Easter is fast approaching, and Chicago is the perfect city for fun things to do with the family for this special springtime holiday. The Windy City is a great city any time of the year, but when you throw in a holiday, it is even better.
There’s a host of parks to visit, restaurants where you can dine for the holiday, and Easter-specific events to make your visit to Chicago picture-perfect.
Get Your Easter Egg Hunt on and More
On Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm (with the hunt starting around 12:15 pm), Chicago Women’s Park & Gardens will host one of the city’s largest and most festive Easter egg hunts of the season. With over 20,000 eggs hidden for kids to find, this family-friendly event also features a petting zoo, face painters, balloon artists, games, and fun appearances by the Easter Bunny, making it a memorable way to celebrate spring in the heart of the South Loop.
Check Out Some Chicago Parks and Flowers
Chicago has many beautiful and exciting parks, and Easter is a perfect time to explore and spend the day at any one of them. Check out Millennium Park, with 24.5 acres across from Michigan Avenue. The park is a great destination for all seasons and features concerts and outdoor movies during the summer. “Millennium Park is a world leader of art and architecture in a public, outdoor, urban setting,” according to Millenniumparkfoundation.org - “invoking a sense of calm, refuge, and reflection, each visitor can indulge in a unique artistic experience with the opportunity to admire the Chicago skyline as a subtle backdrop.”
Lincoln Park is perfect for anyone who loves nature, so head over around Easter. The park has 1,188 acres and is around the lakefront. The park features the Lincoln Park Conservatory, Theatre on the Lake, a rowing canal, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, five playgrounds, and so much more. It’s a perfect spot to create your own Easter traditions.
Easter Brunch & Dinner
Looking for a fun and different way to celebrate Easter in Chicago? The Easter Signature Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan is a great way to spend the holiday. Departing from Navy Pier, this two-hour cruise features a delicious brunch buffet, cocktails and drinks available for purchase, a live DJ, and incredible views of the Chicago skyline from the water. It’s a relaxed, festive way to enjoy Easter with family or friends while taking in the fresh spring air and city views.
For the ultimate Easter dinner, take the Easter Premier Plus Dinner Cruise on the Chicago River. This two-hour dinner cruise features unbeatable views of the city. You’ll enjoy a three-course plated meal with entrees, salads, and desserts, along with signature cocktails and specialty wines. Take in the views and the fresh air of springtime and enjoy onboard DJ entertainment. It’s a great way to indulge and enjoy the holiday on a cruise you won’t forget.
Chicago is bursting with activities and sights, along with delicious foods – a great mix where you can spend Easter with your loved ones and make some new memories for the holiday.
FAQs – Celebrating Easter in Chicago (2026)
What are some popular Easter events in Chicago?
Chicago hosts various Easter events, including Easter egg hunts in local parks, brunch cruises on Lake Michigan, family-friendly activities at Lincoln Park Zoo, and festive parades in neighborhoods like the Gold Coast and Lakeview.
Are there any Easter brunch cruises available in Chicago?
Yes! City Cruises offers special Easter brunch cruises on Lake Michigan, featuring gourmet dining, live entertainment, and breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline. It’s a memorable way to celebrate the holiday with family and friends.
What are some family-friendly Easter activities in Chicago?
Families can enjoy Easter-themed activities like petting zoos, spring craft workshops, visits with the Easter Bunny at shopping centers, and family brunches at local restaurants and hotels. Best of all, you can celebrate with the family onboard City Cruises on a delicious Easter dining cruise.
Are Chicago churches holding special Easter services?
Yes, many churches across Chicago offer special Easter Sunday services, sunrise services, and Good Friday observances. Notable churches like Holy Name Cathedral and Fourth Presbyterian Church often hold large, well-attended services.
How can I celebrate Easter outdoors in Chicago?
Celebrate Easter outdoors with a scenic picnic at Millennium Park, a walk along the Lakefront Trail, or by attending outdoor community events like egg hunts and spring festivals.
What are some unique ways to celebrate Easter in Chicago?
Consider taking a scenic Easter cruise on Lake Michigan or the Chicago River with City Cruises. For a unique celebration, you can also attend a spring flower show at Garfield Park Conservatory or explore the Easter Parade on Michigan Avenue.
Is public transportation available for Easter events in Chicago?
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates buses and trains throughout the city, making it easy to reach Easter events. Ride-sharing services and parking options are also widely available for convenience.
Original Post Date: March 10, 2023