Chicago BYOB Holiday Lights Trolley
2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.
Embark on a magical journey through Chicago's dazzling holiday lights aboard the original BYOB Holiday Lights Trolley. This unique experience begins with a festive welcome at Matilda, featuring a complimentary snack and a chance to meet your guide. Then, hop on a vintage trolley for a 3-hour tour, complete with holiday music, trivia, and sing-alongs, as you explore iconic sights like Christkindlmarket and Lincoln Park ZooLights. Admission to ZooLights is included with your ticket.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
Tickets
$$
Ages
21+
Neighborhood
Belmont
Food & Drink
Complimentary snack provided at check-in. BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) is permitted on the trolley. Non-glass containers are required.
Parking
Parking is not included with your ticket. Plan to arrive a little early to get a parking spot before boarding the trolley. Matilda itself does not have parking. While there is street parking in the Belmont neighborhood, we advise using services like Spot Hero to guarantee your spot. A short distance away is also Advocate Illinois Masonic Hospital, which many prior guests have used.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at your scheduled start time for check-in, as the trolley departs promptly one hour later.
- Bring your favorite beverages in personal-sized coolers (under-seat size), but be prepared to pour them into provided plastic cups if they are in glass bottles.
- Dress in layers, including hats and mittens, as while the trolley is heated, you will be disembarking at various outdoor stops.
- Consider using parking apps like Spot Hero to secure a parking spot in advance, as parking at the venue is not guaranteed.
- Have your valid 21+ ID ready for check-in, as it is required for entry.
Special Events & Promotions
- Complimentary snack at check-in
- Souvenir gift included
- 10% discount for full trolley buyout
Links & Contact
Run by Holiday Lights Trolley
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
What is the check-in process?
You'll check in at Matilda (3101 N Sheffield) where you'll receive a complimentary snack, meet your tour guide, and sign a waiver. This first hour is dedicated to check-in before the trolley departs.
Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, the event is BYOB. You can bring personal-sized coolers, but drinks must be poured into provided plastic cups if they are in glass bottles. No open containers are allowed outside the trolley.
What if I need to reschedule?
Ticket transfers to different dates or times are allowed for a limited period, subject to availability. Change fees may apply, and transfers are disabled 90 days prior to the first event date.
What sights will the trolley visit?
Tour stops vary nightly but may include Christkindlmarket, The Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park's Christmas Tree, and Lincoln Park ZooLights. ZooLights admission is included.
Is the trolley heated?
Yes, all trolleys are enclosed and heated for your comfort during the ride.
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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.