Things To Do This Weekend December 6-8, 2024

By: Stephanie Wylie 12/05/2024

The holiday season in Lake County is packed with festive events that promise fun and cheer for the whole family. From dazzling light displays and enchanting train rides to cozy Victorian teas and thrilling haunted experiences, there's plenty to explore this weekend. Whether you're looking to shop for unique gifts, meet Santa or simply soak in the holiday spirit, these local celebrations offer the perfect way to make lasting memories. Read on for a roundup of can't-miss events happening this December.

Don't forget to check out Holiday Your Way in Lake County and find experiences and activites for the whole family.

Here are the things to do this weekend December 6-8, 2024.

1. Canadian Pacific Holiday Train in Gurnee

The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train is iconic, featuring an illuminated locomotive that travels across both Canada and the U.S., which will make a brief but memorable stop at Viking Park in Gurnee. The 1,000-foot train is highlighted by 14 rail cars decorated with LED lights and holiday designs. This year’s entertainment lineup includes alternative and pop group The Lone Bellow and country artist Tiera Kennedy. The magic continues as Santa Claus makes a special appearance, spreading holiday joy and posing for photos with families. The event also features Patch 22’s Petting Zoo (of Wadsworth), DJ Frank Wright playing holiday music and a complimentary snack tent. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items or monetary donations to benefit local food banks. Don’t miss this heartwarming event as the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train lights up the night in Gurnee. Parking is available at Viking Park, Viking Middle School and Warren Township High School. To learn more, visit CPKCR.com.

Saturday, December 7; 4-6 p.m. Free admission. Estimated Train arrival at 5 p.m. and departs at 5:40 p.m. Viking Park, 4374 Old Grand Ave., Gurnee.

2. Dickens of a Holiday in Libertyville

Step back in time and immerse yourself in holiday cheer at Dickens of a Holiday, hosted by MainStreet Libertyville. This cherished event transforms Libertyville into a festive wonderland. Santa Claus will be spreading joy and posing for photos in Cook Park, let your little ones pick out gifts for their loved ones at Petranek Pharmacy’s Children Holiday Shoppe (no adults allowed so the youngsters can peruse for a loved one’s gift) or experience a cozy Victorian Tea at the Libertyville Civic Center highlighted by China teacups, finger sandwiches, scones and more. Families are encouraged to get a head start on their holiday shopping in downtown Libertyville. In the spirit of giving, attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations for the Libertyville Township Food Pantry. A second installment of this event occurs at the same time December 14. This event is sure to fill your holiday season with warmth and joy. For further details, visit MainStreetLibertyville.org.

Saturday, December 7; Dickens of a Holiday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and Victorian Tea 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Dickens of a Holiday: Free admission. Victorian Tea: $50 per person. MainStreet Libertyville, Various locations in downtown Libertyville. Libertyville Civic Center, 135 W. Church St., Libertyville. 

3. Sub-Thermal Nightmare at Dungeon of Doom in Zion

Brace yourself for an icy terror like no other as Dungeon of Doom Haunted House transforms into a frozen nightmare for its two-night-only event. This legendary Zion haunt has been overtaken by a abnormal blizzard, turning its dark corridors into a perilous frozen wasteland. Prepare to navigate through icy landscapes, meet a cast of spine-chilling new characters and survive the storm's sinister secrets. Dungeon of Doom’s Sub-Thermal Nightmare promises a hauntingly unforgettable experience, blending the eerie beauty of a frozen world with the adrenaline-pumping scares that have made this haunted house a local legend. Get ready to embrace the cold and face your fears. For tickets, visit DungeonofDoom.com.

Friday-Saturday, December 6-7; Fri.-Sat.: 7-11 p.m. Admission starts at $34.99 online, onsite pricing starts at $40 (cash only). Tickets are available online at a discounted rate. Dungeon of Doom Haunted House, 600 29th St., Zion.

4. Miracle on Main Street in Lake Zurich

Discover the festive charm of the season at Miracle on Main in downtown Lake Zurich. The highlight of the evening is a magnificent 24-foot holiday tree, which will be on display throughout the season. Families can look forward to a visit from Santa Claus and his reindeer, festive crafts, horse-drawn sleigh rides, delicious treats and a jovial Candy Cane Hunt. The event features a full schedule of live performances at the main stage, such as Lake Zurich High School’s Bare Voices and Blue Notes, District 95 Elementary Schools singing groups, Cricket Theatre and more. From tree lighting to live performances and Santa sightings, it’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season in Lake Zurich. To learn more, visit lakezurich.org.

Saturday, December 7; 3-6:30 p.m. Free admission. Downtown Lake Zurich, Rotary Park, 7 E. Main St., Lake Zurich. 

5. Deerfield Holiday Winter Market

Experience a festive day of holiday fun as the annual Deerfield Holiday Winter Market returns. This family-friendly event promises a day filled with shopping, entertainment and seasonal activities. The Winter Market offers a unique opportunity to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts from local artisans, craft vendors and retail booths. The Deerfield event showcases live performances by The Caroling Party Quartet, The Hurricane Saxophone Quartet and Frozen Robins. There are plenty of fare options as the Deerfield event features food vendors like Harmonie, Tamales Express and Nothing Bundt Cakes. The Winter Market is packed with activities for children, such as an outdoor polar express train, a meet and greet Santa and Mrs. Claus, a balloon artist and more. Non-profit charities will also be on-site, allowing attendees to give back to the community during the holiday season. Don’t miss this opportunity to get into the holiday spirit. For more information, visit Deerfield.IL.us.

Saturday, December 7; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free admission. Patty Turner Center, 375 Elm St., Deerfield.

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