Gurnee Holiday Train & Holiday Lights
Visitors gather trackside to watch the arrival of a 14-car train decorated with hundreds of thousands of festive LED lights. A boxcar opens into a stage for a live concert by Allen Stone, accompanied by holiday tunes from a live DJ. Attendees can also visit the Patch 22 petting zoo, take photos with Santa Claus, and bring non-perishable food donations for the local community.
See more Christmas lights near Gurnee
Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
Free event.
Hours
4:00 - 6:00 p.m.; train estimated to arrive at 5PM; holiday concert starts at 5:15PM.
Ages
All ages
Parking
Attendees are directed to park at one of the listed locations and walk to Depot Road and Old Grand Avenue.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Park at Viking Park, Viking Middle School, or Warren Township High School, then walk to Depot Road and Old Grand Avenue as directed.
- Bring one or more non-perishable food items if you can; donations support the Northern Illinois Food Bank, but are not required.
- Arrive before the estimated 5 p.m. train arrival to settle trackside before the holiday concert begins at 5:15 p.m.
- Bundle up for the outdoor trackside gathering, since visitors watch the train arrive near Depot Road.
- Keep your camera ready for the illuminated train and free Santa photos, and allow time for the walk from parking.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free entry for all attendees.
Links & Contact
Run by Village of Gurnee, Gurnee Park District, Village of Gurnee Chamber of Commerce
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
Is the event suitable for families?
Yes. Families can watch the train, enjoy the concert, visit the petting zoo and take photos with Santa.
What can visitors see and do?
Watch the lighted train arrive, hear Allen Stone and DJ Frank Wright, visit the Patch 22 Petting Zoo and take photos with Santa.
Should I bring anything to donate?
Non-perishable food donations are encouraged but optional; donations support the Northern Illinois Food Bank.
Where should I park, and how do I reach the viewing area?
Park at Viking Park, Viking Middle School or Warren Township High School, then walk to Depot Road and Old Grand Avenue.
Can I take photos with Santa?
Yes. Free pictures with Santa Claus are part of the event entertainment.
Browse Christmas in Gurnee
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.