Light up the Lake at Navy Pier

Courtesy of Navy Pier

Chicago’s largest indoor light experience is a family fun tradition. Light Up The Lake returns to Navy Pier from November 29 to January 5, 2025, for lots of interactive activities.

Dive into twinkling holiday magic with Light Up The Lakes light displays, games, visits with Santa and more. This year, a new collection of activities have been added to the experience.

Photo courtesy of Navy Pier

New holiday-themed drone shows will thrill everyone and a two-story ice slide will supply four lanes of super-fast, slippery fun. The Wave Swinger will offer a wintertime adrenaline rush for the first time, every weekend.

Gather around firepits that are open to the public and will also have S’mores available for purchase.  On weekends, holiday workshops featuring guest artists, local artisan markets, live music, an art gallery and Saturday fireworks are part of the free activities.

The ice slide, Wave Swinger, tea cups, axe throwing and rides on the heated Centennial Wheel are options for ticketed activities for purchase as single events or pre-bundled packages. 

Returning Activities

Winter Wonderland Lights

 A glittering spectacle of outdoor lights visible from DuSable Lake Shore Drive will turn Navy Pier into a magical winter wonderland.

Axe Throwing

Guests can test their target skills with exciting axe-throwing games with glistening Lake Michigan as the backdrop. Tickets come in packs of five or 12 throws.

Centennial Wheel

Each ticket includes a ride on Navy Pier’s iconic 200-foot Centennial Wheel, offering 360-degree views of the decorated city and frosty Lake Michigan.