Winter Festivals in Lake County 2025
By: Stephanie Wylie 01/10/2025
Break free from the routine of winter. Don't let the cold season pass you by without experiencing the magic of Lake County's winter festivals. These vibrant festival is the perfect antidote to winter blues. Lake County invites you to embrace the winter chill with a diverse range of exciting activities. Explore snowy landscapes, encounter fascinating creatures and marvel at breathtaking snow murals. Unleash your adventurous spirit with underwater explorations and a variety of festive events.Experience the joy of winter in Lake County – your ultimate destination for frosty fun!
Don't forget to check out where to go sledding and tubing in the land of lakes!
Here are your top winter festivals in Lake County 2025.
Dive into the lively world of creativity at ArtWauk, where Downtown Waukegan transforms into a hub of artistic expression featuring sculptures, film, theater, comedy, music, performance art, and mouthwatering cuisine. This free Saturday event invites you to discover the artistic gems housed in galleries throughout the area. Let ArtWauk be your go-to destination for inspiration, with captivating portraits, stunning sculptures, and a variety of imaginative works. Savor the flavors of local eateries, enjoy live music, and sip on craft brews and spirits from Lake County Libation Trail favorites like Nightshade and Dark’s Pandemonium Brewing.
Sip and stroll through a delightful afternoon at Antioch’s Winter Wine Walk in Downtown Antioch, indulge in tastings of over 50 exquisite wines provided in partnership with Antioch Fine Wine & Liquors. Your $45 ticket includes a souvenir bag, wine glass and a bonus bottle to take home. This 21+ event is the perfect way to warm up your weekend with good company and great wine!
Join Buffalo Creek Brewing for the 6th Annual Wort Rally in Long Grove, part of the Lake County Libation Trail! This year's event features an Irish Red Ale, where participants simply pick up the wort, add yeast and ferment their creation for a fun and easy brew day. Compete in a "March Madness"-style bracket to showcase your team's creativity and brewing skills. Gather your brew team and join in on the fun at this unique, hands-on brewing event!
Join Insight Advocacy and Wayfarer Theaters for the inaugural Martin Luther King Jr. Festival: Let's Dream Together in Highland Park. This free event honors MLK's legacy with a celebration of peace and unity, featuring a jazz trio, fun activities for all ages and a special movie presentation. The event will also include student presenters sharing their reflections on Dr. King's vision. The community is invited to come together for an inspiring morning of remembrance and hope.
Celebrate the beauty and diversity of purebred dogs at the COOL Cluster Dog Shows, held January 22-26 at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake. Hosted by the Kenosha Kennel Club, Park Shore Kennel Club and Chain O’ Lakes Kennel Club, this event showcases top-notch canine talent and promotes education about beloved breeds. Admission is free, with only a fairground parking fee required, making it a perfect outing for dog enthusiasts and families alike. Don’t miss the chance to explore vendor offerings, learn about breeds and connect with a passionate community of dog lovers.
Experience the charm of the German Alps at Alpine Fest 2025, hosted by Buffalo Creek Brewing in Long Grove on January 24-25. Enjoy freshly brewed beer by cozy fire pits, live Alpine music and exciting activities like a Stein-holding contest in the snow. Savor traditional German fare, including pretzels, bratwurst and the special Toffee Nut Crunch beer release, along with desserts like boozy ice cream and hot chocolate. This free, family-friendly event offers something for everyone, from authentic Alpine vibes to exclusive BCB merchandise opportunities!
The Gurnee Mills & Windy City Wedding Show takes place at Gurnee Mills. With 50 to 100 wedding professionals on display, this event offers everything you need to plan your dream wedding, from bridal gowns to bridesmaid dresses and formalwear. Don't miss the exciting 50-minute designer fashion show showcasing the latest wedding styles. Whether you're looking for vendors or simply inspiration, this event is a must-attend for engaged couples!
Welcome the Year of the Dragon with a flourish of fans and ribbons! Join the Park District of Highland Park for an immersive Lunar New Year celebration. The event features an introduction to traditional Chinese dance, crafting and send blessings to loved ones with red envelopes filled with auspicious wishes.Dress up in your best red and gold attire to fully immerse yourself in the celebratory spirit! Tickets are $30 for residents and $35 for non-residents. Take advantage of this chance to experience the beauty and joy of Lunar New Year traditions. Reserve your spot and get ready to dance, craft and celebrate!
Celebrate the Year of the Snake at Hawthorn! Enjoy a lively mix of cultural performances, lion dances and an Asian vendor market as you immerse yourself in the traditions of the Lunar New Year. Festivities also include crafts, face painting, balloon artistry and giveaways, along with the chance to make wishes on the festive wishing tree. Don’t miss out on this vibrant celebration of joy and prosperity in Vernon Hills!
Join the 42nd Annual Profiles in Excellence event at the Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago. In honor of Black History Month, this year’s event will highlight untold stories of Lake County's first African American citizens, exploring the importance of preserving legacies. Author James Ciccone, guest speaker for the event, will bring these overlooked stories to life through his historical fiction featuring Black characters. The event is free and open to all, with no registration required.
Join the 16th Annual LVVA Ice Fishing Derby at Bangs Lake in Wauconda. This exciting event supports Veterans Path to Hope Outdoors, offering therapeutic outdoor activities for military veterans. Compete in "big fish" contests, raffles and prize opportunities. Download the FishDonkey app for rules and categories and enjoy one of Northern Illinois’ largest ice fishing traditions while making a difference!
Savor the flavors of Lake County during the February Flavor Fest, running February 1-28. Combining Lake County Restaurant Week and the Libation Trail, this month-long celebration highlights the area's vibrant dining and drinking scene. Enjoy exclusive dining deals, creative food and drink pairings, chef demos, live entertainment and more from local restaurants, breweries, distilleries and wineries. Whether you're a foodie or a craft libation enthusiast, this event offers something to tantalize every palate!
Indulge in unlimited flavor at the Annual Wing Fest at O'Toole's Pub in Libertyville. Watch as four O'Toole's locations compete for the title of Best Wings with two unique creations each—one spicy and one chef's choice. Enjoy 12 incredible wing flavors, live music, a full bar and exciting raffles, all for $45, which includes a raffle ticket. Don’t miss this delicious showdown packed with flavor and fun!
Lace up for the Frozen Tundra IPA 5K and Post-Race Party at Half Day Brewing Co. This scenic out-and-back run along the Des Plaines River Trail kicks off at 10 a.m., followed by a lively celebration featuring music, refreshing beers and gift card giveaways. Runners will score exclusive race swag and a well-deserved brew to toast their efforts. Tickets are $45 for the race and $25 for the after-party—don't miss this winter adventure in Lincolnshire!
Warm up at the 8th Annual Cocoa Crawl in Historic Downtown Long Grove. Stroll through town and savor free hot cocoa samples from tents and participating businesses, offering cocoa-themed treats, merchandise and more. Hop on a complimentary carriage ride provided by the Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association for a scenic journey through the charming streets. No registration is required, so gather your group and indulge in a cozy, cocoa-filled afternoon!
Celebrate Valentine's Day early at the Cookies and Cocoa Children's Valentine Party at Lambs Farm. Enjoy a cozy experience at the Magnolia Cafe & Bakery with a fully stocked cocoa bar, sugar cookie decorating and Valentine’s Day crafts. Kids can also gather around for a heartwarming story time, making this event perfect for family fun. Don’t miss out on this festive day filled with treats, creativity and joy!
Join in the fun at the 65th Annual Chain O' Lakes Fishing Derby and Winter Festival at Turtle Beach Marina in Antioch. This long-standing event is more than just ice fishing—it’s a beloved tradition that brings families together for a weekend filled with games, raffles, food and fun for all ages. Watch fishermen compete for prizes for the smallest and largest catches of the hour while enjoying delicious food at the Conservation Café. Celebrate over six decades of winter fun and community spirit at this iconic event!
Prepare for a spectacular botanical carnival at The Orchid Show of Wonders, captivating visitors at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Wander through a whimsical world adorned with 10,000 vibrant blooms, where Ferris wheel seats, unicycles on tightropes and gravity-defying surprises under the big top will enchant your senses. Your Orchid Show ticket includes admission to the Garden, offering a delightful escape into this mesmerizing floral wonderland. Don't miss the chance to experience the magic!
Step into the excitement of Street Scenes at Carmel Catholic High School for a weekend packed with entertainment and fun. Experience over 40 live bands, casino games, theatrical performances, magic shows and the beloved cabaret-style student show, alongside delicious local food and drinks. This incredible event has raised $12 million to support students by keeping tuition affordable and enhancing programming. Your participation ensures continued success—don’t miss this vibrant community celebration!
The Lake County RV Outlet Show is set to take place at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake. Whether you're a seasoned RV traveler or new to the lifestyle, explore an impressive selection of brand-new motorhomes, fifth wheels, toy haulers, travel trailers, pop-up campers and more, all at factory-direct prices. The event promises budget-friendly deals and diverse floorplans, from spacious master bedrooms to family-friendly bunk beds. Bring the whole family to find the perfect RV for your next adventure!
Get ready to experience the 10th Annual Lake County Craft Beer Festival where Mardi Gras flair meets craft brews, New Orleans vibes and festive fun. Enjoy 25 drink samples, live music, and plenty of interactive activities like mobile axe throwing, Ride-A-Gator and giant beer pong. Indulge in food from local vendors, participate in the Mardi Gras costume contest and enjoy a variety of entertainment, all while sampling from local, regional and national breweries. Don’t miss out on the best value beer fest in Lake County!
Join the fun at MainStreet Libertyville's Let's Wine About Winter. This premier store-to-store wine tasting event invites you to explore historic downtown Libertyville, where participating merchants will serve wine, tasty treats and offer unbeatable deals. Tickets include a commemorative wine glass, event map and a $10 coupon redeemable at participating businesses. With three zones to explore, each offering unique wine experiences, this event is a great way to sip, shop and support local!
The Northern Illinois Boat Show returns to the Lake County Fairgrounds. This premier event showcases world-class wakes and waves, featuring Malibu & Axis boats equipped with cutting-edge Surf Gate® technology. Attendees can experience the power of Surf Gate® to customize their perfect wave with a simple button press, using Power Wedge® III for optimal wave steepness and length. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to boating, this event promises a thrilling experience for all water sports enthusiasts!
For more winter festivals and other events going on, continue here. Click here to learn more about the Lake County Libation Trail.
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