Your weekend plans are in….
Hey Chicago families, ready to make the most of this weekend? Here are four timely outing options for Saturday Nov 15 and Sunday Nov 16, 2025, tailored for kids and families around the city. Want to print and take it with you? Get your free weekend guide sent right to your inbox HERE
1. Lycée French Market – Saturday & Sunday at the Lycée Français de Chicago
🥐 Lycée French Market
📍 1929 W Wilson Ave, Chicago
🗓️ Saturday & Sunday, Nov 15–16, 2025
Why go: The 21st Annual Lycée French Market transforms the Lycée Français de Chicago into a Parisian-style marketplace with more than 75 local and French artisanal vendors. According to event listings it runs Nov 15-16.
Tip: Bring the kids to browse artisan crafts, snacks and perhaps pick up a treat. Somewhere between casual shopping and family fun. Site Link
Photo credit: Lycée Français de Chicago / French Market.
2. Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum, Lisle Starts Saturday Nov 15
🌲 Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
📍 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle
🗓️ Opens Saturday Nov 15 – Runs through Jan 5
Why go: This illuminated tree-walk experience begins Nov 15 ideal for an evening outing with kids.
Tip: Go at dusk for the best effect. Dress warmly and consider hot cocoa on-site. Site Link
Photo credit: Morton Arboretum / Illumination Tree Lights.
3. Fourth Annual Frankie Knuckles Festival – Saturday Nov 15 at South Side Venue
🎶 4th Annual Frankie Knuckles Festival
📍 South Side Cultural Center, Chicago
🗓️ Saturday Nov 15 Only
Why go: An engaging music-and arts festival taking place Saturday Nov 15 that offers a vibrant and cultural outing for older kids and families. Site Link
Tip: Check age appropriateness for your kids, arrive early for good seats, and plan for dinner before or after so the outing flows.
Photo credit: Frankie Knuckles Festival Chicago / Choose Chicago.
4. ✨ ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
🦓 ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
📍 2001 N Clark St, Chicago
🗓️ Opening Weekend Nov 15–16, 2025 (runs through Jan 4, 2026)
Photo credit: Lincoln Park Zoo / Todd Rosenberg Photography
Why go:
This beloved Chicago tradition kicks off this weekend, transforming the Lincoln Park Zoo into a glowing wonderland with more than 2.5 million lights, holiday music, festive snacks, and a chance to see the animals under twinkling trees. It’s one of the best free holiday attractions in the city, and kids of all ages love it.
Pro Tips:
- Tickets required – this is not a free event, members get free parking! Site Link
- Arrive early to park or take the CTA to avoid crowds.
- Bring gloves and thermoses of hot chocolate.
- The first weekend tends to be less crowded than December weekends.
- Visit the light tunnel and carousel before leaving – they’re crowd favorites.
Event link: Lincoln Park Zoo ZooLights Details →
Enjoy Chicago,
Juliana