Holiday Fireworks Cruise

Free

TICKETS GO ON SALE
September 1, 2025

NEXT EVENT
November 22, 2025

Cue the cocoa and crank up the carols. Take this family-friendly cruise down the Chicago River for festive music, sweet treats, and an intimate view of the holiday fireworks. The parade isn’t included, but the magic’s still very much on board this 90-minute cruise.

Cue the cocoa and crank up the carols. Wendella's Holiday Fireworks Cruise is a cozy, family-friendly way to celebrate the season. Step aboard and settle in as festive music plays, sweet treats are passed around, and the Chicago River reflects the dazzling lights from the fireworks above.

If you're searching for an unforgettable Chicago holiday cruise, this is it. Your ticket includes hot apple cider, hot cocoa, and sweets, plus seasonal music sets the mood from the moment you depart. As you glide through downtown, the Chicago skyline sparkles above, leading you to a prime viewing spot, where the sky will burst into color.

Most guests head to the open-air upper deck for the full view, but the lower level offers climate-controlled seating if you’d prefer to stay cozy. Restrooms are available, and the pace of the evening is relaxed—you won't have to contend with crowds, after all. It’s a special evening on the water for the whole family.

Boarding begins 15 minutes before departure, so plan to arrive early and get settled. Whether you're kicking off the holiday season or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, this Chicago Christmas cruise is a celebration you'll be glad you didn’t miss.

• Front-row seat to the fireworks!
• Open-air and indoor seating
• Friendly crew to answer your questions
• Seasonal hot drinks
• Holiday sweets
• Festive music
• Iconic skyline views
• Restrooms on board

We depart rain or shine; Chicago weather is unpredictable, but our boats are built for it. We recommend arriving at the dock 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time since boarding typically begins 15 minutes prior. All bags are subject to screening, and outside alcohol or weapons are not allowed. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable after the scheduled departure time. Not sure where to go? Head to 400 N Michigan Avenue, right by the historic Wrigley Building at the northwest corner of the DuSable (Michigan Avenue) Bridge. For additional info chat with us, or give us a call.

We have a selection of local favorites available for purchase, including snacks, candy, soft drinks, beer, wine, hard seltzer, cider, and cocktails. Find our full Menu here.

Our boats are wheelchair accessible from our West Dock, with a ramp to the upper deck. All of our boats have ADA-compliant restrooms. Some of our boats have an elevator from the upper to lower deck, where the bar and restrooms are located. Please call us in advance on 312-337-1446 so we can assist.

Recommended for:
  • Creating new holiday traditions
  • Real-life snow globe moments
  • The coziest date night ever
  • Nailing that holiday card photo

Your Cruise

Start & End
We'll meet you at 400 N Michigan Avenue. If you or anyone in your party has limited mobility or has a wheelchair, please call us in advance (312)337-1146 so we can accommodate you.

Sights
Here are some (not all!) of the landmarks you'll see along the way.

  1. Aqua Tower
  2. NBC Tower
  3. Marina City
  4. Wolf Point
  5. Civic Opera House
  6. Willis Tower

All routes are subject to change without notice.

Image Map

FAQ

Know before you go

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