How Holiday Parenting Time Works in Illinois

 Posted on December 11, 2025 in Child Custody and Support

Deciding how to split holidays can be a contentious part of co-parenting. You can try some common methods or come up with a unique schedule that suits your family. As long as it serves your children’s best interests, the court will likely approve. To learn more about creating a holiday parenting time schedule, speak to our experienced Kane County, IL parental responsibilities lawyer.

How Do Co-Parents Usually Divide Parenting Time for the Holiday Season?

Illinois law recognizes that holidays disrupt regular schedules, and most parenting plans include a holiday schedule to accommodate them. The most common ways parents divide holiday time include:

• Alternating the holiday each year

• Splitting the holiday into two parts

• Using a fixed schedule where the same parent has the same holiday every year

Under 750 ILCS 5/602.7, parenting time decisions are based on the child’s needs and well-being, not on what is easiest for either parent. Because of this, holiday schedules are often designed to give the child meaningful time with both parents. You can work together to come up with a schedule that works best for your family, or you can rely on the court to decide for you.

Do Holidays Override Regular Parenting Time in Illinois?

In most cases, the holiday schedule overrides the regular parenting time schedule. If a holiday is assigned to one parent in the parenting plan, that holiday time usually takes priority, even if it falls on the other parent’s usual day. Once the holiday ends, the normal parenting schedule resumes as written. This system helps avoid mix-ups and gives both parents clear expectations for special occasions.

How Are School Breaks and Winter Break Handled in Illinois?

School breaks are often handled differently than single-day holidays because they involve longer stretches of parenting time. Winter break is one of the most detailed parts of many parenting plans because it often includes major holidays and time off from school. Some parents divide winter break into two equal parts so the child spends time with each household. Others rotate the full break each year so each parent has the entire winter break in alternating years.

Spring break and long holiday weekends are usually addressed as well. These breaks may follow a similar rotation or be assigned to the same parent each year. Parenting plans often include exact pickup and drop-off times to avoid confusion. Clear start and end times help both parents plan travel, work schedules, and family events.

Do We Always Have To Follow the Parenting Time Schedule for Holidays?

Court-ordered holiday schedules are meant to be followed. These schedules create consistency and protect both parents’ time with the child. Still, many parents agree to short-term changes when travel, work, or family events come up. When both parents agree and communicate clearly, temporary changes can work well.

If one parent repeatedly does not follow the holiday schedule, the court may need to step in to enforce the order under 750 ILCS 5/607.5. If the current holiday schedule no longer fits the child’s needs, a formal modification may be appropriate.

Call Us To Talk to a Geneva, IL Parenting Time Attorney Today

Holiday parenting time should support stability and allow children to enjoy special moments with both parents. If questions arise, the Kane County, IL parental responsibilities lawyer at The Law Offices of Douglas B. Warlick & Associates can help you understand your options. The lawyers at our boutique law firm are trained in collaborative law and focus on practical solutions whenever possible. However, if court becomes necessary, we are fully prepared to represent your interests. Call us today at 630-232-9700 to schedule a consultation and learn more.