Beautiful fall colors and the holiday lights of winter offer dramatic backdrops to festivals throughout Illinois. See for yourself during a road trip to the International Route 66 Festival or while enjoying a wine tasting at the Vintage Illinois Wine festival. Or discover how Chicago celebrates Halloween city-wide. And don’t forget the internationally acclaimed Magnificent Mile® Lights Festival on Michigan Avenue.

Bank of America Chicago Marathon - One million spectators will line the 26.2-mile course in October, cheering on the runners to help them accomplish a personal dream.

Chicago Auto Show - From the newest production models to futuristic concept cars, this spectacular show is an auto buff’s dream.

Chicago Boat, RV and Outdoors Show - Get ready for summer at this show featuring 900 boats, 200 recreational vehicles and other temptations for the outdoor enthusiast.

Chicago Celtic Festival - This festival showcases local, national and international performers as well as artisans displaying and selling unique, handmade jewellery, sweaters, ceramics, glass, painting and more.

Christkindlmarket - Festive ornaments, wooden toys, nutcrackers and glassware from Germany and other parts of Europe are sold from charming timber cabins and tents in Daley Plaza.

International Route 66 Festival - Held during the last weekend of every September, the festival features a world-class classic car show, 50's and 60's music, great food, celebrities, workshops and more.

Magnificent Mile® Lights Festival - Each November, the Magnificent Mile becomes a magical winter wonderland in the city’s official start to the festive season.

McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade - Families line the streets to marvel at spectacular floats and balloons, and to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus himself.

Oktoberfest Chicago - A dash of traditional German music mixes with a strong dose of popular music and some great German food at this annual event.

Pumpkin Plaza - Chicagoween - Celebrate Halloween city-wide during the month of October at museums, Navy Pier, the Chicago Cultural Center and other organizations. Visit Pumpkin (Daley) Plaza for the Haunted Village, pumpkin decorating, spooky storytellers, a farmers’ market and performances by Midnight Circus, including acts of high-flying feats.

Scarecrow Festival - St. Charles - More than 100 handcrafted scarecrows are on display at this festival in St. Charles that features a huge craft show, carnival, great food, free live entertainment, free children’s activities and much more.

SOFA at Navy Pier - Visit the critically acclaimed Sculpture Objects & Functional Art Fair at Navy Pier to see work from 100 international galleries and dealers from 16 countries.

Vintage Illinois Wine Festival - Starved Rock in Utica is home to this great two-day wine tasting event that features over 25 wineries from around the state.