Arlington Heights Tree Lighting
Visitors celebrate the kick-off to the holiday season with the lighting of North School Park and Harmony Park. Trolleys loop between the two parks, featuring Dickens-era characters who share stories about Arlington Heights in the past.
Fri, Nov 27, 2026 All ages
See more other Christmas activities near Arlington Heights
Plan Your Visit
Hours
Trolleys loop from 3:45 - 6:45 p.m.
Neighborhood
Downtown Arlington Heights
Parking
The Vail Street Garage by Harmony Park is under construction and parking is limited. The garage at Eastman and Evergreen across from North School Park can fill up during the event. The page recommends planning ahead to use the underground lot on Evergreen and/or nearby lots offering free parking to event goers.
Accessibility
A wheelchair accessible trolley bus connects Harmony Park and North School Park for those who require it.
Tips & Advice
- Look at the Tree Lighting Parking Map before you go, since the Vail Street Garage is under construction and the Eastman and Evergreen garage fills up.
- Aim for the underground lot on Evergreen or one of the nearby lots offering free parking to event goers instead of circling the busy garages.
- Ride the trolley between the parks to hear Dickens-era characters tell stories about Arlington Heights in the past.
- If someone in your group uses a wheelchair, email Communications@vah.com by midday November 24, or ask staff at the trolley stops on the night.
- Dress warmly for an evening moving between two outdoor parks, since you'll spend time at trolley stops as well as at the tree lighting.
Links & Contact
Run by Village of Arlington Heights and Arlington Heights Park District
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we get between North School Park and Harmony Park?
Trolleys loop between the two parks. Dickens-era characters ride along and share stories about Arlington Heights in the past.
Where are the trolley stops?
At North School Park, the stop is at Eastman & Evergreen, on the southwest corner of the park. At Harmony Park, it's south of Vail & Campbell, near the Harmony Park Tree.
Is there a wheelchair-accessible option?
Yes. A wheelchair-accessible trolley bus connects Harmony Park and North School Park, reserved for people or families who need it. Staff at the trolley stops can arrange a ride on site. To set it up ahead of time, email Communications@vah.com by midday Tuesday, November 24.
Where should we park?
The Vail Street Garage by Harmony Park is under construction and has limited parking. The garage at Eastman and Evergreen across from North School Park can fill up. Use the underground lot on Evergreen or nearby lots that offer free parking to event goers; the Tree Lighting Parking Map shows your options.
Who puts on the event?
The Village's Special Events Commission and the Arlington Heights Park District host it every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving.
Browse Christmas in Arlington Heights
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.