ABLAZE Design Group!
Home goods, painting, design build projects.

ABLAZE Design Group
259 Waukegan Ave, Highwood, IL 60040
847-579-1600
Ablaze Design Group is your one stop shop for remodeling, painting, and decorating services on the north shore. We also have a retail store and design showroom open to the public. Visit to find the best home goods selection in town!
Instagram: @ablazedesigngroup
Discount: 25% OFF ALL Retail Store items [ABLAZE25], 20% OFF Hunter Douglas Window Treatments, 15% OFF Interior Painting – just mention North Shore Moms!

Dr. Julia Milman Aesthetic Medicine – The Glow Trifecta

Dr. Julia Milman Aesthetic Medicine – The Glow Trifecta
Give the gift of glow. This three-step treatment — Diamond Glow, Dermaplaning, and a Micro Peel — delivers radiant, photo-ready skin that feels as good as it looks. The ultimate way to pamper someone you love. $125 off for Chicago North Shore Moms gift guide viewers! Book The Glow Trifecta here.
Instagram: @dr.julia.milman
224-282-2964

Oh Happy Day Confections for custom sweet boards

Oh Happy Day Confections is a woman-owned custom confectionery, specializing in delectable hand-dipped chocolate confections, as well as colorful and creatively-designed gummy boards. We provide one-of-a-kind confections perfect for corporate gifting, Bar and Bat Mitzvah’s, sweet table arrangements, party favors, weddings, college commitments, graduations, holidays, anniversaries, birthdays, showers, shivas, and any other life event you could think of. Order on Etsy.com.
Instagram: @ohhappydayconfections

Sorella Sol
Unique Home Decor, Fashion & Art

Sorella Sol is a sister-run lifestyle brand inspired by color, creativity, and everyday joy. Based in Lake Forest and Philadelphia, we design giftable home goods and accessories — from goat wine bags to block-print–inspired pillows and pajamas. Each piece blends color and character for a fresh, feel-good gift! Pictured above: *Ruffle Pillow Shams (Retail $48) and *Goat Wine Bag (Retail $68)
Instagram @shopsorellasol
Discount: Enjoy 15% off with code NSM15 — good for one use through December 25th. Plus, free shipping on orders over $100

IMMA Acupuncture & Wellness
Holistic acupuncture • Women’s health • Fertility support • Gut healing • Stress + burnout care

IMMA Acupuncture + Wellness
60 Revere Drive, Suite 907, Northbrook, IL
(224) 213-7070
IMMA is your go-to North Shore sanctuary for acupuncture, integrative women’s health, fertility support, and whole-body wellness. Our team blends Eastern medicine with modern, compassionate care to help women feel grounded, energized, and supported in every season of life. From stress relief to gut healing to fertility journeys, IMMA is the place where mothers (and mothers-to-be) come home to themselves.
Instagram: @imma.wellness
Discount for Northshore Moms: $25 Off Your First Acupuncture Session with code IMMA25MOMS 10% Off All Supplement Purchases in-clinic through 2025— just mention North Shore Moms Gift Guide

Babs Boards!
Charcuterie

Babs Boards
Hosting this holiday season but don’t know where to start? Babs will guide you through all of the details to ensure you have fun at your own party! Need to bring an appetizer? Treat your host (or your guests) to a signature Babs charcuterie board, beautifully styled and always memorable.
Instagram: @babsboards
Order a charcuterie board: Babs Charcuterie Boards
773-315-8253

SimplyOrganized Professional Organizing!

SimplyOrganized Professional Organizing
224-766-0518
Get Organized in a Day — Spark Joy This Holiday Season! Dreaming of your home beautifully decorated for the holidays, but the mere thought exhausts you? Craving some new inspiration for your holiday decor? Can’t find the time to get your holiday cards done and sent? Love decorating, but taking everything down is another story? Let us help you step into the spirit of the holidays with ease this season! We can help your home look its best before hosting!
Instagram: @SimplyOrganizedNorthshore

Style Shack! This is the place that gifts are made of, from home goods to jewelry and accessories, you’ve got to check them out!

Style Shack
1839 Second Street, 847-579-4525. Curated home accents, jewelry and gifts that we promise you won’t find elsewhere! Find new treasures at each visit. Indulge in attainable luxury and enjoy complimentary gift wrap for anything you need!
Instagram: @styleshacklife
Facebook: @StyleshackHP

Betsy Jane for locally crafted clean luxury candles

Betsy Jane 
candles are made using all-natural soy wax, cotton wicks, and perfume quality fragrance oils and essential oils that are certified clean. Order online or stop in The Book Stall Winnetka, Yogaview Wilmette, Epoch North Shore Salon Kenilworth, Yoga Six Glenview.
Instagram: @shopbetsyjane

Chicago Boudoir Photography! Ready to feel like a supermodel for the day?

Chicago Boudoir Photography
312-425-2946
896 Green Bay Rd, Suite 12, Winnetka IL 60093.
Come to the Chicago Boudoir Photography studio for a Victoria’s Secret-style photoshoot experience for the everyday woman!
Instagram: @chicago.boudoir
Facebook: chicagoboudoir
Discount: $179 boudoir photoshoot (regularly $399) – Includes professional makeup & hair styling! – Purchase here.

Hubba-Hubba! Fashion forward styles at moderate prices – it’s all super cute!

Hubba-Hubba!
847-728-0272
1105 Central Ave. Wilmette
Hubba-Hubba, located in downtown Wilmette offers fashion forward styles at moderate prices. We cater to women of all ages & sizes to create a style that reflects who you are. With daily new arrivals of apparel, jewelry, purses, accessories & gift items, visiting Hubba-Hubba is a fashionistas dream! Whether it’s jeans & a tee-shirt, work pants & blouse or a party dress, you will find the latest in classic, modern and trendy clothing and accessories at Hubba-Hubba.
Instagram: @hubbahubbawilmette
Facebook: hubbahubbawilmette
Discount: $10 off your purchase when you sign up for Hubba-Hubba’s Mobile Loyalty Program

Giv Shoppe

Giv Shoppe
Giv Shoppe curates clean, heartfelt gifts and goods that give back — every purchase supports mental health and cancer wellness causes. Each item is intentionally selected to promote wellbeing, comfort, and self-care — from feel-good candles and teas to cozy accessories and thoughtful cards.
Discount: 15% OFF an order (1 time use) | GIVCNSM15
630-640-6392

Dear FoundHer… A local and national small female founded business community with connection and resources like none other.

The Dear FoundHer… Forum is a community to help female founders + entrepreneurs just like you to navigate the challenges of business with mentorship, support, resources and more. No gatekeeping, we’re better together.
Instagram: @dearfoundher
Discount: NORTHSHORE for 20% off a Founding Membership. Good while supplies last.

Top Tier Lessons! Straight out of U of I, Cara Bognar is the young female founder of this 1:1 and small group sports lessons company.

Top Tier Lessons
864-553-5635
This holiday season, give the athlete in your life an unforgettable gift: personalized sports lessons from Northwestern and Lake Forest college athletes. Through Top Tier Lessons, you can book one-on-one sessions in sports like soccer, baseball, and basketball! This holiday season purchase a gift card for 1:1 sports lessons. View the package options here.
Instagram: @toptierlessons

Sasha Grace Designs
Jewelry

Sasha Grace Designs
Sasha Grace Designs, a premier leader in contemporary jewelry and accessories, is showcasing all our hottest new fall trends for 2025 just in time for the holidays! You can shop with us on our website or find us at local pop-up events throughout the Chicago suburbs. Our show schedule is located on our website under Upcoming Shows.
Website: sashagracedesigns.com
Instagram: @sashagracedesigns
Discount: $20 off a $75 purchase – Use Code HOLIDAY20 at checkout (One time use only and cannot be used on previous purchases or combined with other offers)

Bent Fork Bakery

Bent Fork Bakery
847-926-4438 335
Waukegan Ave Highwood
Since 2004, our fresh baked goods are all butter! Holidays are about making sweet memories with chocolate and love!
Instagram: @bentforkbakery | Facebook: @bentforkbakery

Inspiro Tequila: This female-forward tequila brand was founded by a Northbrook mom and is a certified woman-owned brand! Support local!

Inspiro Tequila
Inspiro Tequila is a clean, additive-free, ultra-premium tequila crafted with discerning female consumers in mind. Order online at or find us on sale right now at your local Binny’s, Jewel/Osco or Whole Foods. Gifting out of state?  Use the code MOM10 for 10% of your orders online (excludes Special Reserve Añejo, shipping, handling and taxes).
Instagram: @inspirotequila

Chicago Botanic Garden Lightscape

Chicago Botanic Garden Lightscape
847-835-6801
1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL 60022
Embrace the spirit and beauty of the season at Lightscape, setting the Chicago Botanic Garden aglow with light, music and art. This year’s reimagined trail takes our holiday celebration to new heights and lights with dazzling installations debuting in the U.S. for the first time. Leave your to-do list at home and make lasting memories at Lightscape.
Instagram | Facebook

Diana Peters Designs
Jewelry

Jewelry for everyday wear. DM to Order! We Ship! Shop the showroom in HP, IL. DM for hrs & address. Custom Made Jewelry
Instagram: @dianapetersdesignsjewelry
Discount: 20% off one item with mention of Chicago NorthShore Moms

Bitty Balm – clean makeup balm for face and lips

Bitty Balm comes from Highland Park founder, Maggie Schmieder. These make fantastic stocking stuffers or basket fillers! I buy them all the time and stock up for future gift giving!
Discount: 10OFF for 10% off at checkout

MoonBabe for clean skincare brands in one place.

At MoonBabe, we believe beauty and well-being are deeply connected. Our consciously curated collection inspires everyday rituals that awaken your glow from within. From skincare and supplements to sacred self-care essentials, each piece is chosen with intention to help you shine brighter this season.
Instagram: @moon_babe.co
Discount: Use MOM20 for 20% off holiday gifts

Hi Love Travel
Beautiful pouches, purses and backpacks

Hi Love Travel designs featherlight and water-resistant “Purses, Zipper Pouches, Totes and Luggage that are fashionable and uniquely functional for the everyday woman. Designed by our female Founder, Melissa who has created thoughtful & affordable bags in all colors, shapes and sizes in fun designs with LOVE, Hearts, Stars, Stripes, Nature, Nautical, Sport & Travel Themes.  Every purchase contributes to their #sharethehilove campaign which gives back to help those in need around the world.
Instagram: @hilovetravel
Questions? [email protected]
Discount: 15signup25

Goodnight, Chicago North Shore children’s book

Indus Progressive Indian Holiday gift cards – $20 bonus on every $100 gift card.

Dec 11 – Pail Hobbs wine dinner
Dec 18 – World’s best Indri single malt dinner
December 24th, 25th – Christmas family meals pick up
December 25th – Open for carry out and delivery from 4:30 to 8:30pm
December 31st – Special AYCE and bottomless bubbles menu @ $99pp+
Instagram: @eatindushp

Holiday Sip & Shop @Hope Ignites Chicago, Join us November 12 6-9pm, for an evening of shopping, sipping, and community — all for a great cause! Hosted by the Faith Hope Women’s Guild, this special event in Winnetka will support Hope Ignites Chicago.

Holiday Market November @The Grove Redfield Estate, November 13-14, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m, November 15-16, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets: $5 admission, payable at the door.

Holiday Gift Market @Oakton Community Center, November 15, 2025 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Start your holiday gift shopping at the Holiday Gift Market! Need a winter birthday or holiday gift, a special something for a special person or just a gift for yourself? This is the event for you! Unique and handmade items for all ages and prices from local artists and crafters.

Holiday Bazaar @The Woman’s Club of Evanston , Friday, November 21 ~ 5:30PM-7:30PM, Saturday, November 22 ~ 10AM-5PM, Sunday, November 23 ~ 10AM-4PM. The Holiday Bazaar is the weekend before Thanksgiving. Save the date to kick off your unique holiday gift shopping!  Make this annual event a holiday season tradition!

Holiday Market 2025 @ ATELIER by elliestyled, November 29 and 30 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, Come to the Holiday Market at ATELIER by elliestyled featuring local boutiques that will have you and your home ready for the holidays. Visit this link for ongoing information: https://www.elliestyled.com/markets.

Small Business Saturday 2025 @Central Street Evanston, November 29, Free Parking! The City of Evanston is making local holiday shopping easier this year by offering a “Holiday Parking: Free for 2025” promotion. Community members and visitors to Evanston’s business districts will enjoy up to two hours of free parking daily from November 26, 2025 to January 1, 2026.

Shop the Block Bag Contest 2025 , November 29, 2025, Encouraging shoppers to capture their most innovative uses or places they take or find their trusty Shop the Block reusable bags!

Holiday Market @ Woman’s Club of Wilmette, Join us for our second 2025 Holiday Market scheduled for Thursday, December 4th from 4:00-8:00pm.

East End Holiday Market @ Upside Events Saturday, December 6: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM and Sunday, December 7: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Guests can explore a curated selection of outerwear, men’s gifts, housewares, custom gifts, sweets, charms, and permanent jewelry — ideal for holiday gifting and stocking stuffers. The market also offers on-site ear piercings and holiday-inspired nail art, along with light bites and beverages to enjoy while browsing. A $10 suggested donation will benefit the Moraine Township Food Pantry and help support local families during the holiday season.

Madame Zuzu’s presents The Find, IRL December 4, 2026, 5 – 8:00 PM. Two amazing women (Chloe Mendel and Terrie Reinhard) aligned over a recent lunch and came up with this brilliant collaboration. Come one COME ALL! Join us on December 4th from 5 – 8 pm at Madame Zuzu’s for the perfect shopping evening – bring all your friends and let’s make it a NIGHT to remember. Terrie’s new venture, The Find IRL provides exclusive in-person luxury resale events designed for fashion lovers (like us) who appreciate timeless style and elevated shopping experiences. You’ll find coveted designer brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci, Chanel, and many more! So much to choose from, so many friends to see, and so much to celebrate. Cheers to the season and see you at Madame Zuzu’s. No RSVP required.

Chanukah Bazaar @ Arie Crown, Skokie December 7, 2025, 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm: It’s the Chanukah Bazaar, the Chicago community’s largest holiday market. Gifts, crafts, specialty items, and unique services.

Long Grove Sip, Shop and Dine Holiday Gift Promotion November 21 – December 24, 2025. Support historic downtown Long Grove businesses, we are again offering a FREE Gift with Purchase promotion. Collect receipts that total $150 (pre-tax and tip) from historic downtown Long Grove shops and restaurants, dated November 22–December 24 and redeem them for a FREE Gift at our Visitors’ Center, located at 145 Old McHenry Rd. Gifts available while supplies last. Redeem your receipts early for the best gift selection.

Gingerbread House Family Workshops @ Taste Buds Kitchen Bannockburn Saturdays and Sundays beginning November 29, 2025 –  December 27, 2025. Celebrate the season with holiday bonding and gingerbread fun with our signature gingerbread house decorating class! Limited availability. Some sessions are already sold out as of November 11, 2025.

Family Gingerbread House Workshop @ Wilmette Community Recreation Center December 6 & 7 at 11 am, 1pm and 3 pm. Kids and kids at heart create holiday memories that last a lifetime as you build the ultimate “gingerbread” house! We’re excited to introduce a more sustainable, easier-to-decorate house form (please note, the house form is not edible)! Use our handmade frosting to embellish your house with candies, cookies and goodies. Participants may each make their own house or work together as a group/family.

“Cookies for Santa” Cookie Decorating Class @Mil Colibris Bakery & Cafe, December 21 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. Kick off the holiday season with this “Cookies for Santa” themed Cookie decorating class! In this fun class, you’ll learn how to decorate a set of cookies with royal icing under step-by-step guided instructions. Kids and Adults welcome!

“Winter Fun” Cookie Decorating Class @Mil Colibris Bakery & Cafe, December 28 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. Kick off the holiday season with this “Winter Fun” themed Cookie decorating class! In this fun class, you’ll learn how to decorate a set of cookies with royal icing under step-by-step guided instructions. Kids and Adults welcome!

“Ho ho ho!” The official U.S. Postal Service address for Santa Claus is 123 Elf Road, North Pole, 88888.

LOCAL Santa Claus Drop Box Locations:

Wheeling Community Recreation Center: The Wheeling Park District invites children to drop off letters to Santa’s mailbox from 11/30-12/13/25. Santa’s mailbox will be place at the entrance of the Community Recreation Center. Please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope and Santa will send you a reply before Christmas Day. Letters cannot be returned. If you prefer to mail your letter, it may be mailed to: Santa Claus, c/o Wheeling Park District, 100 Community Blvd, Wheeling, IL 60090.

Winnetka 540 Hibbard: Road through 12/17/25. Don’t forget to include names and a return address to ensure the elves know where to send Santa’s response!

Highland Park’s West Ridge Center: Santa’s Mailbox has been officially installed at West Ridge Center! Children are invited to post a letter to Santa, which will be delivered to his workshop in the North Pole! If you include a return envelope (addressed to your home and with a stamp), Santa will send along a reply. Best hurry though-the Mailbox goes back to the North Pole on December 14!

Wilmette: Santa’s Mailbox: Write a letter to Jolly Old St. Nick and drop it off at the magic mailbox located in Mallinckrodt Park Gazebo, 1041A Ridge Rd., Wilmette! Write letters, 11/22 – 12/7/25. Mail your letter to Santa at the magical North Pole Mailbox located in Mallinckrodt Park! Include a self addressed, stamped envelope so that Santa can write you back. Hurry hurry! All letters must be dropped off in the mailbox by December 8!

Northfield Santa’s Mailbox: This holiday season your child can write to Santa and receive a personalized reply from him! Whether it’s sharing wishes, asking questions, or telling Santa about their year, kids can feel the magic with a special letter written just for them. Drop off letters in Santa’s mailbox in the Northfield Community Center. Be sure to clearly write your return address so that Santa can write back! Write letters November 11, 2025 – December 14, 2025.

Holiday in the Park & Parade (Glenview),
November 29, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Glenview Metra.
Festivities in the park include a visit with Santa, hay rides, a train ride for kids, carolers, cookies, hot chocolate and popcorn.
https://chicagonorthshoremoms.com/event/holiday-in-the-park-parade-glenview/

Highwood Holidays Around the World with Special Appearances by Santa and Ms. Claus
December 7, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Circle Park just north of Bent Fork Bakery
The Highwood Chamber of Commerce invites you to join us in a celebration of Special Appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, La Befana, MadCap Acapella, with crafts, holiday treats and Cub Scout Pack 35 food pantry collection.
https://chicagonorthshoremoms.com/event/highwood-holidays-around-the-world-with-a-special-appearance-by-santa-and-mrs-claus/

Holiday Happenings in Wilmette
December 6 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
https://chicagonorthshoremoms.com/event/holiday-happenings-in-wilmette

Game of Gnomes – A Family-Friendly Scavenger Hunt
November 29 – December 27
https://chicagonorthshoremoms.com/event/game-of-gnomes-a-family-friendly-scavenger-hunt/2025-11-29
https://chicagonorthshoremoms.com/series/game-of-gnomes-a-family-friendly-scavenger-hunt

Holiday Family High Tea @ Curt’s Cafe Highland Park
December 13, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/96cXug?vid=1n4nkv

Wilmette’s Annual Village Menorah Lighting!
December 14 5:30 pm
https://chicagonorthshoremoms.com/event/wilmettes-annual-village-menorah-lighting

***These are residential neighborhoods so please be respectful. Do not block driveways, park in any driveways, double park in the street or illegally park in front of hydrants. All displays are for outdoor viewing purposes only. Light shows begin after Thanksgiving.

Sauganash Neighborhood Lights. When using GPS put in the corner of Leroy and Albion in Chicago. It’s off Devon just west of the Edens Expressway.

Storozhuk Family Light Show. 860 Woodhollow Lane, Buffalo Grove, IL. Tune in to 88.7 FM radio for the music.

Photo courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden

Lightscape @ Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026. From radiant first-time installations to beloved classics like the Winter Cathedral, this year’s reimagined trail takes our fifth annual holiday celebration to the next level. Book in advance to secure your preferred slot; popular dates and times go fast! Prices vary, a non-member family with 2 adults and 2 children under 12 with parking is $115.

Kohl Children’s Museum Kohlights, Glenview November 28, 2025 – December 21, 2025. It’s more than just a walk through the festive holiday lights in Kohl Children’s Museum’s newest outdoor activity: Kohlights. This immersive experience allows kids to interact with light and color as they explore hues and patterns in this safe and interactive holiday light installation, right-sized for young kids. The show must “glow” on! NEW LAST YEAR: Kohlights is now an indoor/outdoor experience, with access to all indoor exhibits as well. Non-member tickets are $22/person for anyone over 12 months of age.

The Klezmatics: Happy Joyous Hanukkah @ Ravinia Festival’s Martin Theatre December 4, 2025, 7:30 PM. The Klezmatics are the only Grammy Award–winning klezmer band and one of the most iconic and adventurous groups in modern Jewish music.

A Charlie Brown Christmas @ Ravinia Festival’s Martin Theatre December 7, 2025, 1:30. The playful dance of “Linus and Lucy”; the contemplative beauty of “Christmas Time Is Here”; the joyful whimsy of “Skating”—join Mr. Chair for a reimagined journey through one of the most beloved jazz albums of all time—A Charlie Brown Christmas by the Vince Guaraldi Trio.

A Chaos Christmas @ Northbrook Public Library presented by Northbrook Theatre December 13, 2026 @ 6:00 PM and December 14, 2026 @ 1:00 PM

The Nutcracker Celebrating 10 Years of Magic Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive in downtown Chicago, in 27 performances, from December 5–28, 2025. The Joffrey Ballet celebrates the 10th anniversary of two-time Tony Award®-winning choreographer ©Christopher Wheeldon’s The Nutcracker. Set amidst the spectacle of the 1893 Chicago’s World Fair, Wheeldon’s reimagined classic takes audiences on a fantastical adventure where history and dreams intertwine.

Miracle on South Division Street at The Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest, Movember 12, 2025 – December 14, 2025, select dates and times. he Nowaks of Buffalo, NY, have always believed in their family`s miraculous Christmas Eve story—until Ruth decides to turn it into a one-woman show, only to have a deathbed confession threaten to unravel the legend. As the truth emerges, the Nowaks must face their faith, family and hilarious truths in this heartfelt comedy.

Santa’s Arrival & Fireworks – Deer Park Town Center November 15, 2025 6-8:30 PM Santa arrives in the Lake Zurich fire truck. Count down with Santa as he turns on the holiday lights and enjoy the magical fireworks show.

Breakfast with Santa 2025 @ Wilmette Golf Club December 6, 7, 13,14, 20, 2025. Celebrate the holiday season with breakfast at The Lawn Grill at the Wilmette Golf Club (3900 Fairway Drive). Visit with Santa, take a photo and enjoy a magical morning with friends & family!

Breakfast with Santa @ various Egg Harbor locations
Glenview: December 12, 2025
Lake Forest: December 15, 2025
Deerfield: December 16, 2025
Evanston: December 22, 2025
All locations 9am-12pm

The Holiday in the Park & Parade November 29, 2025, 4-6 PM. This bright cheery holiday event culminates in Jackman Park where Santa and his helpers will greet children will a gift. Attendees can enjoy FREE hot cocoa and tasty treats while supplies last, free kiddie train rides, hayride and photo op in the new snow globe.

Breakfast with Santa @ Chevy Chase Country Club, Wheeling December 7, 2025. Spend the morning at Chevy Chase Country Club enjoying a delicious buffet breakfast while carolers entertain you. All children have the opportunity to meet with Santa and have photos taken with him. Reserve your spot today as this event sells out. ADULTS: $29.95; KIDS (4 -13): $16.95; KIDS (0 – 3): FREE; All prices subject to a 22% service fee and 7% tax.

Santa’s Sleigh Ride with Lake Bluff Park District (Sells out quickly), December 6, 2025 various times. Kids can help the elves in our Community Room make ornaments for the big tree, then take a fun Christmas trolley with Santa around Lake Bluff.

Breakfast with Santa @ Grace United Methodist Church Lake Bluff December 6, 2025 various times. Santa visits Lake Bluff every December to have breakfast with little children and their families. Meet Santa, tell him your wishes and enjoy all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage, juice, milk and hot coffee. $0-$10 per person.

Visit with Santa @ Weinberg Family Recreation Center December 12, 2025, 4:00 PM Register for your 10 minute time slot here.

Santa Story Time @ Giggle Play December 13, 2025, 9:00AM and 11:00AM and December 20, 2025 9:00AM and 11:00AM

Skate with Santa at Centennial Ice Rink Wilmette December 24, 2024 11:00 am – 12:30 pm Enjoy a holiday-themed public skate! We’ll have cocoa, candy canes, plus a visit from St. Nick! Skate rental available: $4.50. Please bring a non-perishable food donation for the Wilmette Food Pantry!

Skate with Santa at Northbrook Sports Center December 20, 2025 1-2:30pm We are expecting an extra-special guest at Northbrook Sports Center this December! All ages can enjoy an afternoon of skating alongside Santa from 1-2:30pm at Northbrook Sports Center. Adult Entry • $7 Youth Entry • $6 Skate Rental • $4

Santa Photos in Trolley Park at Old Orchard, Skoke November 28 – December 15 – December 24, 2025. Kick off the holiday season with a visit to Santa in Trolley Park. Don’t delay and book your reservation today! Stop by the Candy Cane Station located right outside of Trolley Park to enjoy everything festive while you wait. Visits with Santa are always free, paid photo opportunities will be available, and we suggest making your reservation ahead of time.

Breakfast with Santa at Heritage Oaks Golf Club December 13, 2025. Join us for a festive holiday breakfast featuring the man in red! Families enjoy a breakfast buffet with holiday-themed activities and a visit with Santa at Heritage Oaks Golf Club. Breakfast includes scrambled eggs, sausage, potatoes, french toast sticks, and fruit with their choice of coffee/tea, orange juice or milk.

Skate with Santa at Skatium Ice Arena December 20, 2025. He’s making a list and checking it twice but then Santa is coming to the Skatium for a little fun before he heads out on his sleigh, come and join him for ice skating and holiday themed music.

Winter Wonderland at West Ridge Center December 5, 2025. From icing cookies and decorating ornaments to savoring snacks with Santa and crafting with Mrs. Claus, there’s something delightful for everyone.

Santa in the Village (Long Grove) 12-4pm: 11/29, 12/6, 12/7, 12/13, 12/14, 12/20, 12/21, 2025. Santa will be visiting with children and spreading joy throughout the holiday season. Free Pictures with Santa Saturday, December 6 1-1:45 pm and 2:15-4 pm Covered Bridge Park No reservations needed. First come, first served. *Schedule subject to change.

Central Street Trolley, November 15, 2025. Ride the Central Street Trolley during next Saturday’s annual Holiday Stroll. Enjoy round trip trolley rides from the east end shops to the west end shops and back again.

Chicago Union Station Metra Polar Express (CANCELLED FOR 2025) THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride will not operate in Chicago in 2024 due to extensive city street reconstruction above Union Station.

North Pole Express with Glenview MetraNovember 29, 2025 (SOLD OUT) 

Polar Express at Fox River Trolley Museum Chris Van Allsburg’s book The Polar Express comes to life when the train pulls out of the station with your family on board this winter. November 29, 2025 through December 21, 2025 on select days. Very few tickets are still available. All riders require a ticket regardless of age.

Happy Holiday Railway with the Illinois Railway Museum Days for this event in 2025 are Saturdays and Sundays, November 28th (Black Friday), 29th, 30th, December 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st, and Monday the 22nd. Trips take place at 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm and 6pm. Plan to arrive a minimum of 30 minutes before your scheduled trip.

Opening weekend includes a fireworks display at 5:45 PM. Kick off the holiday season with a festive fireworks display. Fireworks are scheduled on Friday, November 28th; Saturday, November 29th; and Sunday, November 30th. The fireworks show is included in the price of admission. The fireworks show is weather dependent and may be cancelled due to poor weather conditions

Ticket prices are $25 per ticket, the same as 2023 and 2024. Everyone past their second birthday must have a ticket. Parking is free.

Support for food insecurity in Evanston

Interfaith Action of Evanston: Provides food pantries, soup kitchens, and a mobile fresh produce distribution called the Producemobile.

Hillside Food Pantry: A large pantry serving hundreds of patrons each month. Information to volunteer here.

Faith Temple Church of God In Christ: A non-profit, volunteer-driven pantry.

Unitarian Church of Evanston (UCE) Giving House: Accepts donations of non-perishable food items like rice, pasta, and canned goods. Visit link to sign up for ways to help.

Support for food insecurity North Shore’s Cook County

Northern Illinois Food Pantry Donate here; find volunteer opportunities here with local opportunities – minimum age is 8; start a fundraiser here.

Northfield Food Pantry Serving residents of Northbrook, the majority of Glenview, most of Northfield, and parts of Deerfield, Glencoe, Prospect Heights, Wilmette, and Des Plaines. If you are a new volunteer and/or are in need of community service hours, please call (847) 724-8300 and ask for Julie or email [email protected] to schedule your first shift rather than signing up directly through the SignUp Genius link. The individual requiring the community service hours must be the person who calls or emails to make arrangements. Sign up to volunteer for a shift here.

New Trier Food Pantry The New Trier Township Food Pantry is primarily supported by individual and institutional donors. Contact Harnold at 847-446-8203 or Email Harnold if you wish to make a donation or host an organized food drive. The Office is also open for donations from Monday through Friday, from  9 AM – 5 PM. We are located at 739 Elm Street, Winnetka IL, 60093.

Support for food insecurity North Shore’s Lake County

MommaChef/K.I.N.S. Soup Kitchen Thank you for volunteering to help us serve meals to those in need. Please remember, the minimum age to volunteer is temporarily 11 years old. Arrival time is by 4:30. This soup kitchen is run fully on your generous donations, if you have not already donated, you can do so by clicking on this link: https://mommachef.com/soup-kitchen/

West Deerfield Township The West Deerfield Food Pantry serves residents of Deerfield, Bannockburn, and portions of Lake Forest, Highland Park, and Riverwoods. Click here to see items most needed. Go here to donate.

Moraine Township Food Pantry Please bring donations of unopened, unexpired nonperishable food and household essentials to the Township office M-F 8:30 am to 4:30 pm and Saturday/Sunday 11:00AM – 1:00PM. Click here for a list of items most needed. Click here to shop the Amazon wish list, which is directly delivered to Moraine Township. Click here for information on volunteering at the pantry – minimum age 16.

Northern Illinois Food Pantry Donate here; find volunteer opportunities here with local opportunities – minimum age is 8; start a fundraiser here.

Additional ways to give back

Help Pack Goodie Bags with North Shore’s YMCA December 6, 2025, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM. The NSYMCA is looking for volunteers for our Annual Holiday Giveback, where we pack about 200 blessing bags for the homeless in the Chicago. Visit this link to help shop for the supplies.

Holiday Party and Give Back Event with Families Helping Families December 7, 2025 10:30 AM and 12:15 PM. Activities include a Balloon Twister, Glitter Tattoos, a Bling Bar, Sweet Treats, Raffle Prizes, and a DJ Dance Party! $5 Per Person (Kids and Adults) Space is Limited. Registration Required. Can’t make it to our Holiday Party and Give Back Event on Sunday, December 7th? No worries! There are other ways to give back including our holiday game drive! CLICK HERE to purchase a game from the Wish List and we will wrap it during our event for a child in need. Thank you!

Coats for Kids: The Highland Park Fire Department’s annual Coats for Kids drive is underway! Donations of new or gently used coats and other cold-weather items will be accepted until February 1, 2026, at the drop box located in the front lobby of Fire Station #33, 1130 Central Avenue.

Toys for Tots: Make the holiday season special for a child in need by donating new, unwrapped toys to the Marine Corps’ annual Toys for Tots campaign at City Hall, 1707 St. Johns Ave., during walk-in hours (Tuesday – Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM).

Annual Blanket Drive with Penny’s Purpose November 1, 2025 – December 15, 2024. Please support our friends at @ThePennysPurpose by donating a new, homemade, or gently used blanket to their Annual Blanket Drive. The blankets provide warmth and comfort to our families and others in need, as part of the founder’s mission to honor her late mother’s memory through the gift of giving. Blankets will be accepted Nov. 1st through Dec. 15th. For more information, visit https://thepennyspurpose.org/annual-blanket-drive.

Mimi’s House Family Advocacy Center urgent need for winter clothing and boots as well as diapers and wipes.

SaLT North Shore Service to meet the needs of a community, Learning about the world and oneself, Together creating long-lasting relationships. Check out their Amazon wish list here.