverages. More information coming soon.
Downtown Evanston Holiday Light Celebration
Saturday, December 3, 5 to 7 p.m.
Fountain Square
Bring your families downtown to watch the annual tree lighting with Mayor Biss, Santa and other special visitors. Enjoy holiday performances by Evanston Children's Choir and others to be announced. The tree lighting will take place right at 5:30pm after which Santa will have photo ops at The Merion (1615 Chicago Ave.).
December 3 through December 14
Evanston Rebuilding Exchange
This holiday season, give sustainably! The Rebuilding Exchange has the tools, the space, and the skilled experts to get you into maker mode. They curate a variety of classes and hands-on workshops every month at both their Chicago and Evanston stores. View workshop schedules.
Sunday, December 4 and 18, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Art Makers Outpost, 609 South Blvd.
Holiday Market at Art Makers Outpost will happen on December 4th & 18th from 11-3pm and are open to the public! Come out and shop and support local artists! A great big open house it shall be with lots of amazing gifts and art to purchase!
Sunday, December 4, 1 to 4 p.m.
Dawes House, 225 Greenwood St.
Visit the Dawes House for live music, holiday treats, kids' crafts, and see the Dawes House dressed up and decked out for the Holidays. This event is free and open to all.
Thursday, December 8, 5 to 8 p.m.
Main-Dempster Mile
The stores of the Main-Dempster Mile open their doors to everyone for the holidays, welcoming neighbors with warm bevvies and holiday treats! You'll find carolers and lots of fun along the way.
Friday, December 9, 5 to 8 p.m.
Outside Gibbs-Morrison Cultural Center, 1823 Church St.
Ring in the holiday season with the Central Evanston Business Association for their annual holiday festival and tree lighting activities. The whole community is invited to join in to help spread holiday cheer and kick off the season of giving! Bring your favorite ornament to hang or decorate one on site.Enjoy food, holiday crafts, vendors, and music by the ETHS choir!
Sunday, December 11, 3pm
Evanston Township High School - 1600 Dodge Ave.
Don’t miss enjoying these favorite Yule festivities with your family and friends … and you can take advantage of our special rates for a package of 2 adult tickets and 3 children's tickets.
The award-winning Evanston Symphony Orchestra is joined by:
North Shore Choral Society [learn more]
Chicago Ballet Arts [learn more]
Evanston Children's Choir [learn more]
Evanston Dance Ensemble [learn more]
The Evanston Symphony Holiday Gospel Choir
North Shore Choral Society [learn more]
Evanston Dance Ensemble [learn more]
The Evanston Symphony Holiday Gospel Choir
And, a BIG bonus for all kids from 1 to 101 — a visit from Santa and his elves!
Santa will return to Evanston aboard the CTA Holiday Train, which will visit stops at the along the Purple Line. Then shop and eat downtown with your family! Holiday train timetables here.
