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Autumn Adventures in the Chicago Area
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Tara
Experience the beauty and excitement of fall around Chicago with activities that bring out the season's best. From vibrant city parks to scenic suburban trails, this guide is packed with outdoor adventures for everyone.
Sections
4
 
City of Chicago
 
Northern Suburbs
 
Southern Suburbs
 
Western Suburbs

City of Chicago

Explore vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations, scenic fall trails, and festive lights in the heart of the city. November activities bring Chicago’s skyline to life with unique autumn and holiday charm.

 
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Enjoy pumpkin patches, hayrides, and seasonal treats at this free zoo’s fall festival.
Fall Fest Presented by Jewel-Osco | Lincoln Park Zoo
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Ice Skating in Millenium Park opens mid-November.  Free admission but reservations are required.
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
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Make your way to the Mag Mile for this Light Festival on 11/23
Mag Mile Light Festival
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21 and up event with DJ, Live Music, Face Painting, a local market and more
Dia De Muertos | Navy Pier
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Chicago’s Most Unique 5k Race Amid the lively colors and culture of Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood, runners and walkers come together to celebrate Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead!
Carrera de los Muertos Day of the Dead 5k Walk
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Go check out the Día de Muertos, : Where the Past Is Present exhibit running thru Dec. 8
National Museum of Mexican Art, Pilsen, Chicago
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Northern Suburbs

From garden light displays to peaceful nature hikes, the northern suburbs offer a cozy mix of seasonal events. Enjoy art installations, music, and fall festivals perfect for families and friends.

 
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Don't miss this nighttime show from 6:30-10:30pm
Night of 1,000 Jack-o'-Lanterns | Chicago Botanic Garden
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Running from Nov. 15 to Jan 5.  Over 21 enjoy Cocktails Under the Lights Nov. 21,  and Dec 5
Lightscape | Chicago Botanic Garden
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Try one or more of the 12 designated trails
Hike Lake County - Recreation | Lake County Forest Preserves
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A day of traditional dance, music and more, including: Live music by Mariachi Sirenas, dance performances, activities and crafts including Sugar Skull Face Painting
Dia De Los Muertos | Park District of Highland Park
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Southern Suburbs

The southern suburbs offer rich cultural experiences and scenic outdoor spots for fall adventurers. Celebrate Día de los Muertos, explore nature trails, and take part in small-town holiday festivities.

 
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This community event features traditional dancers, food vendors, altar displays, and interactive exhibits about the holiday.
Joliet LEDA - Dia de los Muertos Social
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Hike the trails or go for a ride on the lake in a kayak
Explore the Park | PHLKNC, IL
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Pick apples, pumpkins, sunflowers and enjoy a tractor ride and much more on a fun day outing
County Line Orchard
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Western Suburbs

The western suburbs blend seasonal beauty with community spirit, featuring garden illuminations, historical tributes, and holiday parades. These activities capture the essence of fall and the warmth of local celebrations.

 
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The 2024 exhibition features 17 displays of lights and music that highlight the beauty of trees in winter
Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum | Holiday Light Show
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6:00 p.m., Friday, November 22nd, 2024 Parade steps-off at 6:30 p.m. Where: Water Street to River Street, in downtown Aurora
Winter Lights | Aurora, IL
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Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s new 21-and-over Zoo After Dark: Holiday Sip & Stroll. This after-hours evening event gives adults a sneak peek of the Zoo draped in holiday light magic with more than two million LED lights.
Zoo After Dark: Holiday Sip & Stroll
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Fest visitors can participate in scavenger hunts, light painting, virtual reality drone flights, and hidden portal discovery quests
LUMENAURA® Festival in Aurora, Illinois
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