Holiday Your Way with Waukegan Events
Simply having a wonderful Kringle time in Waukegan where the moon is right and the spirit's up...
The gallery, which plays off Greentown legend Ray Bradbury, is an exceptional art collective and studio committed to promoting artists, while also providing education to those who are interested by the scene. The Waukegan gallery provides a ton of events for you to create a wonderful holiday gift for a special someone. Continue scrolling to view all of their events.
- Holiday Gift-Making Poly Art Social (Nov. 21) INFO»
- Holiday Mixed-Media Collage Art (Nov. 30) INFO»
- Wood-Burning Gift-Making Workshop (Dec. 13) INFO»
- Holiday Candle Gift-Making Art Social (Dec. 13) INFO»
Through December 13; various times. Dandelion Art Gallery and Studio, 109 S. Genesee St., Waukegan.
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Waukegan's venerable Belvidere Discount Mall, a cornerstone of Lake County's retail landscape since its grand opening in 1965 is proudly marking its 60th anniversary! This significant milestone honors six decades of service, adaptation and unwavering support for the local community and small business owners. The celebration features an official anniversary ribbon-cutting event, an engaging exhibit charting its journey, family activities, live entertainment and a free screening of the classic film "E.T. - The Extra Terrestrial."
Saturday, November 22; noon-6 p.m. Belvidere Mall, 2107 Belvidere Rd., Waukegan.
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"Happy Holiday. While the merry bells keep ringing, happy holidays to you." The Waukegan Park District has myriad events geared toward family fun all season long. Maybe your youngster has a fancy for baking or viewing holiday decor and may just want to sing, dance, and party. Whatever it is that makes your holiday season go 'round, the Waukegan Park District has the programming for you and your family. Continue scrolling to see what's up with the City of Progress's parks and rec vibe:
- Fitsgiving at the Field House Sports, Fitness and Aquatics Center (Nov. 26) INFO»
- Go Waukegan: Winter Wonderland Walk at the Jack Benny Plaza (Nov. 29) INFO»
- Miniature Woven Ornaments at The Jane Addams Center (Dec. 1 and 8) INFO»
- One Night Holiday Dance at Jack Benny Center for the Arts (Dec. 2) INFO»
- Holiday Card Printing at the Waukegan History Museum at the Carnegie (Dec. 3) INFO»
- Holiday Nature Snow Globe at the Bevier Center (Dec. 5) INFO»
- Parent and Child Arts Park at the Waukegan History Museum at the Carnegie (Dec. 6) INFO»
- Holiday Open House at the Haines House Museum (Dec. 6) INFO»
- Joseph A. Favero "Do-it-Yourself Messiah and Carol Sing Along at Orlin Trapp Auditorium (Dec. 7) INFO»
- Bowen Park Theatre presents "A Charlie Brown Christmas" at the Jack Benny Center (Dec. 12-14) INFO»
- Couples' Holiday Paint at the Jane Addams Center (Dec. 18) INFO»
- Holiday Adventures-Candy Cane Day at Belvidere Recreation Center (Dec. 22) INFO»
- Holiday Adventures-Christmas Character at the Belvidere Recreation Center (Dec. 23) INFO»
- Holiday Adventures-Holiday Hats at the Belvidere Recreation Center (Dec. 26) INFO»
- Holiday Adventures-Ugly Christmas Sweaters at the Belvidere Recreation Center (Dec. 29) INFO»
- Holiday Adventures-Flannel Day at the Belvidere Recreation Center (Dec. 30) INFO»
- 27th Annual Waukegan Polar Bear Plunge at Waukegan Municipal Beach (Jan. 1) INFO»
- Holiday Adventures-New Year, New Me at the Belvidere Recreation Center (Jan. 2) INFO»
Late November-early January, Various Waukegan Park District locations.
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Forget your grandma's eggnog—in Waukegan, the Puerto Rican Society is proving that the holidays are best celebrated with a kick. They're back for their 2nd Annual Coquito Fest, and the competition is heating up faster than a cup of café con leche! This isn't just a party; it's a coquito showdown. Local liquid artisans square off, battling for bragging rights (and cash prizes!) for the best traditional and most unique flavored takes on the creamy, coconut-based holiday staple. But wait, there's more! Beyond the taste-testing tussle, the event is a full-on celebration of culture. Think fierce domino games, lively music to get you moving, and a delicious spread of frituras and pastries because, let's be honest, you can't sip all that coquito on an empty stomach. If you thought holiday cheer was just about stringing lights, think again. The Puerto Rican Society is bringing the flavor, the fun, and the coquito fire to Sheridan Road, making this one event that truly tastes like Christmas.
Saturday, November 29; 5 p.m. Puerto Rican Society, 150 S. Sheridan Rd., Waukegan.
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The City of Progress library hosts a market that will provide unique gifts for that special someone this holiday season. The market showcases 20+ artisans selling everything from stocking stuffers to that marquee gift. Jolly old Saint Nicholas will appear, checking his list twice to see what he's bringing your youngsters and also to snap a pic for the gram and/or Christmas cards.
November 29; 4-8 p.m. Waukegan Public Library, 128 N. County St., Waukegan.
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"This little light of mine. I'm gonna let it shine." The City of Progress plugs in the illuminants to the holiday arbor in the downtown area. A list of who's who will be in attendance including the mayor, surprise guests and of course the man in the big red suit.
November 29; 5 p.m. Jack Benny Plaza, Clayton and Genesee Streets, Waukegan.
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The tunes will be abundant with seasonal cheer at the Waukegan staple. The lineup includes Grammy winners and nominees, an American Idol winner and double platinum music artists—Ruben Studdard, Sheena Easton, Peabo Bryson, and Ilya Servov. These four artists will be performing Christmas classics and greatest hits, and it's not a night to miss out on.
December 5; 7:30 p.m. Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan.
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"Baby You got them big bulbs, flashin' in your window tonight." - the late Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings. Festivities are on the horizon as the Waukegan Historical Society hosts an open house in one of Lake County's eldest homes. Plenty of cheer, the home dolled up in its holiday bestest and light refreshments are highlighted in this event as individuals will tour the Waukegan staple.
Saturday, December 6; 1917 N. Sheridan Rd., Waukegan. Haines House Museum at Bowen Park.
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Celebrate the holiday season with legendary composer-producer David Foster and talented singer-actress Katharine McPhee as they entertain with an evening of stories, songs and hilarious banter. This power couple will perform four decades of hit music created by Foster, as well as some of your favorite holiday songs for a night to help you kick off the festive season.
Saturday, December 6; 8 p.m. Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan.
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Experience the magic of RAIN: A Beatles Christmas Tribute, a spirited holiday concert that blends the warmth of the season with the timeless energy of The Beatles. Celebrated as one of the premier tribute groups on the road, RAIN’s talented performers bring the band’s signature style and charisma to life with impressive authenticity. The show features vibrant costumes, dazzling visuals and stunningly accurate renditions of beloved classics, all wrapped in a fresh Christmas theme. It’s a joyful, nostalgia-filled event designed to delight audiences of all ages. Bring family and friends and enjoy an evening of Beatles favorites reimagined for the holiday season.
Sunday, December 7; 7 p.m. Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan.
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Visit Waukegan High School's for an evening of holiday cheer. The City of Progress' Symphony Orchestra performs its annual "Do-it-Yourself Messiah and Carol Sing Along" featuring the Christmas portion of George Frideric Handel's "Messiah" as well as a slew of traditional carols. Visitors are encouraged to sing along in this community tradition.
December 7; 7 p.m., Orlin Trapp Auditorium, 2325 Brookside Ave., Waukegan.
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Be warmed with holiday cheer at The Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour at Genesee Theatre. Featuring platinum-selling contemporary saxophonist Dav Koz, this show also stars two-time Grammy nominee Jonathan Butler on guitar and vocals, Postmodern Jukebox and American Idol artists Haley Reinhart on vocals and Casey Abrams on bass and vocals and acclaimed keyboardist Kayla Waters. Relish in the Christmas spirit with a mix of seasonal favorites and the artists' own hits for an evening of smooth jazz and all the best holiday vibes.
Wednesday, December 10; 7:30 p.m. Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan.
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Get ready for Big Bad Voodoo Daddy's Wild and Swingin' Holiday Party, featuring grooving Christmas classics and lively originals with big band bass and vintage vibes. Grab the whole family for a holly jolly good time at this concert and witness an incredible show by this renowned swing and jazz band. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy's Holiday Party promises to fill you with holiday cheer and high-energy to last you the whole season.
Thursday, December 11; 7:30 p.m. Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan.
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Known for tons of flicks like "True Lies," "Coneheads," "Soul Plane" and more, the funny man makes his way to American Place Casino just in time for the holiday giggles. The four-time SNL host has won a Golden Globe and a Peabody Award. Get some laughs and hit the slots!
Friday, December 12; 8 p.m. The Lighthouse at American Place Casino, 4011 Fountain Square Pl., Waukegan.
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Fall in love again with son of renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli. Matteo sings many different genres all mashed into one as he his career has gained steam with his classical and modern-pop sound. The 400-million+ YouTube viewed artist provides a calming vibe for the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
Friday, December 12; 8 p.m. Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan.
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"Good grief! You’re a blockhead, Charlie Brown." Based on the “Peanuts” comic strip by Charles M. Schulz, Charlie Brown and the gang explore the true meaning of Christmas as they navigate through adolescence in this comedic musical. Visit Genesee Theatre for the jazzy tunes of Vince Guaraldi's score, a post sho, sing-along concert and enjoy a little Peanut nostalgia.
December 12-14; Fri.: 7-8 p.m., Sat and Sun.: 3-4 p.m. Jack Benny Center for the Arts, 39 Jack Benny Dr., Waukegan.
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This country band rose to quick fame and is a powerhouse in its genre since its inception in 2006. They’ve won seven Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year and Album of the Year. The trio has sold over 18 million units, notched nine no.1 singles on the country chart. The trio tandem has made it known that they're here to stay for a long, long time.
December 13; 7:30 p.m. Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan.
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The Nutcracker is a staple of the holiday season, especially when it’s the night before Christmas Eve. The Genesee Theatre in Waukegan opens its curtain for the annual Dancecenter North ballet originally composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. This legendary story follows a group of family and friends gathered together for a Christmas celebration. Clara, the story’s protagonist, is given a Nutcracker gift from her godfather. When the children go to bed, Clara stays awake and finds herself in the middle of a battle between a slew of mice and toy soldiers – and thus, the magic ensues with the soldiers led by the Nutcracker himself.
December 18-19; 6:30 p.m. Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan.
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Are you ready for a monthly celebration of art, culture and community? Look no further than ArtWauk, a dynamic event transforming Downtown Waukegan into a thriving hub of creativity every third Saturday of the month. The Waukegan Arts and Entertainment District comes alive with theaters, galleries and venues featuring visual and performing arts. The Dandelion Gallery and Studio features a ton of art exhibitions and workshops. Stop by for a brew or two from the Ray Bradbury-inspired Lake County Libation Trail partner, Nightshade and Dark’s Pandemonium Brewing Co. Head to Genesee Theatre as the storied mainstay presents "Home for the Holidays." Discover the magic, meet the artists and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of ArtWauk.
December 20; 5-9 p.m. Various Downtown Waukegan locations.
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Master violinist Lindsey Stirling will dazzle you this holiday season with The Snow Waltz Tour, a show combining dance and music to create a celebration full of high energy and festive spirit. Stirling fascinates her audience with stunning choreography and her unique sound, blending classical, pop, hip-hop and electronic music styles. The Snow Waltz Tour is designed for all ages and captures the magic of the season.
December 20; 8 p.m. Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan.
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American Place Casino Holiday Market (December 20)
For one day-lightful occasion, American Place Casino's parking lot will be transformed into a holiday market. Decked out with twinking light, live music, fare and libations, you are in for a festive holiday shopping experiences. You may even catch a glimpse of Santa - that's a sure bet and a market packed iwth incredible local vendors who are offering some great odds and ends. The market is open to visitors of all ages, however entry to the casino is only for individuals ages 21 and elder.
December 20; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. American Place Casino Parking Lot, 4011 Fountain Square Pl., Waukegan.
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bodeans at the genesee theatre (December 26)
The Wisconsin-native band released singles that made it in the top 40 mainstream rock charts as well as the top 10 in the adult contemporary charts. Their most famous song “Closer to Free” is the theme song to 1990s sitcom “Party of Five.” Chill out and listen to some tunes for a little after-Christmas treat!
Friday, December 26; 8 p.m. Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan.
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Carbonaro, the man who proves that getting way with a little trickery is just a mastter of good misdirection, is the renowned for his hidden camera comedy. He's the reason store clerkks now double-check their inventory for spontaneously appearing alien crabs. This all ages show is a splendid way to ring in the new year.
Saturday, December 27; 7:30 p.m. Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan.
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"I'll get you my pretty and your little dog too." Celebrate ringing in 2025 as the City of Progress casino hosts a night to remember with live entertainment and phenomenal prizes. Between merchandise giveaways, the midnight countdown and the chance to win up to $10,000-$15,000. Follow the yellow brick road to American Place Casino this New Year's Eve.
December 31-January 1; 5 p.m.-1 p.m. American Place Casino, 4011 Fountain Square Pl., Waukegan.
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Tis the season to be freezin.’ Already Lake County has been hit with a lot of snow and low mercury temps. Kick 2026 off by chilling in the 27th annual Polar Bear Plunge in Waukegan. This Waukegan Municipal Beach event awards a polar plunge shirt to the first 500 brave souls who take a dip in the drink. Water shoes or other footwear are required. Food, hot chocolate and polar bear hats will be sold on site. If you’re not enticed by a frigid hug with Lake Michigan, cheer your friends and family from slightly warmer shores.
January 1; 10-11 a.m. Waukegan Municipal Beach, 201 Sea Horse Dr., Waukegan.
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For other holiday happenings in Lake County, continue here. For more about the City of Waukegan, click here.
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