Top 10 Things To Do In November 2025

By: Sam Ornig 10/31/2025

Lake County is celebrating the last of autumn and preparing to welcome the holiday season this November. From theatre performances, live music and fall festivals to Turkey Trots and holiday markets, Lake County has fun to offer everyone this month. Catch the last of the fall hues with a walk through one of the Lake County Forest Preserves or Illinois Beach State Park. Plan your perfect autumn adventure with our Fall Outdoor Guide and keep scrolling to discover our top 10 must-do activities in Lake County this November!

Find more November events in Lake County and visit our blog to find more guides to take full advantage of this season.  

1. November Festivals in Lake County (All month)

Whether you're looking for family-friendly activities to soak up the last of fall or cheerful events to usher in the holiday cheer, Lake County is packed with festivals for all. Explore the seasonal gatherings happening in the land of lakes in November, from traditional Día de Muertos celebrations and art fests to holiday lights and markets. 

• Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) Community Celebration in Waukegan (Nov. 1) INFO»
• Spooky Artisan Fair at Volo Museum (Nov. 1) INFO»
• Día de los Muertos Dinner at Elawa Farm Foundation in Lake Forest (Nov. 1) INFO»
• Park District of Highland Park's Día de los Muertos (Nov. 1) INFO»
• Paranormal Train Tours at the Volo Museum (through Nov. 2) INFO»
• Oktoberfest Food Festival at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee (through Nov. 2) INFO»
• Fright Fest at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee (through Nov. 2) INFO»
• Kids Boo Fest at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee (through Nov. 2) INFO»
• Día de los Muertos Week in Downtown Highland Park (through Nov. 2) INFO»
• Fall Color Walks at Volo Bog State Natural Area (Nov. 1-7) INFO»
• First Friday on MainStreet Libertyville (Nov. 7) INFO»
• The Great Pumpkin Smash in Highland Park (Nov. 7) INFO»
• Dungeon of Doom Haunted House in Zion (through Nov. 8) INFO»
• 95 WIIL ROCK's BANDEMONIUM 2025 at Gurnee Mills (through Nov. 8) INFO»
• Champagne Walk and Brunch in Antioch (Nov. 8) INFO»
• Fox Lake Fall Crawl (Nov. 8) INFO»
• Grayslake Antiques and Flea Market (Nov. 8-9) INFO»
• 49th Annual Art of Jazz at the James Lumber Center in Grayslake (Nov. 9) INFO»
• ArtWauk in Waukegan (Nov. 15) INFO»
• Rivalry Alehouse Bash in Antioch (Nov. 15) INFO»
• Neuro Universe: A Celebration of Creativity, Connection and Inclusion at Hawthorn (Nov. 15) INFO»
• Mini Comic Con at Vernon Area Public Library in Lincolnshire (Nov. 15) INFO»
• Vintage Holidays: Light up Long Grove and Holiday Kick-Off in Long Grove (Nov. 21) INFO»
• Wicked Witches Day Out in Antioch (Nov. 22) INFO»
• Festival of Lights and Holiday Market in Grayslake (Nov. 28) INFO»
• Chain O Lakes Chambers Mistletoe and Martinis Festive Christmas Market in Lakemoor (Nov. 28) INFO»
• Holiday Market & Entertainment Weekend Event at Gurnee Mills (Nov. 28-29) INFO»
• Festival of Lights Parade & Kris Kringle Market in Fox Lake (Nov. 29) INFO»
• Chris Kringle Market at Volo Museum (Nov. 29) INFO»
• Festival of Arts and Crafts at Lake County Fairgrounds (Nov. 28-30) INFO»

2. WGN Radio LIVE with Dean Richards at Treetime Christmas Creations (Nov. 2) 

Get an early taste of the holiday spirit with Dean Richards and WGN Radio Live at Treetime Christmas Creations. See what surprises Dean has in store for his audience during this broadcast of the Sunday Morning Show. This annual airing runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a Facebook Live portion from 11 a.m. to noon. Attendees can enjoy a "Dean’s Discount" to shop Treetime’s dazzling holiday decor for one day only. Don't miss this joyful celebration of the season with live entertainment and plenty of holiday spirit!

Treetime Christmas Creations, 22102 N. Pepper Rd., Lake Barrington.

3. Turkey Trots in Lake County (All Month)

Thanksgiving is one of the biggest running days of the year and Turkey Trots are a beloved tradition in Lake County. Kick off the holiday season with a fun run, where you can be active, support local causes and have a blast all at once. These family-friendly events have activities for runners of all ages and skill level. Register for a Turkey Trot today: 

• 26th Annual Turkey Trot with Waukegan Park District (Nov. 8) INFO»
• GCHS Booster Club Turkey Trot 5k Run/Walk in Grayslake (Nov. 16) INFO» 
• Wauconda Turkey Trot (Nov. 27) INFO»
• Long Grove Turkey Trot (Nov. 27) INFO»
• North Shore Turkey Trot in Highland Park (Nov. 27) INFO»
• 31st Annual Jon Callaghan Turkey Trot Run/Walk in Gurnee (Nov. 27) INFO»

4. Lightscape at Chicago bOtanic Gardens (Opens Nov. 14) 

Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Gardens returns for the holiday season on November 14, with exciting new first-time installations from around the world including Singularity and Crocus Lawn, alongside favorites like the Winter Cathedral and Singing Trees. Follow the illuminated path as the gardens are aglow with curated light displays complete with music and art for all to enjoy. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance—this popular attraction is open select days through January 4, 2026. 

Chicago Botanic Gardens, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe.

5. Dunn Museum Exhibits (All Month) 

The Dunn Museum in Libertyville is hosting two special exhibitions throughhout the month of November. "Alex Ross: Heroes & Villains" features a collection of lifelike portraits of Marvel and DC characters, bringing the heroes and villians to life with impeccable realism. "Childhood Classics: 100 Years of Original Illustrations" takes visitors through the evolution of illustration with original art from over 75 of the most adored children's books from the last century. Classics include "Where the Wild Things Are" and "Mother Goose." Both exhibitions are open through January 19, and are perfect indoor activities as the colder weather arrives in Lake County. 

Dunn Museum, 1899 W. Winchester Rd., Libertyville.

6. Theatre in Lake County (All Month)

Lake County's theatres dazzle with magical performances, inspiring stories and beautiful music. Experience the wonderful productions offered at venues throughout the land of lakes. From popular musicals and plays to hilarious comedians, there's a show for everyone this November:

• "Disney's Finding Nemo" at Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire (through November) INFO»
• "Dracula: A Live Radio Play" presented by Improv Playhouse in Libertyville (Nov. 1) INFO»
• Harland Williams at American Place Casino in Waukegan (Nov. 1) INFO»
• Million Dollar Quartet at Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire (Nov. 5-Jan. 4) INFO»
• Tusk: The Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Nov. 6) INFO»
• "The 39 Steps" at the James Lumber Center in Grayslake (Nov. 7-15) INFO»
• "Miracle on South Division Street" at Citadel Theatre Company in Lake Forest (Nov. 12-Dec. 14) INFO»
• Anthony Rodia: Laugh Till It Hurts Tour at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Nov. 13) INFO»
• Classical Arts Entertainment Presents "Swan Lake" at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Nov. 14) INFO»
• Matthew Broussard at Gorton Center in Lake Forest (Nov. 21) INFO»
• College of Lake County Dance Concert at James Lumber Center in Grayslake (Nov. 21-22) INFO»
• Fall Classes at Improv Playhouse in Libertyville (through Nov. 22) INFO»
• "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" Showing at Gorton Center in Lake Forest (Nov. 22) INFO»

7. November Concerts (All Month)

Looking to jam out to some live music this month? Look no further than Lake County, Illinois. Check out the exciting musical performances scheduled this November in the land of lakes:

• Tower of Power and WAR at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Nov. 1) INFO»
• The Selena Experience at the James Lumber Center in Grayslake (Nov. 2) INFO»
• 95 WIIL ROCK's BANDEMONIUM 2025 at Gurnee Mills (through Nov. 8) INFO»
• Griffin House at Gorton Center in Lake Forest (Nov. 8) INFO»
• Swifty Fest: A Tribute to Taylor Swift at Three Brothers Theatre in Waukegan (Nov. 8) INFO»
• Ben Folds and a Piano at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Nov. 8) INFO»
• 49th Annual Art of Jazz Featuring Ron Blake at the James Lumber Center in Grayslake (Nov. 9) INFO»
• Rendezvous Arts: True Colors Baroque Period at Gorton Center in Lake Forest (Nov. 14) INFO»
• Seals & Crofts II LIVE at The Lighthouse at American Place Casino in Waukegan (Nov. 15) INFO»
• Scott Bradlee's Postmodern Jukebox at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Nov. 20) INFO»
• NEEDTOBREATHE at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Nov. 21) INFO»
• Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Nov. 22) INFO»
• The Rush Tribute Project at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Nov. 23) INFO»
• Alyssa Allgood and Chris Madsen Quintet at Gorton Center in Lake Forest (Nov. 23) INFO»

8. Shopping in Lake County (All Month)

It's never too early to get started on your holiday shopping—lucky for you, Lake County has a vibrant shopping scene. Visit the county's wonderful selection of local boutiques and larger retailers. From charming downtown storefronts in Antioch, Highland Park, MainStreet Libertyville and Long Grove to sprawling shopping centers like Hawthorn, Deer Park Town Center and Gurnee Mills, there’s something for everyone on your gift list. Find unique treasures and handmade goods at holiday markets and craft fairs, showcasing the talent of local artisans and making it easy to find one-of-a-kind gifts. Embrace the spirit of giving this holiday season by supporting Lake County’s businesses and discovering the treasures they have to offer! 

9. Santa Arrives in Lake County

You better watch out, you better not cry... because Santa Claus is headed to Lake County this November! Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and the elves are stopping by several magical spots throughout the land of lakes to spread holiday cheer, like holiday markets, parades, Christmas villages and more! Check out the following Santa visits and stay tuned to our events page as more holiday events: 

• Time Warp Express Christmas Adventure at Volo Museum (Nov. 7-Dec. 28) INFO»
• Santa Photos at Gurnee Mills (Nov. 21-Dec. 24) INFO»
• Pet Photos with Santa at Gurnee Mills (Nov. 23) INFO»
• Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge in Gurnee (Nov. 24-Jan. 4) INFO»
• Chain O Lakes Chambers Mistletoe and Martinis Festive Christmas Market in Lakemoor (Nov. 28) INFO»
• Festival of Lights Parade & Kris Kringle Market in Fox Lake (Nov. 29) INFO»

10. Antioch's Dickens Holiday Village and Kringle Christmas Village (Nov. 27-Jan. 1) 

Step into a world of holiday wonder in Antioch. Immerse yourself in the magic of Dickens Holiday Village, where life-sized figures bring Charles Dickens' classic tales to life. Explore the enchanting scenes and characters that fill the streets of downtown Antioch. For a truly unique experience, visit Kringle's Christmas Village. Marvel at the stunning collection of oversized shadowboxes, each filled with intricate details and festive cheer. These captivating scenes transport you to a bygone era, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Whether you're a fan of Dickens or simply love the holiday season, Antioch's festivities offer a nostalgic kind of Christmas for all. Come and experience the joy, wonder and wistfulness of these captivating holiday villages.

Find more things to do in November. For a truly unique experience, visit one of our local wineries, breweries, or distilleries and sample their sumptuous spirits, vibrant wines and breathtaking brews. There's something for everyone in the land of lakes!