Happy holidays!

New Year’s Eve is almost here, and if you haven’t locked in plans yet, you’re not alone. Instead of scrambling last minute, I put together a simple guide to the best places around the suburbs where you can eat, drink, and actually enjoy the countdown. Whether you’re planning something low-key or want a full night out, this should make deciding a whole lot easier. 🎉

☁️ Today’s weather:
Cloudy with a high of 26°F. About a 20% chance of precipitation, 70% humidity, and winds around 11 mph. Cold, but manageable if you’re heading out.

📺 The #1 Mistake People Make When Deciding Where to Live in Chicago: a quick breakdown of the decision many buyers overlook and why it matters more than you think.

🍽️ Check out The New Year Foodie’s Guide for NYE best eats, and scroll down for WHAT'S HAPPENIN' IN THE 'BURBS? — your weekend events roundup. 

Let’s dive in!

 —Brandon Blankenship, Founder of Living Chicago Suburbs / Realtor with Keller Williams Premiere Properties

Events

💭 WHAT'S HAPPENIN' IN THE 'BURBS? 

This Weekend Events…

NaperLights on Water Street

A free winter wonderland featuring dazzling holiday lights, music, and festive displays along Naperville’s Riverwalk. Stroll through Water Street, Foyo Plaza, and Jaycees Park and don’t forget to grab your free 3D viewing glasses.
📍 Location: Water Street, Downtown Naperville
🗓️ Date & Time: Dec 29 – Jan 2 | 4 PM – 10 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More Info

Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum

Experience a breathtaking outdoor light show where art, nature, and music come together. Walk a glowing trail through illuminated trees, colorful installations, and interactive displays in one of the region’s most beloved winter traditions.
📍 Location: The Morton Arboretum, Lisle
🗓️ Date & Time: Dec 29 – Jan 3 (select evenings)
🎟️ Tickets: Required; member discounts available
🔗 More Info

The Rink

Lace up your skates for outdoor winter fun at Naperville’s newest skating destination. Enjoy seasonal vibes, music, and nearby dining while skating under the lights.
📍 Location: Block 59, Naperville
🗓️ Date & Time: Dec 29 – Jan 18 | Times vary
🎟️ Tickets: See website for pricing
🔗 More Info

Animal Tracks: Free Nature Discovery Days

A hands-on educational experience where kids can learn how to identify animal tracks, fur, and signs of wildlife. Includes crafts, games, and interactive learning for the whole family.
📍 Location: Knoch Knolls Nature Center, Naperville
🗓️ Date & Time: Jan 2, 3, 5, 17 & 19
• Mon–Fri: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
• Sat: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More Info

KidsMatter Community Job Fair

Explore career opportunities, practice interviews, and connect with local employers at this community-focused job fair. Open to all ages and experience levels.
📍 Location: Fort Hill Activity Center, Naperville
🗓️ Date & Time: Jan 3, 10 AM – 1 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More Info

SEE MORE EVENTS IN JANUARY→

Nothing in this section is sponsored, I will let you know when it's sponsored

News

🎉 The Easiest Way to Plan New Year’s Eve in the Suburbs 

If you’re skipping the downtown chaos this year, these suburban spots are serving food, drinks, games, and countdowns all in one place. From family-friendly fun to late-night parties, here’s where to go:

Dave & Buster’s
Locations: Lombard, Rosemont, Schaumburg, Vernon Hills

Family Celebration (4–7 PM)
A kid-friendly party with an appetizer and dessert buffet, unlimited soft drinks, a $20 Power Card, party favors, and a ginger ale toast.
Price: $33.79 per person

Late Night NYE (9 PM–1 AM)
A 21+ party with a chef-curated appetizer spread, unlimited soda, a $15 Power Card, champagne toast at midnight, and optional premium drink tickets.
Price: $68.79 per person

🔗 More info

Kings Dining & Entertainment
(Rosemont)

Daytime Family Party (2–5 PM)
Includes a kid-friendly buffet, cookie decorating, crafts, balloon drop, and sparkling cider toast.
Price: $35 per person
Bowling sold separately.

Adult NYE Party (Starts at 8 PM)
A high-energy night with bowling, billiards, arcade games, a DJ, party favors, buffet, and champagne toast.
Price: $75 per person

🔗 More info

Puttshack
(Oak Brook & Skokie)

Celebrate with unlimited mini golf and a laid-back party vibe.
Pricing:
• $25 (ages 13+)
• $15 (ages 12 and under, must be with an adult)
Guests can also enjoy their seasonal sparkling apple berry sangria before midnight.

🔗 More info

Topgolf
(Naperville & Schaumburg)

Ring in the New Year with unlimited gameplay from 9 PM to 1 AM in a private bay for up to six people.
Includes a live DJ, midnight toast, unlimited soft drinks, desserts, and late-night bites like sliders, wings, and chips.
Price: $459.69 per bay (21+ event)

🔗 More info

WhirlyBall
(Vernon Hills)

Noon Year’s Eve Party
A daytime celebration featuring WhirlyBall, laser tag, bowling, games, and lunch with pizza, salads, and desserts.
Time options: 12–2 PM or 3–5 PM
Pricing: $35 per child, $40 per adult

🔗 More info

Whether you’re celebrating with kids, friends, or a full-on party crew, these spots make it easy to eat, play, and count down to 2026 without leaving the suburbs.

 🎉JOIN THE FUN ON INSTAGRAM 🎉

Find us on Instagram @LivingChicagoSuburbs where 90,000+ people love the content! ⤵️

🍽️ The New Year Foodie's Guide

Looking for the best places to ring in the New Year? These restaurants are serving up special menus, festive vibes, and great ways to celebrate.

Watch This

🎥 The #1 Mistake People Make When Deciding Where to Live in Chicago

📦 Moving to the Chicago Suburbs or thinking about buying or selling a home?
We’d love to help!
Just send us an email at [email protected] or fill out the form here!: https://livinginchicagosuburbs.com/contact/

Market

📊 Real Estate Insights

The real estate market in the Chicago suburbs (especially Naperville, Elmhurst, Wheaton, and Glen Ellyn) remains active and competitive. Whether you're planning to buy or sell, having the right local expert makes all the difference.

Thinking of selling? I’ll craft a strategic marketing plan and help you price your home to attract serious buyers and get the best return.

Ready to buy? With today’s interest rates and available inventory, now could be the perfect time to make your move. I’ll help you find the right home and navigate every step of the process with confidence.

Free Home Buying Seminar This January

Learn how to buy a home in Chicagoland in a relaxed, easy way.

Jesse Furrow and I are hosting a free home-buying seminar on January 10 at Ko-Ze Wine Room in Glen Ellyn. You’ll get practical tips, market updates, and answers to your questions. Coffee and bagels are on them. A great chance to learn, meet people, and feel confident about your next move.

🗞️ In Other News…

• Make plans for new restaurants coming to the suburbs in 2026
  

• 13 creative ways to party in Chicago on New Year’s Eve, from a bash Downtown to out-of-the-box fun
  

• Chicago New Year’s Eve Guide 2025 for Families: Kid-Friendly Events, Fireworks & More