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Tips to Experience the Best of the Lights Fest

Wear Your Sweater and Collect Your Wristband

Let's together break our existing record for the most holiday sweaters at a parade! Collect a wristband from a world record steward along Michigan Avenue so that you and your sweater are counted. Wristbands will be handed out from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. along the parade route.
Happy Crowds with Volunteer

Top Viewing Spots

Remember that Michigan Avenue is less crowded on the east side of the street, especially on the north end of the parade route.

The Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular happens over the DuSable Bridge (formerly Michigan Avenue Bridge) at approximately 7:00 p.m., so standing along Wacker Drive is a prime place to view the show!

This year, thanks to a grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and Enjoy Illinois, guests can experience several exciting new activities for the first time including brand new illumination of the parade route! Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World® Resort will magically illuminate select blocks along the parade route near the Chicago River with brilliant new lighting.

If you want to get your favorite spot for the tree lighting parade, be sure to make your way across the bridge before 3:00 p.m.

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The Magnificent Mile Visitor Center

The Magnificent Mile Visitor Center will be open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Stop by with any questions or needs. The Magnificent Mile Ambassadors will also be walking along Michigan Avenue, ready to help you with directions, recommendations, helpful tips, and more, throughout the day.

Wheelchair Accessible viewing is available for the Parade and Fireworks:

· Arriving by Car: Wheelchair automobile drop-off will be available in the northbound curb lane of Wabash Avenue just North of Trump International Hotel. Look for our volunteer team to assist.

· Area entrance: You may access this plaza from Wabash Avenue (above Hubbard Street) along the walkway or by Michigan Avenue from the North. Look for our volunteer team to assist.

Please note: DuSable Bridge (formerly Michigan Avenue Bridge) closes as early as 3:00pm to pedestrian traffic, so be sure to cross over before that time, or consider an alternate route such as N. Columbus Drive Bridge. Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive will close as early as 3:00pm to vehicular traffic.

*Due to limited available space, only one guest will be permitted with each individual in a wheelchair to ensure that we can accommodate as many people as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

 

Getting Here

We encourage the use of public transportation to get downtown. Most Metra lines offer weekend service, and customers can buy a Saturday Day Pass for just $7. Plus, up to three children 11 and under can ride free with each fare-paying adult. For more information go to metra.com.

 
Parking
Millennium Garages offers 15% off our lowest online rates for the Light Festival Parade.  Grant Park North, Millenium Park and Lakeside Garages are located closest to the south end of the parade route.  Enter promo code LIGHTS24 to receive 15% off 12-hours or more and a chance to win a week of free parking.  Planning a holiday staycation?  Our Extended Stay parking includes Unlimited In/Out Access for the duration of your stay.  Promo code valid from November 16 - January 2, 2025 

Reserve your parking here.

Prepare for The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival®!

With street closures beginning as early as 3 p.m., and others later, it’s best to check the full schedule for smooth travel. See the complete list of closures and event times.

 

Public Restrooms

 

Lights Festival Lane, Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan Avenue

900 North Michigan Shops, 900 N. Michigan Avenue

Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michigan Avenue

The Shops at North Bridge, 520 N. Michigan Avenue

 

 

First Aid

 

If you require emergency medical attention, please call 911. Northwestern Memorial Hospital is located at 251 E. Huron Street.

 

Street Closures

During The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, street closures are anticipated around the district. Please plan your day!