25N Schaumburg's Local Holiday Activity Guide (the one Yule Absolutely Love)

Maybe you need something fun to do during those long winter-break weeks. Maybe you need an excuse to step away from five straight days of online shopping. Either way, on your day off from 25N, here’s your shortcut to Schaumburg's best holiday happenings. Perfect for families, couples, or your solo wanderings.

November 28: Tree Lighting Ceremony at Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts (downtown Schaumburg)

Kick off the holiday season right in Schaumburg with this free community event featuring Santa’s arrival by carriage, caroling, characters, and the official tree lighting. Ideal for families and couples — consider this your holiday-season “turn-on the lights” moment.

Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM, Friday November 28, 2025. 

November 6–December 24: Santa Photo Experience at Woodfield Mall

Capture a timeless holiday photo with Santa at Woodfield Mall. Reservations begin November 6 and the experience runs through December 24. Fun outing for little ones! 

December 5: Dickens in Dundee (East Dundee—near Schaumburg area)

A Victorian-style holiday festival featuring living window displays, horse-drawn carriage rides, tree lighting, visits with Santa, hot cocoa, and a strollable downtown ambiance. While technically East Dundee, the vibe is worth the short drive from Schaumburg.

Date & time: Friday December 5, 2025, 5:30–9 PM 

December 7: Christmas in the Valley (Spring Valley’s Heritage Farm)

A cozy afternoon festival with crafts, local vendors, seasonal treats, wagon rides, historical farm buildings, and plenty of photo-worthy holiday moments. Great for families or anyone who wants a daytime holiday outing that feels charming and low-key.

Time: 12–4 PM

December 7: Santa’s Flight to Schaumburg (Schaumburg Regional Airport)

Santa swaps the sleigh for a plane in this memorable family event. Kids can watch him land, meet him up close, and join in themed crafts and activities. A unique holiday stop for families wanting something more exciting than a standard mall photo op.

Time: 9–11 AM or 1–3 PM

December 19: A Holly Jolly Christmas (Prairie Center for the Arts)

A high-energy holiday show starring Zach Stevenson in a rock-and-roll tribute to Buddy Holly. Fun, festive, and a great option for couples or a relaxed night out when you want holiday spirit without another repeat of The Nutcracker.

Time: 2:30 and 7:30 PM