Winter Festivals in Illinois
Despite dropping temperatures, head outside to experience the icy ambience of these Illinois winter festivals!
Jack Frost Winter Village in Chicago
January 17, 2020 - March 29, 2020
Chicago, IL
Bundle up and head to Chicago’s massive 2-acre outdoor site to enjoy ice skating, ice bumper cars, outdoor lumberjack axe throwing, private igloos, a multi-sensory spectacle of lights and more! As you wander, you can snack on festive treats from a variety of food trucks and guests who are 21+ can sip seasonal cocktails at three full-service bars. You can purchase ticket bundles ranging from $12 (for kids 12 and under) to $24, which includes general admission, skate rental, and one or two drink tickets.
January 30 - February 8, 2020
Woodstock, IL
Despite its setting in Punxsutawney, the 1993 Harold Ramis movie, "Groundhog Day," was filmed in and around Woodstock. This 10-day event that celebrates the Bill Murray classic includes the annual Groundhog Day Dinner Dance, movie showings in the historic Harold Ramis theater, and Woodstock Willie’s prognostication on February 2. Cost varies based on event, but most events are free and are welcome to all ages!
22nd Annual Dead of Winter Festival
February 8-9, 2020
Alton, IL
Who says you can only engage in spooky fun in October? Celebrate winter ghosts, hauntings, and the macabre at one of the most-haunted locations in Illinois, the mysterious Mineral Springs Hotel. Enjoy presentations from authors and speakers on strange phenomena and network with other ghost enthusiasts while trying to win prizes. Admission to this eerie event is free with a canned or non-perishable item to benefit local food banks in the area.
February 14-17, 2020
Galena, IL
All ages are welcome to watch the glow of hot air balloons rise as you enjoy a cozy bonfire while watching ice carving. Kids and adults alike will be enthralled in mini snow golf, turkey bowling, ice skating, and sledding down the 18th hole of the South Golf Course at Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa.
February 22-23, 2020
Makanda, IL
The sweet weekend starts with a pancake breakfast followed by maple syrup demonstrations, tree identification hikes, blacksmith demonstrations, and lumberjack demonstrations. You’ll appreciate the live music, vendors, and artisans while attending this family-friendly festival. The festival and its activities are free, but there is some cost for the scrumptious pancake breakfast.
2020 Chicago Winter Tequila Tasting Festival
February 22, 2020
Chicago, IL
If you love tequila, are 21+, and are looking to keep warm this winter, then this festival was made for you! Test your taste buds while you sample dozens of amazing tequila and agave varieties. Ticket prices range from $30-$60 depending on how many guests are attending, the time length of tasting, and other exclusive offers.
February 21, 2020
Chicago, IL
All ages will have a blast at the sixth annual Fire & Ice Winter Festival in Chicago. Complete with marshmallow roasting, crafts, karaoke, ice bowling, indoor ice skating, toddler’s ice fishing, and stargazing this festival will have your family immersed in the winter spirit. Tickets are $5 a person and children that are 1 and under are free.