"Simply having a wonderful," Kringle time in Antioch where the "moon is right and the spirit's up."
Antioch is an exquisite year-round destination located beteween Chicago, Milwaukee and Rockford. When the holiday season rolls around, visitors and residents alike can experience dozens of dining options, one-of-a-kind treasures at the mom and pop shops for gift ideas, exquisite holiday art and light displays, a talented thespian group performing a Charles Dickens' staple and more all complemented by the festive and charming downtown area backdrop.
Have a holly jolly experience this holiday season at northwest Lake County in Antioch, and continue to scroll to view all of the festive activities and entertainment.
"Old Marley was as dead as a doornail." Old Jacob Marley and a cast of other memorable Charles Dickens characters create a wonderful story with costumes, scenes and storyboards. This year, visitors can enjoy this "cheerio" to the holiday brought to you by the Antioch Chamber of Commerce, indoors, at "Kringle's Christmas Village." You'll find this Olde English public art exhibit with over 40 lifelike mannequins, displaying over 25 different storylines, PLUS an amazing display of oversized holiday and winter-themed shadowboxes. The exhibit is sponsored by Raymond Chevrolet-Kia.
November 25 to January 1. Free. Located in the indoor showroom located at the far end of Piggly Wiggly Plaza, Orchard Street, in Antioch.
More info »
Along with Dickens' "spirits," enjoy even more of the holiday experience with one-of-a-kind illuminated shadowboxes. Visitors can browse and peer into these magical and whimsical scenes that provide the nostalgia of childhood memories from enjoying downtown Chicago's Marshall Field's windows.
November 25 to January 1. Free. Located in the indoor showroom at the far end of Piggly Wiggly Plaza, Orchard Street, in Antioch.
More info »
The switch is getting flipped on the 2021 Tarkowski Family Light Show. This free animated light show to get your feet tappin' and your holiday spirits soaring. Don't forget to tune your car to 88.7 FM while visiting. Grab a candy cane from their stand and consider a donation (box available) for the Antioch Traveling Closet.
Wait times are usually shorter on weekdays. Hours: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Sunday through Thursday) and 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)
Now-December 25. Free, The Tarkowski Family Light Show, 1256 Bradford Ln., Antioch.
More info »
"There must have been some magic in that old top hat they found. For when they placed it on his head, he began to dance around." Where is that jolly old soul the corn cob pipe and the button nose? Browse the participating stores in the downtown land of lakes village area to try and find that Olaf lookalike who dons an "A" on his chest. Winners of this scavenger hunt can have a chance to win Antioch Chamber gift certificates.
December 1-24; Various times and various locations in Antioch.
More info »
"I said, ooh, I'm blinded by the lights. No, I can’t sleep until I feel your touch.” – The Weeknd. Throughout December, Antioch's intention is to make the season bright. From the shadowboxes at Kringle’s Christmas Village to the characters of Dickens Holiday Village, and now, the Christmas Musical Light Show at the Antioch Bandshell. This drive-up light show located on Skidmore Drive will have signage as the shining bulbs will be keyed up to tunes (played on your radio) that highlight the holiday season. Two shows rotate on alternating days.
December 1-24; 6-9 p.m. Antioch Bandshell, Skidmore Drive, Antioch.
More info »
The answer to your question, is "yes, the man in the big red suit" can be in two places at once. Santa will be hearing what's on your wishlist and posing for the scenic gram in front of the Lake County's replica Hiram Buttrick Sawmill, representing one of the first major industries in the area.
Thursdays-Saturdays, December 3-18; Thursday (Dec. 16) and Fridays (Dec. 3, 10 & 17); 5:30-8:30 p.m., Saturdays (Dec. 4, 11 & 18); Noon-3 p.m. Hiram Buttrick Sawmill, 800 Cunningham Dr., Antioch.
More info »
This Lake County Libation Trail participant is throwing a party to quirky cork your holiday arbors. The vino station invites artists and amateurs to design and create their corknaments while tasting six Vigneto samples. Take home a cork and your favorite bottle home from the tasting. RSVP is required. Call 847-204-7352.
Friday, December 3; 6-8 p.m. Admission $40. Vigneto del Bino, 42150 N. Crawford Rd., Antioch.
More info »
"Oh yes, it's ladies night, oh what a night!" Visit the Antioch antique store for a night jam-packed with arts and crafts from local vendors. The event is also highlighted by complimentary drinks and a massage from Blu Rain Spa.
Friday, December 3; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Great Lakes Antiques Boutique, 41055, N. Illinois Route 83, Antioch.
More info »
Antioch's decked-out in Dickens this year. You surely won't be grunting Bah-humbug as the PM&L Theatre stages a Christmas Carol. Hang out with all of your favorite "Christmas Carol" amiable characters like Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, the Ghost of Christmas Present and more. Of course, Old Marley, who's still as dead as a doornail and Ebenezer Scrooge will stage the most memorable British holiday classic. This production will dazzle individuals of all ages as these talented thespains take the stage on select days throughout the holiday season.
December 3-19; 2:30 or 8 p.m. Tickets: $10-$20. PM&L Theatre, 877 Main St., Antioch.
More info »
It's always nice to help out your neighbor, especially those in need during the holiday season. Ralph's been throwing this festive party for nearly half a decade and their trying to cram three jeeps full of supplies, presents, eats and more. The Antioch bar and restaurant will conduct giveaways, offer drink specials and more.
Saturday, December 4; 7 p.m. Port of Blarney 27843 W. Grass Lake Rd., Antioch
More info »
Few items pair better than the holidays and a great glass of vino. Spend your weekend at Antioch’s premier vineyard and winery, Vigneto del Bino. The Antioch winery's two-day holiday pairing dinner is highlighted by a four-course meal and live entertainment during the dessert course. Pick up a bottle or two of the beloved vino as a gift for yourself or someone else this holiday season. RSVPs are required. Reserve yoru spot by calling 847.204.7352.
Saturday-Sunday, December 17-18; 6-8 p.m.. Vigneto del Bino Winery, 42150 Crawford Rd., Antioch.
More info »
You can't expect old man Kringle to deliver presents worldwide with out a balanced breakfast. The Irish-themed bar and eatery provide a full first meal menu and your youngsters can meet the man up close and personal to share their wishlist.
Saturday, December 18; 10 a.m. Port of Blarney, 27843 W. Grass Lake Rd., Antioch.
More info »
Visit the Antioch's Parks Department Gym for storytime, a holiday treat and craftmaking. Santa Claus himself will be in attendance to read your favorite holiday stories.
Saturday, December 18; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The Antioch Parks Department Gym, 806 Holbek Dr., Antioch.
More info »
"Candy Cane Lane, bring a friend this holiday. Bring a friend who loves to play, we'll eat all the candy canes." - Sia. Drop your youngsters off with a babysitter and head on back to the Port of Blarney to their ugly sweater part. There'll be candy canes, cocktails and of course a festive good time before you make your rounds to your family's holiday parties. Port of Blarney will provide prizes for (most attractive) outfit, ugliest sweater and most over the top costume.
Saturday, December 18; 7 p.m. Port of Blarney, 27843 W. Grass Lake Rd., Antioch.
More info »
LET'S SHOP
Visit the Antioch Chamber of Commerce for even more shopping ideas and events (click here)
This American pub and restaurant with a Northwoods-theme serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with an array of mouth-watering dishes. The Lodge of Antioch's delectable menu features hearty salads, seafood, sandwiches, pizza, pasta, ribs, homemade cheese curds and more. The eatery also offers drink and dinner specials, as well as Thursday Night Trivia.
The Lodge of Antioch, 899 Main St., Antioch.
More info »
This family-owned, three-generation bakery and confectioner has served delectable treats since 1930. Besides their legendary cakes, the Antioch eatery serves breakfast and lunch highlighted by sandwiches, wraps, salads, chili and other tasty eats.
Lovin Oven Cakery, 455 Lake St., Antioch.
More info »
This family-friendly eatery is Irish-themed located right along the Chain O'Lakes. The Antioch eatery features salads, sandwiches, burgers and pizza. The Port of Blarney is open Thursday through Sunday. Live music on most weekends.
The Port of Blarney, 27843 W. Grass Lake Rd., Antioch.
More info »
Other Antioch Eateries
For more dining options, click here.
This historic two-screen movie theatre in the heart of Antioch is a frequented hotspot. Renovated in 2015 and originally opened in 1919, the holiday season features the classic, "A League of Their Own" along with other popular Hollywood releases like "Ghostbusters: Afterlife," "Encanto," "Clifford The Big Red Dog" and "Sing 2". Movie buffs receive free popcorn and soft drink refills with purchase, along with a selection of handmade candy from nearby sweet-tooth haven, Something Sweet.
Antioch Theatre, 378 Lake St., Antioch.
More info »
Palette (symbol of the artist), Masque (symbol of the actor) and Lyre (symbol of the musician), otherwise known as PM&L Theatre, has entertained audiences for over half a century. The theatre is a non-profit, community-based volunteer organization located in the heart of downtown Antioch. Six shows a year grace this stage ranging in the style of musical, comedy and drama. "A Christmas Carol" is showing during the holiday season.
PM&L Theatre, 877 Main St., Antioch.
More info »
The Antioch Fine Arts Foundation is a nonprofit organization that aims to inspire artists of the community, open the door to learning, promote local art and provide the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals. The "AFAF" hosts a plethora of demos performances and camps during the holidays.
NEW LOCATION: Antioch Fine Arts Foundation, 925 Main Street, Antioch.
More info »
This state park is home to Illinois' largest concentration of natural lakes. In the winter months, hunting, ice fishing and ice skating are offered. Head back to the Illinois Department of Natural Resource area in the summertime and experience this haven for boating, hiking and camping. Chain O'Lakes State Park is one of two state parks (Illinois Beach State Park in Zion) in Lake County.
Border of Spring Grove and Antioch.
More info »
Located in the heart of downtown Antioch, this charming bed and breakfast was built in 1885. The Victorian facility offers room and board featuring a homemade breakfast with fresh baked goods and organic ingredients, free WIFI, a fire pit and more. The Antioch overnight stay place offers four rooms.
Dragonfly Bed & Breakfast, 1034 Main St., Antioch.
More info »
For other holiday happenings in Lake County, continue here. For more about the Village of Antioch, click here.
This website uses cookies and other similar technologies for measurement and communication... Privacy Policy.
