Christmas Events for Kids in Naperville (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

17 min read

The Naperville area has 17 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Downtown Lights Up for the Holidays in Naperville on November 2 to Winter Break Wonderland in Naperville, which runs through January 4. 7 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in Illinois, part of our guide for every state.

The short version

  • 17 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Naperville for 2026, in Naperville, Bolingbrook, Aurora and Lisle
  • First: Downtown Lights Up for the Holidays, Naperville, November 2. Runs latest: Winter Break Wonderland, Naperville, through January 4
  • Free: Downtown Lights Up for the Holidays, Naper Lights, Downtown Holiday Glow, Winter Crafts and Cocoa, BHS Madrigals Holiday Performance, Snowed In: Gingerbread STEM Challenge and Cocoa and Coloring
  • Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Illinois Christmas train rides page.

Naperville Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
17 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Naperville, Bolingbrook, Aurora and Lisle
Season
November 2, 2026 to January 4, 2027
Free events
7
Kinds of events
holiday crafts, Santa visit, holiday lights and holiday show
Last checked

Plan your December

When each Naperville Christmas event for kids happens

The first is Downtown Lights Up for the Holidays in Naperville on November 2; the last runs to January 4. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

Story time with Santa in Naperville? Bring Rally home.

Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

Like it so far? See the full book

25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.

Christmas events for kids in Naperville

11 confirmed events for kids in Naperville, soonest first.

Naperville: Downtown Lights Up for the Holidays

Holiday lightsFreeDowntown Naperville Alliance · Naperville

Host
Downtown Naperville Alliance (opens in a new tab)
Where
Downtown Naperville, W Jefferson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540
When
Monday, November 2, 2026 to Thursday, December 31, 2026 (Lights come on nightly from about 5 pm), 5 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Downtown Naperville switches on its holiday lights beginning around 5 pm on Monday, November 2, the first evening after daylight saving time ends. There is no ceremony. The lights come on gradually, and the twinkling trees and rooftops stay lit every night through December 31.

Families can stroll through the heart of downtown to see decorated storefronts, lighted displays and festive windows, and combine the walk with dinner or shopping. It is free and needs no tickets, so it is easy to fit in any evening during the season. Several other downtown events, including Naper Lights on Water Street and the Downtown Holiday Glow on November 27, add to the festive feel. The Downtown Naperville Alliance is the organizer, and the lights stay on each night, so you can pick a clear evening. Downtown shops and restaurants are open during the season, so you can pair a lights walk with dinner.

Parent tip: Free and open all season. Dress warmly for an evening walk.

See dates and details from Downtown Naperville Alliance (opens in a new tab)

Naperville: Naper Lights

Holiday lightsFreeDowntown Naperville Alliance · Naperville

Host
Downtown Naperville Alliance (opens in a new tab)
Where
Water Street, Foyo Plaza, Jaycees Park and the Riverwalk, Water St, Naperville, IL 60540
When
Thursday, November 26, 2026 to Friday, January 1, 2027 (Nightly, 4 to 10 pm), 4 to 10 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Naper Lights is a free winter wonderland of holiday lights and sound in downtown Naperville. It runs from Thursday, November 26 through Friday, January 1, from 4 to 10 pm.

Visitors stroll down Water Street, through Foyo Plaza and Jaycees Park, and along the Riverwalk to see the display. Free 3D viewing glasses are available at the event, and families are encouraged to pick them up to see the lights in a new way. Because it is on foot and outdoors, plan for the weather and bring a stroller for small children if the walk will be long. Admission is free, with no tickets. The display is spread over four downtown spaces, so allow time to walk between them, and bring a stroller for small children. Downtown restaurants are nearby if you want to warm up before or after.

Parent tip: Pick up the free 3D glasses at the event. Dress for the cold.

See dates and details from Downtown Naperville Alliance (opens in a new tab)

Naperville: Downtown Holiday Glow

Santa visitFreeDowntown Naperville Alliance · Naperville

Host
Downtown Naperville Alliance (opens in a new tab)
Where
Downtown Naperville, W Jefferson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540
When
Friday, November 27, 2026, 3 to 6 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Downtown Holiday Glow is a no-cost Black Friday gathering on November 27, running 3 to 6 pm, in downtown Naperville. After your shopping, stay for an evening of strolling entertainers, face painting, complimentary hot chocolate and holiday giveaways, while they last.

At about 5 pm, watch for Santa as he rides through downtown in a red pickup truck, since his sleigh is not yet ready. The event encourages everyone to shop, glow, dine and enjoy the season, and downtown restaurants are open for dinner afterward. Organizers bill it as a cheerful, no-cost holiday night for all ages. The Downtown Naperville Alliance runs it, and every activity is free. The entertainers and face painters roam around downtown, so no single stage needs finding, and you can explore at your own speed.

Parent tip: Santa drives through around 5 pm. Cocoa and giveaways last only while supplies remain.

See dates and details from Downtown Naperville Alliance (opens in a new tab)

Naperville: Santa's Naperville Workshop

Santa visitNaperville Park District · Naperville

Host
Naperville Park District (opens in a new tab)
Where
Santa's Naperville Workshop (location given at registration), 320 W Jackson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540
When
Monday, November 30, 2026 to Tuesday, December 22, 2026 (Mon to Fri 5 to 8 pm; Sat and Sun Dec 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 noon to 8 pm), 5 to 8 pm
Cost
Reservation required, see park district
Ages
Families
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa's Naperville Workshop offers each family its own visit with Santa inside his enchanted workshop. You must reserve a time, and walk-ups cannot be accommodated. A single family enters at a time for a short talk with Santa. Professional photos are not offered, so families are welcome to snap their own pictures and videos.

The workshop operates from Monday, November 30 to Tuesday, December 22. Weekday slots fall between 5 and 8 pm, and weekend days (Dec 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20) go from noon until 8 pm. Pets get their own night on Dec 1, military and first responders on Dec 9, and children with special needs on Dec 21 and 22. The line forms outside. When last checked, the park district page showed every slot as full.

Parent tip: All slots were marked FULL at last look, so watch for cancellations. The line is outdoors, so dress for the weather.

See dates and details from Naperville Park District (opens in a new tab)

Naperville: Holiday Family Painting Night

Holiday craftsDowntown Naperville Alliance · Naperville

Host
Downtown Naperville Alliance (opens in a new tab)
Where
Pottery Bayou, 210 S Washington St, Naperville, IL 60540
When
Thursday, December 3, 2026, 6 to 8:30 pm
Cost
See Pottery Bayou
Ages
Family
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Pottery Bayou in downtown Naperville hosts a Holiday Family Painting Night on Thursday, December 3, from 6 to 8:30 pm. The studio invites families and friends to enjoy a night of painting with holiday tunes playing.

The listing does not give a price or an age range, and it does not say whether reservations are required. Because it is a paint-your-own studio, expect to choose a piece and decorate it, and expect to pick it up after firing. Contact the studio or check its website for pricing and to reserve a spot before you go. Pottery Bayou is at 210 South Washington Street, in the middle of downtown Naperville, so you can pair the evening with dinner at a nearby restaurant. It is one of several holiday events listed by the Downtown Naperville Alliance.

Parent tip: Check the studio for price and whether to reserve. Pieces are usually picked up after firing.

See dates and details from Downtown Naperville Alliance (opens in a new tab)

Naperville: Merry Museum with Santa

Santa visitDuPage Children's Museum · Naperville

Host
DuPage Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)
Where
DuPage Children's Museum, 301 N Washington St, Naperville, IL 60540 (near Chicago)
When
Fri December 4 and Fri December 11, 2026, 5:30 to 8 pm
Cost
$22 nonmembers, $10 members from Nov 3; under 1 free with ticket
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Merry Museum with Santa turns DuPage Children's Museum into a two-night holiday celebration with a hands-on twist. Families can book a timed visit with Santa Roger (have a phone ready for photos) and then spread out to sock skating, a hot cocoa and cookie decorating station, an ice block float, reindeer games, an ornament makerspace, snowman sensory bins and melted snowman sensory bottles. The night ends with a Jingle Bell Goodbye at 7:50 pm.

Meeting Santa is optional: families who would rather skip the line can choose the Event Only ticket and still enjoy all the play. Tickets cost $22 for nonmembers and $10 for members from Nov 3, children under 1 are free but still need a ticket, and a limited number of walk-in tickets are offered once online sales sell out.

Parent tip: Book online, since Santa visits use timed tickets and walk-ins are limited. Choose Event Only if your child is not ready to meet Santa.

See dates and details from DuPage Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)

Naperville: Donuts with Santa

Breakfast with SantaNaperville Park District · Naperville

Host
Naperville Park District (opens in a new tab)
Where
Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W Jackson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 9 to 11:45 am
Cost
Registration fee, see park district
Ages
Families; infants under 12 months free
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Naperville Park District hosts Donuts with Santa at the Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center on Saturday, December 5. There are two sessions, one at 9:00 am and one at 10:45 am.

Participants sip hot chocolate and enjoy donuts from Naperville's own DeEtta's Bakery, listen to a holiday story told by Santa, and take pictures with him. Bring your own camera. Infants under 12 months of age are free, and everyone must register, including adults and infants. The park district also runs Skating with Santa on the same morning in Bolingbrook, so check the times if you want to do both. The Riverwalk Community Center is at 305 West Jackson Avenue in Naperville, and you can call 630-848-5000. Pick the session that suits your family, then arrive a few minutes early for check-in.

Parent tip: Everyone attending, including adults and infants, must register. Bring a camera.

See dates and details from Naperville Park District (opens in a new tab)

Naperville: Winter Crafts Workshop

Holiday craftsNaperville Park District · Naperville

Host
Naperville Park District (opens in a new tab)
Where
Knoch Knolls Nature Center, 2909 S Book Rd, Naperville, IL 60564
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 10 am to 3 pm
Cost
$7 residents, $10 nonresidents per person
Ages
Ages 4 and up with an adult
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Knoch Knolls Nature Center offers a Winter Crafts Workshop in two sessions on Saturday, December 5: one from 10 am to noon and one from 1 to 3 pm. Over cups of hot cocoa, guests craft a necklace made from a slice of tree, along with a milkweed ornament, a holiday tree and more.

The workshop is meant for kids ages 4 and older together with an adult. Pricing is per person, and every child and adult who attends needs to be signed up. Each family or group must bring a minimum of one adult. The fee is $7 for residents of the Naperville Park District and $10 for nonresidents. Sign up with the park district. You will find the nature center at 2909 South Book Road in Naperville. With two sessions, families can pick morning or afternoon, and the park district office, 630-848-5000, can answer registration questions.

Parent tip: Sign up every attendee, adults too. Each family or group needs at least one adult.

See dates and details from Naperville Park District (opens in a new tab)

Naperville: Kids Night Out: Gingerbread Hunt

Holiday craftsNaperville Park District · Naperville

Host
Naperville Park District (opens in a new tab)
Where
Fort Hill Activity Center, 3200 Fort Hill Dr, Naperville, IL 60564
When
Friday, December 18, 2026, 6 to 9 pm
Cost
See park district
Ages
Kids
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Naperville Park District's Kids Night Out program has a Gingerbread Hunt theme on Friday, December 18, from 6 to 9 pm at the Fort Hill Activity Center, in the childcare space called The Fort.

Kids enjoy an evening of fun with themed games and activities, plus dinner and juice. It is a drop-off style program, which gives parents a few hours for holiday shopping or a night out. The calendar listing does not give the price, age range or registration details, so check with the park district at 630-848-5000 or on the registration page before you plan on it. The Fort Hill Activity Center is at 3200 Fort Hill Drive in Naperville, and the park district office is at 630-848-5000. Because the listing is brief, ask about age limits, pick-up procedures and any allergy information when you call.

Parent tip: Confirm ages, price and drop-off rules with the park district.

See dates and details from Naperville Park District (opens in a new tab)

Naperville: Winter Break Wonderland

Holiday story timeDuPage Children's Museum · Naperville

Host
DuPage Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)
Where
DuPage Children's Museum, 301 N Washington St, Naperville, IL 60540
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026 to Monday, January 4, 2027 (During museum hours)
Cost
Included with museum admission
Ages
Children ages 0 to 10
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

During winter break, DuPage Children's Museum in Naperville turns on a Winter Break Wonderland from Saturday, December 19 through Monday, January 4. The centerpiece is an indoor sock skating rink where the ice never melts, and no coats or mittens are needed.

Other stations include a Cocoa Counter that explores math and measurement, a Mini Zamboni Table, pop-up snowball fun, ice block building, Ribbons and Winter Wings, mini snow forts, an iceberg float experiment, a winter smells station with chocolate, cinnamon and gingerbread, a Snow Box, and a Cozy Cabin respite area. A Winter Book Nook invites families to cozy up for a story time escape. The museum is designed for children ages 0 to 10, and all activities are included with admission or membership.

Parent tip: Included with admission. Check the museum for hours and any timed tickets.

See dates and details from DuPage Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)

Naperville: Bubble Bash New Year's Eve Celebration

Holiday showDuPage Children's Museum · Naperville

Host
DuPage Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)
Where
DuPage Children's Museum, 301 N Washington St, Naperville, IL 60540
When
Thursday, December 31, 2026, 9 am to 1 pm
Cost
Nonmembers $35 early bird through Nov 30, then $40; members $25 then $30
Ages
Families; free under age 1 with a ticket
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Bubble Bash is DuPage Children's Museum's family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration, held Thursday, December 31, from 9 am to 1 pm. It is now in its 24th year. Activities from 9 am to noon include designing festive wearable art, watercolor snowflakes, DIY ribbon wands, an indoor sock skating rink, snowy sensory activities and a photo booth keepsake.

Live music by Little Miss Ann, a touring family musician, plays at 10 and 11 am. At noon the countdown offers three options: a confetti countdown, a bubble shower countdown, or a quieter sensory-friendly countdown. Early bird pricing through November 30 is $25 per member and $35 per nonmember, rising to $30 and $40 from December 1. Children under 1 are free but need a ticket.

Parent tip: Buy tickets early for the lower price. A quieter sensory-friendly countdown option is offered.

See dates and details from DuPage Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Bolingbrook

4 confirmed events for kids in Bolingbrook, soonest first.

Bolingbrook: Skating with Santa

Santa visitNaperville Park District · Bolingbrook

Host
Naperville Park District (opens in a new tab)
Where
Rocket Ice Arena, 180 Canterbury Ln, Bolingbrook, IL 60440 (near Naperville)
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11:50 am to 12:50 pm
Cost
Registration fee, see park district
Ages
Families
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Naperville Park District hosts Skating with Santa in Bolingbrook, at Rocket Ice Arena. The one-hour session is on Saturday, December 5, starting at 11:50 am. The park district calls it an opportunity to mark the season by skating alongside Santa.

Those who sign up get ice time to themselves, a chance to take pictures with Santa, holiday tunes and hot chocolate. Registration through the park district is required. The listing gives no price, no skill level and no word on whether rental skates are covered, so look at the registration page for those answers before you head out. The arena sits at 180 Canterbury Lane in Bolingbrook, a short drive from Naperville, and you can reach the park district office at 630-848-5000. Since the session is only an hour, be on time to get the most from the private ice.

Parent tip: See the registration page for rental and fee details. The event is in Bolingbrook, not Naperville.

See dates and details from Naperville Park District (opens in a new tab)

Bolingbrook: BHS Madrigals Holiday Performance

Holiday showFreeFountaindale Public Library · Bolingbrook

Host
Fountaindale Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Fountaindale Public Library, 300 W Briarcliff Rd, Bolingbrook, IL 60440 (near Naperville)
When
Sunday, December 13, 2026, 1 to 2 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Bolingbrook High School Madrigals, a student vocal ensemble, give a holiday performance at Fountaindale Public Library on Sunday, December 13, from 1 to 2 pm. The calendar lists the program for all ages, so it suits families with children of any age, and it is held in the library rather than a concert hall.

There is no registration, and the performance is free. A one-hour Sunday afternoon concert is an easy way to fit live holiday music into a weekend without a big time commitment, and the library is a short drive from Naperville. The library is at 300 West Briarcliff Road in Bolingbrook, and you can call 630-685-4260 with questions. Because the performance is a student concert, it is a good chance to introduce children to live choral music.

Parent tip: Free and no registration. Arrive a few minutes early to find a seat.

See dates and details from Fountaindale Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Bolingbrook: Snowed In: Gingerbread STEM Challenge

Holiday craftsFreeFountaindale Public Library · Bolingbrook

Host
Fountaindale Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Fountaindale Public Library, 300 W Briarcliff Rd, Bolingbrook, IL 60440 (near Naperville)
When
Monday, December 21, 2026, 2 to 3 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Children and tweens
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Fountaindale Public Library in Bolingbrook offers a Snowed In: Gingerbread STEM Challenge on Monday, December 21, from 2 to 3 pm. The program is for children and tweens and is part of the library's winter break line-up.

The library calendar does not give a detailed description, but the title points to a hands-on building challenge with a gingerbread theme. Registration is required and opens on November 30 at 9 am, so sign up early because library programs fill up. The program is free. Bolingbrook sits just southeast of Naperville, so it is a short drive for Naperville families. The library is at 300 West Briarcliff Road in Bolingbrook, and its phone number is 630-685-4260. Winter break can be a long stretch, so a free one-hour program like this is a useful anchor for the day.

Parent tip: Registration opens November 30 at 9 am. Spots go quickly.

See dates and details from Fountaindale Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Bolingbrook: Cocoa and Coloring

Holiday craftsFreeFountaindale Public Library · Bolingbrook

Host
Fountaindale Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Fountaindale Public Library, 300 W Briarcliff Rd, Bolingbrook, IL 60440 (near Naperville)
When
Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 2 to 3 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Children and tweens
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Fountaindale Public Library in Bolingbrook hosts Cocoa & Coloring on Wednesday, December 23, from 2 to 3 pm, for children and tweens. It is a calm winter break activity that fits the day before Christmas Eve.

Registration is required and opens on December 2 at 9 am. The program is free. The library calendar entry is short, so expect a simple, relaxed hour of coloring and a warm drink, and contact the library if you have questions about allergies or supplies. Bolingbrook is a short drive from Naperville. The library is at 300 West Briarcliff Road, and the phone number is 630-685-4260. Because the program is short and free, it works well as a quiet break between other holiday errands and family plans that week.

Parent tip: Registration opens December 2 at 9 am.

See dates and details from Fountaindale Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Aurora

1 confirmed event for kids in Aurora, soonest first.

Aurora: Winter Crafts and Cocoa

Holiday craftsFreeAurora Public Library · Aurora

Host
Aurora Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Santori Library, 101 S River St, Aurora, IL 60506 (near Naperville)
When
Thursday, December 3, 2026, 6:30 to 7:15 pm
Cost
Free, ticket from the children's desk
Ages
Ages 6 to 11
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Aurora Public Library's Santori Library hosts Winter Crafts & Cocoa on Thursday, December 3, from 6:30 to 7:15 pm. The program is aimed at elementary-age children, ages 6 to 11.

It is a ticketed program, which means there is no online registration. Tickets can be picked up from the children's desk 30 minutes before the program starts, so plan to arrive at about 6 pm. Admission is free. Aurora borders Naperville to the west, so the library is an easy drive for families on the west side of Naperville. Santori Library is at 101 South River Street in downtown Aurora. Because tickets are handed out at the children's desk, arriving on time to pick one up is important.

Parent tip: Pick up a free ticket at the children's desk starting 30 minutes before the program.

See dates and details from Aurora Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Lisle

1 confirmed event for kids in Lisle, soonest first.

Lisle: Illumination: Tree Lights

Holiday lightsThe Morton Arboretum · Lisle

Host
The Morton Arboretum (opens in a new tab)
Where
The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL 60532 (near Naperville)
When
Saturday, November 14, 2026 to Saturday, January 2, 2027 (Evenings, timed tickets; Sensory Night Tue Nov 17)
Cost
Timed tickets, price varies by date
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Illumination is the holiday light show at The Morton Arboretum in nearby Lisle. In its 14th year, the 2026 to 2027 season brings four new installations to a winter wonderland trail for guests of all ages. It runs from Saturday, November 14, 2026 through Saturday, January 2, 2027.

Tickets are timed, and prices may differ between dates. Members get the best price, and AnyDay tickets let you pick any open night. A Sensory Night on Tuesday, November 17 offers a modified experience with static lights and music at low volume, with limited tickets. Dog admission nights are also held on a few dates, and IllumiBrew is an adults-only night. Infants aged 3 and younger are admitted free to the optional Pine Whistle Railroad add-on.

Parent tip: Book timed tickets ahead. The Sensory Night on November 17 has a limited capacity.

See dates and details from The Morton Arboretum (opens in a new tab)

Looking further afield? Our Illinois Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state, and we have city guides for Chicago, Springfield, IL and Peoria. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.

A story for the drive home

A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Naperville Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Naperville in 2026?

We confirmed 17 Christmas events for kids in Naperville for 2026 on each host’s own page: Downtown Lights Up for the Holidays in Naperville (November 2), Illumination: Tree Lights in Lisle (November 14), Naper Lights in Naperville (November 26), Downtown Holiday Glow in Naperville (November 27), Santa's Naperville Workshop in Naperville (November 30), Holiday Family Painting Night in Naperville (December 3), Winter Crafts and Cocoa in Aurora (December 3), Merry Museum with Santa in Naperville (December 4), Donuts with Santa in Naperville (December 5), Skating with Santa in Bolingbrook (December 5), Winter Crafts Workshop in Naperville (December 5), BHS Madrigals Holiday Performance in Bolingbrook (December 13), Kids Night Out: Gingerbread Hunt in Naperville (December 18), Winter Break Wonderland in Naperville (December 19), Snowed In: Gingerbread STEM Challenge in Bolingbrook (December 21), Cocoa and Coloring in Bolingbrook (December 23) and Bubble Bash New Year's Eve Celebration in Naperville (December 31). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Naperville, Illinois?

For families in and around Naperville, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Downtown Lights Up for the Holidays (Nightly, Nov 2 to Dec 31, from about 5 pm, free); Naper Lights (Nightly, Nov 26 to Jan 1, 4 to 10 pm, free); Downtown Holiday Glow (Fri, Nov 27, 3 to 6 pm, free); Santa's Naperville Workshop (Nov 30 to Dec 22, weekdays 5 to 8 pm, weekends noon to 8 pm, reservation required, see park district); Holiday Family Painting Night (Thu, Dec 3, 6 to 8:30 pm, see pottery bayou); Merry Museum with Santa (Fri, Dec 4 and Fri, Dec 11, 5:30 to 8 pm, $22 nonmembers, $10 members from nov 3; under 1 free with ticket); Donuts with Santa (Sat, Dec 5, 9 am or 10:45 am, registration fee, see park district); Winter Crafts Workshop (Sat, Dec 5, 10 am to noon or 1 to 3 pm, $7 residents, $10 nonresidents per person); Kids Night Out: Gingerbread Hunt (Fri, Dec 18, 6 to 9 pm, see park district); Winter Break Wonderland (Dec 19 to Jan 4, during museum hours, included with museum admission); Bubble Bash New Year's Eve Celebration (Thu, Dec 31, 9 am to 1 pm, nonmembers $35 early bird through nov 30, then $40; members $25 then $30). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Naperville section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Bolingbrook, Illinois?

For families in and around Bolingbrook, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Skating with Santa (Sat, Dec 5, 11:50 am to 12:50 pm, registration fee, see park district); BHS Madrigals Holiday Performance (Sun, Dec 13, 1 to 2 pm, free); Snowed In: Gingerbread STEM Challenge (Mon, Dec 21, 2 to 3 pm, free, registration required); Cocoa and Coloring (Wed, Dec 23, 2 to 3 pm, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Bolingbrook section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Aurora, Illinois?

For families in and around Aurora, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Winter Crafts and Cocoa (Thu, Dec 3, 6:30 to 7:15 pm, free, ticket from the children's desk). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Aurora section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Lisle, Illinois?

For families in and around Lisle, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Illumination: Tree Lights (Nov 14 to Jan 2, evenings (timed tickets), timed tickets, price varies by date). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Lisle section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Naperville?

Yes. 7 of the 17 events here are free: Downtown Lights Up for the Holidays in Naperville, Naper Lights in Naperville, Downtown Holiday Glow in Naperville, Winter Crafts and Cocoa in Aurora, BHS Madrigals Holiday Performance in Bolingbrook, Snowed In: Gingerbread STEM Challenge in Bolingbrook and Cocoa and Coloring in Bolingbrook. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Naperville this December?

Santa appears at Downtown Holiday Glow in Naperville (November 27), Santa's Naperville Workshop in Naperville (November 30), Merry Museum with Santa in Naperville (December 4), Donuts with Santa in Naperville (December 5) and Skating with Santa in Bolingbrook (December 5). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Naperville?

Holiday story times on this page: Donuts with Santa in Naperville and Winter Break Wonderland in Naperville. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.

Where can we have breakfast or a meal with Santa in Naperville?

Meals with Santa confirmed for 2026: Donuts with Santa in Naperville (Sat, Dec 5, 9 am or 10:45 am). These usually sell out, so book as soon as you pick a date.

Which Naperville Christmas events are best for toddlers?

These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Winter Break Wonderland in Naperville (Children ages 0 to 10).

Are there kids' Christmas events in Naperville on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?

Yes: Downtown Lights Up for the Holidays in Naperville (through December 31), Illumination: Tree Lights in Lisle (through January 2), Naper Lights in Naperville (through January 1), Winter Break Wonderland in Naperville (through January 4) and Bubble Bash New Year's Eve Celebration in Naperville (through December 31).

How much is Downtown Lights Up for the Holidays in Naperville?

Free. Downtown Lights Up for the Holidays is on Monday, November 2, 2026 to Thursday, December 31, 2026 (Lights come on nightly from about 5 pm), 5 pm at Downtown Naperville. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Illumination: Tree Lights in Lisle?

Timed tickets, price varies by date. Illumination: Tree Lights is on Saturday, November 14, 2026 to Saturday, January 2, 2027 (Evenings, timed tickets; Sensory Night Tue Nov 17) at The Morton Arboretum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Naper Lights in Naperville?

Free. Naper Lights is on Thursday, November 26, 2026 to Friday, January 1, 2027 (Nightly, 4 to 10 pm), 4 to 10 pm at Water Street, Foyo Plaza, Jaycees Park and the Riverwalk. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Downtown Holiday Glow in Naperville?

Free. Downtown Holiday Glow is on Friday, November 27, 2026, 3 to 6 pm at Downtown Naperville. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa's Naperville Workshop in Naperville?

Reservation required, see park district. Santa's Naperville Workshop is on Monday, November 30, 2026 to Tuesday, December 22, 2026 (Mon to Fri 5 to 8 pm; Sat and Sun Dec 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 noon to 8 pm), 5 to 8 pm at Santa's Naperville Workshop (location given at registration). Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Family Painting Night in Naperville?

See Pottery Bayou. Holiday Family Painting Night is on Thursday, December 3, 2026, 6 to 8:30 pm at Pottery Bayou. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Winter Crafts and Cocoa in Aurora?

Free, ticket from the children's desk. Winter Crafts and Cocoa is on Thursday, December 3, 2026, 6:30 to 7:15 pm at Santori Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Merry Museum with Santa in Naperville?

$22 nonmembers, $10 members from Nov 3; under 1 free with ticket. Merry Museum with Santa is on Fri December 4 and Fri December 11, 2026, 5:30 to 8 pm at DuPage Children's Museum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Donuts with Santa in Naperville?

Registration fee, see park district. Donuts with Santa is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 9 to 11:45 am at Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Skating with Santa in Bolingbrook?

Registration fee, see park district. Skating with Santa is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11:50 am to 12:50 pm at Rocket Ice Arena. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Winter Crafts Workshop in Naperville?

$7 residents, $10 nonresidents per person. Winter Crafts Workshop is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 10 am to 3 pm at Knoch Knolls Nature Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is BHS Madrigals Holiday Performance in Bolingbrook?

Free. BHS Madrigals Holiday Performance is on Sunday, December 13, 2026, 1 to 2 pm at Fountaindale Public Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Kids Night Out: Gingerbread Hunt in Naperville?

See park district. Kids Night Out: Gingerbread Hunt is on Friday, December 18, 2026, 6 to 9 pm at Fort Hill Activity Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Winter Break Wonderland in Naperville?

Included with museum admission. Winter Break Wonderland is on Saturday, December 19, 2026 to Monday, January 4, 2027 (During museum hours) at DuPage Children's Museum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Snowed In: Gingerbread STEM Challenge in Bolingbrook?

Free, registration required. Snowed In: Gingerbread STEM Challenge is on Monday, December 21, 2026, 2 to 3 pm at Fountaindale Public Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Cocoa and Coloring in Bolingbrook?

Free, registration required. Cocoa and Coloring is on Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 2 to 3 pm at Fountaindale Public Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Bubble Bash New Year's Eve Celebration in Naperville?

Nonmembers $35 early bird through Nov 30, then $40; members $25 then $30. Bubble Bash New Year's Eve Celebration is on Thursday, December 31, 2026, 9 am to 1 pm at DuPage Children's Museum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Naperville?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Naperville Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

Kelsey Cecil
Previous

Christmas Events for Kids in Fort Wayne (2026)
Next

Christmas Events for Kids in Peoria (2026)