Christmas in Elmhurst, IL is truly magical!
From the twinkling lights downtown to festive events at Wilder Park, our charming suburb transforms into a winter wonderland every December.
Whether you’re looking for holiday events, Christmas shopping, or the perfect spot for a festive dinner, this guide has everything you need to celebrate the season in Elmhurst! 🎄
Christmas Events in Elmhurst
The Holly Trolley Returns! – November 29
The beloved Holly Trolley is back for another season! Enjoy free trolley rides every Saturday from noon to midnight through December 28th. The trolley makes convenient stops throughout downtown Elmhurst, making it easy to explore holiday lights, grab dinner, and shop local without worrying about parking. It’s one of Elmhurst’s (and my) favorite holiday traditions, so hop on and enjoy the festive ride!
📍 Every Saturday from November 29 – December 28, 2025, Multiple locations in Elmhurst
Holiday Home Decorating Contest – December 1 – 14
Ready to show off your holiday decorating skills? The Elmhurst Park District’s “Deck the Homes” contest is back! Submit photos of your decorated home or business through December 14th, and your property will be featured on an interactive community map. Community voting opens December 15th, with winners announced December 19th. It’s a fun way to celebrate neighborhood holiday spirit and discover the most festive homes around town.
📍 December 1 – 14, 2025, Online
Holiday Tree Lighting at Wilder Park – December 4
Kick off the holiday season at Elmhurst’s official tree lighting ceremony on Wednesday, December 4th from 5:30-7:00 PM at Wilder Park. This beloved community tradition features live music, holiday treats, and of course, the magical moment when the tree lights up. Santa will be there too! Bring the whole family to Wilder Park (corner of Prospect and St. Charles) for this free event that marks the official start of Christmas in Elmhurst.
📍 December 4, 2025 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm, Wilder Park
Festival of Lessons & Carols – December 5
Experience the beauty of traditional Christmas music at Elmhurst University’s Festival of Lessons and Carols on Thursday, December 5th at 7:30 PM. Held at Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel on campus, this cherished tradition features scripture readings paired with classic carols performed by university musicians. It’s free and open to the public, and it’s a beautiful way to pause and reflect during the busy holiday season.
📍 December 5, 2025 at 7:30pm, Hammerschmidt Chapel, Elmhurst University
Holiday Flower Show at Wilder Park Conservatory – December 6
Step into a tropical winter escape! The Wilder Park Conservatory’s annual Holiday Flower Show opens December 6th and runs through early January. The star of the show is the always stunning poinsettia tree, surrounded by gorgeous seasonal blooms throughout the conservatory. It’s the perfect free activity for a chilly day, and the warm, humid environment filled with vibrant flowers is a welcome break from winter gray.
📍 December 6 – January 2026, Wilder Park Conservatory
Hometown Holiday Fest – December 6
Mark your calendar for Friday, December 6th when downtown Elmhurst comes alive with holiday festivities during Hometown Holiday Fest!
Santa and his friends will be on hand for classic photo opportunities! And you can enjoy seasonal activities (like history games and trivia from the Elmhurst History Museum!), holiday face painters, free hot chocolate courtesy of Kilwin’s, coffee and treats, and more!
📍 December 6, City Centre Fountain Plaza
Santa at Wilder Mansion – December 6-7
Bring the kids to meet Santa at the beautiful historic Wilder Mansion! Photos with Santa are available Friday, December 6th from 5:00-8:00 PM and Saturday, December 7th from 10:00 AM-1:00 PM. Advanced registration is required through the Elmhurst Park District. The historic mansion is a magical setting for holiday photos and adds extra charm to your Santa pictures!
📍 December 6 from 5:00-8:00 PM, and December 7 from 10:00AM-1:00PM, Wilder Mansion
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas at York Theatre – December 11-14
Get into the holiday spirit at the historic York Theatre, which will be beautifully decorated for the season!
They’re showing the 2000 Jim Carrey classic “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” for its 25th anniversary from December 12th through 14th!
📍 December 11 -14 , York Theatre
Brunch with the Grinch at Zap Taco House – December 14
The Grinch is coming to Elmhurst! Zap Taco House is hosting a Brunch with the Grinch on Saturday, December 14th from 10:30 AM to noon. This all-you-can-eat buffet features scrambled eggs, pancakes, bacon, sausage, a taco bar, mini burritos, and more.
Adults receive a holiday cocktail with their ticket, while kids get a Grinch sundae and gift bag. Tickets are $40 for adults, $20 for kids, and free for little ones 2 and under. Reservations are required!
📍 December 14 from 10:30AM – 12:00PM, Zap Taco House
Brunch with Santa at Primos Locos – December 21
New this year! Primos Locos is hosting Brunch with Santa on Sunday, December 21st from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Enjoy brunch while the kids snap photos with Santa. It’s a fun, festive way to squeeze in one more Santa visit before the big day.
(They’re also partnering with Toys for Tots, so bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate and receive a $10 bonus gift card!)
📍 December 21 from 10:00AM – 2:00PM, Primos Locos
Christmas Dining (& Drinks!) in Elmhurst
Looking for the perfect spot to celebrate with friends, family, or coworkers? These Elmhurst restaurants and bars bring festive vibes all season long.
151 Elmhurst – 151 N York St.
Whether you’re planning a holiday party or just want a special dinner out, 151 Elmhurst is a downtown favorite! They have beautiful decorations for the season and feature festive holiday drinks on their menu.
This year on their menu, they’ll feature amazing options like a Ho-Ho-Horchata White Russian, Filet Medallions with a truffle potato terrine, and a Dark Chocolate Praline Bar (YUM!).
Lezza Italian Bakery – 554 Spring Rd.
Don’t forget dessert! This local Italian bakery is your go-to for holiday cookies, pastries, and traditional Italian Christmas treats. Stock up for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or just to have something sweet on hand when guests drop by.
Pazzi di Pizza – 112 S York St.
This beloved Elmhurst pizza spot goes all in on holiday drinks this season. Try their Figgy Spritz, a festive twist on the classic Hugo Spritz made with fresh fig, or their Pazzi Christmas classic: the Winter Coconut Margarita featuring white cranberry, coconut, and premium tequila.
Pair those seasonal sips with their delicious pizza for a laid-back holiday gathering with friends or family!
Primos Locos – 122 S York St.
Looking for something fun and lively? Primos Locos brings serious festive energy with mariachi music and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for holiday celebrations with groups. It’s a great spot when you want your Christmas gathering to feel like a party.
Throughout the month of December, they’ll also feature holiday-themed cocktails as well as food specials.
This year, they’re introducing Brunch with Santa on Sunday, December 21st from 10am – 2pm. They’ll have Santa available to take pictures with kids during brunch.
Plus, they’re partnering with Toys for Tots, so bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate and you’ll receive a $10 bonus gift card!
Tannins Wine Bar – 112 N York St.
This cozy wine bar is perfect for an intimate holiday date night or catching up with friends over seasonal cocktails and small plates. The warm, candlelit atmosphere makes it feel extra festive during the holidays.
One of my favorite holiday events in town is their Gingerbread House Party. It’s a fun way to socialize and be creative while enjoying a few festive drinks! You can sign up on their website.
Christmas Shopping in Elmhurst
Skip the crowded malls (which I don’t even wish on my worst enemy!) and support local! Elmhurst’s downtown is packed with unique boutiques perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list.
And you can feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie while shopping for that special someone!
Carousel Flowers – 527 S York St.
Elevate your holiday décor or surprise someone with a gorgeous seasonal arrangement from Carousel Flowers. They create stunning holiday centerpieces, wreaths, and arrangements perfect for hostess gifts or making your own home feel festive. Local flower shops just hit different during the holidays!
Cottage Hill Diamonds – 125 N York St.
Planning to pop the question during the holidays? Or maybe you want to give something truly special? Cottage Hill Diamonds is a local family-owned jeweler offering beautiful engagement rings, fine jewelry, and custom pieces. Shopping local for something this important means personalized service and supporting an Elmhurst business.
Crush Collectibles – 510 Spring Rd., #2
Your destination for fun, unique gifts and collectibles. Whether you’re shopping for pop culture fans, toy collectors, or anyone who appreciates quirky finds, Crush has something special.
Edie Boutique – 129 N. York St.
This stylish women’s boutique offers curated clothing, accessories, and jewelry perfect for holiday parties or gifting. If you’re looking for that special outfit for New Year’s Eve or a thoughtful gift for the fashionista in your life, Edie is worth a visit.
Kie & Kate – 559 Spring Rd.
This charming boutique carries beautiful pieces for women and children, making it easy to knock out multiple people on your list in one trip. Owner Kate, a mom and former teacher, curates stylish, quality items you won’t find at big box stores. Pro tip: She goes live on Instagram every Wednesday to showcase new arrivals, so you can browse before you visit.
Sole House – 140 N York St.
Sneakerheads and shoe lovers, this one’s for you! Sole House carries a curated selection of premium sneakers and footwear. Perfect for treating yourself or the sneaker collector on your list.
Merry Christmas, Elmhurst!
Christmas in Elmhurst truly captures small-town holiday magic. From the poinsettia tree at the conservatory to the twinkling Holly Trolley rides through downtown, there’s something special about celebrating the season in this community. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just discovering all that Elmhurst has to offer, we hope this guide helps you make the most of the holidays.
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