During the chilliest months of the year, Illinois hosts exciting events that are well worth the winter trip. Hear and taste all the state has to offer this season.
Winter Wonderland Ice Rink
Orland Park | TBA
Fully immerse yourself into the beauty winter has to offer with Orland Park’s Winter Wonderland Ice Rink.
Starved Rock Bald Eagle Trolley Tours
Utica | January 27-28
Become enthralled with the sight of bald eagles as you ride the trolley through the park. Lunch is included with the tour, and don’t forget your binoculars and cameras!
Alton Eagle Ice Festival 2024
Alton | January 6
There’s something for everyone, whether it’s watching professional ice carvers create magically gorgeous sculptures in real time, cozying up to the fire with s’mores or local craft beer, trying your hand at axe throwing, or meeting live eagles inside the Alton Visitors Center.
Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition
Rockford | January 24-27
Check out show-stopping snow sculptures created by artists from around the state who are hoping to represent Illinois in the US Nationals Snow Sculpting Competition in 2023.
Woodstock Groundhog Days
Woodstock | February 2-4
The 1993 comic fantasy film, “Groundhog Day,” (also starring Bill Murray) was filmed in Illinois’ Woodstock. After nearly 30 years, this event still draws in a crowd, allowing folks to enjoy a chili cook-off, screenings of the film around town, and guided tours.
Chicago Theatre Week
Chicago | February 8-18
There is no better way to experience the Windy City’s theater scene with budget-friendly deals than during Chicago Theatre Week. This year marks the event’s 10th anniversary.
Winter Passport on the Shawnee Wine Trail
Pomona | January 2-February 29
Brighten your spirits along the Shawnee Wine Trail with discounts along the way!
St. Charles Restaurant Week
St. Charles | February 19-23
Skip out on cooking and swing by St. Charles Restaurant Week for all the dining deals and specials the western suburb has to offer.
Chicago Auto Show
Chicago | February 10-19
Since 1901, Chicago’s Auto Show is not only the oldest but also the largest event of its kind in North America. Nearly 1,000 vehicles are on display, ranging from domestic and imported passenger cars and trucks to sport utility vehicles, collector cars, and more!
St. Patrick's Day Parade & River Dyeing
Chicago | March 16
Chicago is home to quite the St. Patrick's Day celebration! The Chicago River goes green as 45 pounds of vegetable dye color the water between Columbus and Wacker drive.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Springfield | March 16
Go green in Springfield with the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade with plenty of Irish-themed family-friendly activities and food.