Chicago Shines Bright: Celebrate the 34th Annual Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 22—The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival returns for its 34th year with an unforgettable celebration of creativity, community, and holiday magic under the theme "Chicago Shines Bright."

A Full Day of Festive Fun

The celebration begins at 11 am with Lights Festival Lane at Pioneer Court (401 N. Michigan Avenue), offering free family-friendly activities throughout the afternoon. Enjoy live music, Wintrust Photos with Santa, cheesecake decorating with Eli's Cheesecake, and performances by the renowned Voices of Liberty from EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort.

The musical lineup is impressive. Chicago's own GRAMMY-nominated Plain White T's—best known for their global hit "Hey There Delilah"—will perform a free acoustic concert at 1 pm. Power-pop children's band Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime Players kicks off the stage at 11 am, while the acclaimed Leo High School Boys Choir, fresh from their America's Got Talent run, performs at 2 pm.

An Iconic Evening Parade

At 5:30 pm, the parade steps off from Oak Street, traveling south on Michigan Avenue to the Chicago River. This mile-long spectacle is the largest evening parade in the country and the third-largest parade overall, bringing together families, visitors, and locals to celebrate the season

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World Resort lead the magical procession, dressed in contemporary holiday outfits atop a spectacular float. The Disney magic continues with beloved characters including Goofy and Stitch dressed as Santa on the Holiday Garden float, Woody and Buzz Lightyear aboard a toy-filled wagon, and Anna and Elsa gliding in a frosted carriage.

The parade features exciting performances along the route from GRAMMY-winning Chicago native DJ White Shadow, who debuts a new float celebrating Chicago music with live dancers, and Club Nouveau performing their hit "Lean on Me." Watch for the debut of Enjoy Illinois' Big Lincoln giant helium balloon and top marching bands from across the country, including groups from Wisconsin, New York, Indiana, Alabama, and Illinois.

Chicago artist Matthew Hoffman, creator of the global You Are Beautiful movement, has designed a custom "Chicago Shines Bright" sweater for this year's celebration. He'll join the parade alongside participants wearing the sweaters, spreading positivity and community spirit. Lucky fans along the route will receive free sweaters and You are Beautiful stickers!

A Grand Finale

The magic culminates with Santa Claus arriving aboard Wintrust's Grand Finale float, followed by the breathtaking Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular illuminating the Chicago River at approximately 7:15 pm. The festival also marks the official lighting of one million lights on more than 200 trees along North Michigan Avenue—a cherished Chicago tradition.

All activities are completely free and open to the public. Make it a weekend getaway with special hotel packages and dining experiences from festival partners. Download The Magnificent Mile Holiday Guide at TheMagnificentMile.com for exclusive offers and complete festival details.