6 Fun Holiday Activities Near Aurora and Romeoville

It's the most wonderful time of the year and Chicagoland has lots of exciting events going on. There's something for everyone at the following seven events, so be sure to check them out!

Drive through an amazing holiday lights display through December 26. The fun starts at 5 p.m. nightly and ends at 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and at 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. While the event is free, donations are appreciated.

Even though this show only consists of a single house, it's one amazing house! For ten years, Brian Larsen has added more lights, which he has synchronized to music. His work has even been featured on ABC and won first place in "The Great Christmas Light Fight." This year his display has over a million lights, so go see them for yourself. Visit Monday through Thursday from 5 to 10:30 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 5 p.m. until midnight. The show runs through Monday, January 2.

Leave the kids with a babysitter and have some fun with grown ups at Jingle and Mingle. On Thursday, December 15 from 7:30 to 10 p.m., you can decorate cookies, visit with Santa, dance the night away, and enjoy the open bar. Make sure you wear your tackiest Christmas sweater for a chance to win prizes and then pose with your friends in the photo booth.

People of all ages will be amazed by the illuminated trees at the arboretum. In addition to beautiful lights, there will be interactive displays and warming stations. Although Illumination runs through Monday, January 2, make sure you check the website to be sure of hours and closings. Certain nights also have theme, as Tuesdays are Festive Sweater Nights, Wednesdays are Champion Gear Nights, and Thursdays are Glow Wear Nights. Stop by the Membership Desk for a free gift if you participate.

The Christkindlmarket will make you feel like you've gone on vacation in Europe. You can purchase unique gifts and ornaments, delicious foods, and enjoy beer and wine. Check the hours and dates on the website; the last day to enjoy either event is Christmas Eve.

Your reward for driving 45 minutes to Bolingbrook is 250,000 lights choreographed to the music of the Trans Siberian Orchestra. Visit between 5 and 9 p.m. through Saturday, December 31 to see the free show.

Do you plan on attending any of these events? Let us know in the comments section below!