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Everyone has their favorite holiday traditions and must-visit Chicago Christmas events, but nothing compares to an evening spent gazing at shimmering lights displays. Throughout December (and much of November), Christmas lights in Chicago are strung up at Lincoln Park Zoo, along the Magnificent Mile and inside the Museum of Science and Industry. You can even spot a few DIY displays in some of Chicago's most beautiful neighborhoods. Bundle up, get outside to peep these dazzling Christmas lights in Chicago before New Year's Eve. (You can even pregame your outing with the steamiest hot chocolate Chicago has to offer.) Use our guide to find some of the brightest spots in Chicago and the suburbs.

RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to Christmas in Chicago