The full day of family fun started at Pioneer Court on North Michigan Avenue at 11 a.m. There was live music, a visit from Santa Claus and lots of holiday-themed food from Connie's Pizza, Garrett Popcorn, Eli's Cheesecake and more.
Then at 5:30 p.m., the BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival tree-lighting parade stepped onto North Michigan Avenue at Oak Street. Grand Marshals Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse and their friends from the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida traveled down North Michigan Avenue to Wacker Drive, lighting one million lights along the way. The parade also features bands, floats, and music superstars.
ABC7 hosts Rob Elgas, Cheryl Burton, Judy Hsu and Janet Davies were there, as was country music superstar Jo Dee Messina who performed her new song "Noel" during the Lights Festival parade.
Earlier Saturday, she stopped by ABC 7 studio to talk about the festivities and all the fun.
Start the holidays with the BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
The 25th Annual BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Saturday, Nov. 19
Lights Festival Lane, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tree-lighting parade steps off at 5:30 p.m.
The Magnificent Mile (parade steps off from Oak Street and N. Michigan Avenue)
Admission/Ticket Prices: Free