Magnificent Mile Light Festival

WHERE: Chicago, United States
WHEN: 18 November 2023

Each year, on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, Chicago offers visitors a sparkling Christmas appetizer at one of its iconic locations: The Magnificent Mile.

In this wide artery of Michigan Avenue, there are luxury department stores, restaurants, designer shops, large residential and commercial buildings, financial companies, luxury hotels and hotels, aimed primarily at tourists and the wealthy. John Hancock Center, the Wrigley Building, the Tribune Tower, the Chicago Water Tower are some of the symbolic buildings of this district.

In November, the city sparkles with twinkling lights with the Magnificent Mile Light Festival, an extraordinary event that combines art, music and entertainment. Millions of lights shine on around 200 trees, for a truly unique visual spectacle.
The most awaited moment is, without a doubt, the extraordinary parade from Oak Street, up to Wacker Drive / the Chicago River, through an extraordinary illuminated path. Many famous people take part in what is considered the most spectacular night parade in the United States!

This is arguably the most popular event in the city, also broadcast on major television stations such as ABN 7 Chicago.

Photo ©, Natasha Jelezkina

PRACTICAL INFO

HOW TO GET

Chicago is served by two international airports: Midway and O’Hare. The latter is one of the busiest airports in the world. The airport is located about 27 kilometers from the city. Every 10 minutes, a train leaves for the city center.

Public transportation in Chicago is particularly fast and efficient. You can easily travel by public transport to attend the Magnificent Mile Light Festival.

By train, with the Red Line, get off at the Chicago Avenue or Grand Avenue stop. Alternatively, you can use buses 2, 3, 10, 26, 125, 143, 146, 147, 148, 151, 157.

MAGNIFICENT MILE LIGHT FESTIVAL 2023 CHICAGO PROGRAM

The program is, as usual, full of events for the whole family.
On Friday 17th, from 4pm to 8pm, and Saturday 19, from 11am to 4pm, plenty of activities await you at Pioneer Court (Michigan Avenue). Santa Claus will be present for the ritual photos and many famous brands. Don’t miss out on a donut, coupons, and gift kits.

Saturday 18th, from 11:30 am, live music with international guests who will perform on the stage of the BMO HARRIS BANK.
At 5:30 pm, the spectacular parade starts along Michigan Avenue. Led by Mickey and Minnie Mouse from the Walt Disney World Resort, the parade features fabulous floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, celebrities, musical performances, Santa Claus and more. This is followed by the fireworks display over the river on North Michigan Avenue.