The holiday season in Chicago is merry, bright, and full of delightful holiday events and activities to enjoy. This time of year, the city is shining with plenty of things to do and fantastic ways to embrace the holiday season. From stunning light shows in the city and suburbs to holiday-themed entertainment across many of Chicago’s stages, there are plenty of events and activities to enjoy in Chicago.
Discover the most festive and joyful ways to experience the holiday season in Chicago.
1. Spot Your favorite animals and more during Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
Zoo Lights is a beloved holiday activity for many Chicagoans. The Lincoln Park Zoo hosts Zoo Lights, which showcases hundreds of luminous displays and seasonal activities, all illuminated by spectacular lights. You can attend the event for free on Mondays, or you can book your spot online for this festive activity. Spend quality time with your family, friends, and favorite animals at this dazzling holiday event in Chicago.
2. Indulge in delectable holiday desserts from your favorite sweet shops
This holiday season, indulge in delectable holiday desserts from a city that knows a little something about sweets and treats. Quintessential candy makers, bakers, and shops like Fannie May, Mars Candy, Ferrera, and more call Chicago home. Today, you will find just as many modern sweet shops throughout the city, from the Far North Side’s ice cream shops to the South Side’s infamous bakeries.
3. Spot the holiday train or bus on the way to your next destination
Chicago’s holiday season is marked by the sight of the CTA holiday train or bus in your neighborhood. This unique holiday tradition spreads cheer every year and will continue to make its way throughout the city until the end of the year. You can visit the website to find out when the CTA holiday train or bus will make its rounds in your neighborhood.
4. Peep eye-catching holiday window displays at Macy’s on State Street
Visual displays of the holiday symbols illuminate State Street, thanks to Macy’s. Enjoy this free holiday activity and other events in the Loop at the formal Marshall Fields department store. This landmark store keeps holiday traditions going this year through charming window displays and a spectacle of 42 trumpets that line the landmark building. In addition to the shopping inside, be sure to admire the 3,000-pound tree inside the Walnut Room, a display of vintage ornaments with 6,000 twinkling lights. A Chicago tradition with a twist that you certainly cannot miss!
5. Spend some green while shopping with Chicago Black-Owned Business
Shop and support small black-owned businesses in Chicago throughout the holiday season. This is a great holiday activity that builds community. Resources like Black Shop Friday sponsored by the City of Chicago and The Chicago Urban League make it easy. With a directory of over 500 black-owned businesses, this guide makes it easy for you to shop black and spend green within the community. No matter your neighborhood—shop black this holiday season.
6. Get your winter workout while ice skating in Millennium Park
Ice skating in Millennium Park in Chicago is a quintessential winter experience that blends the magic of the season with the city’s vibrant energy. It’s also a great holiday activity to enjoy with friends or family. Skaters can gracefully glide across the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, framed by the iconic Chicago skyline and the stunning architecture of Millennium Park. Online tickets are required for a 90-minute skating session at the park. Bring your own skates or rent a pair at this free ice rink in Chicago.
7. Dazzle your senses through a brilliant Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden
Visit the Botanic Garden this holiday season for the annual Lightscape, a holiday event and activity that’s on every Chicagoan’s bucket list. The beautiful reimagined trail immerses visitors into a world of light, color, and sound. This holiday activity also celebrates and features local artists throughout the brilliant showcase. Bask in thousands of twinkling lights this holiday season. To reserve your spot now through January, visit the website here.
8. Find the perfect holiday gift for kids of all ages at a local toy or hobby store
Unsure of what to buy the big or small kid in your life? Find inspiration and the perfect gift at a local toy store in Chicago. Toy and hobby stores in Chicago have great novelty finds such as toys, crafts, and other entertainment for the young children in your life. Browse thousands of games, puzzles, and trinkets at any neighborhood shop in Chicago. Who knows, you might even walk away with a little something for yourself.
9. Create joyful memories of seeing a play, musical, or concert
Embracing the holiday spirit in Chicago extends beyond the twinkling lights and festive decorations; it’s also about immersing yourself in the city’s rich theatrical scene. Attending plays, musicals, or other shows during the holidays becomes a magical experience as theaters come alive with captivating performances. Whether you’re enchanted by a heartwarming holiday play, tapping your toes to a spirited musical, or laughing along with a festive comedy, Chicago’s stages provide a perfect escape into the enchanting world of live entertainment. Find a holiday show near you using one of my favorite ticket websites.
10. Sip a sweet cocktail at a holiday pop-up bar
Enjoy a delightful cocktail at a pop-up bar that is festively decorated for the holiday season. You can either check out one of these bars for a unique experience or take advantage of great deals by visiting the most popular pop-up bars for a fun and affordable night out. Chicago boasts incredible nightlifeso you won’t have any difficulty finding a holiday-themed bar that suits your preferences in any of the city’s neighborhoods.
11. Shop for unique goods at a Chicago holiday market
Explore the vibrant arts and crafts scene in Chicago and support the local artists and makers. From handmade jewelry and ceramics to paintings and prints, Chicago is home to an array of talented individuals who pour their hearts and souls into their craft. By purchasing from local artists and makers, not only are you getting unique, one-of-a-kind gifts, but you are also supporting the local economy and promoting the arts in your community. This is a joyful holiday activity that everyone can enjoy.
12. Experience your favorite holiday film in a new and original way
There are tons of cool ways to enjoy your favorite holiday flicks that don’t involve sitting on your couch at home. You can switch it up and watch them at a drive-thru theater, in a classic movie theater, or even with the bonus of a live orchestra. Get excited to watch your go-to movies in a new way.
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