CHICAGO, IL — The 35th Annual Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival will take place on November 21, 2026, in downtown Chicago. This free event features daytime concerts by Neon Trees, Michael James Scott, Thelma Houston, and others, along with a parade led by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World Resort. The festivities include the lighting of one million lights on over 200 trees along North Michigan Avenue, a parade with floats, balloons, marching bands, and a grand finale fireworks display over the Chicago River.

The parade begins at 5:30 p.m. and travels south on North Michigan Avenue before ending at Columbus Drive, followed by the Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular. Additional activities include free photos with Santa, cheesecake decorating, and performances by various musical groups. The event is supported by Wintrust, Enjoy Illinois, and Kia, and will be broadcast on ABC 7 Chicago and Disney+ the following day for a wider audience.

CREDIT: The Magnificent Mile Association
Original release on GlobeNewswire