The Cook County Historical Society is excited to announce a brand new event, “Museum by Candlelight.” The 1st annual “Museum by Candlelight” will take place on Saturday, November 28, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Cook County History Museum. A second event will take place on a weeknight in December. Stay tuned for a specific date. 

We invite you to join us at the former lighthouse keeper’s residence, built in 1896, to celebrate the season of winter holidays. Walk through the History Museum, lit by candlelight and festive decor, as we gather to celebrate the warmth of the season.

To help make this event a success, we’re looking for decoration donations! If you have extra garland, string lights, or natural decor taking up storage space, we’d love to take them off your hands. Your contributions will help us host this event for years to come.

Donations will be accepted during regular Museum hours, which are Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., through Saturday, November 14.

Learn more about what type of donations we are looking for here: cookcountyhistory.org/museum-by-candlelight

Additionally, we are looking for volunteers to help us decorate the Museum ahead of the event! Learn more here: cookcountyhistory.org/events/2026/11/21/museum-by-candlelight-volunteer-decorating-day