Are you planning a trip to Chicago during Thanksgiving and looking for things to do? This is the guide for you!
Chicago features tons of fall and holiday-themed activities during Thanksgiving weekend.
As a Midwest local, I have got you covered on the top things to do and updated event hours for the 2025 season.
The most famous Thanksgiving events include the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade and the Annual Christmas Tree-lighting Ceremony in historic Millennium Park.
Because Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday season in the windy city, tons of other holiday festivities are all around you, like the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival and Walnut Room Holiday Brunch.
But no visit to Chicago is complete without checking some of the most classic attractions off your list.
Consider one of Chicago’s famous museums, like the Art Institute or a free visit to the Lincoln Park Conservatory.
No matter how you decide to spend your trip, there are tons of things to do on Thanksgiving weekend in Chicago!
11 Things To Do Thanksgiving Weekend in Chicago
1. Chicago Thanksgiving Parade
The annual Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade has made both Chicago and national history.
I have never made it in person, but I remember watching the event on TV for years!
The parade draws thousands to watch live entertainment on floats, including DJ performances, marching bands, acrobatics, and cultural performances.
Chicago’s annual Thanksgiving Parade is from 8:00 am-11:00 am on Thanksgiving morning.
Can’t make it in person? Enjoy the live television broadcast!
🗺️Location: State Street. Begins on Ida B. Wells Drive and ends on Randolph Street
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2. Thanksgiving 5K or 8K Run
Holiday races are increasing in popularity around the United States! There are several options, known as the Turkey Trot, throughout Chicago and the surrounding Chicagoland area.
Most of these races also feature kids’ options, making it a fun Thanksgiving activity for the whole family.
Running the streets of Chicago first thing in the morning is an exciting way to experience the city!
You might even be able to catch the ending remnants of some Midwest fall foliage.
Tip: Catch more foliage on a hike near Chicago, like Starved Rock or Indiana Dunes.
3. Skydeck Chicago
If you are looking for incredible views high above the city, I highly recommend visiting The Skydeck!
Skydeck is centrally located in the famous Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower- Chicagoans will let you know!) skyscraper building.
There are plenty of available visiting time slots for Thanksgiving Weekend in Chicago in 2025.
Visit at night for dazzling city lights, or during the daytime for clear views of Chicago’s architecture.
Tip: Plan your visit during clear skies if possible.
4. Millennium Park Christmas Tree Lighting
Chicago’s annual Millennium Park Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony has been taking place for 110 years.
Join the festivities in Millennium Park with DJ entertainment and fireworks.
The event kicks off Thanksgiving weekend this year on Friday, November 21, 2025.
The event is always free to enter.
Millennium Park features “The Bean” sculpture, which is one of Chicago’s most famous architectural attractions. After the tree-lighting, I recommend visiting the Bean and strolling around the beautiful park.
Millennium Park is also walking distance from Grant Park and Lurie’s Garden for more beautiful places to stretch your feet and stroll in the windy city.
5. Navy Pier
Navy Pier is one of the most quintessential Chicago places in the entire city!
Watching Chicago’s skyline illuminate Lake Michigan is an absolute must on any Chicago itinerary.
Taking a ride on its famous Centennial Wheel (Ferris Wheel) is a classic activity.
6. Christkindl Market
Visiting a Christkindl Market is one of the most popular Christmas activities around the world, especially in Europe.
Right in the heart of Downtown Chicago, you can experience this little piece of Europe.
It is open for the holiday season from November 21st – December 24th this year!
It’s even open on Thanksgiving Day in 2025. It’s one of the Best Things To Do in Winter in Chicago!
🗺️Location: Daley Plaza
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7. Thanksgiving Dinner
There are many restaurants in Chicago offering up holiday dinners during the Thanksgiving season.
The following restaurants have served Thanksgiving dinner in Chicago in the past:
I have personally dined at Etta and love both the ambiance and the food.
Thanksgiving dinner in Chicago comes with a price tag. Keep in mind that most of these options will be costly.
8. Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival takes place on Saturday, November 22nd this year.
Its biggest claim to fame is that it is the largest nighttime parade in the United States!
The event features a dazzling parade, fireworks, appearances from Santa Claus and Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and more.
This event is very popular, so you will need to arrive super early to find a spot to watch the parade.
I was too late last year and wasn’t able to find a spot, but I watched the end of the fireworks!
🗺️Location: Michigan Avenue
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9. Walnut Room Brunch
Holiday Brunch at the Walnut Room inside Macy’s on State Street is one of the longest-standing Chicago holiday traditions.
Holiday brunch reservations begin in November, so this is a celebratory way to kick off your Thanksgiving Weekend.
I highly recommend making reservations at least a month in advance. Tables fill up very quickly.
Tip: You can take the elevator to the Walnut Room floor and admire the ginormous, color-changing tree and holiday festivities from outside of the room itself.
I did this with my friends, and it was a nice way to still experience the festivities.
10. Lincoln Park Conservatory
Lincoln Park Conservatory is closed on Thanksgiving Day, but is open Friday and throughout the entire Thanksgiving weekend.
This is one of my favorite free places in Chicago!
And it’s perfect to warm up inside the cozy greenhouse- perhaps even a bit humid at times!
While the conservatory is free, timed entry tickets are required online in advance. Book your reservation here.
11. Architecture Cruise
Taking an architecture cruise in Chicago is one of the best ways to experience the windy city, according to both locals and tourists.
Luckily, architecture cruises are provided year-round in Chicago, so this may be the perfect Thanksgiving weekend activity for you.
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Conclusion
Thanksgiving weekend in Chicago is filled with vibrant activities and traditions.
From the spectacular lights of the festival parade on Michigan Avenue to the beloved Walnut Room brunch, visitors can truly immerse themselves in the city’s festive spirit.
Whether you’re enjoying a cozy meal or experiencing breathtaking sights, Chicago provides a memorable Thanksgiving vacation filled with culture and joy!
