Winter Festivals in Lake County 2026
By: Stephanie Wylie 01/16/2026
Lake County, Illinois, is shedding the winter blues this season with a robust lineup of winter festivals and community events, ranging from high-energy outdoor ice fishing derbies to sophisticated cultural showcases. Local municipalities and businesses have curated family-friendly experiences for all ages, including the highly anticipated February Flavor Festival. From the historic streets of Long Grove to the expansive Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake, the region remains a premier destination for Midwest winter recreation and seasonal entertainment.
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 2026.
The Vernon Hills Park District will host its "Let It Snow!" event for young children at the Sullivan Community Center. Designed for children ages 3 to 5, the program brings the magic of winter indoors with games, stories and seasonal arts and crafts. Admission includes a dinner of pizza and juice.
The Wauconda Park District will host its Frosted Fairy Festival, designed for children ages 4 to 12, the drop-off program features a winter adventure where participants search for dazzling dragonflies and fairy-sized creatures. Activities include making an enchanted craft and playing games. Children are encouraged to wear their own wings and bring a wand.
Waukegan becomes a showcase of creativity during ArtWauk, a monthly celebration that turns city streets and galleries into an open canvas. The free event draws visitors into a vibrant mix of sculpture, film, theater, comedy, music and performance art. The experience encourages wandering, discovery and conversation, with each stop revealing something unexpected. Food and drink are woven into the evening’s rhythm, as nearby restaurants serve up local flavors and live music fills the air. Craft brews and spirits from Lake County Libation Trail favorites, including Nightshade and Dark’s Pandemonium Brewing, round out the night, making ArtWauk both a cultural outing and a social one.
Downtown Antioch sets the stage for a relaxed winter afternoon during the Winter Wine Walk, inviting guests to sample their way through the village while exploring local shops. The event features tastings of more than 50 wines, offering a broad selection for both casual sippers and seasoned enthusiasts. Tickets are $49 and include a souvenir bag, commemorative wine glass and a bottle of wine to take home, extending the experience beyond the event itself. Open to those 21 and older, the wine walk pairs seasonal warmth with small-town charm, turning a stroll through downtown into a celebration of good wine and good company.
O’Toole’s Libertyville will transform its heated patio into an alpine escape for the Après Ski Lodge event. The winter-themed experience features a ski-lift chair for photos, alpine-inspired music from a DJ and complimentary chocolate fondue. Guests are encouraged to wear ski attire and can shop for permanent jewelry provided by Blu Violet Boutique. Admission is $5 and includes a ski-lift lanyard and a mimosa. Attendees may also purchase a $50 punch card valid for five cocktails during the event. The full menu will be available for additional food and beverage purchases. The event is restricted to those 21 and older.
The bass clarinet steps into the spotlight at Wayfarer Theaters during "Basses Loaded," a concert that showcases the depth and expressive range of an often-overlooked instrument. The performance features Chicago’s premier — and only — bass clarinet quartet, highlighting the instrument’s rich tonal palette and lyrical possibilities. The program explores how the bass clarinet moves beyond its traditional supporting role, revealing its capacity for warmth, agility and emotional nuance when placed front and center.
Youth voices take center stage at Wayfarer Theaters during "My Voice, My Health, My World," a program that explores how young people learn to advocate for their own health in the face of personal challenges. Presented by Insight Advocacy, the event highlights stories of empowerment, resilience and self-determination during adolescence. Guided by the messaging and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the program examines how youth navigate health diagnoses while finding confidence in their voices.
Purebred dogs take the spotlight during the Cool Cluster Dog Show, a multiday event that brings breeders, handlers and canine enthusiasts to the Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center in Grayslake. The event offers the public an up-close look at competitive dog shows while promoting education about purebred dogs and responsible breeding. The Cool Cluster Dog Show offers a chance for visitors to experience the skill, care and dedication behind the world of dog showing.
Phase Three Brewing Co. will host its "Fam Jam: Cozy Cabin Retreat," where the brewery’s warehouse will be transformed into an indoor winter retreat featuring high-energy activities and a lounge area. The event features a 31-foot obstacle course, carnival games, electronic games and retro arcade favorites. Younger children can explore a giant gingerbread house and toddler-friendly play zones. In the Mural Cove, families can visit the Cozy Cabin Station for coloring, board games and winter storybooks. Admission includes a do-it-yourself s’mores and hot cocoa bar. Cotton candy and popcorn will be available for purchase.
Libertyville will host its Frozen Fest at Cook Park, featuring live reindeer and ice carving demonstrations. The event includes photos with Elsa and Anna from "Frozen," horse-drawn wagon rides, free hot cocoa and tours of the Ansel B. Cook House. Activity stations will also be available for children. The village of Fox Lake is offering an organized trip to the festival via the Metra. Participants will depart the Fox Lake Metra Station at 12:45 p.m. with onboard activities before arriving in Libertyville at 1:10 p.m. The return train departs Libertyville at 3:42 p.m. and arrives back in Fox Lake at 4:12 p.m. Advance registration is required for the Fox Lake trip as spots are limited.
Winter traditions and alpine flair come together at Buffalo Creek Brewing during Alpine Fest, a two-day celebration that leans into cold-weather comforts, European-inspired flavors and seasonal style. The festival transforms the brewery into a winter gathering place filled with music, food and friendly competition. The event showcases a rotating lineup of alpine-inspired beverages, including the "Alpine Ol’ Spritz," "Hot Buttered Beer" and boozy hot chocolate made with the brewery’s Russian Imperial Stout, "Hallows." A new Weizenbock — a strong German wheat beer with notes of banana, clove, dark fruit and toasted bread.New themed nights add a playful fashion element to the festivities, with Buffalo Plaid Night on Friday, Jan. 30, inviting guests to channel cozy North Woods style, followed by Alpine Chic Night on Saturday, Jan. 31, inspired by classic ski culture. Activities include stein-holding and hammerschlagen competitions, a 50/50 raffle and a s’mores bar.
Ice anglers return to Bangs Lake for the LVVA’s Final Ice Fishing Derby, a winter tradition that blends friendly competition with a larger mission of support. The two-day event has grown into one of Northern Illinois’ largest ice fishing derbies, drawing participants eager to fish for a cause. Proceeds from the derby benefit military veterans and active-duty service members, turning each catch into a gesture of appreciation. Anglers compete for prizes across multiple categories, including largest northern pike, bass, perch, crappie, walleye and bluegill, with additional awards designed just for kids. Door prizes, raffles and big-fish contests keep the atmosphere lively throughout the weekend.
The fourth annual Wing Fest returns to O’Toole’s Libertyville, bringing the pub group’s culinary teams together for a friendly rivalry to determine the best wings. Teams from O’Toole’s locations and a surprise fourth station will compete, each serving two chef-created flavors developed specifically for the event along with a classic O’Toole’s wing. Attendees can sample 12 distinct flavors throughout the afternoon. Tickets include three hours of all-you-can-eat wings, one drink ticket valid for select beers or O’Toole’s vodka and two voting chips. Guests use the chips to cast votes for their favorite sauces, with the winner announced at the end of the competition. The event also features raffles and prizes.
Runners trade winter’s chill for adrenaline during the Half Day Brewing Co. 5K Frozen Tundra and Post-Race Party, a cold-weather favorite returning to Lincolnshire. The out-and-back 5K follows the Des Plaines River Trail. The race culminates at Half Day Brewing Co., where participants are welcomed into a lively party featuring music, food and drinks. Registration includes access to the celebration, with offerings such as Frozen Tundra IPA, hot toddies, soft drinks and a food buffet. Non-runners can join the festivities by purchasing a post-race party ticket.
The Lake County Joy Summit returns at Zion-Benton High School, offering a full day of inspiration, connection and personal growth. The event brings together community members from diverse backgrounds seeking to elevate joy in both their personal and professional lives. Attendees can participate in workshops, hear from engaging speakers and connect with like-minded individuals dedicated to fostering positivity. Continuing education credits are available for nurses, social workers and educators, with additional CEU opportunities for other health professionals.
The 43rd annual Profiles in Excellence event will take place at the Greenbelt Cultural Center in honor of Black History Month. This year’s theme, "Origin Stories," features a performance and lecture by playwright Ted Williams III. Williams and cast members from the musical "1619: The Journey of a People" will lead an artistic and academic exploration of American history.
Lake County’s dining and craft beverage scenes take center stage during February Flavor Fest, a monthlong celebration running Feb. 1-28. The event merges Lake County Restaurant Week with the Lake County Libation Trail to highlight the region’s diverse culinary landscape. Throughout the month, participating restaurants, breweries, distilleries and wineries will offer exclusive dining deals, creative pairings, chef demonstrations and live entertainment. From seasoned foodies to craft drink enthusiasts, the festival provides an array of opportunities to explore local flavors across the county.
Carmel Catholic High School will host its annual Street Scenes fundraiser, themed "Under the Sea." The event transforms the campus into a sprawling entertainment venue featuring more than 40 live bands, casino games, theatrical performances and a magic show. Attendees can also enjoy a cabaret-style student show, a silent auction and local food and beverage vendors. Since its inception, Street Scenes has contributed $13 million toward the school’s educational goals, helping to offset tuition costs and support student programming.
The Chicago Botanic Garden will celebrate the 1960s and ’70s during its Orchid Show: "Feelin’ Groovy." The exhibition features 10,000 vibrant orchids, including floor-to-ceiling displays and a 10-foot lava lamp filled with blooms. The retro-themed show also includes a flower-filled Volkswagen Beetle and a Route 66-inspired display.
Historic Downtown Long Grove will host its ninth annual Cocoa Crawl, offering visitors a variety of free hot cocoa samples at tents throughout the village. Local businesses will feature cocoa-inspired merchandise and food items for purchase. Participants who spend at least $100 at downtown shops or restaurants on the day of the event can receive a free souvenir Cocoa Crawl mug by bringing their receipts to the visitors center. The event also includes complimentary carriage rides through town, courtesy of the Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association.
Lambs Farm will host a Cookies and Cocoa children’s Valentine’s Day party at the Magnolia Cafe & Bakery. The event features a fully stocked cocoa bar, sugar cookie decorating and Valentine’s Day crafts. Guests can also participate in a scheduled story time during the festivities.
The 66th annual Chain O' Lakes Fishing Derby and Winter Festival returns to Antioch at Turtle Beach Marina. Recognized as the longest-running ice fishing derby in the Midwest, the event features ice fishing alongside a variety of bucket, 50/50 and meat raffles. In honor of the holiday, the festival will also include a special Valentine’s Day couple's package raffle.
Highwood will travel back a century as the Roaring 20s Party returns to 28 Mile Distilling Co.! Presented in partnership with Celebrate Highwood, the themed bash invites guests to don their best vintage attire for a night of music and movement. The evening begins with swing dancing lessons, followed by a live performance from Morry Sochat & The Special 20s. Admission includes an open bar and an all-you-can-eat buffet. Tickets provide access to the full distillery experience, reimagined as a Prohibition-era lounge.
The Park District of Highland Park will host a glow-themed Kids’ Night Out at the Rosewood Beach Interpretive Center. The drop-off program allows parents to enjoy Valentine’s Day plans while children ages 5 to 12 explore science and nature with staff naturalists. The evening features glowing experiments, seasonal crafts and a pizza dinner. Pre-registration is required.
The 11th annual Lake County Beer Fest returns to the Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center, featuring a "Fire & Ice" theme. The event showcases specialty and seasonal samples from local, regional and national breweries, distilleries and wineries. General admission runs from 5 to 9 p.m. and includes a souvenir sampling glass and 25 beverage samples. VIP tickets are $80, available only online in advance, and include access to a private lounge and specialty pours during the first hour. In addition to craft beverages, the festival features music, food, axe throwing, giant beer pong and a costume contest. All attendees must be 21 or older.
MainStreet Libertyville will host its annual "Let’s Wine About Winter" wine tasting in the village's historic downtown. The event features a store-to-store tasting where local merchants offer wine, food and special deals. Tickets include a commemorative wine glass and lanyard, an event map and a $10 coupon redeemable at participating stores for 30 days. Attendees must be at least 21 years old and present a valid ID during check-in.
Collectors and comic book enthusiasts can hunt for rare finds and classic funnies at the Gurnee Comic Book and Collectibles Show. The event, held at The Ten Hotel & Convention Center, offers a wide selection of comics and pop-culture memorabilia.
Couples planning their nuptials can find inspiration at the "Love is in Bloom" 2026 Wedding Showcase, hosted by Relish Events, which offers a preview of the venue’s Audubon Hall and Visitor Center. Attendees can sample complimentary food and beverages prepared by the in-house culinary team while connecting with Chicagoland professionals, including photographers, florists, DJs and décor specialists. The showcase serves as a one-stop shop for couples to meet venue coordinators and book vendors for the upcoming wedding season. Advance registration is required.
The Northern Illinois Boat Show returns to the Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center, offering shoppers some of the year's best pricing on more than 200 new and used boats. The event features more than 50 manufacturers represented by local dealers. Attendees can browse various models, including bowriders, ski and wakeboard boats, cruisers, deck boats and pontoons. In addition to watercraft, more than 20 exhibitors will display trailers, parts and accessories.
The 41st annual Salute to Gospel Music features guest artist Charles Jenkins, a prominent gospel singer and songwriter. The program honors the community and celebrates the heritage of Black gospel music. Jenkins, known for his chart-topping anthems, is recognized as a leading voice in modern inspirational music.
The 14th annual GLMV Extreme Block Party Family Expo and Taste of the Towns brings local commerce and community entertainment to the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Mundelein. Recognized as the area’s largest free expo, the event allows visitors to shop from local vendors specializing in home improvement, health, financial services and education. The "Taste of the Towns" portion features free food and beverage samples from local eateries, alongside raffles and show specials. The day’s entertainment lineup includes a performance by the Improv Playhouse at 10:45 a.m., the Famous World of Reptiles show at noon and a School of Rock performance at 1:45 p.m.
The Waukegan Park District will honor the achievements of women during its International Women’s Day celebration. The community event features a lineup of local guest speakers and live musical performances. Visitors can also explore an art show and browse local pop-up shops throughout the evening. The celebration aims to commemorate the global holiday while highlighting female voices and talent within the Waukegan community.
The Grayslake Area Chamber of Commerce and Grayslake Village Center will host the second annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celebration. The family-friendly event returns to the Grayslake Village Center with a festive parade through the historic business district. The celebration features live music, local food vendors and community activities. Additional details regarding the parade route and performance schedule will be released as the event approaches.
mORE UPCOMING EVENTS (tba)
The list goes on with the haunted attractions in Lake County. Here are some of the spooky fests, events and other Halloween creeps happening around the area.
- Black History Month Celebration in Zion
- Black History Month Celebration in North Chicago
- Wauconda Winterfest
- St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at Mickey Finn’s
For more winter festivals and other events going on, continue here. Click here to learn more about the Lake County Libation Trail.
WINTER OUTDOOR GUIDE
ROAD TRIPS
Volo Museum
Family-Friendly Dining
Breakfast/Brunch
Lakeside Dining
MainStreet Libertyville
Historic Downtown Long Grove
Downtown Highland Park
Great Wolf Lodge Illinois
Lincolnshire Marriott Resort
Hyatt Deerfield
Visitors Guide
Special Offers
Accommodations
Weddings
Group Tours
Military Reunions
Community Partners
Partner Directory
Become a Partner
