Discover Naperville: Monthly Local Events – November
Enjoy the start of the holiday season with festive events, holiday markets, and plenty of things to do around Naperville! Here’s a round-up of local events happening throughout November. We hope to see you around the neighborhood!
Día de Muertos 2026
Sunday, November 1 | Grand Pavilion Naperville | 1-6p
This free, family-friendly event invites community members of all backgrounds to experience the magic of Día de Muertos through powerful storytelling, vibrant altars (ofrendas), live music, art, and cultural expression.
For more info, visit almascommunity.org.
Downtown Lights Up for the Holidays
Monday, November 2 | Downtown Naperville | 5p
Kick off the holiday season as downtown trees and rooftops begin to illuminate around 5 p.m. Enjoy the twinkling lights every night thereafter, creating a festive glow for holiday shopping and strolling. No ceremony; lights will come on gradually beginning around 5 p.m. on Monday, November 2 (the first evening after Daylight Savings ends).
Stroll through the heart of downtown and enjoy beautifully decorated storefronts, twinkling lights, festive displays, and plenty of holiday cheer. Whether you’re shopping, dining, or simply taking in the sights, Downtown Naperville is the perfect place to make magical holiday memories with family and friends.
After the Candy – Pumpkin Smash
Saturday, November 7 | Ron Ory Community Garden Plots | 9a – 12noon
Don’t trash that jack-o’-lantern. Bring it to the Park District’s free Pumpkin Smash, weigh it, then smash it yourself (or let a volunteer do the honors). Pumpkins are composted right into the garden plots. Please remove candles, metal and decorations first.
For more info, visit napervilleparks.org.
Charm Your Way Through Naperville
Saturday, November 7 | Barrel & Heritage | 4-7p | $45
Join the Naperville Junior Woman’s Club for a fundraiser while also supporting local businesses as you shop, dine and discover Downtown Naperville. Start at Barrel & Heritage and stroll through downtown, collecting unique charms from participating retailers and enjoy special offers and light refreshments. End the evening back at Barrel & Heritage to assemble your charm bracelet. Only 50 tickets will be sold.
For more info and tickets, click here.
Dog Pictures with the Grrrrinch
Saturday, November 7 | All Two Bostons Locations | 11a-1p | Free
Join Two Bostons on Saturday, November 7 for a free picture with the Grrrinch. Bring your pet and strike a pose for a little Grinchy holiday cheer. You can also create a festive paw print painting to take home.
For more info, visit twobostons.com.
Sip & Shop
Tuesday, November 10 | Downtown Naperville | 4:30-8p | $30
Join Turning Pointe Autism Foundation as they sip and shop through downtown Naperville. Each participating store will have nibbles and a unique coffee, tea or cocoa beverage to enjoy! Ticket includes a mug made by their students, set of handmade gift tags, free gift wrapping and more.
For more info and to get tickets, visit autismfoundation.org/sip-shop.
Monopoly Launch Party
Thursday, November 12 | DuPage Children’s Museum | 4:30-7:30p
Step into the world of the classic game with an evening packed with playful challenges, creative activities, photo ops, and a special appearance by Mr. Monopoly. The new Naperville edition of Monopoly will be available for purchase at the event.
For more info and to get tickets, visit dupagechildrens.org.
The Rink Grand Opening
Friday, November 13 | Block59 | 5p-midnight
Join Block59 as they celebrate the grand opening of The Rink at Block 59 with a magical night of skating, live entertainment, festive surprises, and holiday cheer. Experience the first night on the ice surrounded by real snowfall, dazzling lights, family-friendly entertainment, and memorable moments as they officially kick off the season. Gather your family and friends for an unforgettable evening featuring live music, special character appearances, giveaways, and our official tree lighting!
For more info and tickets, visit theblock59.com.
Holiday Open House Weekend
Saturday, November 14 & Sunday, November 15 | Downtown Naperville
Get a head start on holiday shopping (and the savings!) during HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND!
For more info, visit downtownnaperville.com.
Holiday Tree Lighting and Visits with Santa
Wednesday, November 18 | Naper Settlement | 5-7p | Free with Registration
Experience the museum’s campus come to life as thousands of dazzling lights are turned on. Don’t forget to visit with Santa.
For more info, visit napersettlement.org.
Explore the Sound
Friday, November 20 | Wentz Concert Hall | 7p
The annual Explore the Sound concert event features Chorale, Chamber Singers, Concert Choir and guest instrumental artists performing from virtually every nook and cranny in the concert hall. Theatrically lit and staged, Explore the Sound is the quintessential choral event of the season.
For more info and tickets, visit northcentralcollege.edu.
Turkey Trot 5k
Thursday, November 26 | Naperville Central High School | 8a
The Naperville Noon Lions Club will host its 29th annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. Runners, walkers, running strollers and special needs runners are welcome. All proceeds go to benefit individuals with vision, hearing and diabetes issues.
For more info and to register, visit napervilleturkeytrot.com.
Downtown Holiday Glow
Friday, November 27 | Downtown Naperville | 3-6p
Shop Black Friday, then stick around for a festive evening as downtown gets merry and bright! Enjoy roaming performers and face painters, free hot chocolate and festive giveaways (while supplies last).
And keep an eye out around 5 p.m.! Santa will be making a special drive through downtown in his red pickup truck — his sleigh isn’t quite ready yet!
For more info, visit downtownnaperville.com.
Small Business Saturday
Saturday, November 28 | Downtown Naperville
Make Downtown Naperville your destination for Small Business Saturday — and Sunday, too! Explore our 100+ locally owned businesses, discover one-of-a-kind gifts, enjoy special savings and celebrate the shops and businesses that make our downtown so special.
And this year, there’s even more reason to shop small! Look for a special Shop Small Passport, opportunities to win Downtown Naperville Gift Cards and other holiday surprises throughout the weekend!
For more info, visit downtownnaperville.com.
2026 Santa’s Sleigh Tour
Saturday, November 28 – Thursday, December 3 | Throughout Naperville
Santa’s Sleigh Tour is a one-float parade through Naperville starring the big guy himself, Santa! Now in its 7th year, the tradition of spreading major holiday cheer continues this holiday season for 6 nights through 80+ neighborhoods. Be sure to look at the routes and head out to see where and when Santa will be parading through your neighborhood.
For more info, visit santassleightour.com.
Welcome to Naperville’s Monthly Events Hub, your go-to resource for staying connected with all the exciting happenings in this vibrant community! Whether you’re a longtime resident, a new neighbor or just visiting, Naperville offers something for everyone throughout the year. From cultural festivals and family-friendly activities to outdoor adventures and seasonal markets, there’s always something to look forward to.
Each month, Naperville is buzzing with special events and gatherings that bring people together. You can expect a diverse range of events, such as:
Live Music and Concerts
Enjoy performances featuring local bands and nationally recognized artists at venues like the Naperville Riverwalk or North Central College.
Farmers Markets
Fresh produce, local goods, and artisanal crafts are available weekly at our bustling farmers markets, perfect for those who love supporting local businesses.
Family-Friendly Fun
From outdoor movie nights to interactive exhibits at the DuPage Children’s Museum, there are plenty of events to entertain kids and adults alike.
Festivals & Fairs
Whether it’s the beloved Last Fling over Labor Day weekend, the Naperville Ale Fest, or the holiday lights at Naper Settlement, our town knows how to celebrate.
Stay in the Loop
Naperville is always evolving, with new events popping up every month. Check back regularly for the latest updates on concerts, art shows, fitness events, and more. Don’t miss out on seasonal festivals, neighborhood fairs, and exciting happenings right in your backyard.
Be sure to stay connected and make the most of everything Naperville has to offer by following us on social media!