visit chicago in december

BEST Things to Do in Chicago in December 2024 (From a Local!)

Searching for what to do in Chicago this December? Here are the best things to do in Chicago in December 2024 (from a local) – from the top attractions to festive holiday events and activities.

December is one of the best months to visit Chicago . Even though the weather is getting colder, it is still comfortable and there are so many fun and festive Christmas and holiday activities and events that take place.

I suggest bookmarking this blog post as I will be updating it regularly with new events.

Things to Do in Chicago in December 2024

Below are the top things to do in Chicago in December.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. I may make a small commission if you make a booking using my links at no extra cost to you . As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Go Outdoor Ice Skating

Visit an Authentic German-Style Christmas Market

Christkindlmarket is an authentic German-style outdoor market. Visitors can shop for Christmas ornaments and products from around the world and try various German food and drinks such as roasted nuts, fresh pretzels, bratwurst, and hot spiced wine. You can purchase a limited edition souvenir mug to remember your visit.

The market is in 2 locations in Chicago: Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago and Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville.

Where:  50 W Washington Street and 3635 N Clark St

When: Hours vary see the website for more details

Cost: Admission is FREE.

Take a Holiday Tour

If you enjoy guided tours, join a holiday tour that focuses on Chicago’s holiday attractions:

Holiday Hike: Festive Food & Walking Tour Seasonal Stroll Walking Tour of Holiday Attractions

See the Crèche and Wreathed Lions at the Art Institute of Chicago

During the entire month of December, you can see the lions decked with their evergreen wreaths as well as the spectacular 18th-century Neapolitan crèche , or Nativity scene, telling the story of Jesus Christ’s birth through more than 200 painted terracotta figures staged in an elaborate environment inspired by 18th-century Naples.

Hours:   Monday and Friday–Sunday from 11 a.m.– 5 p.m. Thursdays from 11 a.m.– 8 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays & Wednesdays.

Where: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603

Cost:   Varies. Click here to buy a skip the line ticket if you want to avoid long lines. There are discounts for Chicago and Illinois residents.

Watch Digital Art at Art on the Mart

Art on theMART is the largest permanent digital art projection in the world, projecting contemporary artwork across the 2.5-acre river-façade of theMART.

Where: The Merchandise Mart, 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL 60654. Spectators can watch the show from the jetty section of the Chicago Riverwalk on Wacker Drive between Wells Street and Franklin Street.

When: 30-minute program of projections are shown two times every evening.

Cost: Free.

See the City of Chicago Christmas Tree

The City of Chicago Christmas tree can be seen at Millennium Park during the entire month of December.

ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo

ZooLights Presented by ComEd and Invesco QQQ at Lincoln Park Zoo is a cheerful, family-friendly holiday event in the heart of the city. Zoolights features hundreds of luminous LED displays and seasonal experiences, all under the glow of millions of lights.

Where: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2400 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL

Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Museum of Science and Industry (@msichicago) on Nov 13, 2018 at 7:00pm PST

Where: Museum of Science and Industry (5700 S Lake Shore Drive).

Cost: Included in regular museum admission. Here is a link to the official website for more information.

Tip:   If you are visiting a few museums and indoor attractions, consider purchasing a Chicago CityPASS or Go Chicago Card to save money on entrance fees.

See The Winter Flower Show at the Garfield Park Conservatory

The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest and most stunning botanical conservatories in the US. During the entire month of December, you can see their Winter Flower Show exhibit.

Where: 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago, IL 60624

Hours: Wednesday 10am-8pm; Thursday – Sunday 10am-5pm; Closed Monday and Tuesday. Visitors are encouraged to make a reservation online in advance.

Cost: FREE (suggested donation)

Go Holiday Shopping (or Window Shopping)

Chicago is a great city for shopping with every type of store you can imagine. Many shopping centers and departments stores have holiday decorations and attractions to put you in a festive mood. Make sure not to miss Macy’s State Street (formerly Marshall Fields) – the building is a National Historic Landmark and it is known for its holiday window displays.

The major shopping areas in downtown Chicago include State Street (where you can find Macy’s, Target and many smaller stores) and The Magnificent Mile (where you can find large shopping centers and departments stores, luxury stores and other popular brands).

If you are looking for unique and/or handmade items, check out there markets for your holiday shopping: Chicago Artisan Market (Ravenswood) (December 1, 2024), One of a Kind Show (December 5-8, 2024), Randolph Street Holiday Market (December 14-15, 2024) and Chicago Artisan Market (Fulton Market) (December 15, 2024).

Ride the CTA Holiday Train and Bus

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Savvy Globetrotter (@thesavvyglobetrotter)

The CTA Holiday Train is a holiday tradition unique to Chicago. As the train pulls into each station, Santa waves to riders from his sleigh on an open-air flatcar carrying his reindeer and decorated holiday trees. Each car of the train is wrapped with holiday and seasonal images. Thousands of twinkling lights outline the shape of the train and windows, with even more lights running across the tops of the cars. (The video above is from one of my favorite Chicago photo spots .)

The CTA Holiday Bus is 60-foot bus turned into a winter wonderland with holiday music playing and Santa waving and from the roof-hatch of the bus. The exterior of the bus features Chicago’s skyline one snowy evening with “Ralphie the Reindeer” leading the way, his nose aglow and Santa’s sleigh in tow. Festive strings of lights outline the bus and its windows, along with sparkling snowflakes that light-up at night.

When: See transitchicago.com/holidayfleet for full details on dates, times and routes.

Cost: Regular CTA fare. See transitchicago.com for prices.

Drink Glogg at Simon’s Tavern

Drinking the signature glögg (mulled wine) at Simon’s Tavern is a holiday tradition for Chicagoans.

The long standing neighborhood dive bar in Andersonville is packed every year in December.

Where: Simon’s Tavern at 5210 N Clark St, Chicago, IL

See Christmas and Holiday Lights Around Chicago

There are many places to see Christmas and holiday light shows in Chicago and the suburbs . There are several drive thru holiday lights shows in the Chicago area or you can also drive through neighborhoods known for their holiday lights. Here are the best places to see Christmas and holiday lights in and around Chicago .

Chicago December 2024 Events

In addition to the activities mentioned above, other Chicago December 2024 events include: Chicagoland Toys For Tots Motorcycle Parade (December 1, 2024), TBOX (Twelve Bars of Christmas) Bar Crawl (December 14, 2024) and New Year’s Eve 5K (December 31, 2024).

As you can see there are many fun things to do in Chicago in December this year.

Planning a trip to Chicago? Check out my Chicago guides and itineraries:

• 3 Days in Chicago Itinerary + Travel Tips From a Local
• The Perfect Itinerary for One Day in Chicago (According to a Local)
• Best Free Things to Do in Chicago
• Most Instagrammable Places in Chicago

Related Posts

savvyglobetrotter

Thanks for the information, How many days would you suggest seeing Chicago at Xmas time?

Would this be your first time? There is so much to do in Chicago, I would recommend at least 3 days.

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Destinations , Road Trips , Vacations · January 5, 2022

Chicago in December: The Best Things to Do During the Holidays

Are you looking to celebrate the holiday season in the Windy City? If you are, get excited because you will LOVE it. And if you’re still thinking about it, decide now that the answer is YES because Chicago in December is so worth it!

There are so many Chicago experiences that are best enjoyed during the month of December when the city is all lit up and full of excitement.

Chicago in December: The Best Things to Do

From downtown Chicago, up to Wrigleyville, and down to Soldier Field, there are endless ways to enjoy the season. And I promise you’ll be full of holiday cheer during and after your trip. Here’s where to go:

Millennium Park (The Bean!)

This is the perfect first stop, whether you have been to Millennium Park before or not. Make sure it’s on your Chicago in December list because it really gets you into the holiday spirit.

The Bean reflects the lit-up city skyline— don’t forget a selfie or two! A huge Christmas tree with endless lights. And the ice rink full of bundled-up, smiley people. It’s one of the best spots in the city— tourist trap or not!

Classic and fun! Enjoy city views and one of winter’s top outdoor activities on the skating rink at Millennium Park. Ice skate, take incredible photos, and warm up with a little hot chocolate—or something spiked!

Admission is free, but online reservations are required. You can bring your own skates or rent them for a fee. Keep in mind that this is a busy place! Find skate rentals and sharpening costs .

TIP: Maggie Daley Park offers an ice skating ribbon with incredible city views and stunning lights if you’re looking for another option. Rent skates (for a fee) or bring your own.

Visit the Christkindlmarket

The Annual Christmas Market, Christkindlmarket , is a traditional Chicago event that is sure to be a great memory! Little shops line the plaza where you can find all sorts of ornaments and gifts. There’s plenty of German food to enjoy like delicious brats and big pretzels. Plus, you can sip hot mulled wine (in the cutest keepable mugs) while enjoying the themed music in a cozy setting.

Sounds nice, huh!? There are two locations in the Chicago area—the Daley Plaza downtown and in Wrigleyville.

Admission is free, but be prepared to stand in line to get in. This is one of the holiday markets that everyone in the city wants to enjoy—because it’s worth it! (Of course, you’ll pay for your food, drinks, and shopping.)

Lincoln Park Zoo Lights

Bundle up and walk around the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights for endless Christmas trees and light shows. There are hundreds of LED displays and experiences under the glow of millions of lights and city views. It is very, very well done and a fun way to spend the evening.

There is warm spiced wine, frosty beers, festive cocktails, and snacks for purchase, as well as a gift shop.

Most nights are $5—you can purchase online. Mondays and Tuesdays are free.

Shopping on the Magnificent Mile

While you’re going to find plenty of tourists, you have to walk Michigan Avenue (aka The Magnificent Mile) while visiting Downtown Chicago in December. Holiday decorations line the streets where you’ll find different Christmas events, all your favorite stores, bars and restaurants, and maybe even Santa Claus!

If you haven’t finished your Christmas shopping, you’ll have no problem doing so here with the 450 stores that include popular department stores, jewelry, toys, clothing, and more. And don’t forget to cross the bridge over the Chicago River for the most beautiful photo.

TIP: State Street is another great option for your Christmas shopping .

Navy Pier—Light Up the Lake

Navy Pier becomes even cooler than it already is when it transforms into Light Up The Lake ! Endless lights in their indoor garden with fun sculptures and displays, a holiday beer garden, gift market, ice rink (in a beautiful setting!), and plenty of options for the kids—including a visit with Santa!

Tickets are $21 for adults and $19 for kids—3 and under are free. Ice skates are included if you choose to do so.

TIP: Don’t miss the New Year’s Eve Fireworks show at Navy Pier! . They do a remarkable job!

Wrigleyville Holiday Pop-Up Bars

Looking for holiday fun in the form of cocktails? This is where you need to be! For the month of December (and some into January), Wrigleyville bars transform into Christmas and holiday-themed pop-ups—and they get rowdy!

Based on movies or Christmas songs, each bar has its own themed drinks, characters, and endless decor. It’s impossible to not get into the Christmas spirit.

A few you don’t want to miss:

• Stretch Bar & Grill : Elf’d Up pop-up that includes Buddy the Elf! (Pictures below.)
• Moe’s Cantina : The town of Whooville.
• Houndstooth Saloon : Grisworlds.
• Old Crow Smokehouse : Santa’s Workshop.
• The Graystone Tavern : 8 Crazy Nights. Don’t forget the boozy jelly donts!

Polar Express

Love the popular Christmas movie, The Polar Express ? Well, you’re in luck because Chicago in December brings it to life! Take off from Union Station where your golden ticket will be punched and the train ride begins. Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, caroling, a reading of The Polar Express, and a visit from Santa Claus.

Ticket prices range (make sure you’re ready to purchase around August!) from $45-78 for adults and $37-70 for children.

TIP: Speaking of trains, keep your eyes out for the fully-decorated holiday express blue line train that runs on the “L” tracks! The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) has kept the tradition alive for years and even delivers food and donations during this time of year. Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to hop on!

Chicago Sports in December

Chicago is a sports town through and through and it’s not a trip there without a sporting event! Catch the Chicago Bulls at the United Center or (if you can brave the cold) the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field! Hopefully, a few inches of snow is coming down to make the experience even more magical.

And if you’re lucky, your team might just be there at the time you are looking to go…

Chicago in December—More Things to Do

A long weekend in Chicago won’t allow you to experience everything the city offers. Here are some more ideas to mix-and-match and choose your favorites:

• Christmas Around the World at the Museum of Science & Industry : Don’t miss the FOUR-story grand Christmas tree!
• Illumination Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum : Visit here for fifty acres full of lights and music.
• Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden : Honestly, there’s just no escaping holiday lights! (But who would want to…)
• A Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theatre : A tradition that lives on.

There’s Snow Place Like Chicago!

Whether you are a winter lover or not, you are going to love all of the holiday activities Chicago offers during this festive time! End your year on a high note and take part in some (or all!) of these popular things to do in Chicago in December. You won’t regret experiencing all of the holiday magic.

Did this post help you out?  Support the work and pass along $5 for a Coors Light 😉 VENMO: @Amber-LBB or PAYPAL: [email protected]. THANK YOU.

Looking for more? Minnesota is another fun city to visit during the holidays! Read Winter Activities in Minneapolis-St. Paul . And visit before those brutal January and February days…

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28 Splendid Things To Do In Chicago During December

December in Chicago is cold AF, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have any fun!

December might come with chilly weather, but it also brings some incredible events and things to do with it. Here’s a list of _ things we think are worth braving the cold for.

1-12 Enjoy these twinkling holiday lights.

One of our favorite things to do in Chicago during the winter is to experience all the magical holiday lights the city has to offer. Check out our guide to Chicago’s holiday lights here.

13. Get a unique gift for someone special at the Chicago Artisan Market, Dec 1.

If you’ve started looking for holiday gifts, we have the perfect place to find something truly unique. The Chicago Artisan Market features the Midwest’s best food, fashion, home decor, and art. The market is filled with incredible small businesses whose products are guaranteed to wow those on your gift shopping list this year. Get tickets now!

14. Eat boozy donuts at Chicago’s first Hanukkah Pop-Up Bar, 8 Crazy Nights , opening Dec 1.

If you’ve been wondering where the Hanukkah bar is in Chicago’s craze of  Christmas pop-ups , we have some good news. Finally, a festive Hanukkah-themed pop-up bar named  8 Crazy Nights  is opening at the Graystone Tavern in Wrigleyville next month. Mazel tov!

15. Attend a hysterical performance of The Buttcracker.

The Buttcracker: A Nutcracker Burlesque  returns to the Den Theatre Dec 5 for a fourth year of Christmas-themed debauchery.   A sexy twist on the classic tale, the live performance is filled with burlesque, magic, sword balancing, circus, dance, and more! Tickets for this raunchy, holiday spectacle are on sale now.

16. Stroll through a winter wonderland at Winter Wonderfest , Dec 6.

If you’re looking for thrills without the chills this holiday season,  Fifth Third Bank Winter Wonderfest   promises exactly that, with a forest of 500 trees decorated with 25,000 ornaments to enjoy. There’ll be over 20 rides and attractions to experience, including the new-for-2019 ‘Wind Chill’, which promises to take visitors soaring 50 feet above the central Festival Hall.

If you prefer your Christmas turned down a few notches, Winter Wonderfest hosts a ‘sensory-friendly’ version as well. More information. 

17. Start the Holidays off right with a full glass at the Chicago Wine Fest , Dec 7.

Indulge your senses by sampling premium varietals from some of Chicago’s best  wineries,  eat delicious food, and enjoy live musical performances. Featured wineries include PRP Wine International, Fenn Valley Vineyards, Vin 312 Winery, Rosé Bubbles and more! Get 35% off VIP tickets here!

18. Or enjoy your booze at Zoolights as part of the Ugly Christmas Sweater & Holiday Lights Bar Crawl , Dec 7.

If you love ugly Christmas sweaters and watching holiday lights, we’ve got the perfect bar crawl for you. Coming to Chicago Dec 7 is the Ugly Christmas Sweater and Holiday Lights Bar Crawl! Pull on your favorite ugly holiday sweater and experience Zoolights in Lincoln Park for this year’s boozy Christmas crawl. Tickets are on sale now!

19. Party for an important cause at the Unicorn Ball , Dec 13.

The Trans Liberation Collective will host its 3rd annual Unicorn Ball fundraiser at the Brave Space Alliance. People of all identities and gender expressions are welcome to drink, dance, eat and enjoy a number of fun performances! Proceeds go to the Brace Space Alliance and Trans Liberation Collective.  More information.

20. Hit all the best bars in Wrigleyville during TBOX’s 24th Annual Twelve Bars of Xmas bar crawl and costume party.

TBOX throws the largest, longest-running Christmas bar crawl in Chicago. This year kicks off with live music from Hairbanger’s Ball at 9 a.m. and continues all day, visiting some of the best bars in Wrigleyville. Tickets include free breakfast, $12 gift cards, great drink specials, TBOX swag, and much  more festive fun!  TBOX is Chicago’s best costume party and Christmas celebration. Don’t miss it on Dec 14.  More information.

21. Enjoy the magic of classical music by Candlelight , Dec 18 and 19.

Coming to Chicago in Dec is Candlelight, a stunning performance of classical music by twinkling candlelight. Tickets to the first show, which features Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, are sold out, but you can still get tickets for Candlelight’s holiday special, Dec 19.  Buy tickets here.

22. Eat incredible German food or find the perfect gift at the Christkindlemarket.

If you’re still looking for that perfect gift or have the munchies for sausages, pretzels, or German chocolate, look no further than the Christkindlmarket. The unique German fair comes to Chicago every year to spark joy for thousands of Chicagoans (we may have gone twice already.) Check out our  complete guide  of everything you need to know about this classic Chicago tradition.

23. Toast with fellow rebels at the Anarchist Tea, Dec 21

The PO Box Collective hosts a monthly social gathering for anarchists, abolitionists, anti-capitalists and like-minded folk. Practice some activist self-care with various teas, coffee, and vegan snacks. Attendees are encouraged to bring something delicious to share. More information.

23. Bring home a plant buddy at the Plant Shop Pop-Up , Dec 22

Bring home a new plant (or two, or three, or… okay, fine, we’ll put one back) at the Plant Shop Chicago Pop-Up. Most of the plants will be hard-to-kill cacti, so if you don’t exactly have a green thumb, that’s okay! There’s a plant for everyone. Chicago artist Bird Milk (Diego Aguilar) will also be painting clay pots for you to take your new plant friend home in! More information.

24. Try curling on Whiskey Business’ rooftop all month long.

Always wanted to try the popular winter sport of curling? Love hot chocolate and rooftop bars? Check out Whiskey Business’ Rooftop Curling! You can learn a new sport (or ice them competition if you’re an old pro) and enjoy one of Chicago’s best rooftop bars. More information.

25. Get cultured for free at the Art Institute of Chicago, Dec 26

Museums can be expensive to visit, but luckily many Chicago’s have free admission days. The Art Insitute offers free admission to Illinois residents Dec 26. Relax after the holidays by taking a walk through one of Chicago’s finest art collections. More information.

26. Crawl ‘Til the Ball Falls at this Chicago NYE Bar Crawl , Dec 31.

This is a bar crawl like no other. Celebrate 2019’s best moments and kick off 2020 with a golden ticket to some of Chicago’s best bars. Your bar crawl wristband gets you free entrance into any of the participating bars as well as special drink prices like $4 beers, $5 well mixed drinks, and $6 shots! More information. 

27. Make your 2020 goals count at the Annual Resolution Gala , Dec 31.

Ring in the new year in style at the 8th Annual Resolution Gala at The Aon Grand Ballroom. This incredible party has 30 bars, a bountiful buffet, superb DJs, and a spectacular fireworks show over Lake Michigan! Dance all night and toast to the new year with champagne at midnight. Happy New Year, indeed! Buy tickets here.

28. Attend any of these other epic NYE parties to end the decade.

Chicago’s NYE scene is enormous! We’ve put together a guide of all the best parties, performances, and firework displays worth going to. Check it out here!

Looking for more festive celebrations? Check out our guide to things to do over the holidays in Chicago for more inspiration.

Photo by  Bryan Rodriguez  on  Unsplash.

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21 Life-Changing Things to Do When Visiting Chicago in December

Looking for unique things to do when visiting Chicago in December? These are some of the most recommended places to visit and things to do in the iconic windy city. 

Planning a trip to Chicago anytime of year is super exciting! If you’re anything like me, you’re here because you love to research and plan your trip ahead of time. As a midwest native who frequents Chicago, I am giving you life-changing things to do when visiting this beautiful city in December.

You are going to learn about things to do like fun winter activities such as ice skating and hockey, holiday shows and events, where to shop for holiday gifts, and where to eat while staying cozy and warm.  After learning about these places, you are going to be ready for your next Chicago travel adventure!

This post is my 21 Life-Changing Things to Do When Visiting Chicago in December.

Winter Activities

Ice skating.

Ice skating is one of the most iconic winter activities. What’s better to bring in the winter season than going ice skating in December? Chicago has several beautiful ice skating rinks to choose from. 

Maggie Daley Park’s Ice Skating Ribbon is right next to Millenium Park. It offers a beautiful view of Millenium Park and the surrounding buildings. I love that it is a long trail rather than a wide open skating rink. Reservations must be made in advance online. 

Next to Maggie Daley Park is the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink . What makes this skating rink special is they offer free skating lessons every weekend! If you are a newbie when it comes to ice skating, this is the perfect place to visit as it is directly in front of The Bean, landmark sculpture. 

If you’re looking for a unique place to ice skate, check out the Sky Rink at the Peninsula Chicago . It is the only hotel skating rink in Chicago, and it’s on the hotel terrace. Skates can be rented for $20 for adults and $10 for children. It’s a beautiful location for skating as it’s surrounded by tall skyscrapers and twinkle snowflake lighting. 

Watch a Hockey Game

If you’re a big hockey fan, going to a hockey game when visiting Chicago in December is a must! Of course, there’s the well known NHL Chicago Blackhawks . One of the most popular NHL teams, it is definitely worth it to go to a game while visiting the windy city. 

Another option is the AHL Chicago Wolves . This team plays at the Allstate Arena located just outside of the O’Hare Airport. If you are flying into the city and staying near the airport, this would be a great nearby winter activity! 

Christmas lights and twinkle lights are such an important part of the holiday and winter seasons! I love that in December everything in the city becomes bright and colorful. Check out these fun light shows:

The Navy Pier offers their Light up the Lake lights attraction. What makes this venue special is that everything is indoors! If you don’t want to be out in the cold to admire holiday lights, this is the perfect place for you. They have several different lights exhibits inside. The Navy Pier has ice skating too!

One of the most popular lights exhibits in Chicago is the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights . This event sells out quickly so I recommend purchasing tickets in advance. Walk through the zoo and admire the magical lights while also checking out the fun animals. 

To kick off the holiday season, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival puts on a great show. Although the first day event is in November, the lights will stay up throughout December to enjoy. 

What to Eat and Drink 

Being that Chicago is one of the largest cities in the United States, there are an infinite amount of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops to choose from. I’m sharing some of my personal favorites for the winter months and especially during December and the holiday season.

A must visit is the Starbucks Reserve on Michigan Avenue. This is one of the largest Starbucks Reserves in the U.S. Take a break from the December weather and enjoy a cup of hot coffee or a special cocktail. This place offers so many cool activities that involve coffee. They offer tours, classes, specialty drinks, and more. Check out their website for details.

For a cozy coffee shop, consider visiting Ralph’s Coffee . Located within the Ralph Lauren flagship store, this coffee shop exudes all things classy, warm, and inviting. With only a few locations in the U.S. it’s an exclusive coffee shop worth visiting.  

What’s better than having a cinnamon roll in December in Chicago? Ann Sather breakfast is iconic, and their cinnamon rolls are incredible. I highly recommend starting out your day with a warm, delicious breakfast from this cute and cozy restaurant. 

Located in the West Loop, Trivoli Tavern screams winter vibes. The interior of the restaurant is like something you might find in a winter lodge. The truffle bucatini pasta is to die for! Settle in for the evening away from the wind and snow with a nice meal and cocktail at this warm restaurant. 

If you’re looking for something unique to celebrate the winter season, a visit to IIO Godfrey Winter Wonderland rooftop is a must! They have several heated igloos (small and large) that can be rented out in advance. This fun bar would be great day or night when visiting Chicago in December. 

Where to Celebrate: Holiday Events 

Some of the most popular year round attractions in Chicago offer fun events for the holiday season. 

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra offers holiday themed shows like Home Alone, and Merry, Merry, Chicago! Check out their website for schedule updates and a list of shows available this December. 

Cirque Du Soleil offers a Christmas show inspired by the classic book Twas the Night Before Christmas . Known for their jaw dropping aerial skills, Cirque Du Soleil is pure entertainment. Adding a Christmas theme to their performance is the cherry on top. 

The Joffrey Ballet has several shows throughout the year, but the most famous is definitely The Nutcracker . The Nutcracker is one of the most famous ballets and for many it is a Christmas tradition to attend it. The Joffrey Ballet is one of the most prestigious ballet companies in the country, so if you are planning to visit Chicago in December, I highly recommend going to a show.

The Museum of Science and Industry offers each year a Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light exhibit. This is a fun family-friendly activity where you’ll learn more about holiday traditions from around the world while also getting to see the permanent exhibits in the museum. 

Winterland at Gallagher Way is a fun winter festival where the Gallagher Way park baseball park is transformed. There are several activities including shopping, ice skating, food vendors, and more.

Where to Shop For Holiday Gifts

Chicago has several holiday markets each year in December. These markets are great places to purchase unique gifts for your friends and family. 

Every year, the Christkindl Market is held mid-November through December. This fun outdoor market makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a German city. Within the market you’ll find several artists and vendors as well as hot chocolate, bratwurst, and pretzels to snack on.  

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What to do in December in Chicago

This post covers the best things to do in Chicago this December, including, free, family-friendly, as well as nighttime activities, all updated for 2024.

• Free Things to Do
• Nighttime Activities

Family-Friendly

• Any Time of Year
• How’s the Weather?

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN DECEMBER

December is a fun and festive time to visit Chicago!

Check out the suggestions below for a variety of activities, including sports, theatre, music, and of course, holiday activities!

For some of the more popular things to do in Chicago, read the following posts:

• Ice skating in Chicago
• Enjoy the holidays in Chicago
• Indulge in Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
• Stay warm by sipping on a locally roasted coffee

1. Go to a Sporting Event

While December can be chilly, cheering on your teams will keep you and your friends and family warm.

A number of teams will be playing home games this time of year.

• Chicago Bears  
• Chicago Blackhawks
• Chicago Bulls
• Northwestern Wildcats | Men's
• DePaul Blue Demons | Men's
• DePaul Blue Demons | Women's
• Chicago State Cougars | Men's

Click here to see  more sports events taking place in Chicago in December. 

2. Go to a Concert

If you are a music lover or a fan, be sure to check out a concert while in Chicago. 

There are many venues in the Chicago area from giant spaces to intimate bars. 

Rock/Pop Concerts

• Damien Rice | December 1st
• Angel Olson | December 1st, 2nd, 3rd
• Sister Hazel | December 2nd, 3rd
• Morris Day and the Time | December 8th

Opera/Classical Concerts

• Irish Tenors | December 6th
• Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Holiday Concerts

• Chicago Symphony Orchestra | Home Alone in Concert | December 8th
• Johnny Mathis Christmas Concert | December 9th
• Chicago Symphony Orchestra | Merry, Merry Chicago | December 15th
• Mannheim Steamroller | December 16th
• Kenny G | The Miracles Holiday and Hit s | December 14th

Click here to see  more Chicago area concerts happening in December .

3. Go on a Sightseeing Tour

The best way to learn about a new city is on a sightseeing tour! Join our history-loving Chicago-adoring tour guides on foot.

We offer pay-what-you-like walking tours every day of the week in the Windy City.

During December, catch our seasonal Chicago Holiday Tour to get in the holiday spirit or join our Chicago Pedway Tour to experience the indoor paths that run under the city.

If you’d prefer to enjoy a bus tour, we have a great comparison of Chicago’s best.

From hop-on-hop-off buses to dedicated tours, you’ll find one to suit you here .

4. Go to the Theater

Chicago is home to many many regional theatres, small black box spaces, and Broadway Tour houses. There is something for everyone. 

• BOOP! The Betty Boop Musical | December 1st-30th
• Hamilton | December 1st-30th
• The Wiz | December 2nd, 5th, 6th, 8th, 10th

Dance/Performance Art

• Blue Man Group | December 1st-30th
• Stomp | December 13th-30th
• Chicago Symphony Orchestra | The Three Little Pigs | December 9th

Holiday Shows

• Cirque du Soliel | Twas the Night Before Christmas | December 7th-23rd
• Joffrey Ballet | The Nutcracker | December 2nd-27th
• A Motown Christmas | December 7th
• Hip Hop Nutcracker | December 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th
• The Ellington Strayhorn Nutcracker | December 19th-30th
• How the Grinch Stole Christmas | December 19th-31st

Check here for even more events in the Chicago area in December.

Pro-tip: Check out our self-guided theatre tour to admire the exterior of some of the oldest movie palaces in the downtown Loop.

5. Visit Christmas Around the World at the Museum of Science and Industry

If you are visiting the Museum of Science and Industry you might want to check out their holiday exhibition .

This holiday tradition started in 1942 with a single tree. Today it has been transformed into a forest of over 50 Christmas trees that surround one massive four-story Christmas tree.

The trees are decorated by volunteers to represent how other cultures across the world celebrate the holidays and show the diversity present in Chicago.

You can catch the festivities from November 2024 - January 2025.

7. Run a Holiday Race

There will be several races in the Chicago area in December, a few of them holiday themed:

Santa Hustle | December 2nd

This race takes place at Soldier Field and includes both a 5K for adults and a kids-dash.

Expect to see folks dressed up as Santa, reindeer, elves, Christmas Trees, and other holiday related costumes.

It's truly fun for the whole family.

Chicago Jingle Bell Run | December 9th

This 5K run starts at the Chicago History Museum.

Folks are invite to walk, run, or stoll the course while dressed up in holiday costume

The run raises money for the Arthritis Foundation.

Holiday Winter Dash Beer Run | December 3rd

The annual winter 0.5K run starts at Midwest Coast Brewing & Goose Isalnd.

The race is untimed and meant to be fun for all levels of participants. Beer will be waiting for you at the finish line.

Proceeds go to local non-profits.

7. Experience Chicago's Holiday Lights

Chicago has a number of holiday light events and installations that are sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

Beyond elaborate light displays made of thousands of twinkling lights, you might find live ice carving, festive music, train rides, food, and even Santa Claus himself.

A few of the larger events include:

• Zoolights | | Lincoln Park Zoo | TBD for 2024, Last year date: November 17th - January 7th
• Lightscape | | Chicago Botanic Garden | TBD for 2024, Last year date: November 10th - January 7th
• Illumination: Tree Lights | The Morton Arboretum | TBD for 2024, Last year date: November 18th - January 6th
• Light up the Lake | Navy Pier | TBD for 2024, Last year date: late November - late January

One of Chicago's more extravagant light displays is their New Year's fireworks. Some of the best places from which to see the fireworks are:

• New Year on the Pier | Navy Pier
• Offshore Rooftop | Navy Pier
• New Year's Eve Dinner Cruise | Chicago River
• Maggie Daley Park
• Observation Deck | 360 Chicago

8. Visit the Christkindlmarket

Based on the Christmas market in Nuremberg, Germany, the Christkindlmarket has grown to be the largest Christmas market in the United States.

A visit to this family-friendly holiday market, ranked number 3 in the world, has become a holiday tradition for many.

Peruse and purchase traditional German and European ornaments, crafts, food, and drinks.

Kids can collect a free Kinder Club passport that has riddles and on-site activities.

This holiday market be held at two locations within Chicago (and in Aurora, about an hour outside of Chicago):

• Daley Plaza | November 17th - December 24th
• Wrigleyville | November 17th - December 31st

For more information, visit the Christkindlemarket website.

9. Go Caroling at the Bean 

Bundle up to join the crowds for Caroling at Cloud Gate (the Bean).

This Friday night tradition is part sing-along, part concert, as local choral groups will lead the hundreds of participants in song.

For more ideas to enjoy Christmas during Chicago, check out our  holiday post . 

If you're looking for other things to do in the evenings, take a look at  our nighttime activities section below .

10.  See More for Less with a Chicago City Pass

Many of Chicago’s biggest attractions have entry fees.

While you do pay for a tourist concession pass, it can give you a bulk deal and free admission into some interesting tours and museums, saving you up to 55%.

They can also save you time with skip-the-ticket-line privileges.

Each Chicago tourist concession pass includes a variety of fun activities and attractions.

Here are a few examples of what you can visit with a tourist pass, for a concession or for free.

• Shedd Aquarium
• Skydeck Chicago
• Adler Planetarium
• Art Institute of Chicago
• The Field Museum
• Museum of Science and Industry   
• 360 Chicago Observation Deck

For more details, make sure to read our full post covering Chicago tourist passes .

If you're already planning to get one of the travel passes, you can purchase one here: Chicago City Pass | All Inclusive GoCity Pass | The Explorer GoCity Pass.

Bundle up to join the crowds at Caroling at Cloud Gate (the Bean).

FREE THINGS TO DO IN DECEMBER

Chicago offers many free activities to enjoy including some we have mentioned above. Here you can find events, fairs, and other fun ideas.

Check out our post about the top free things to do in Chicago .

Take In Art on the Mart

Starting November 19th, Art on the Mart will be in full swing! 

Head to the Riverwalk at sunset to see an amazing art projection on the Merchandise Mart Building (a building so large, it has its own zip code!) 

The projections go up around 7:30 - 8:30 each night from September 14 to December 30th.

For a list of locations, check the  Art on the Mart  page

Attend an Event at the Chicago Cultural Center

Tour this stunning building, known for its Tiffany stained glass dome, or attend one of the many free events taking place weekly.Celebrate New Year's with Free Fireworks

Head to Navy Pier for free Fireworks on New Year’s Eve at midnight.  There will be music, food, and fun for the whole family.

And, if you'd like to attend the Navy Pier Aon Grand Ballroom event, you can purchase tickets here .

Stroll the Riverwalk

While December is crisp, the view of the lights reflecting on the Chicago River will be lovely! Maybe grab a coffee from Big Shoulders coffee before taking in the sites. 

This beautiful stretch will bring you below the busy streets and right along the river’s edge.

The view of the buildings that line the Chicago River makes the crisp walk worth it!

If you want to learn more about the river and the buildings along it, join our pay-what-you-like Riverwalk and History Tour .

For even more free activities, see our post on the top free things to do in Chicago .

THINGS TO DO AT NIGHT IN DECEMBER

Many of our top ten activities are perfect for the evening hours, such as seeing a sporting event, going to the theater or attending a concert.

Below are some more ideas. Be sure to read our post about the top things to do in Chicago at night for even more suggestions.

Take a Night Tour

Looking to see a different side of Chicago? Try our seasonal Holiday Tour in the evening when the lights are glittering!

Also, several bus tours operate night versions of their day tours.

Attend The Nutcracker Ballet

The Joffery Ballet presents a unique and perfectly Chicago version of the Nutcracker , which takes place during Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair.  It is definitely worth watching!

This production begins on December 2nd and runs through December 27th.

Go out for a Cozy Cocktail

Chicago has a number of speakeasies , fitting for the mobster history of the Windy City.

If you’re looking for more than just atmosphere and want to find one of the best Craft Beers , we can make sure you find a local pint.

Be sure to check out our post on top things to do in Chicago at night for even more suggestions.

Go Ice Skating

From mid-November to mid-March, whenever the weather permits, Millennium Park hosts the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, which is free and open to the public.

If you bring your own skates, you won’t have to spend a dime to skate outdoors, well into the night, in the beautiful downtown under the lights.

Find out more about ice skating in Chicago in our post

FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES IN DECEMBER

Below you will find several great options to keep your children entertained this month, including parks, museums, and theater!

Be sure to check out our post about family-friendly activities in Chicago for a more complete guide.

Visit the Renegade Craft Fair

The fair is free to enter and features over 100 vendors selling handmade arts, crafts, DIY items accompanied by festive music, food, and drinks. 

The Renegade Craft Fair at Revel Fulton Market runs from December 16th - 17th.

Ride the Polar Express 

Take the whole family on the Polar Express!  Chicago’s metro train is transformed into a wintery magical experience. 

You can drink cocoa and enjoy a yummy cookie during the hour train ride that ends with meeting Santa and his elves!

TBD for 2024. Last year, rides started on December 3rd and continue through January 1st.

Have Fun at Gallagher Way

This Gallgher Way Winterland event is held both inside and outside Wrigley Field.

Kids will enjoy sakting, ice slides, a Santa's workshop, holiday movie screenings, and much more.

Visit the Gallagher Way events page for dates and times.

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• Walking Tours in Chicago
• Where to Store Your Luggage
• What's the Weather
• Tourist Attraction Concession Passes

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Thom Yorke, Cendrillon , Danc(e)volve, and more picks selected by our culture critics

Chicago Style: Typography and the City

Now that Printers Row is all condos, the next-best place to revisit Chicago’s typographical history is the 131-year-old Newberry Library, with its extensive rare book collection. After a morning lecture by design experts Paul Gehl and Tanner Woodford, enjoy a typography-themed holiday card-making workshop led by the staff of the Design Museum of Chicago.

Details: Near North Side. Newberry Library. 10 a.m. Free with advance registration. newberry.org

“If it’s going to be more pop, it should be more aggressively pop,” Lauren Mayberry, lead singer of Chvrches, told BBC Radio 1 earlier this year. During the past few years, the Scottish band has gradually made a transition from the pointed, synth-fueled jams of indie pop music to a larger, more bombastic sound, the kind befitting larger venues.

Details: Uptown. Aragon Ballroom. 7 p.m. $42. ticketmaster.com

Although it didn’t begin that way, it’s safe to call Floorplan a family affair. The house, disco, and funk project created by minimal-techno pioneer and Underground Resistance member Robert Hood began as a solo venture but soon morphed into a duo with the addition of his daughter, Lyric Hood, in 2016. Gospel-tinged roots make the project feel somehow both nostalgic and novel in the often cold and vacuous world of contemporary electronic music.

Details: Wrigleyville. Smartbar. 10 p.m. $15. etix.com

High & Mighty

Improv comic Jon Gabrus is a regular guest on podcasts like Comedy Bang! Bang! and Improv4Humans , where he’s built a reputation for his slacker-stoner persona. On his own show, he’s out to prove that his knowledge and interests are far-reaching, even if the main one of those interests is smoking weed. This live recording follows the usual formats of High & Mighty episodes, in which Gabrus invites on a friend or celebrity to help him explore a new topic, with plenty of tangents and laughs along the way.

Details: Lake View. Chicago Theater Works. 9 p.m. $20. chicagoimprovproductions.com

The Last Podcast on the Left

Comedians-turned-podcasters Ben Kissel, Marcus Parks, and Henry Zebrowski have crafted something perfectly attuned to the interests of internet obsessives. In their weekly hourlong episodes, they explore everything from true-crime cold cases to cryptid sightings to UFO incidents. What sets them apart from their ilk (paranormal podcasts are a dime a dozen these days) is the cast of recurring characters — most of them voiced by Zebrowski, who had a minor star turn acting in NBC’s 2015 Heroes reboot — that figure in the show’s mystery hunts. See for yourself at this live recording.

Details: Pilsen. Thalia Hall. 7 p.m and 10 p.m. Sold out; see resellers.

In opera circles, Jules Massenet’s Cinderella story comes in second to Rossini’s La Cenerentola , but the casual operagoer will notice that Cendrillon hews closer to the Charles Perrault tale that begat the Disney version. Lyric’s production stars the Australian soprano Siobhan Stagg in her U.S. debut and Alice Coote in the trouser role of Prince Charming.

Details: Loop. Lyric Opera House. $49–$299. lyricopera.org

Anna Netrebko

Nowadays opera rarely produces a figure with the instantaneous name recognition that Maria Callas or Enrico Caruso had in their time. The closest present-day comparison is this Russian diva, who gives a recital in just her second Chicago appearance (she played Mimì in La Bohème in 2013).

Details: Loop. Lyric Opera House. 3 p.m. $59–$289. lyricopera.org

This summer, the perfectionist R&B singer dropped the single “We Never Saw It Coming” along with The Glass House , a short-film music video for it. Twenty years after the release of the crooner’s experimental second album, Embrya , Maxwell continues to push himself creatively and artistically, signaling his latest 50-night tour is more than just your run-of-the-mill greatest-hits concert.

Details: Loop. Chicago Theatre. $51–$351. ticketmaster.com

It’s hard to believe that Radiohead’s singer is actually the second member of the band to jump into the film-scoring world (Jonny Greenwood has a fruitful side-gig partnership with director Paul Thomas Anderson). This year Yorke provided the soundtrack for Luca Guadagnino’s Suspiria, citing such influences as the 1982 Blade Runner score and Krautrock. One can assume he will incorporate a handful of these spindly, haunting tunes in his latest stateside tour.

Details: Loop. Chicago Theatre. 8 p.m. Sold out; see resellers.

The Play That Goes Wrong

This play that goes wrong within this play features the dubious thespians of the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society and their gobsmackingly dysfunctional attempt at staging a whodunit. The mishaps are small at first (mispronunciations of the word “façade”) and balloon into a full-throttle homage to Buster Keaton (with plenty of prop comedy). If subtlety is your thing, be advised: Everything in this farce (by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields) is over the top.

Details: Loop. Oriental Theatre. $25–$98. broadwayinchicago.com

What Remains

Lauded poet Claudia Rankine and Bessie-winning choreographer Will Rawls team up with filmmaker John Lucas for a multimedia exploration of the visibility of black people in society, or lack thereof. Created by New York artists, the piece was designed to be performed at the sprawling MCA Warehouse to locate it in Chicago, where geography and urban planning have facilitated a systematic disappearing of people of color for generations.

Details: West Town. MCA Warehouse. $10–$30. mcachicago.org

Travis Scott

Virtually every rapper now uses Auto-Tune, and were he not so creative in its deployment, one could say that this Houston artist abuses it. His aqueous voice hits party-hard beats the way a speedboat’s engine chops the ocean — it ripples, splashes, and makes waves. This year has been especially busy for Scott: At its outset he appeared on Huncho Jack, Jack Huncho , a collaborative full-length with Migos member Quavo, and in August he dropped Astroworld , which went gold.

Details: Near West Side. United Center. 7:30 p.m. $50–$120. ticketmaster.com

Co-Mission Festival of New Works

The latest round of Links Hall resident artists — Aaliyah Christina, Erin Kilmurray, Talia Koylass, and Lizzie Leopold — come together to share what they’ve been up to for the past three months. Their four works grapple with societal and familial expectations. Koylass looks at trauma within families affected by the prison system, while Kilmurray pits cultural norms in dance, sports, and the nightclub scene against one another.

Details: Lake View. Links Hall. $10–$40. linkshall.org

Danc(e)volve

Hubbard Street has been earmarking its winter program for works from within the company’s ranks, and last year it established a choreographic fellowship. This year’s fellows, Rena Butler and Florian Lochner, join last year’s, Alice Klock, for an evening of three new works that question identity: What dissonances exist within intersectional traits like race, gender, and culture? If anyone can answer that with dance, it’s these three performers.

Details: Loop. Harris Theater. $25–$110. hubbardstreetdance.com

One of a Kind

Get your holiday shopping done at this market bearing unique offerings from more than 600 makers. The event also features fashion shows, a fine art gallery, a space highlighting work by 25 up-and-coming artists, and a section devoted to gourmet gifts.

Details: River North. Merchandise Mart. $12–$20. oneofakindshowchicago.com

The Inextinguishable Symphony

His lesser-known fireball of a piece, Carl Nielsen’s Symphony No. 4 gets its nickname in the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s title for this concert. But the gem of the program is Richard Strauss’s effusive Four Last Songs , sung by the soprano Erin Wall.

Details: Loop. Symphony Center. $31–$221. cso.org

The Winter Wolf

Playwright Joseph Zettelmaier’s eerie riffs on Frankenstein ( The Gravedigger ) and Dracula ( Dr. Seward’s Dracula ) are near-perfect fusions of ancient lore and contemporary spin. Here, he takes on a Christmastime creature feature with the story of a supernatural predator in search of mortal prey.

Details: Lake View. Otherworld Theatre. $20 suggested donation. otherworldtheatre.org

Lego Train Show

The Northern Illinois Lego Train Club takes its work very seriously. For its holiday display this year, Lego locomotives wind their way through a variety of vignettes — notably, a strikingly detailed diorama of downtown Chicago — each architectural marvel painstakingly rendered in plastic bricks.

Details: Wheaton. Cantigny Park. 9 a.m. Free. cantigny.org

Holiday Treasure Hunt and Tea Party

Children of all ages will relish this chance to explore the Art Institute in a wild treasure hunt, seeking out and solving art-related clues à la The Da Vinci Code or From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler , depending on reading level. The price of admission includes a tea party in the elegantly arrayed Stock Exchange Trading Room — an apt ending to a day of museum mystery chasing.

Details: Loop. Art Institute of Chicago. 10:45 a.m. $25–$75. artic.edu

Tallis Scholars

No one sings pure-toned choral music quite like the British, and in that rarefied air, no one has the Renaissance cred of this chamber choir, which last visited Chicago in 1989. They celebrate Christmas with works drawn from the likes of Palestrina, Josquin, and Byrd, all performed in an acoustic setting perfect for the period.

Details: Hyde Park. Rockefeller Memorial Chapel. 3 p.m. $10–$38. chicagopresents.uchicago.edu

Health Club

This group exhibition turns an eye toward mental health, with special attention paid to how civic spaces like parks, museums, and airports can inspire citizens. For instance, local duo Ballas & Wax create a fictional hotel lobby to investigate where private space begins and public space ends.

Details: Kenwood. Hyde Park Art Center. Free. hydeparkart.org

That’s Weird, Grandma Rings in the Holidays

Working with stories written by some 15,000 schoolchildren since 1997, Barrel of Monkeys creates onstage anthologies that hit the heart and the funny bone. Brandon Cloyd directs the latest edition, wherein pocket-sized plays by third to fifth graders are staged in all their out-of-the-box, imaginative glory.

Details: Uptown. Neo-Futurists Theater. $10–$25. barrelofmonkeys.org

The King’s Singers

The aces of the King’s Singers make their first Chicago-area appearance since 2009, touring for their album Gold , a 50th-anniversary compilation of 60 tracks of the group’s wide-ranging a cappella repertoire. In addition to the obligatory holiday trolling, the sextet samples all the way back to medieval chant, forward to contemporary commissions, and orthogonally to stuff that’s a cappella more in the Pitch Perfect sense.

Details: Loop. Harris Theater. 7:30 p.m. $35–$135. harristheaterchicago.org

Story Party: True Dating Stories

This live storytelling series has toured the world with funny and true tales about all the awkward, humiliating, yet occasionally sweet moments that occur on the dating scene. Come ready to share an anecdote of your own: At the beginning of each performance, audience members are asked to write down a laughable dating experience to be read anonymously at some point during the night.

Details: South Loop. Reggies. 7 and 9:30 p.m. $20. reggieslive.com

For decades, women have been disappearing in and around Ciudad Juarez. Reports have speculated about the possibility of a serial killer preying on women in the area, but the disappearances are largely unsolved. Playwright Isaac Gomez gives voice to the missing through interviews and music, creating a story of resilience, resistance, and mourning.

Details: Lincoln Park. Steppenwolf Theatre. $20–$89. steppenwolf.com

A Ceremony of Carols

The superb chamber choir Bella Voce this year breaks its annual streak of performing Handel’s Messiah by presenting an alternative Christmas piece: Benjamin Britten’s mid-20th-century chocolate box of rounds, chants, and olde-lyricked carols. Bella Voce presents the version scored for treble voices and harp accompaniment, using just nine singers, at three churches around the area.

Details: Various locations. $10–$65. bellavoce.org

Post Animal

This quirky postpsych rock group is more than just a side gig for Stranger Things actor Joe Keery. Post Animal was already well established in underground circles for its eclectic sound, a mix of hard-charging stoner rock and glowing melodies. Join fellow local fans in what’s sure to be a festive homecoming show after a year filled with touring and festival hopping across the country.

Details: Wrigleyville. Metro. 8 p.m. $19–$21. metrochicago.com

Schweddy Ball

Before its exhibit Saturday Night Live: The Experience closes at the end of the year, the Museum of Broadcast Communications is honoring a classic sketch from the TV series with a holiday blowout. Guests are encouraged to either dress Schweddily or in the guise of another favorite SNL character. The night includes access to the exhibit, live band karaoke, bites from the Billy Goat Tavern, and some Schweddy Balls for dessert.

Details: Near North Side. Museum of Broadcast Communications. 7 p.m. $75. museum.tv

Bomba Estéreo

After 13 years, this Colombian group continues to make politically charged dance music. True to its name, which translates to “stereo bomb,” Bomba Estéreo uses a mix of electronic cumbia beats and Spanglish lyrics to address issues such as U.S. relations with Latin American countries, contemporary Latino identities, and the destruction of the environment.

Details: Pilsen. Thalia Hall. $29–$32. eventbrite.com

Deeply Rooted Dance Theater

A new work by associate artistic director Gary Abbott, Parallel Lives is an abstract approach to everyday experiences among working-class women, set to original music by Kansas City–based composer Evangelos Spanos. Revivals by Abbott and artistic director Kevin Iega Jeff complete the evening.

Details: Woodlawn. Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts. $35–$55. deeplyrooteddancetheater.org

Naotaka Hiro

The Los Angeles painter is capturing the eye of curators and collectors with his psychedelic, abstract canvases and sculptures, appearing here in his first solo show in Chicago.

Details: South Loop. Shane Campbell Gallery. Free. shanecampbellgallery.com

The Midnight Hour

Producer and musician Adrian Younge crafts soul, funk, and R&B backdrops that somehow sound like hip-hop samples. Take his collaborations with Ghostface, which mirror the dusty quality of RZA’s mid-’90s peak but are in fact recorded entirely on live instruments. So it makes sense he’d link up with Ali Shaheed Muhammad, the jazz-expert DJ behind A Tribe Called Quest, for a new project that serves as a musical tribute to the Harlem Renaissance.

Details: Ukrainian Village. Empty Bottle. 8:30 p.m. $18–$20. eventbrite.com

Fiddler on the Roof

The latest tour of this meshuggeneh musical was spawned by a recent Broadway revival directed by Tony winner Bartlett Sher. National tours are notorious for cutting corners and using non-Equity talent for non-Broadway audiences, but this Fiddler has a huge 32-member ensemble that’s comparable to the Broadway version. We all know how the story turns out, but this telling should be richer and more vibrant than usual.

Details: Loop. Cadillac Palace Theatre. $22–$100. broadwayinchicago.com

Chicago Works: Jessica Campbell

Every now and then the MCA’s Chicago artist series goes deep into the city’s creative underground. This season, Jessica Campbell debuts a new collection of her famous rug paintings — colorful renderings of comical situations, like someone watching pornography on their smartphone while driving a car — detailing the life of Canadian artist Emily Carr.

Details: Streeterville. Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago. Free–$15. mcachicago.org

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra Brass

The annual showcase of the CSO’s signature section doesn’t just horn into the schedule of the Midwest Clinic, a significant band and orchestra conference, where superfan audience members drool over spit valves. ’Tis also the season of brass, frankincense, and myrrh, when holiday tradition types get their brass fix.

Details: Loop. Symphony Center. 8 p.m. $33–$130. cso.org

Peace in Chicago

The new-music ensemble Fulcrum Point, which prizes pieces that cross geography and genres, throws its 20th annual Peace in Chicago concert, this year subtitled An Intergenerational Celebration . Guests include the Chicago Children’s Choir and Nico Segal, the artist formerly known as Donnie Trumpet, who will perform the world premiere of an oratorio mashing up new music, hip-hop, and poetry.

Details: Loop. Harris Theater. 7:30 p.m. $15–$30. harristheaterchicago.org

Cat Power, Willis Earl Beal

Chan Marshall could easily rest on her laurels and call it a career. Instead, she continues to push the rootsy, rollicking sound she’s produced under her Cat Power moniker — to all of our benefit. Boosting the bill is the hard-to-track-down, even-harder-to-pigeonhole Beal, a onetime Chicagoan who made a name for himself when music journalists stumbled across the fliers and CDs he left out in public places. His recent tunes retain the intimate, spooky vibe that gained him a cult following.

Details: Pilsen. Thalia Hall. 8:30 p.m. $35–$45. eventbrite.com

Handel Messiah

Several musical organizations in town perform Messiah faithfully every December, but the Chicago Symphony Orchestra has kept its hallelujahs in storage since 2015. The CSO’s Messiah — featuring the Symphony Chorus and Amanda Forsythe, Sasha Cooke, Nicholas Phan, and Joshua Hopkins as soloists — will rise again this year under the baton of the baroque specialist Matthew Halls.

Details: Loop. Symphony Center. $37–$262. cso.org

Bonnie McFarlane

The comedian and director of the documentary Women Aren’t Funny comes to town to present her singular take on being a wife and mother. McFarlane playfully grapples with contradictions in her life, like how she’s a vegan who eats eggs (because she’s pro-choice, of course) and a feminist who always expects the man to pay.

Details: Wicker Park. @North Bar. 8 p.m. $20. liveatnorthbar.com

Ate9 Dance Company, Visceral Dance Chicago, and Deeply Rooted Dance Theater

This season, the Auditorium Theatre’s Made in Chicago dance series boasts three one-night-only performances featuring triple, double, and single bills. In the first, local favorites Deeply Rooted and Visceral are joined by the Los Angeles–based Ate9, whose Chicago connections are with Ate9 executive director (and Joffrey Ballet photographer) Cheryl Mann and musical collaborator Glenn Kotche, whom you’ll likely recognize as Wilco’s percussionist.

Details: Loop. Auditorium Theatre. 7:30 p.m. $29–$68. auditoriumtheatre.org

Jessica Pratt

Though she’s often categorized as a “folk” musician, this L.A. singer-songwriter’s music channels everything from ’60s psych to California classic rock. It’s been three years since the release of her second album, On Your Own Love Again , so expect to hear many new songs to get a sense of where she’s headed next.

Details: Uptown. Riviera Theatre. 7:30 p.m. $36. ticketfly.com

Into the Woods

Stephen Sondheim’s deconstruction of stories that end happily ever after has been performed countless times over the years in Chicago. If you’ve seen it hereabouts before, know this: You’ve heard it with an orchestra of maybe eight musicians, tops. It’s rarely been performed with the more-than-a-dozen-strong full live orchestra that Music Theater Works regularly deploys.

Details: Evanston. Cahn Auditorium, Northwestern University. $34–$96. musictheaterworks.com

The Second City’s Nut-Cracking Holiday Revue

Chicago’s comedy scions migrate from their Old Town theater to the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre for this suite of holiday shows, presenting their annual revelrous review. The show’s greatest achievement, year after year, is providing a sure-fire way to get your visiting in-laws out of the house for a few hours.

Details: Arlington Heights. Metropolis Performing Arts Centre. $30–$60. secondcity.com

Magic Beyond Belief

Illusionist Jamie Allan bills himself as an “iMagician” — that is, a performer who uses Apple products, Twitter, and Facebook in his act, which includes up-close magic for both the tech-savvy set (pulling snow, roses, and leaves from digital images of same) and Luddites (card tricks). He also has a water tank escape act inspired by Houdini. He’s played London’s West End and performed on the BBC, but this appearance marks his first time in Chicago.

Details: Loop. Harris Theater. $50–$160. harristheaterchicago.org

Christkindlmarket

It’s easy to get cynical about Chicago’s holiday standbys, seeing them more as can’t-avoid than can’t-miss events. That said, string lights, tiny Germanic huts, and the smell of warm mulled wine — served, of course, in a boot-shaped souvenir stein — have a funny way of melting such Scrooge-like sentiments away. And the market has been expanding its territory: It now occupies not just Daley Plaza but Naperville’s Naper Settlement, and — for those who would rather drive an hour or so north of the Loop than an hour toward it — Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum.

Details: Loop. Daley Plaza. Free. christkindlmarket.com

Shemekia Copeland

The personal gets political for this blues vocalist, who invited guest artists like Emmylou Harris and John Prine to help her craft America’s Child , released earlier this year. In a society that is often boldly divided by minuscule differences, Copeland frequently returns to the question of whether ideology trumps humanity.

Details: West Loop. City Winery. $38–$52. citywinery.com

For the uninitiated, this band straddles the gap between two of the Midwest’s most celebrated genres of songcraft: the alt-country of Angel Olsen and Uncle Tupelo and the jangly guitar emo pioneered in college towns across Illinois. That’s all to say that Ratboys rock. Expect a cathartic crowd at this hometown show.

Details: Avondale. Sleeping Village. 9 p.m. $12–$15. sleeping-village.com

Ryley Walker, Ohmme, and Ben LaMar Gay

Walker is a virtuosic guitarist as welcome among Chicago’s jazz improvisers as DIY indie rockers. He’s also someone who told Vice that the music of Leonard Cohen made him feel “absolutely nothing” and in November put out, of all things, a full album of Dave Matthews Band covers. Expect a full-throated finale to a long and strange year at this holiday show, and not just from Walker. There are harmony-heavy local folksters Ohmme, and the uncategorizable Gay, a composer, cornetist, vocalist, and producer who’s never afraid to push boundaries.

Details: Ukrainian Village. Empty Bottle. 9 p.m. $15–$18. eventbrite.com

The Nutcracker

Tony Award–winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and an all-star design team hailing from London and Broadway joined up to build the Joffrey a sparkling new Nutcracker in 2016, moving the story from a stodgy upper-class living room to the fairgrounds of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. It’s a Nutcracker for and about Chicago, and thus as lovably quirky.

Details: Loop. Auditorium Theatre. $35–$199. joffrey.org

The Santaland Diaries

It’s been nearly 26 years since NPR premiered David Sedaris’s subversive essay on working as an elf at Macy’s. The brief radio piece rapidly became a gimlet-eyed holiday theater classic in the form of a 90-minute one-man tour de force. Chicago’s show has been a scruffy, strictly way-Off-Loop affair until now, when it makes its main-stage debut at the Goodman. Jeff Award–winning Broadway vet Matthew Crowle ( Spamalot ) plays a gifted artist trapped in the heavily commercialized heart of the holiday season.

Details: Loop. Goodman Theatre. $15–$45. goodmantheatre.org

Mucca Pazza New Year’s Eve Party

Nothing says “Happy New Year!” like a 20-plus-member marching band — especially when it’s about to burst into surf rock, polka, Sousa, or Stravinsky. All signs point to Chicago’s favorite instrumental ensemble ringing in the new year with all the foot-stomping, stage-crowding energy it brought to its (particularly cramped) NPR Tiny Desk Concert.

Details: Lincoln Park. Lincoln Hall. 10 p.m. $25–$30. lh-st.com

Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum

By the time the first snow falls, Morton Arboretum is a wonderland of floating chandeliers, glowing lakes, and twinkling fields. Recent years have seen the addition of some interactive elements, and this year’s installment builds on that tradition: New additions include a set of enormous steel lanterns, laser cut in lace-delicate patterns that cast fractal shadows on the frost-covered ground.

Details: Lisle. Morton Arboretum. $12–$23. mortonarb.org

The Book of Merman

If you missed composer-lyricist Leo Schwartz’s Ethel-meets-Mormons creation when it ran for three months here in 2015, consider this a chance at FOMO avoidance. As the title makes blindingly obvious, Ethel Merman — trumpet-voiced alto for the ages — is the star in this Flying Elephant production, but this time she’s onstage with missionaries intent on saving her soul. For 120 minutes, high jinks ensue, along with more than a dozen original songs.

Details: Lake View. Stage 773. $40. stage773.com

Tags: Arts & Culture , Visitor's Guide

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Best Things to Do in December in Chicago

LAST UPDATED BY Jacky Runice November 15, 2022

No matter the weather, expect a sleigh-full of outdoor and indoor events and activities to entertain mind and body.

Consider traditional snow and glow options like Zoolights at Lincoln Park Zoo and the breathtaking Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum , a walking spectacle of color and light. In between dodging ice patches, ornery shoppers and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), head to The Den Theater which has become the hub for notable national stand up acts (and who doesn't need extra laughs in winter)?  Come for the happy challah-days and stay for the latkes and brisket at Chicago's  first and only Hanukkah-themed pop-up bar. Head to Swissotel to see Santa's very own suite filled with 17 themed Christmas trees and enjoy the ideal shot of holiday culture and artistry at Joffrey's colorful rendition of The Nutcracker .  Harry Potter: Magic at Play offers 30,000 square feet of hands-on interactivity to engage the minds and spirits of adults and children during winter break - nice and toasty indoors. 

We've spent a couple of years completely surrendered to the sofa, so it's time to see the best of Chicago during the holidays. The delicious fun of Christkindlmarket  returns in two city locations (plus Aurora in the 'burbs) and  Winterland at Gallagher Way extends the holiday experience inside Wrigley Field. Expect a  new carousel, the return of Santa’s Workshop, additional market vendors and more food and beverage than ever. 

Sing "ta-ta" to 2022 on a high note!

Winterland at Gallagher Way

Gallagher Way offers locals and visitors another reason to visit Wrigleyville when the Cubs hibernate. Winterland returns and for the first time ever, the holiday event expands inside Wrigley Field with additional activities, new interactive experiences and old faves like Santa's Workshop, Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville and the expanded 12,000-square-foot ice rink now located inside the ballpark. Play carnival games, hop onto ice bumper cars, the Wintertube ice slide and the Infield Express train. The ballpark presents The Lodge, a new ski-style lodge featuring beverages and firepits. Admission to Gallagher Way activities, including the Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville and Santa's Workshop is free. Tickets are required to access to the Wrigley Field portion of Winterland (regular entry tickets start at $5 - free for children ages 2 and under). Look into special events such as wreath-making workshops and Breakfast with Santa and Teddy Bear Tea at Hotel Zachary just across the street. Adults may go for the Mistletoe Holiday Pop-Up Bar at Mordecai restaurant and families and groups of friends can hang out at Lumberjack Lodge at Smoke Daddy.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : It's a family-friendly outing in the throes of December with ice skating, holiday events and good food and drink surrounding the outdoor space.

Jacky's expert tip : Book your own see-through private globe on the terrace at Hotel Zachary, order dinner and sip mulled wine while enjoying views of Winterland at Gallagher Way.

Read more about Winterland at Gallagher Way →

Harry Potter: Magic at Play

Harry Potter: Magic at Play makes its worldwide debut at Chicago's Water Tower Place this winter. This is not a slap-dash set up to take up some abandoned retail space. Created by Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment and Original X Productions, the experience consists of 30,000 square feet of hands-on interactive elements like games, innovative play opportunities and experiential sets. Fans of the books and blockbuster films will be thrilled to practice Quidditch fundamentals; get a first glimpse of Hogwarts™ by boat as a first year would, and enter the castle through a boathouse; traverse the Forbidden Forest; attend a class at Hogwarts; and explore the Potions dungeon, among many other activities. Tickets start at $37.50 for adults and $29.50 for children 9 and under. Who knows? The experience may prompt kids to curl up and re-read the books.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : Harry Potter: Magic at Play offers 30,000 square feet of hands-on interactivity to engage the minds and spirits of adults and children during winter break.

Jacky's expert tip : The gift shop offers themed food and beverage including Butterbeer.

Read more about Harry Potter: Magic at Play →

Celebrating its 28th season, ZooLights (select dates now through Jan. 1, 2023) transforms Lincoln Park Zoo into a luminous winter wonderland with 2.5 million lights. Kida will go for larger-than-life animal designs and everyone gets a lift from light shows set to holiday music. Lift spirits and get some easy exercise by strolling the sprawling grounds. There will be new lighting designs on the Main Mall and South Lawn; an enhanced fairy-tale Enchanted Forest; and a gorgeous 18-foot holiday tree at the zoo's Pepper Family Wildlife Center. Count on photos with Santa, shopping opportunities and animals in their outdoor exhibits. Check the web site for special events like sensory-friendly visit times, BrewLights, Adults Night Out: Holidaze! and Zoo Year's Eve.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : A visit to ZooLights is invigorating, outdoor, holiday cheer for all ages.

Jacky's expert tip : Tickets are $5 per person Tuesday-Sunday but you can get in free Mondays.

Read more about ZooLights →

Light Up the Lake

Navy Pier presents Light Up the Lake, an indoor, toasty holiday experience, featuring colossal light-sculpture displays, more than 600,000 twinkling lights; a regulation-size Alpine ice rink (bring your own skates, or rent a pair pending availability), holiday beer garden, kids' train rides to Santa's Village and a gift market. The area's largest indoor light show features massive sculptures with holiday and toy box themes. New for 2022: Reflecting Pond - a serene area for relaxing - and Stomp Light Activity in which interactive LED floor pads change color at the touch. Purchase seasonal gifts, novelties and treats at the European-style holiday market and visit the Jolly Olde Post Office where you can post a letter to Santa. There are grab-and-go meals and snacks throughout the event space. Hours vary by date, Nov. 25 - Jan. 7. Purchase tickets at the Navy Pier web site.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : Light Up the Lake is Chicagoland's largest indoor holiday lights experience.

Jacky's expert tip : Every ticket comes with a free ride on the Centennial Wheel, and be sure to experience all the free indoor and outdoor attractions which will be decked out for the holidays.

Read more about Light Up the Lake →

Joffrey Ballet of Chicago

Every child (and adult, for that matter) should see at least one ballet and the one that keeps the squirming to a minimum is The Joffrey Ballet's wonderful rendition of The Nutcracker. This year's event is the critically-acclaimed reimagined classic of The Nutcracker by Tony Award®-winning Christopher Wheeldon. The production pays homage to Chicago and opens on Christmas Eve, 1893, as workers from around the world construct the Chicago Columbian World's Exposition. The production features the full Joffrey company, local children's choruses and 102 young dancers from Chicago and the surrounding areas. Lyric Opera Orchestra, provides live musical accompaniment of the beloved Tchaikovsky score. Single tickets start at $36 for performances between Saturday, December 3 and Tuesday, December 27, 2022.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : Take the opportunity to dress up and enjoy the ideal shot of holiday culture and artistry at Joffrey's colorful rendition of The Nutcracker.

Jacky's expert tip : Great restaurants near the Lyric include Gibson's Italia, Bazaar Meat by Jose Andres and Alla Vita.

Read more about Joffrey Ballet of Chicago →

Morton Arboretum

Think you have an exceptional Christmas tree? The Morton Arboretum is the champion of trees and Illumination: Tree Lights at the Arboretum revs it up for its 10th year, just as the Arboretum turns 100. Illumination combines nature, technology and art into a one-of-a-kind holiday experience. This year's event features lighting displays surrounding two of the Human+Nature sculptures; interactive activities; and the new Grand Garden Spectacular, added as part of the Arboretum's Centennial. Bring your little elves or gather friends for adults-only nights that include craft beer and curated music. Electric Illumination, an 18 and older late night event, 9:30-11 p.m., Dec. 16, 23 and 30, adds a DJ-curated mix of Trance and Progressive House music synchronized to the light displays. Purchase tickets in advance online, in-person at the Visitor Center in advance or or on-site each night of Illumination, as tickets remain available. The interactive spectacle of color and light takes place from Nov. 19, 2022 through Jan. 7, 2023.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : Show your ardor for arbor at the event starring 50 acres of the Arboretum's trees brought to life with LED lights, interactive elements and sound.

Jacky's expert tip : Get your tickets online in advance because many nights sell out, dress for the weather, and wear comfortable walking shoes or boots.

Read more about Morton Arboretum →

The Den Theatre

If there's a time of year that you need some belly laughs, it's during the holidays and bleak winter months. Let The Den Theatre be your clinic for mood elevation as notable stand-up acts, from Maria Bamford and Mo Amer ("Mo" on Netflix) to Che Durena, Olan Rogers, Brad Williams and Cameron Esposito (ABC's "A Million Little Things") bring their keen observations to Wicker Park. The Den offers distinctive and cutting-edge theater, events, and stand-up year-round in five intimate and unique theaters. Parking can be difficult especially on weekends but public transportation abounds. Plan to have a Holiday Rum Punch or Pumpkin Whiskey Sour at the full-service bar before and after the performance and flood of neuropeptides that comedy provides. Wicker Park is flush with diverse dining options, too.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : The comfortable Wicker Park theater has become the hub for notable national stand up acts and who doesn't need extra laughs in winter?

Jacky's expert tip : The Den Theatre and The Den Bar & Lounge are cashless so be sure to bring your cards.

Read more about The Den Theatre →

Santa Suite at Swissotel Chicago

Swissôtel Chicago welcomes the man in red who has booked the hotel's Presidential Suite to serve as his rock star crib during the holiday season. Local and visiting families and hotel guests can visit the extravagantly decorated Santa Suite filled with 17 themed Christmas trees like a Chicago Style Hot Dog tree with Portillo's garland and a Cloud Gate tree festooned with sparkly ornaments. You can book the Santa Suite (with up to 20 guests) to visit Santa Claus, sip hot cocoa, Champagne and holiday treats then decorate cookies and get into holiday crafts and a visit to Santa's Post Office. Or consider booking an Elf Decorated room that comes with your very own Christmas tree and holiday décor. Reserve your seats at the Pancakes & PJs Breakfast with Santa (Dec. 10 or 11) that includes an extravagant holiday breakfast in the penthouse ballroom, a Bloody Mary and Mimosa Bar, a special visit with Santa and access to the Santa Suite.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : It's an upscale, urban take on a visit with Santa that's dazzling to the senses for all ages.

Jacky's expert tip : Prices vary for holiday room packages, visit to the Santa Suite and other seasonal events. Book online.

Read more about Santa Suite at Swissotel Chicago →

Graystone Tavern

Who says Wrigleyville snoozes all winter? The Graystone Tavern transforms into "8 Crazy Nights" from Nov. 25, 2022 to Jan. 8, 2023 with over 14,000 blue and white lights; Star of David and dreidel ornaments; Mensch on a Bench, a Hanukkah sweater wall, and an 8-foot inflatable dreidel. The city's first and only Hanukkah-themed pop-up bar offers an appealing menu of classic and modern spins on Jewish favorites like matzo ball soup and three flavors of latkes including traditional with sour cream and applesauce, jalapeno cheddar, and salt and vinegar. Warm up with a brisket sandwich or platter or Rabbi's Red Hots - two pancake batter dipped Hebrew National Beef Franks topped with blueberry compote. Boozy jelly donuts make a fine finish but not before you indulge in a Gelt Martini, Mensch Mule or a Hebrew Cold Brew cocktail with Proper 12 Irish Whiskey, Dark Matter Cold Brew, simple syrup, heavy cream and a menorah stenciled on top. Play board and card games like Connect 4 with Hanukkah gelt and Jewish Guess Who in the bar and weatherproofed beer garden,

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : Come for the happy challah-days and stay for the latkes and brisket at Chicago's first and only Hanukkah-themed pop-up bar.

Jacky's expert tip : Each week features different events like a Hanukkah Happy Hour Charity and a dreidel spinning tournament, among others.

Read more about Graystone Tavern →

Christkindlmarket Chicago

Christkindlmarket Chicago, the most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe, celebrates its 26th anniversary in 2022. Enjoy the German-style outdoor market at two Chicago locations: Daley Plaza and Wrigleyville. Shop for one-of-a-kind hand-blown ornaments, authentic nutcrackers, cuckoo clocks and beer steins, toys, home décor, jewelry and apparel. Enticing aromas waft through the market: sausages and sauerkraut, potato pancakes, Schnitzel and burgers. Take a slug of Gluehwein, a traditional German holiday market hot spiced wine, to warm up or laugh at the cold with a hearty German beer. Purchase treats to tote home like cookies, Stollen or baked strudel. The heated Timber Haus will feature different vendors offering items from handmade European trapper and pom hats to gingerbread house kits and traditional holiday cookies. Entertainment includes choirs, carolers, spirited German music and holiday music that'll kick the Grinch right out of your heart.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : Christkindlmarket Chicago is the most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe.

Jacky's expert tip : The Wrigleyville location has ice skating, curling and skating lessons, Santa's Workshop, wreath making classes, holiday movie screenings and special programming at Hotel Zachary.

Read more about Christkindlmarket Chicago →

Explore Chicago

Expert tips.

Jacky Runice: Travel Journalist

Visit a 'real' neighborhood before it gets the gentrification overhaul of tidy uniformity. Try Bridgeport for old world bakery or Uptown for banh mi.

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Holidays in Chicago: Top things to do and see

There’s no time like the holidays in Chicago, where you can’t help but feel the magic of the holiday season. Each winter, the city is full of bustling excitement and seasonal celebrations, from The Magnificent Mile to Millennium Park to our vibrant neighborhoods.

And no matter what holidays you observe, you’ll find plenty of ways to celebrate. You can a dmire twinkling light displays, go ice skating with skyline views, shop for gifts in a charming neighborhood boutique or pop-up market, catch a holiday show in a stunning downtown theatre, or sip hot cocoa while strolling our snow-dusted streets.  

Here are just a few of our favorite holiday events, including festive light displays , family-friendly activities, and beloved traditions this winter season in Chicago .

See the holiday lights

It’s not the holidays in Chicago without dazzling light displays around every corner. Check out ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo , when t he historic zoo is illuminated by millions of colorful lights, including moving displays set to music. Don’t miss special events like holiday concerts, a sensory-friendly evening, an adult’s night out, and more.

In the nearby suburbs, Brookfield Zoo hosts its annual Holiday Magic display, a local tradition for more than 40 years. Zoo-goers can stroll along the many pathways lit with more than two million twinkling lights, including the 600-foot-long Tunnel of Lights with thousands of colored bulbs all synchronized to music.

Just outside the city, Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden is an immersive nature-inspired experience that allows visitors to explore the scenic garden grounds after dark. Walk the illuminated trail and admire the various light installations that transform the natural landscape into a dazzling wonderland.

And in nearby Lisle, Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum is another breathtaking outdoor experience. The one-mile paved path winds through the sprawling arboretum and offers views of captivating lighting designs. Afterward, cozy up by the fire to make s’mores and head to the concessions tent.

Explore more : Check out all our favorite spots to see Christmas lights in Chicago .

Explore a charming Christmas market

Experience the magic of an authentic German Christmas market at the always-buzzing  Christkindlmarket . This annual, free-admission event in the heart of downtown features vendors selling beautiful glass ornaments, wooden cuckoo clocks, hand-knit gloves, and other gifts and crafts. Make sure to get a taste of traditional German treats and fill up your keepsake souvenir mug with mulled wine or hot chocolate.

Other Chicago holiday markets include a miniature version of Christkindlmarket in Wrigleyville , the local artisan-filled Renegade Craft Fair , the Kwanzaa Market at Africa International House, and more charming markets popping up in every corner of the city.

Explore more:  Shop for gifts at all the top Chicago holiday markets .

Lace up some skates

On winter days, lace up your skates and hit one of the city’s scenic ice skating rinks . A classic holiday activity in Chicago, skating at the Millennium Park ice skating rink offers panoramic views of Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”) and the surrounding city skyline dusted in snow. 

Nearby, Maggie Daley Park is known for its one-of-a-kind Skating Ribbon , an icy path that curves through the park’s whimsical landscape. 

Chicago’s ice rinks are typically open from November through March, weather permitting. Skate rentals are available, or you can bring your own. There are also charming neighborhood rinks throughout Chicago, like the Midway Plaisance in Hyde Park, or the Gallagher Way rink in Wrigleyville. 

See the official Chicago Christmas Tree

Don’t miss one of Chicago’s biggest and brightest holiday traditions — the City of Chicago’s official Christmas Tree, a local tradition for more than 100 years. Don’t miss the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in November, which includes live performances and a fireworks display.

The massive tree, which will light up the center of iconic Millennium Park , is adorned in twinkling lights and makes the perfect holiday photo opp. The tree shines brightly near the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Washington Street through January. Make sure to stop by one of the magical ice skating rinks while you’re there.

Celebrate the holidays at a museum

Chicago museums love to take part in the holiday fun. The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry hosts their annual Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light , with 50 elaborately decorated trees that represent holiday traditions from across the globe. The exhibit also honors the traditions of Chinese New Year, Diwali, Kwanzaa, Ramadan, Hanukkah, Visakha Puja Day, St. Lucia Day, and more.

Share in the joy of art with family and friends at the  Art Institute of Chicago . The museum’s beloved lions receive the holiday treatment each November during the annual Wreathing of the Lions celebration on the museum steps, a tradition for more than 30 years. Enjoy a live musical performance, complimentary hot chocolate, and an art-making activity inside the museum. 

Catch a festive live show

The holidays are the perfect time to plan a memorable night out on the town to experience the thrill of live musicals, dramas, ballets, and more. Whether you’re drawn to our bustling downtown theatre district (home to Broadway in Chicago) or more intimate neighborhood venues, there’s a holiday show for you.

Grab your seats today for limited-time productions, including:

• A Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theatre 
• ‘Twas the Night Before by Cirque du Soleil at the Chicago Theatre
• Hershel and The Hanukkah Goblins at Strawdog Theatre Company
• The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet at the Lyric Opera House 
• The Art Deco Nutcracker by the A&A Ballet at The Athenaeum Theatre
• It’s A Wonderful Life : Live in Chicago at American Blues Theater 
• The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly Sweater at The Second City

Do some holiday gift shopping

Pick up some gifts for loved ones (and maybe something for yourself) in Chicago’s many shopping districts. The Magnificent Mile , one of the world’s most iconic retail destinations, is a good place to start. You’ll find famous department stores, luxury showrooms, and favorite chains — plus tons of holiday lights twinkling from the trees that make the whole area feel merry and bright.

A few blocks away, State Street is another shopper’s paradise where you’ll find the iconic Macy’s on State Street. Stroll around the building to admire their annual Holiday Windows, adorned with intricate themed displays, and step inside to dine beneath the Great Tree at the historic Walnut Room .

And if you’re looking for something truly unique, don’t miss Chicago’s many neighborhood boutiques. That’s where you’ll find a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind gifts, like custom-made leather goods, artisan crafts, vintage finds, and locally crafted clothing. Check out these top neighborhoods for boutique shopping .

Visit the Walnut Room

It doesn’t get much more festive than a meal at the Walnut Room . Located inside Macy’s on State Street, the historic spot is the the first restaurant ever opened in a department store and an essential holiday destination. The stately interior is adorned with elegant decor and sparkling chandeliers, with the towering Great Tree in the center of it all. Make sure to try Mrs. Hering’s chicken pot pie, an original recipe from the 1890s. And don’t miss the famed holiday window displays that line the exterior of the landmark building.

Spot the holiday train

A beloved Chicago tradition for more than 30 years, the CTA holiday train will once again make its way through the city this December. Marvel at the six-car train decorated with holiday scenes and thousands of sparkling lights, then hop on board to meet the elves handing out candy. Don’t forget to wave to Santa, whose sled replaces the head car. There’s also a holiday bus that will traverse the city streets, bringing holiday cheer to neighborhoods throughout Chicago.

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Special Event Venues

Lincoln park zoo.

Lincoln Park

Tours & Attractions

Maggie daley park.

Art Institute of Chicago

Theater & Performing Arts

The joffrey ballet.

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

Macy’s on State Street

Goodman Theatre

Music, Comedy, and Nightlife

Lyric opera of chicago.

Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Southwest Suburbs

Chicago Botanic Garden

North Suburbs

Meeting and Event Suppliers

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Tips for Visiting Chicago in December

You may have heard rumors of the Windy City’s unforgiving blasts of winter weather which keep many indoors , but don’t let that dissuade you from a wintertime trip. In fact, you’d be missing out on lots of special events that locals enjoy every December — not to mention a wonderland of snowy days and thousands of sparkling Christmas lights in every tree. Score a great deal on travel, pack a bag with proper winter gear, and make your plans for visiting Chicago in December! Read on for winter our event details and tips on winter layering:

GET THE LOCAL EXPERIENCE

Keep in mind that not only will you run into far shorter lines for popular attractions if you visit in December, you’ll also spend more time in the company of Chicago locals, rather than crowds of fellow tourists.

CHICAGO IS LIT FOR CHRISTMAS

If you’re visiting Chicago in December, you can find a wide range of special events that only happen this time of year. Chicago standbys like the  LINCOLN PARK ZOO ,  CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN , the Morton Arboretum, and Navy Pier all turn into illuminated wonderlands for the holiday season!

The Best Things to Do in Chicago This December

This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase through these links. See our full disclosure here .

Known as the Windy City, Chicago is one of the USA’s truly great cities, home to modern and historic architecture, an exciting gastronomy scene, a bustling business center, world-class universities, top-rate museums like the Field Museum and Chicago Art Institute, and endless cultural, artistic, and entertainment activities.

While it’s a great place to visit throughout the year, winter, especially December, is when the city truly shines. Chi-Town is famous for its winter weather, which produces hearty snow flurries and plunging temperatures, but the city’s many holiday events are more than enough motivation to brave the cold and get out and celebrate that holiday cheer.

The Second City might not be as iconic as NYC in December , but its swooping skyscrapers make a striking backdrop for whatever’s on your Christmastime agenda.

From marveling at festive light displays to ice skating in Millennium Park, here are the best things to do in Chicago in December 2023.

Stay at the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile

During the holiday season, Chicago decks out its famed Magnificent Mile in the season’s best. As the only hotel with a lobby that opens up directly on this renowned portion of Michigan Ave, the historic Hotel InterContinental Chicago maintains the neighborhood’s reputation with elaborate displays and special packages available for holiday guests. You’ll experience the Mag Mile’s brilliant Lights Festival and do some holiday shopping, then enjoy a leisurely breakfast with the family at their in-house restaurant, Center Court.

Dates: Holiday Specials are usually available from November till the end of December.

See the Zoolights at the Lincoln Park Zoo

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and in Chicago, that calls for a trip to be awed and dazzled by the Zoolights at the Lincoln Park Zoo!

The trees, central pavilion, and other structures of the Zoo are all adorned with millions of multi-colored Christmas lights that create the ultimate winter wonderland. In addition to wandering around and admiring the views, you can also watch live ice sculpting, go ice skating, take a short train ride, and even visit Santa. If you’re one of the first 1,000 people to go in, you receive special glasses that change the effects of the lights.

Dates: November 17, 2023 – January 7, 2024.

Go Ice Skating at Millennium Park

It’s that most classic and fun of holiday outings: going outdoor ice skating at the local ice rink (and it’s even more magical if it’s snowing as well)!

Millennium Park, located in the center of Chicago’s downtown and full of iconic urban art like the Bean and Crown Fountain, opens its own outdoor skating rink ( McCormick Tribune Ice Rink ) during December, perfect for a family outing or a romantic skate in the snow. You can bring your own gear or rent skates for $10. Plus, Chicago is renowned for its snowy, cold winters, so you’re guaranteed perfect winter-wonderland weather to skate in.

Dates: November 2023 – March 2024 (weather permitting).

Shop on the Magnificent Mile and State Street

One of the best parts of the holidays is the giving and receiving of gifts. To find Chicago’s best gifts, locals head to the city’s top shopping districts: the Magnificent Mile and State Street.

Stretching from the Chicago River to Oak Street, the Magnificent Mile is part of the upscale Michigan Avenue near downtown. In addition to being home to architectural landmarks like the Tribune building, the Chicago Water Tower, and the Wrigley building, over 450 stores are located along the route, from major department stores like Bloomingdale’s to apparel, luxury goods, jewelry, and toys. The Magnificent Mile also gets a gorgeous makeover with Christmas trees and tons of sparkling lights for the holidays.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for on the Magnificent Mile, State Street is another of Chicago’s premier shopping destinations. From Lake Street to Jackson Boulevard, this bustling shopping street features a giant Macy’s housed in a historic architectural gem, the Block 37 shopping mall, and trendy stores like Urban Outfitters. State Street is also close to popular Chicago attractions like Millenium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Attend a Candlelight Concert

Billed as a multi-sensory concert, the Christmas iteration of this rotating-venue series, Candlelight: Holiday Special , will be held at the historic Stan Mansion featuring the Metropolis String Quartet. You’ll enjoy a live performance of various Christmas standards spanning from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons to contemporary pieces like selections from Mendelson and Guaraldi’s Peanuts Suite. With only six performances total, competition is stiff for tickets, so be sure to secure yours early.

Dates: Yet to be announced.

Cruise down the Chicago River

Though you can do it any time of year, a Chicago Architecture River Cruise is a truly memorable experience when the city is draped in lights. In this tour, your guide will take you down all three branches of the river while explaining the history of the most important buildings in the city’s skyline. But be sure to bundle up: Chicago winters are famously cold.

Marvel at Illumination at the Morton Arboretum

The tree-lined walkways of the Morton Arboretum are turned into a wonder of light and color at this outdoor illumination fest, perfect to explore on a cold winter’s night.

The magical effects are created using lanterns, Christmas lights, light installations, and projections to illuminate and change the appearance of trees and other plant life. It even incorporates special technology to make some of the light displays interactive, allowing you to do things like hug a tree to see how the lights respond and change. Holiday music is piped in as well, and at the end of the walk, there’s no better way to warm up than by a roaring fire where you can roast marshmallows or drink some hot cocoa.

Make Some Memories at Light Up the Lake

The largest indoor Christmas lights display in all of Chicago, Light Up the Lake is a beloved annual event. Held in the festival hall at Navy Pier, you’ll find their iconic light displays, a skating rink, and Santa’s Village, hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Each ticket also includes a ride on the Centennial Wheel, Chicago’s 200-foot tall Ferris wheel that will give you 360° views of Downtown and the frozen Lake Michigan.

Take a Ride on the CTA Holiday Train

In the early 1900s, Chicago was the center of railway travel in the US, and to this day, the city is still very easy to get around and get to via rail. So to honor this legacy and get in on the holiday fun, every year, the Chicago Transit Authority outfits an entire L metro train to be a moving Christmas spectacular.

The outside and inside of the cars are elaborately covered in lights, garlands, and bows, the hand poles are made to look like candy canes (but don’t lick!), and Santa rides around on an open-air flatcar to wave to passersby. And it’s not just for fun: this tradition, which started in 1992, was created to deliver food and other donations to charities throughout the city, which it still does to this day.

Discover Christmas Around the World at the MSI

This Chicago Christmas tradition started back in 1942. Now it’s grown from a display of a single tree to a massive exhibition of more than 50 Christmas trees, including a giant 4-story Grand Tree!

The various trees are decorated by volunteers to represent how different cultures and countries around the world celebrate the holidays. It’s a wonderful way to learn about Christmas traditions around the globe as well as be dazzled by a cavalcade of lovely holiday decor. On the weekends there is also entertainment like singing.

This year’s exhibition opens in November and runs through January 2024.

Go On a Movie Sites Tour

Chicago has a vast and varied film industry. If you’re a fellow movie buff, you can book a Downtown Chicago TV & Movie Sites Tour to see the city’s most iconic filming locations. You’ll visit places seen in classic movies like High Fidelity and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, but the holiday movie locations are the real highlight. The entire Home Alone franchise, Nothing Like The Holidays, and Surviving Christmas were all shot in the city, and your guide may even offer behind-the-scenes insights into these films as you tour the real-life places some of their most iconic scenes were shot.

Dates: Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Year-Round.

Explore the Christkindlmarket

First held in 1996 and inspired by the historic Christkindlesmarkt of Nuremberg, Germany, this classic European-esque outdoor Christmas market is a beloved Chicago tradition, full of holiday cheer for everyone.

This massive event, which is the biggest outdoor Christmas market in the US, is named after Christkind, a mythological, fairy-like creature that is the bringer of gifts to children in Germany and German-speaking countries. Here at this market named in her honor, families and shoppers can marvel at the lovely holiday lights, shop for gifts like the market’s signature annual mug and tree ornaments, eat traditional German delicacies like strudel, pretzels, and currywurst (and classic US holiday treats like cookies as well), and keep an eye out for the Christkind as she wanders the market.

Held in the downtown area, it’s easy to find a great place to go, especially at night when you can enjoy the lights.

The Christkindlmarket 2023 will take place at Daley Plaza in November and December.

Dine in an Igloo at IO Godfrey Hotel

Chicago is notorious for its cold, windy winters, with most of the city retreating indoors. But IO Godgrey’s rooftop lounge is able to keep the party going even in the winter with its annual Winter Wonderland celebration.

Located on the rooftop of the Godfrey Hotel in downtown Chicago, IO Godfrey is a popular destination for craft cocktails, music, and unbeatable city views. But instead of shutting down for the winter, the rooftop lounge is transformed into a snowy paradise. Heated igloos of clear plastic are erected around the space and available to reserve for 6-8 people. Inside, your party can enjoy cocktails and food, while outside, the rest of the space is decked out in light-up trees and icy Christmas lights. S’mores are available to roast at the outdoor fire pits as well.

Go See A Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theatre

Seeing the theatrical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas story has been a beloved Chicago tradition for over five decades.

Running from November 18th to December 31st, 2023, at the Albert Goodman Theatre, A Christmas Carol follows the tale of curmudgeonly miser Ebenezer Scrooge. On Christmas Eve, he’s visited by three ghosts that help him realize the error of his ways. Heartwarming and charming, this local production is now celebrating its 44th year. Some of the actors return to the same role year after year, which helps the show feel even more traditional and timeless. Noted for its fabulous costumes, special effects, and delightful musical numbers, it’s a holiday treat for all ages.

Do the Santa Hustle

With all the cookies, hot cocoa, and tasty treats, everyone gains a little holiday weight around this time of year. Well, you can work it off (at least a little) by taking part in one of Chicago’s most fun Xmas traditions: the Santa Hustle!

The Santa Hustle is a 5k race held at Soldier Field, where participants dress up like Santa Claus (beard, hat, red suit, candy cane socks, the whole nine yards!) and run for fun and for charity! Christmas music is played to help runners get in the spirit, and candy and cookies are passed out for fuel. It’s a heck of a lot of fun, and it’s for a good cause (proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society), so get ready because Santa Claus is running through town!

Date: Saturday, December 2, 2023 at Soldier Field.

See the Highlights of Chicago in Wintry Splendor

With its many historic buildings, outdoor parks, public art installations, and more, Chicago is a great place to visit no matter the time of year, but the snowy winter weather only makes it more beautiful and striking, which, paired with all its winter-time activities, it’s the perfect winter city.

Take a snowy selfie at the Bean in Millennium Park (there are also caroling events held there during the holidays), visit the Chicago Art Institute, see the wintry Windy City from above from the Willis Tower (more commonly known as Sears Tower) Skydeck, go for a boat ride down the canals, and more.

Watch the New Year’s Fireworks from Navy Pier

To finish off a month of fantastic holiday fun in the Windy City, head to the famous Navy Pier for its epic NYE fireworks display!

The fireworks are set off from a barge located a short distance from the end of the pier, so you can either watch from along the shoreline or attend the Resolution Gala ball, which is held on the pier itself. Another great option is to book a dinner cruise , where a boat will take you out into the harbor where you can watch the spectacle with the lit-up skyline in the background while sipping on champagne and enjoying a delicious dinner. Cheers!

Shop Hidden Thrift Stores

While any time of year is a good one to find a deal, during the holidays may be the best. Whether you’re looking for a gift for an eco-conscious friend or the perfect one-of-a-kind addition for your own closet, a Hidden Thrift Stores Shopping Tour might be the ideal holiday excursion for you in Chicago. Your guide, a local and experienced thrifter, will take you to four off-the-beaten-path Chicago thrift stores that you may have never found on your own. You’ll have about an hour at each to hunt for the perfect find.

Wander Through the Amaze Light Festival

A holiday-themed pop-up in Tinley Park, the Amaze Light Festival is an open-world storybook come to life, packed with hundreds of thousands of lights, mascots, and entertainment. In addition to the displays you can wander through, there are food trucks, a “toyporium”, an elaborate candy shop, and the Amaze Market, where you’ll find local and handmade gifts. You can also purchase add-on tickets to ride the Arctic Express Train that winds around the grounds or to take an inner tube down Zing’s Thrill Hill.

Ride The Polar Express Train

The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg is a modern Christmas classic, which enchants adults and children alike with its message that the magic of Christmas transcends age.

This real-life train ride recreates the magic of the film, with characters from the story leading you through a reading of the book, carols, and more. Departing from Chicago’s Union Station, the two-hour-long experience starts with boarding the train and having your golden ticket punched. As the train departs for the North Pole, hot chocolate and cookies are served, followed by caroling, a read-along of the book, and visits from Santa. At the end of the ride, guests get to take home a silver sleigh bell as a souvenir.

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Christmas in Chicago 2024: 20 Most Festive Things to Do

The windy city with a history of gangsters and deep-dish pizza may not conjure images of a holiday paradise.

However, you’d be hard-pressed to find a city that commits as wholeheartedly to Christmas as the city of Chicago. Follow along to discover the 20 best Christmas things to do in Chicago.

The merriest season transforms Chi-town into a veritable winter wonderland, complete with illuminating Christmas light displays, authentic German markets, and live musical productions.

Create family-friendly holiday traditions such as taking in the department store decorations on State Street. Or, snuggle up with a cup of cocoa in front of a towering Christmas tree in Chicago.

From photos with Santa to LED lights at the Lincoln Park Zoo, there’s no end to the number of fun things to do at Chicago Christmas time.

If you can grin and bear the cold, we think you’ll see there is a world of joy, entertainment, and amazement to discover in Chicago this holiday season.

December in Chicago

Jack Frost might live at the North Pole, but he would feel right at home in the Windy City. While there are an array of awesome things to do in Chicago in December, many will require thermal layers.

Bundle up, as during Christmas in Chicago temperatures will reach lows of 27 degrees, and snowfall is usually imminent. We suggest loading up on leggings, long johns, warm boots, gloves, and hats if you plan on window shopping on Michigan Avenue. 

However, with the proper winter coat and attitude, visitors will have their pick of what to do in Chicago in December.

Chicago in December Things To Do

Summertime may get all the glory when it comes to the Second City, but in our opinion, some of the best things to do in Chicago shine even brighter in December. Admire impressionist masterpieces at the Art Institute , or conquer your fear of heights when you try TILT at 360 Chicago .

Take a break from gingerbread with a grisly crime tour , or observe everyone’s favorite Blue Men at the Briar Street Theatre. One of the best things to do in Chicago in December is see a show !

Get Medieval with a royal feast and cheer on your favorite knighted champion as you chow down sans silverware.

Welcome in winter time with even more things to do in Chicago in December here .*

*Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of things to do in Chicago in December, things to do in Chicago December, Chicago December events, or things to do in Chicago for Christmas. The Windy city overflows with wintery activities and attractions, and visitors will never want for what to do in Chicago in December.

Christmas Vacation Packages in Chicago

Chicago has endless amounts of historical landmarks, museums, art galleries, and greenery to explore. Make the most out of all the merry Christmas activities in Chicago by spending a night or two in this metropolis by the Lake. 

Whatever your style or budget, we offer many options for Chicago Hotels , from boutique accommodations to budget inns. Book with confidence, knowing you can stay anywhere from the Magnificent Mile to the loop with our lowest rate guarantee. 

Are your little elves expecting quite the holiday haul? Save your hard-earned dollars for presents when you bundle your Chicago attractions and accommodations. Chicago Vacation Packages offer the ideal way to investigate the charm, history, and culture of the Windy City.

Things to Do in Chicago at Christmas Time*

Visit a christmas market in chicago or take a tour, holiday hike: season sampling walking & food tour, when: november 18th – christmas eve.

Delicious winter eats, an authentic German Christmas market, and the merriest light displays make for a Chicagoan Holiday experience. Foodies, sightseers, and history buffs alike will clamor to sign up for the Holiday Hike: Season Sampling Walking & Food Tour . 

Don your most festive sweater and comfortable walking shoes as you prepare for this 2.5-hour walking tour. This all-encompassing food-filled adventure features stops and samples at:

• The lights at Magnificent Mile
• The Millenium Park ice skating rink and Christmas tree
• Samples of deep-dish pizza, German bratwurst, and a chocolate brownie
• A visit to Christkindlmarket and the infamous ‘Cloud Gate.’
• Samples of craft beer & hot apple cider
• Viewing of the Marshall Field’s Christmas Windows

Winter Wonderland Festival at Navy Pier – Chicago, IL

Seeking some frost-bitten family-friendly fun? Head to the Navy Pier to escape city life for an all-expenses-paid trip to the Winter Wonderland Festival !* Embrace the snowy season and load up on outdoor activities when you visit this joyous event.

Santa’s biggest fans will enjoy hours of wintery fun when they strap on their ice skates and cruise through a land of twinkling lights and snowflakes. Follow in your favorite snowman’s footsteps as you journey through a birch tree maze, visit St. Nick, and more.

*Dates for Winter Wonderland and Light Up the Lake have yet to be confirmed.

Dine at the Walnut Room at Macy’s on State Street

When you feast at the famous Walnut Room , inject your Chi-town holiday plans with some gravitas and history . Not only does this State Street Staple located on the 7th floor of Macy’s offer amazing holiday decor, but diners can also revel in the presence of the ‘Great Tree.’ Decked out in red and green, this marvelous evergreen will be on display beginning early November.

Outfitted in stunning Russian wood paneling and Austrian chandeliers, the Walnut Room holds the distinct honor of being the first restaurant ever opened in a department store. Make your holiday meal reservations now and delight in Mrs. Hering’s original 1890 chicken pot pie or cider-glazed slow-roasted turkey.  Please note that dining reservations for the holiday season will open on September 29th. 

BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour ‘Tis The Season – Chicago, IL

When: select dates december.

Need a break from that winter chill? Gather your most festive friends for a raucous holiday light tour you’ll never forget. The BYOB Party Bus Holiday Lights Tour Tis’ The Season  the booze-filled party bus Christmas tour of your dreams. 

Brought to you by the Wami Live Inc team, this event combines great tunes, comedy, and the iconic Chicago holiday sights to bring you one epic ride. 

Partygoers can expect to soak in the sparkling lights and decor at the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park Christmas Tree, State Street, Lincoln Park Zoo Lights, and Macy’s Holiday Display. Your party bus ticket admission also includes the following:

• Souvenir Santa hat
• Complimentary apps & drink deals

Christmas Lights in Chicago

Zoolights at lincoln park zoo – chicago, il, when: select dates november 17 – january 7th.

Bright lights + Zoo animals = perfection! Get ready to witness the glow of millions of twinkling lights at one of Chi-town’s most beloved Holiday events. Zoo Lights at the Lincoln Park Zoo is a shining LED-fueled extravaganza featuring hundreds of luminous displays, seasonal experiences, and an 18-foot Christmas Tree.

This year the Zoo is ramping up the Christmas spirit with even more special activities and ticketed experiences, such as:

• Photos with Santa
• Snowy’s Spirits & S’more pop-up holiday bar
• Light Maze Presented by Invesco QQQ (ticketed experience)
• Enchanted Forest (ticketed experience)
• AT&T Endangered Species Carousel (ticketed experience)

Pro Tip: Zoolights is a special ticketed event, Wednesday-Sunday evening tickets are $5, but Monday nights are free. 

To enjoy all of the animals and exotic species at the Lincoln Park Zoo during the day, we highly recommend combining the Zoo with any one of our other unique Chicago attractions featured on the Chicago Explorer Pass .

Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Lights, Museum of Science and Industry – Chicago, IL

When: november through the first weekend of january 2024.

While you won’t find Zoolights at the Museum of Science of Industry, you will be stunned by the piles of presents, tinsel, and evergreen cheer. An awe-inspiring celebration of multiculturalism and holiday joy, the Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light event has brought smiles to people’s faces since 1942.

Ride the Museum of Science and Industry yuletide spirit all afternoon long, as you take in a four-story, floor-to-dome Grand Tree , surrounded by a forest of over 50 smaller trees.

The painstakingly decorated displays showcasing holiday traditions worldwide remind us that while our heritages may vary, we all appreciate the love and magic of this special season.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on getting your fridge-worthy snapshot with Santa, who will be waiting in the festive photo studio inside the Holiday store.

Tickets for Christmas Around the World are included in general admission , so why not stick around and soak in the best of the Museum of Science and Industry post-Santa photo op?

Illumination at the Morton Arboretum – Chicago, IL

When: november 18th-january 6th, 2024.

Dreaming of an enchanted forest filled with magic, color, and light? Fulfill your fantasy with a visit to Illumination Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum  this winter. 

This truly immersive, one-of-a-kind experience allows visitors to leisurely meander through 50 acres of light installations, projections, and special technology, all designed to illuminate and change the appearance of trees and other plant life. 

Visitors are encouraged to interact with their wintery environment by hugging a tree and watching as the lights respond. Culminate your ethereal adventure with a spectacular laser light finale. 

Be sure to warm up with a cup of steaming hot chocolate or an ooey gooey roasted marshmallow s’more post-walk! This year adults 18 or older can get in even more after-dark thrills with Electric Illumination . Featuring an explosion of trance music and synchronized lights, Electric will challenge your perception of traditional holiday light displays.

Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden

When: november 10th-january 7th, 2024.

Trails of glowing, life-sized lavender flowers plus the beloved Winter Cathedral installation come together in perfect harmony at Lightscape . This annual extravaganza of glowing lights is a love letter to the fleeting beauty of the winter season.

This year, the sparkling light installation will return to transform new parts of the Chicago Botanic Garden, including Evening Island. Visitors can meander through whimsical landscapes of electric Christmas trees, abstract shapes, and seas of floating poppies.

Capture the radiance of the reimagined trail, or wind down your night of lights with some festive food and drinks.

Christmas Shows in Chicago

A magic cirque christmas – joliet, il, when: december 21st, hightail it to the cibc chicago theater for an evening of must-see yuletide magic. a magic cirque christmas is an explosion of sleights of hand, acrobatics, skating, and more. audience members of all ages will observe in awe as the talent performs incredible circus-inspired stunts..

From trapeze twirls to back flips, daring feats will be set against the backdrop of your favorite holiday tunes. Hosted by the magnificent Lucy Darling, this unique production is perfect for the whole family.

The Immersive Nutcracker A Winter Miracle

When: dates tbd.

Sugar plum fairies, massive Mouse kings, and winter soldiers, oh my! Experience the Nutcracker like never before when you become part of the ballet. Brought to you by the creators of Immersive Van Gogh, Nutcracker a Winter Miracle is the inspired new imagining of the classic tale.

Observe your favorite ballet on a majestic scale as you are whisked away by the sweeping soundtrack of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Unlike any other production, this immersive journey features falling snow, glittering photo ops, projections, and special effects. Pose before a life-size Nutcracker and witness the iconic March of the Toys.

Thanks to cutting-edge technology, you’ll have 500,000 cubic feet of holiday wonder to document and explore.

The Nutcracker at the Joffrey Ballet

When: december 2nd – december 27th.

A timeless tale performed by Chicago’s premier dance company is hard to beat. Reunite with the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Toy Soldier, and the Mouse King for a heartwarming performance of the Nutcracker .

Let the familiar music of Tchaikovsky wash over you, as you watch our young heroine celebrate Christmas Eve in the shadow of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. A pure mix of fantasy and delight, this traditional tale has been reimagined for a new generation thanks to the Tony Award-winning choreography of Christopher Wheeldon.

Ice Skating in Chicago

Skating ribbon at maggie daley plaza – chicago, il.

Nothing says ‘white Christmas’ more than a snow-filled ice skating session at one of Chi-town’s best ice skating rinks. The Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park is unique in that its curved serpentine structure makes it twice the length of a traditional ice skating rink.

*No city loves Christmas quite like Chicago. As a result, this is just a tiny sampling of the offerings of Christmas things to do in Chicago, things to do in Chicago at Christmas, and things to do at Christmas in Chicago.

Cheery Treats in Chicago

A full day of sledding, building snowmen, and sightseeing around the Second City can build up quite the appetite. 

Reward (and warm) yourself with any number of mouth-watering treats and soothing beverages from our favorite Chicago cafes and bakeries:

XO Marshmallow Cafe – Chicago, IL

Looking for an Instagram-worthy cup of cocoa that’s (almost) too pretty to drink? XO Marshmallow Cafe’s multi-colored chocolates are seriously stunning and tasty to boot. Spice up your feed with the luscious lavender, white chocolate cocoa with matching lavender honey marshmallows. 

Pro Tip: For all of the Harry Potter fans out there, don’t forget to stock up on their gourmet Butterbeer White Hot Chocolate so you can recreate this tasty treat at home!

Katherine Anne Confections – Chicago, IL

Consistently named one of the ‘best hot chocolates in America’ by Fodor Travel, Katherine Anne Confections has built up one stellar reputation.

Luckily, their velvety thick, and rich hot chocolate lives up to the hype. Enjoy up to 10 varieties of this indulgent beverage with flavors like chai, peanut butter, salted caramel, and more. Each cozy cup can be topped with homemade marshmallows, Kilgus Farm whipped cream or both!

Stan’s Donuts and Coffee – Chicago, IL

Think pink! Take a walk on the wild side when you stop for a sip (or two) of pink hot chocolate at Stan’s Donuts and Coffee . This photogenic cup of cocoa pairs perfectly with a fresh donut (might we suggest a festive red velvet). 

We are also partial to their delectable hot chocolate malt, which features real chocolate malt balls!

The Midwest’s largest city is a magnificent mess of lakefront beaches, iconic architecture, and an impressive art collection. But, for a city so thoroughly urban, it’s shocking to discover the holiday spirit alive and well.

Christmas in Chicago shows up everywhere, from the dazzling decorated CTA holiday train to the sparkling lights at Millenium Park

Every year visitors from all over the world enjoy first-class entertainment, holiday markets, festive illumination, and delicious eats in Chicago at Christmas time.

From memories under the mistletoe to dances of the Sugar Plum Fairy, a holiday in Chicago is something you’ll never forget!

So, will you spend Christmas in Chicago 2024?

What Things to Do in Chicago Around Christmas Did We Miss?

Leave a comment below and share your Christmas vacation in Chicago plans!

Written by Isis Maya Nissman

A New York native, Isis-Maya spent most of her professional life working in TV production until a vacation whisked her away to Central...

2 comments about “Christmas in Chicago 2024: 20 Most Festive Things to Do”

Hello, I was just their on Saturday. I got re-directed due to the closing of the streets for the parade. I wish we had left earlier so the kids would have more time. Besides Winter Wonderland at Navy Pier, what else can we do (coming from as far as Indianapolis, IN) and what are some of the best hotels that are kid friendly. I spend most Christmas at the Renaissance and we had booked the Royal Sonata. We really want a hotel on the river with river view from our room.

Thank you, Holliday

Hello Holliday! Great questions! We have a Chicago events page you can visit at anytime to learn about what is taking place in Chi-town: https://www.tripster.com/travelguide/information/chicago/events/

In addition, we recommend checking out The Congress Plaza Hotel which is less than two miles from the Navy Pier. https://www.tripster.com/detail/the-congress-plaza-hotel-chicago?aid=RDA1114069

Thanks for the questions and safe travels!

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Chicago in Winter (Best Things to Do + 3-Day Itinerary!)

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

If you’re looking for the ultimate guide to visiting Chicago in winter – look no further, we’ve got you covered!

With its plethora of fun, year-round activities, world-class museums, and some of the most iconic foods in North America, it’s unsurprising that tourists continue to flock to Chicago in winter despite the snow and cold.

In this post, we’ll tell you all about our favorite winter activities in Chicago and show you how to incorporate them into a complete Chicago 3-day itinerary.

Along with including the city’s most exciting year-round offerings, we’ll share our detailed packing list to keep you shielded from Chicago’s winter weather.

The links on this page are Amazon affiliate links. If you click on the links and make a purchase, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Chicago in Winter

Located on the shore of Lake Michigan in Midwest USA, Chicago, Illinois is a glorious city with a population of 3 million people.

Chicago is a tourist’s dream as it has a magnificent, walkable downtown area filled with gorgeous parks and sculptures, impressive museums, several famous Chicago foods , and beautiful lakeside views.

Perfectly blending the hustle and bustle of city life with a degree of friendliness that you’d expect from a small town, this diverse area is a must-visit metropolitan wonder.

Despite having 4 distinct seasons and climates, Chicago is truly a city that can be enjoyed during each and every month of the year.

In fact, though our whole family absolutely loves our Chicago summer itinerary , we find that visiting Chicago in winter is just as spectacular.

Things to Do in Chicago in Winter

Before your visit to Chicago, be sure to check what Public Health Orders are in place regarding face coverings and vaccination status in public places.

If you’re familiar with popular urban vacation destinations, it’s more than likely that Chicago is on your US bucket list !

Whether you’ve dreamed of ice skating in Millennium Park and photographing “The Bean” or you want to enlighten your kids by checking out the ever-popular Adler Planetarium, there are infinite things to do in Chicago during winter.

Though it’s not possible to mention everything there is to do in Chicago during winter, we’ve handpicked a selection of must-do activities that you shouldn’t miss out on while you’re in the Windy City!

Oh, and psst…we LOVE Chicago so much that we’ve written several other guides to help you plan your trip!

• Our Complete 3-Day Chicago Family Vacation Guide
• What to Wear in Chicago: A Visitor’s Guide for Every Season!
• Top 5 Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Downtown Chicago
• 25 Things to do in Chicago at Night
• 13 Famous Chicago Foods to Try!
• Our Complete List of Things to do at Navy Pier Chicago

1. Browse and Shop Magnificent Mile

Chicago’s Magnificent Mile is a 13-block stretch of shopping, dining, restaurants, hotels, and attractions.

Found in the heart of Downtown Chicago on North Michigan Avenue, you will find 460 stores, 275 restaurants, 60 hotels, as well as unique entertainment options sprinkled throughout its length.

Magnificent Mile has a classic metropolitan buzz and is especially festive during the winter as its trees are lit up with thousands of twinkling white lights.

The sidewalks are always promptly cleared of snow during the winter so that visitors and locals can continue to explore the Mile between browsing its indoor shops.

Our favorite things to do on Magnificent Mile include visiting the 360 Chicago Observation Deck, going to The Disney Store, Dylan’s Candy Bar, and American Girl Place, as well as admiring the spectacular architecture.

2. Visit Millennium Park

Millennium Park is the epicenter of fun in Chicago as this is where you’ll find Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), Crown Fountain, Maggie Daley Park, and the unique BP Pedestrian Bridge.

Though you won’t get to experience its green space or feel the splash from Crown Fountain when visiting Millennium Park in winter, it’s still a must-visit in Chicago even when the temps are cold.

You’ll still find hundreds of visitors snapping family photos and selfies next to The Bean ( quite possibly dusted with beautiful snow!), as well as touring the Art Institute of Chicago and marveling at the Chicago Christmas Tree.

Additional planning tip: If you’re looking to warm up indoors, grab a bit to eat, AND have some fun, head across the street from Millenium Park to the Chicago Athletic Hotel.

Here, you’ll find The Game Room (restaurant, bar, built-in bocce bay, billiards, shuffleboard, chess, and checkers tables), as well as TopGolf Swing Suites that can be rented by the hour.

Our kids ( who are sports fanatics) loved the sports/golf simulator room and the fact that we could order food and drinks right to the suite.

3. Go Ice Skating

Though I’m not familiar with sledding in Chicago, one of the best things to do during winter in Chicago is to go ice skating!

Chicago has a multitude of seasonal ice skating rinks that pop up around the city during its winter months offering fun and enjoyment to both locals and visitors alike.

Most rinks are open mid-November through March, weather permitting.

Skate rentals are available, or guests are welcome to bring their own.

Here’s a list of the best places to go ice skating in Chicago:

• McCormick Tribune Ice Rink (Classic outdoor ice skating rink; located in Millennium Park with The Bean sculpture right in the background.)
• Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon (A curvy ice-skating path that is twice the length of a lap around a traditional skating rink; located in Millenium Park near Maggie Daley Park.)
• Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier (Indoor ice skating rink located at Navy Pier that is typically only open from the end of November through January 2nd.)
• Winterland at Gallagher Way (Classic outdoor ice skating rink located at Wrigley Field that offers skating, curling, and ice bumper cars; typically only open from the end of November through the end of February.)
• Sky Rink at Peninsula Chicago (The only hotel ice skating rink in the city; located on a 4th-floor terrace overlooking Michigan Avenue.)

Additional planning tip: Going ice skating tops our list as one of the best things to do in Chicago at night !

The rinks stay open late and are illuminated with colorful lights once darkness fills the sky.

4. Go to Navy Pier | Ride the Centennial Wheel

There are so many awesome attractions at Navy Pier Chicago , and most of them are open year-round!

Despite the gray skies and floating ice chunks, the harbor of Lake Michigan in which Navy Pier sits is surprisingly beautiful and serene in the winter!

Plus, all of the shops and delicious dining venues throughout the pier remain open, as does Chicago’s famous Ferris wheel, the Centennial Wheel!

Don’t miss out on a chance to ride the Centennial Wheel in its climate-controlled gondolas that makes for an especially comfortable winter ride.

This is the best way to see the Chicago skyline at night!

5. Enjoy Famous Chicago Foods

Call them iconic, there are several signature Chicago dishes to enjoy throughout the city no matter what month of the year you visit.

Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or a foodie newbie, spend winter in Chicago enjoying a Chicago hot dog, Chicago-style deep dish pizza, an Italian Beef sandwich, fried chicken, or Garrett Popcorn!

6. Attend a Broadway Show

Chicago has a booming arts scene!

If you’re visiting Chicago during winter, be sure to check out the several theaters located throughout Chicago in which guests can watch Broadway-caliber musicals and shows.

Indoor theatrical performances are an awesome activity to do in the winter and this is an experience that both kids and adults will love if you choose the right show.

Check out Chicago’s Theater in Chicago website to find venues, performances, running dates, and showtimes.

7. Visit the Willis Tower

If you’re looking for indoor winter activities in Chicago, be sure to visit the Willis Tower.

The Willis Tower is Chicago’s tallest skyscraper – you literally cannot miss it!

The best part about the Willis Tower is that visitors to Chicago can actually get up-close and personal with this iconic 110-story building.

On the bottom 5-levels of the building is a brand new trendy shopping and dining area called Catalog .

Eating venues here include Shake Shack, Brown Bag Seafood Co., DoRite Donuts, and our favorite, Tortazo (Modern Mexican flavors, fountain Margaritas, and top-notch customer service!).

After dining, head downstairs to visit Skydeck Chicago – an absolute must-do Chicago activity!

A ticket to visit Skydeck includes a 30-60 minute interactive queue area where visitors can learn all about “the best of” Chicago.

Afterward is the elevator ride up to the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower where the most spectacular views of the city await.

Not only that, but you’ll also have an opportunity to stand and take photos on The Ledge, which is a glass balcony that extends four feet outside the walls of the building .

Being suspended over the city in this way is both terrifying and amazing at the same time!

8. Seek Out a Pop-Up Experience

One of the best things to do in Chicago this winter is to visit one of Downtown Chicago’s pop-up experiences.

These interactive experiences set up a ‘museum’ of sorts that showcases an imaginative and immersive look into popular TV shows, storybooks, and other interesting topics.

During our visit to Chicago in winter, we had the chance to visit the Dr. Seuss Experience and The Office Experience .

Also in town was the Van Gogh Experience, which we were unable to attend.

While the Dr. Seuss Experience was most suited for families with young children, we absolutely loved our time at The Office Experience.

This indoor attraction is perfect for tweens, teens, and adults who love NBC’s The Office sitcom series.

Read all about our The Office Experience tour here, and find out what to expect when visiting there.

9. Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest and largest free zoos in the country.

The zoo is open 365 days a year, which means that it’s even open in Chicago in the winter.

Lincoln Park Zoo has both indoor and outdoor exhibits that include big cats, polar bears, penguins, gorillas, reptiles, monkeys, and dozens of other species.

If you love animals, definitely consider the zoo in your list of winter activities in Chicago!

10. Go to a World-Class Museum

Chicago is home to a diverse array of museums that are a treasured part of the city’s cultural scene.

One of the best things to do in Chicago in winter in terms of indoor attractions is to one of its famous museums!

Our personal favorite museum in Chicago, especially if you’re visiting with tweens and teens, is the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago .

This is by far the most enjoyable and innovative museum we have ever visited and its exhibits kept us entertained for hours in terms of all things Chicago.

Another museum hotspot is the Museum Campus located in the South Loop of Chicago.

The Museum Campus is home to 3 of the city’s leading institutions, all within walking distance of one another.

As a visitor to Chicago, you will be awed by any or all of these three magnificent museums:

• Alder Planetarium (A museum dedicated to space and the study of astronomy.)
• Shedd Aquarium (A gigantic aquarium featuring aquatic animals including beluga whales.)
• Field Museum (A museum dedicated to natural history including fossils.)

Additional planning tip: Northerly Island Park is a 119-acre nature area and park on Chicago’s Museum Campus. Polar Adventure Days are held twice per winter and are a good outdoor activity to look into!

11. Attend Chicago’s Holiday Events

When it comes to Chicago winter activities, Chicago’s splendid holiday events simply have to make the list!

Even though events like the Christkindlmarket, holiday light displays, and live music are seasonal, it’s worth planning a trip to Chicago in December if you’re craving extra holiday spirit.

If you’re looking for things to do in December in Chicago, be sure to check the Choose Chicago website to see if Chicago’s holiday events match up with your visit during the holiday season.

Also, take your time while strolling on Magnificent Mile as there are dozens of opportunities to admire unique Christmas lights and Christmas decorations outside, and in the store windows.

12. Go to a Chicago Blackhawks Game

The Chicago Blackhawks is the local NHL hockey team that plays at Chicago’s United Center ice arena.

If you’re looking for things to do in the winter and you’ve never been to an NHL game, you’re missing out!

As one of the best things to do during winter in Chicago, get your and your group tickets to a Blackhawks game , dress up in the fan colors of red and black and get ready to have a blast cheering on the home team!

13. Stay at a Fun Downtown Hotel

There’s nothing better when traveling during the winter than to find a fantastic hotel that is as close to as many restaurants and attractions as possible (to cut down on driving and/or walking in the cold).

Here are some of our favorite  family hotels in Chicago  when spending 3 days in Chicago during the winter ( or anytime, really! ).

• Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile ( Our top pick! We will recommend this property time and time again for its excellent amenities, perfect location, friendly customer service, and cleanliness. Located 2 blocks from Navy Pier, 2 blocks from Magnificent Mile, and a 10-minute walk to Millenium Park.)
• Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown
• Courtyard Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile
• Homewood Suites Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile

Winter in Chicago 3-Day Itinerary

Compressing your trip into a mere few days may feel like a challenge, but it’s possible to see the best of Chicago in winter in just three days.

Here’s exactly how we scheduled our 3-day Chicago itinerary in winter despite the Chicago snow and cold:

Day 1 in Chicago:

• Check into the Embassy Suites Magnificent Mile
• Walk to Navy Pier
• Explore the pier, ride the Centennial Wheel and have a Chicago hot dog at American Dog & Burger
• Walk, shop, and browse Magnificent Mile and have hot chocolate
• Stop into Dylan’s Candy Shop
• Go to a pop-up experience (we did the Dr. Seuss Experience and The Office Experience)
• Take photos and explore the Chicago Riverwalk in winter; stop for hot chocolate at Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop in the Wrigley Building
• Have dinner at Lou Malnati’s pizza at the Wrigley Building location on Michigan Avenue
• Go swimming at the hotel

Day 2 in Chicago:

• Go to the Museum of Science and Industry (We spent 3.5 hrs. there.)
• Next, head to the Willis Tower
• Have lunch within Catalog and then go to Skydeck
• Walk around and take photos in Millenium Park/The Bean
• Go ice skating at the Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon
• Walk across the street and have dinner at The Game Room in the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel
• If you like sports and golf, rent the TopGolf Swing Suite at the Chicago Athletic Association for an hour or two

Day 3 in Chicago:

• Have breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe (one of our favorite family-friendly restaurants in Chicago !)
• Spend the morning at Lincoln Park Zoo
• Find your favorite spot to have an Italian Beef Sandwich for lunch
• Go to the Shedd Aquarium (or to the museum of your choice)
• Get dressed up and eat dinner out before going to a live Broadway show

If you’re a garden and landscape lover, another option is to visit the Chicago Botanic Garden or Garfield Park Conservatory which are both open year-round.

Though we did not get a chance to visit these places, this may be something you’re interested in.

Chicago in Winter Weather

In case you’re wondering, Chicago transforms into a winter wonderland during the months of December, January, and February. (Chicago in December weather is the most pleasant of the three.)

It doesn’t see as much snow as cities like Buffalo or Cleveland, but you’ll still be met with up to 10 inches of snowfall each year,

In addition to the snow, the Chicago winter weather is undeniably cold.

Visitors can expect to see Chicago winter temperatures with daily highs of 30 to 38°F, with lows plummeting to 22°F.

Be aware that the cold weather can vary massively across a single week though, so traveling and touring in layers is a must.

Lastly, you can expect to see some sun during your stay, but anyone visiting Chicago in winter should prepare for extensive cloud cover.

Overcast days are much more common than bright ones in these parts, so manage your expectations accordingly!

What to Pack for Chicago in Winter

Though it’s a beautiful city year-round, Chicago winter weather can catch you off guard if you don’t pack and prepare adequately.

We’ve already written a full guide on what to wear in Chicago ( which you should check out! ), but the biggest thing to remember when it comes to how to dress for Chicago winters is to be sure to account for the snow, cold, and blustering winds.

To make your adventure through Chicago in winter as seamless as possible, it’s a great idea to follow these travel tips and pack the following items:

• Thermals (for both you and any kiddos) to protect from the wind chill
• Plenty of long-sleeve shirts for layering
• A selection of lightweight and heavier sweatshirts
• Warm pants or thermal leggings
• A reliable winter jacket or coat
• A warm winter hat
• Gloves (thermal if possible!)
• A warm scarf
• Snow boots or sturdy walking boots (rubber-soled options are excellent for handling Chicago’s perilous “black ice”)

It can be tempting to favor style over substance when you’re exploring any city, but you’ll be far more comfortable in Chicago winter weather if you stick to the basics and wrap up warm.

In terms of miscellaneous items, you may need the following:

• Blankets for strollers
• Hand warmers
• A leak-proof thermos for morning coffee runs

* Read here if you’re interested in finding more Midwest winter weekend getaway ideas that are perfect for families!

If you liked our list of things to do in Chicago in the winter, as well as our itinerary for visiting Chicago in winter, here are our related posts to help plan your trip:

• Famous Chicago Food: 5 Foods You Must Try During Your Visit
• 25 Exciting Things to Do in Chicago at Night
• Top 5 Kid-Friendly Downtown Chicago Restaurants that Your Family Will Love
• Top 10 Things to do at Navy Pier Chicago with Kids
• What to Wear in Chicago: A Visitor’s Guide to Every Season
• Our United States Bucket List: 15 Exciting Places For Families to Go

*Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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December Chicago festival calendar

Find some holiday cheer at these Chicago festivals, featuring food, twinkling lights and seasonal activities

Photograph: Todd Rosenberg

December is traditionally the most festive month of the year, filled with holiday celebrations and office parties . Whether you want to break in your new pair of ice skates at ZooLights or learn about the legend of St. Lucia in Andersonville, there's something that will get you in the spirit of the season. Take a break from shopping for gifts and enjoy the best Chicago festivals of the month, featuring food, twinkling lights and winter activities.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Chicago festivals in December

Magnificent mile lights festival.

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• Nov 18, 2023

Christkindlmarket

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• Dec 24, 2023

Renegade Craft Fair

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• Jan 7, 2024

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Chicago in December : Best Places to Visit & Things to Do

Top hotel collections.

Near Shedd Aquarium

Near The Art Institute of Chicago

Near Navy Pier

Near University of Chicago

Weather in Chicago in December

Is travelling to chicago in december a good idea .

7 Best Places worth Exploration in Chicago in December

1.  the forge: lemont quarries adventure park.

Where : - 14657 Main Street, Lemont IL 60439 

2.  The Press Room

Timings : - 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Daily) Where : - 1134 W Washington Blvd, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

3.  Lawry’s The Prime Rib

Tour timings : - 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM (Tuesday – Sunday) Where : - 100 E Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States 

4.  Brookfield Zoo

Ticket Price : - USD 24.95 (Adults), USD 17.95 (Children) Where : - 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513, United States

5.  Maggie Daley Park

Timings : - 06:00 AM to 09:00 PM Ticket Price : - USD 5 Where : - 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

 6.  The Dawson Winter Market

Timings : - 10:30 AM to 08:00 PM (Saturday and Sunday) Where : - 730 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

7.  Art On TheMart

Timings : - 7:00 PM onwards Where : - 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL 60606, United States 

8 Things to Do in Chicago in December

1. explore chicago’s skyline.

2.  Attend Chicago Blackhawks Game

3.  Shop till you drop at Magnificent Mile

4.  Enjoy ice skating at Millennium Park

5.  Plan a ride on the Polar Express

6.  Buy a ticket for Chicago Bulls Game

7.  Witness the colourful, dazzling fireworks at Navy Pier on New Year’s eve

Where : - 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

8.  Explore Christkindlmarket 

4 Events to Attend in Chicago in December

1. the last speakeasy.

When : - December, 6 Where : - 1601 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, United States 

2.  Holiday Flower Show

When : - November, 25- January, 5  Where: - 2391 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

3.  Lightscape 

When : - November, 21 - January, 3 Where : - 1000 Lake Cook Road Glencoe, IL 60022

4.  One of a Kind Show and Sale at The mart

When : -  December, 2- December - 5 Where : - 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

This post was published by Kadambini Sharma

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Hi, I'm Georgina! A coffee-loving adventure enthusiast here to share my favorite travel tips with you! My goal is to inspire others to get out and explore this wild planet by camping, hiking, or wandering around a fun new city!

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• Dec 12, 2022

18 Fun Things to Do in Chicago in December

Updated: Jan 19

Are you looking for a festive holiday destination to celebrate this year? Then Chicago is the place for you! The Windy City goes all out for the holidays, making it a great place to enjoy the season with lights, hot cocoa galore, Santas, ice skating, and more.

Chicago is a great place to visit in December. It’s a white winter wonderland this time of year, and there are so many things to do in Chicago around Christmas! Layer up for the cold, and enjoy the snow and holiday magic that make Chicago a great place to celebrate the holiday season.

If you’ve never been to Chicago, but are planning to go for the holidays, you’ll definitely want to check out some of the most popular city attractions as well. Check out the must-do sights and activities in Chicago for first-timers !

Visiting Chicago in December

As you plan your holiday trip to Chicago, remember these tips to help you make the most of your city trip!

Chicago is cold and snowy (yet beautiful) in the winter

Pack the proper clothes for winter in Chicago to stay warm and have fun

Visit between Thanksgiving and Christmas to see the most holiday spirit

Book accommodation in advance to snag a great location

Utilize the CTA (public transportation) to avoid driving in the snow

Top Things to Do in Chicago in December

1. Christkindl Market

You don’t have to travel all the way to Europe to enjoy an authentic Christmas market! Chicago is home to Christkindl Market ; with multiple locations, you can enjoy the holiday decorations, and different vendors, go shopping, and sip on mulled wine to complete the experience!

2. Ice Skating at Maggie Daley Park

There are multiple locations to enjoy a round of outdoor ice skating in Chicago, the two best being Wrigley Field (home of the Chicago Cubs) and Maggie Daley Park . With a unique “ribbon” shaped rink, it feels like you are ice skating on a frozen river through a beautiful winter wonderland at Maggie Daley Park!

3. Sip on the Best Hot Chocolate

Did you know you can get amazing hot chocolate in Chicago? Grab a cup of hot cocoa to add a festive touch to your holiday trip! It's the best way to keep warm while exploring Chicago in December.

Three of the best places to get hot chocolate in Chicago, both traditional and unique flavors, are:

XO Marshmallow

Chiqueolatte Chicago

4. Macy’s Windows

There's no shortage of Christmas lights and fun decorations in Chicago, especially downtown. Stop by Macy’s in downtown for a traditional holiday activity in Chicago! The windows all display their own holiday scene with extravagant decorations, music, and more. You can even take your kids to meet Santa!

5. Giant Christmas Tree in Millennium Park

Home of the giant Christmas Tree, Millennium Park is another fun place to visit in December in Chicago. With a 40+ foot tree, completely decorated with lights, this is a Christmas sight to see! Even if you don’t celebrate the holiday, this tree will put you in a cheery, festive mood!

6. Afternoon Tea at The Drake

For a truly magical dining experience, make a reservation at The Drake hotel for an afternoon holiday tea. Suit up in your best holiday dress attire and enjoy an array of delicious pastries, teas, sandwiches, and more. Afternoon tea is a fun, yummy way to enjoy the holidays. If you’ve never been to one before, it’s such a lovely experience!

7. Shop & Walk the Magnificent Mile

You can’t visit Chicago without walking down the Magnificent Mile , or "Mag Mile" on Michigan Avenue. With shops upon shops and lights all down the street, this is a great place to go window shopping, or maybe even find a gift or two! There is a store for everyone, from Disney to Anthropologie, and more!

8. Drink at a Holiday Bar

There are some killer pop-up holiday bars in Chicago! If you enjoy a good cocktail, especially a holiday-themed one, head to Wrigleyville, and walk around the Wrigley Field area. There are several holiday pop-up bars in this area. For the ultimate holiday spirit, check out Mordecai and Smoke Daddy .

9. Holiday Movies at Music Box Theater

Go for a calmer holiday activity in Chicago and head to the Music Box Theater ! This elegant 1920s theater is a wonderful place to visit any time of year, but visit in December and you’ll be able to catch a holiday movie classic or two. Don't forget the popcorn!

The Music Box is located off the Southport brown line stop (train line) which is super festive in December; go early and walk around the area, or stay after your movie for a great dinner.

10. Take a Ride on the Holiday Train

In true Chicago style, use the CTA and wait for the fully decorated holiday train to pass through the station. If you’ve never seen a fully decked-out holiday train, then you need to see this at least once! It’s fun for everybody, and you’ll most likely catch Santa waving at you! Check the holiday train schedule here .

11. Get Cozy in a Coffee Shop

Chicago is full of amazing local coffee shops, many of which roast their own beans. After some city exploring, cozy up in one of the best coffee shops in Chicago and sip on a delicious drink.

While not a local place, the Chicago Roastery - Starbucks Reserve is a fun experience around Christmas. With five floors, you can find much more than your typical Starbucks coffee here. They also offer a full food menu, cocktails, coffee tastings, and more. Plus, the lights and decorations are so fun to admire here!

12. Museum of Science and Industry: Trees Around the World

Chicago is home to a plethora of fantastic museums , from history to art to science. If you only have time for one on your Chicago holiday trip, make sure you visit the Museum of Science and Industry (MSI).

They have the "Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light" exhibit which showcases more than 50 trees decorated to highlight different countries and cultures around the world! Check out the Kenya tree below.

13. Lincoln Park Zoo Lights

There's nothing quite like walking around a zoo at night while it's decorated in festive Christmas lights. Experience this holiday activity at the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights throughout Chicago's winter. Admission is free on Mondays and $7 the rest of the week. Fun for the family or the adults! Check when the adult-only night is and plan your visit.

14. Lakefront Trail Winter Wonderland

Bundle up and enjoy this traditional Chicago activity in the snow. The Chicago Lakefront Trail is a popular walking and biking trail that stretches along the Chicago coast of Lake Michigan. This trail offers some of the best skyline views of Chicago, and it's gorgeous when covered in snow. Remember your winter coat though!

15. The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet

Dress in your best festive outfit and enjoy this classic holiday show. The Nutcracker is a beautiful ballet, and every winter the Joffrey Ballet performs it live in Chicago. Plan this activity in advance and buy tickets for the Nutcracker when you plan your Chicago holiday trip.

16. Participate in the Santa Hustle 5K

Want to get active and help a charity? Sign up for the Santa Hustle 5K ! This event takes place every December in downtown Chicago. This is your chance to run around the Windy City while helping a nonprofit raise money.

17. Go See "A Christmas Carol"

Another Holiday classic, A Christmas Carol , is performed live every December at Chicago's Goodman Theater. Buy tickets in advance and enjoy this holiday show for a truly festive time. Is it even Christmas time until you've seen this holiday favorite?

18. Enjoy Chicago Deep Dish Pizza

You can't visit Chicago without eating a deep dish pizza! This traditional Chicago treat is fresh, filling, and super cheesy. Head to a local Lou Malnati's or Giordano's for the best Chicago deep dish pizza; it's the perfect hot meal to have on a winter day.

Read Also: 15 Fun Restaurants in Chicago

Visiting Chicago in December: Tips & FAQ

Choosing accommodations.

Finding the right accommodation for any trip is essential. A hotel or Airbnb can really make or break a trip. Browse the best places to stay in Chicago , from budget options to great locations. Make this adventure to Chicago in December a memorable one!

What to Wear in December

Chicago is cold and snowy in December, but that doesn't mean you can't have fun and still explore the city! As long as you know what to wear in Chicago in winter , you'll stay warm and comfortable and fall in love with this city winter wonderland.

Wear warm layers and bring a winter coat, hat, gloves, and scarf to comfortably explore Chicago in December.

Tips for Navigating the Winter Weather

Driving in Chicago without snow is stressful enough. Do yourself a favor and opt to use the CTA, or public transportation, to get around Chicago in the winter. You'll save money and you won't have to worry about traffic and snow.

Is it too cold to go to Chicago in December?

December is a great time to visit Chicago. Yes, it is cold and snowy, but as long as you dress for the cold, you'll be able to explore the city in its most festive state.

The holiday season is in full swing this time of year, and the city is a snow-covered wonderland. There are decorations and displays all around the city, as well as other fun holiday activities like ice skating and the Christmas market. If you want to plan a festive holiday trip in December, Chicago is the place to go!

Can you walk in Chicago in winter?

Chicago is always prepared for snow. Roads and sidewalks will be plowed and salted; snow doesn't deter Chicagoans from living their best lives. You can still walk around in Chicago in winter, but you can also utilize the CTA (public transportation) for a cheap and warm mode of transportation.

What is the best winter month to visit Chicago?

December is the best winter month to visit Chicago. This month brings the most festive activities; the city is bright with Christmas lights and cheery from all the holiday spirit. December is also cold enough to experience a snow-covered Chicago, but it's not as cold as January or February.

These are the best things to do in Chicago around Christmas! You’ll be able to find Santas to take photos with, carols to sing along to, and tons of goodies to buy. Chicago is also home to a killer dining scene, so make sure you eat plenty while in town.

Visiting Chicago in December is a great idea. Knowing what to pack, where to stay, and the best things to do to celebrate the holidays in Chicago will make your city trip the best possible! Get ready to bundle up, enjoy the beautiful snow, and get in the holiday spirit.

With lights, decorations, snow, food, and music all around, Chicago truly is the ultimate festive winter destination! Plan a holiday trip to the Windy City for a jolly good time. What will you be doing first in Chicago in December?

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12 Things to Do in Chicago in December

The last month of the year, a sleigh of events comes to Chicago, just when the city shines in all its splendor. Read on to discover the best things to do in December.

Carla Yaquer

10 min read

Chicago | ©Robert Stinnett

Known as Chi-Town or the Windy City , Chicago is home to contrasting architecture, an exciting dining scene, a bustling business center, high-quality museums and a host of cultural, arts and entertainment activities.

From marveling at holiday light displays to ice skating, there are plenty of options to include on your list of things to see and do in Chicago in December.

1. Travel back in time with the gangsters and ghosts tour

Looking for a unique and fun way to explore Chicago? With these tours you'll travel back in time to the 1920s to visit the Palmer House Hotel - Chicago's oldest hotel with a reputation for being "haunted". You will explore historic sites related to Al Capone , hidden tunnels, Prohibition-era speakeasies and other places where gangsters were the protagonists of the most sordid and controversial crimes.

Finally, the tour will show you the paranormal activity of the city's dark past as you search for Chicago' s ghosts in the best month, December, when they are supposedly most active. There are several options for this type of tour, both on foot and by bus . In both cases, guides will lead you through the legendary streets of Chi-town.

Book a Chicago Ghosts and Gangsters Tour

2. Take part in the Morton Arboretum's color and light show

A tour of Chicago in December is not complete without including the Morton Arboretum. It's over 100 years of preserving trees typical of the region such as the bur oak, maple tree and faux cypress pines. In the last month of the year, strolls through this park are transformed into a marvel of light and color at its outdoor Christmas lighting festival .

The Morton Arboretum becomes a glowing oasis. It's perfect to include among the things to do in Chicago at night if you're traveling in winter.

The exhibit takes visitors on a paved walking trail. The lighted trail offers experiences such as the Enchanted Gateway, a gateway of glowing lights leading to Meadow Lake . Also, you can continue on to the Golden Glade , a meadow of lights at the top of the Conifers.

Details of interest

• When : Illumination season is from the last week of November until the arrival of the Three Kings.
• Price : from 7 €. Tickets can be reserved as early as October.
• Address : 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle.

Book a minibus tour of Chicago

3. Visit some of its museums

Chicago has a great cultural offer and the city has dozens of museums and cultural centers. Museums are always a good option when the weather is bad, which will probably be the case during the month of December. So, take note of the following museums you can visit:

• Museum of Natural History : this museum contains a collection of up to 24 million objects and daily guided tours with experts who will tell you about up to 13 thousand years of American history, from the Ice Age to the Aztecs. Buy your tickets for the Museum of Natural History here .
• Chicago History Museum : the museum holds some 23 million objects, artifacts and historical documents of some of the city's most important figures as well as key events, their evolution over the years... :::link|text=Buying tickets for this museum|element=pa-5816::: will give you access to all temporary and permanent exhibitions.
• Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago (MCA) : a free tour where you will see all kinds of paintings, sculptures, plays, and also, by purchasing these tickets , you will have access to all permanent exhibitions.
• Museum of Ice Cream : you can visit up to 14 magical rooms with decorations that will make you want to eat them. And best of all, you can eat all the ice cream you want in infinite shapes and flavors. You can book your tickets here.
• Chicago Museum of Illusions : millions of optical illusions await you. The visit is free so you can make your own tour. It is an ideal activity for the whole family and you will be able to take really funny pictures. You can book your tickets here.

Buy your tickets for the Natural History Museum

4. Go to a Chicago Bulls game

The Chicago Bulls are the NBA basketball team of the city and if there is a game on any of the days you are there we recommend you go to see it because it is a spectacle .

Probably one of the few times in life that you have the opportunity to see a basketball game of these characteristics, to see firsthand some of the best basketball players in the world and also live the atmosphere that is created in the stadium throughout the event. If you dare to buy tickets to see a Chicago Bulls game it can be a super fun family experience. Are you up for it?

Buy Chicago Bulls tickets

5. Watch the New Year's Eve Fireworks from Navy Pier

To close out the month in the midst of Chi-town's best event, head to the famous Navy Pier for its epic New Year's Eve fireworks display, a must-see activity among things to see and do in Chicago at Christmas .

Colossal glowing sculptures are on display in the Windy City thanks to 600,000 multicolored lights all around them. The fireworks are launched from a barge located a short distance from the end of the pier, so you can watch them from the shore or attend the Resolution Gala ball , which is held on the pier itself.

Instead if you prefer to opt for the enjoyment of panoramic views, go aboard a cruise on Lake Michigan with dinner included. You'll cruise the harbor while enjoying the fireworks show with your glass of champagne, signature cocktails, seasonal beers or the beverage of your choice.

Book a boat ride on Lake Michigan

6. Glide around the skating rinks

In the Windy City one of the December classics is ice skating and, among the options available, there are a couple of places that stand out:

Millennium Park Ice Rink

Its official name is McCormick Tribune Ice Rink , but thanks to its location in the Millennium Park entertainment center, it adopted that moniker.

From downtown Chicago , in the shadow of the most popular icon in Chi-town - the statue of **The Bean -**the Crown Fountain and the lights of Michigan Avenue, you can easily reach its facilities on Chicago' s tour buses ...

Maggie Daley Park Roller Skating Rink

This rink is twice as long as traditional rinks, which translates into twice the fun for skaters.

The Maggie Daley rink is located in Chicago's Loop community area, bounded by Columbus Drive, Randolph Street, Monroe Street and Lake Shore Drive. To enjoy its charms , reservations are required . The idea is to eliminate the stress of waiting in lines.

Book your tour bus in Chicago

7. Visit the Zoolights at the Zoo

It's the most wonderful time of the year and in Chicago that calls for a trip to be dazzled by the Zoolights at the Lincoln Park Zoo , an entertainment venue that opened in 1868.

Throughout December the Lincoln Park Zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland decorated with more than 2 million lights. Trees, the central pavilion and other zoo structures wear a multicolored glow in a space set to Christmas carols.

The Lincoln Park Zoo tour is recommended for families to share, especially when looking for things to see and do in Chicago with children . Along the way, you can also see ice sculptures, shop for some curiosities at their outdoor exhibits, ice skate, take a short train ride and even get your picture taken with St. Nick .

Interesting details

• Hours : Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm.
• Price : Free admission.
• Address : 2001 N Clark St.

8. Hop on one of the festive trains

Chicago was the center of train travel in the early 20th century in the United States and maintains this form of transportation as a favorite among locals. The seasonal train tradition began in 1992 and annually draws smiles among its visitors ever since.

CTA Christmas Train

The CTA Holiday Train consists of six cars with an open-air platform featuring St. Nick and his reindeer illuminated with LED lights.

The Holiday Train usually runs Monday through Friday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and from 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. on weekends. Check their calendar of activities, routes and schedules .

Polar Express

Save the iconic golden ticket in a modern Polar Express , in the best style of Chris Van Allsburg's classic, capable of enchanting adults and children alike.

Christmas magic transcends the ages and this 2-hour journey recreates the magical movie of the same name with its colorful characters. They guide the scene through a reading from the book, carols, hot chocolate, cookies, visits from Santa Claus and surprises for the family.

The train departs from Union Station Chicago. Reserve your tickets and live the experience.

9. Join the Chicago Christkindlmarket

First held in 1996 and inspired by the historic Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg . This classic outdoor Christmas market presents its visitors with an authentic European flair, full of holiday cheer for all.

This event, the largest outdoor Christmas market in the United States , is named after the Chicagoan Christkindlmarket , a mythological fairy-like creature who is the bringer of gifts to German children, according to legend.

Inside you can try schnitzel, potato pancakes, hot dogs, hamburgers, baked stollen or strudel, pretzels and currywurst accompanied with a mug of Germanic beer or a Glühwein, a traditional German Christmas market mulled wine . You won't be able to resist the tantalizing aroma of the market.

10. Go to the Goodman Theater to see a classic

What could be more traditional than A Christmas Carol ? Nothing better in December than to see this Charles Dickens classic and at the Goodman Theatre it has been performed every year for the past five decades .

• A Christmas Carol : On Christmas Eve, a miser is visited by three ghosts who help him see his actions and consequences from a different perspective to identify his evil deeds.
• The play by the cantankerous Ebenezer Scrooge : The play jumps on stage in English, but being a musical and after an exquisite staging, it overcomes the language barrier. This charming and touching local production is notable for its fabulous costumes, special effects and delightful musical numbers.

This is a treat for all ages . In addition, some of the actors repeat annually with the same role bringing character and unique style to their characters.

• Where : at the Goodman Theater, 170 N Dearborn St, Chicago,
• Price : from $35.
• Hours : evening. Check their calendar

11. Participate in the AMAZE Light Festival of Rosemont

One of the largest holiday lighting events in the country, the AMAZE Light Festival of Rosemont promises magnificent themed light shows, joyful music and outdoor fun.

Get ready for outdoor holiday activities for all ages and a display of more than one million lights programmed with themed worlds . Do your shopping at the holiday flea market, let the festive atmosphere fill you with joy through its aromas, ambiance and special activities.

If you are out and about with children, enter Santa's Workshop to make Christmas crafts. When the artwork is finished, hop on a train to the Arctic Express . For those in search of more things to do for adults , I advise buying VIP or Premium tickets. These allow access to the Leinier Lodge tent at Impact Field, where you can purchase specialty cocktails and see the timed light shows firsthand.

• When : the market season starts from the last week of November until 01 - 02 January.
• Price : from 18 €. Book your tickets in advance.
• Address : 9850 Balmoral Ave (Pearl St) Rosemont.

12. Visit one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world

Did you think Europe was only present in Chicago with Germany? No, the presence of the old continent also passes through Swedish roots with the charming Andersonville. Its stores and restaurants emulate the Nordic country and each year surprise visitors by dressing up.

In addition to the traditional festivities, there is a special celebration of St. Lucia Day on December 13. On that date a group of young girls - specifically the **Lucia Girls -**sing in long white robes and bright wreaths to venerate the patron saint of the blind.

Andersonville is recognized as the local commerce capital of Chicago , with the largest network of local and independent businesses in the heart of Late Night Andersonville. In December you can ride the free Christmas trolley . Also open for business is the Swedish American Museum' s annual Christmas bazaar with traditional Scandinavian and contemporary crafts, games, a visit from St. Nick, entertainment and special events.

Chicago temperatures in December

Chicago is famous for its winter weather with heavy snowfall and very low mercury measurements.

The average temperature in December varies between 3° and -3° Celsius. But this is no reason to stay at home, numerous Christmas events take place all over Chicago and the snow-covered skyscrapers are an impressive backdrop that entices visitors to Chi-Town.

The Best Travel Guide to Chicago

• Chicago Bulls Tickets
• Chicago Cubs Tickets
• Chicago White Sox Tickets
• Chicago Blackhawks Tickets
• Chicago River Cruises
• Hop on Hop off Bus Tours in Chicago
• Best Helicopter Rides in Chicago
• 100 Fun Things to Do in Chicago
• Chicago City Tours
• Lake Michigan Cruises
• Chicago Tourist Cards
• Chicago Airport Transfers

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Things to do in Chicago June 27-July 3: The Mix

The rolling stones, the annual chicago pride parade and the opening of illuminarium on navy pier are among the highlights of things to see and do in the week ahead..

Ron Wood (from left), Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones perform earlier this month in Atlanta. The iconic rock band is headed to Chicago for two shows this weekend.

Paul R. Giunta/AP

Festival Fun

• While the Chicago Pride Parade will be smaller than in past years, this won’t diminish the joyous fun and celebration. The 150 entries include floats, performance groups, marching bands and more. The parade kicks off at 11 a.m. Sunday from Sheridan Road and Broadway, then goes south along Broadway to Halsted Street, south on Halsted to Belmont Avenue, east on Belmont to Broadway, then south to Diversey Avenue. Go online to pridechicago.org .

Chicago’s annual Pride Parade takes place on Sunday along a new route and new start time.

Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Sun-Times

• Logan Square Arts Festival includes artists, performance art, an interactive arts area, vendors, food and 30 music acts on two stages (McKinley Dixon, MJ Lenderman and the Wind, Wishy, Binki, Phony and more). From 5 to 10 p.m. Friday and noon-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Logan Boulevard, Kedzie Avenue and Milwaukee Avenue. Admission: $10 suggested donation. Go to logansquareartsfestival.com .
• Millennium Art Festival features 110 artists, live music, food trucks, children’s activities and art demonstrations. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday at Michigan Avenue and Lake Street. Admission: free. Go to amdurproductions.com .

Ebby Offord (as Juliet) and Faiz Siddique (as Romeo) in “Romeo and Juliet” at Chicago Women’s Park and Garden.

Tom McGrath/TCMcG Photography

• Midsommer Flight, the company that brings free performances of Shakespeare’s plays to city parks, presents the classic tragedy “Romeo and Juliet.” Beth Wolf directs the story of young lovers — Juliet (Ebby Offord) and her Romeo (Faiz Siddique) — caught between their feuding families. Performed at various parks throughout the summer, beginning Friday through Sunday at Chicago Women’s Park and Garden, 1801 S. Indiana Ave. For a complete list of parks hosting performances through Aug. 4, go to midsommerflight.com .
• “Magical Thinking” is David Parr’s latest magic show, which looks at the human desire to experience things that make us feel awe. Objects vanish or transform, time seemingly rewinds, hidden thoughts are revealed, and spooky spirits make an appearance. Parr also delves into games and storytelling, history and folklore and the mind of a magician. At 7 p.m. Wednesdays July 3-Sept. 25 at Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark St. Tickets: $42, $47.50. Go to chicagomagiclounge.com .
• Tagged “The Nicest Man in Stand-Up,” Nate Bargatze followed in the showbiz footsteps of his father, a clown turned world-class magician whose influence was seen on the comic’s debut album “Yelled at by a Clown.” Last October, Bargatze was a hit when he hosted “Saturday Night Live.” A skit featuring him as George Washington giving a pep talk to his troops is a classic. Catch up with the comedian at 7 p.m. Sunday at Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. Tickets: $39+. Go to ticketmaster.com .

Visceral Dance Chicago.

KT Miller Photo

• Visceral Dance Chicago performs Gustavo Ramirez Sansano’s “Carmen.Maquia,” a contemporary take on Bizet’s classic opera inspired in part by the paintings of Pablo Picasso. The choreography fuses contemporary dance with nods to the Spanish paso doble and flamenco and features Bizet’s music and other works. At 6:30 p.m. Friday; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave. Tickets: $25-$80, $175 for opening-night celebration with pre- and post-show festivities. Go to visceraldance.com .
• The Rolling Stones remain the Energizer Bunnies of rock ‘n’ roll. Expect to hear songs from the Stones’ 2023 album “Hackney Diamonds” and from their vast catalog of classics in an energetic two-hour set from Mick, Keith, Ron and drummer Steve Jordan, who took over for the late Charlie Watts. At 8 p.m. Thursday (Bettye LaVette opens) and Sunday (Lainey Wilson opens) at Soldier Field, 1410 Special Olympics Dr. Tickets: $99+. Go to soldierfield.com .
• Japanese composer Joe Hisaishi, who has scored 10 films for director Hayao Miyazaki, conducts the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in his latest symphony as well as highlights from other compositions from the films “Howl’s Moving Castle” and “Princess Mononoke.” At 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday at Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets: $175+. Go to cso.org .
• Millennium Park Summer Music Series gets underway with blues artists Charlie Musselwhite and Ivan Singh at 6:30 p.m. Monday at Pritzker Pavilion, Michigan Avenue and Randolph Street. Upcoming concerts through Aug. 8 feature Buscabulla, Seun Kuti, Gza, Protoje, Corinne Bailey Rae and more. Admission: free. Go to millenniumpark.org .

Future Islands

Frank Hamilton Photo

• Synth-pop band Future Islands tours behind its seventh album “People Who Aren’t There Anymore,” which finds the bandmates challenging themselves and each other on a set of memorably fine songs. At 7:30 p.m. Friday at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Dr. Tickets: $37.50+. Go to auditoriumtheatre.org .
• Brothers Adam, Jack and Ryan Met, thus the band’s name AJR, bring their indie-pop tunes to town for a 6:45 p.m. show Saturday at Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Rd. Tickets: $54+. Go to ticketmaster.com .
• Santana and Counting Crows showcase their classic hits at 7 p.m. Saturday at Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre, 19100 Ridgeland Rd., Tinley Park. Tickets: $35+. Go to livenation.com.
• For a taste of country music, check out Clint Black and Lyle Lovett and His Large Band at 7 p.m. Sunday at Ravinia Park, 201 Ravinia Park Rd., Highland Park. Tickets: $49-$125. Go to ravinia.org .
• FitzGerald’s hosts “33 Revolutions: Posters & Prints from Screwball Press 1991-2024,” a retrospective of Steve W’s music posters for club shows. Music — by Jon Langford & His Fancy Men, Environmental Encroachment and The Walkie-Talkies — starts at 8:30 p.m. Saturday (come early to view the posters, which are on view through July) at FitzGerald’s, 6615 W. Roosevelt Rd. Tickets: $20, $25. Go to fitzgeraldsnightclub.com .
• Come back a few days later for FitzGerald’s American Music Festival (July 3-6, 6615 W. Roosevelt Rd., Berwyn) with a lineup including Nikki Lane, The Jayhawks, The Waco Brothers, Old 97’s, Tributosaurus, Marcia Ball, Joe Pug, Ike Reilly Assassination and Deeohgee. The festival is mostly sold out, but some tickets ($65) will be available at the door. There’s also a late-night entry fee ($20) for acts at 10 p.m. Go to fitzgeraldsnightclub.com .
• Chicago artist Alberto Aguilar draws inspiration from the College of DuPage Permanent Art Collection to create site-specific installations in the new exhibition “Grid Luck .” Aguilar provides a perspective on overlooked possibilities and explores the grid’s role. From Saturday through Oct. 6 at Cleve Carney Museum of Art, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. Admission: free. Go to theccma.org .
• Sundance Institute x Chicago, presented by Choose Chicago, the city of Chicago and the Sundance Institute, includes films, panel discussions, master classes and community programming. Screenings include Dawn Porter’s “Luther: Never Too Much,” a documentary about Luther Van Dross; Julian Brave NoiseCat’s “Sugarcane,” an investigation into the abuse and disappearance of children at an Indian residential school; Aaron Schimberg’s “A Different Man,” about an aspiring actor who undergoes a radical medical procedure to change his appearance, and Caroline Lindy’s “Your Monster,” about an actress who finds her voice again with the help of a monster living in her closet. From Friday through Sunday at Logan Center for the Arts, 915 E. 60 th St., and Davis Theatre, 4614 N. Lincoln Ave. Tickets: $20. (Panel discussions and master classes are free.) Go to choosechicago.com .
• Taiwan Pride Film Festival showcases screenings and panel discussions that highlight the rich diversity of Taiwan’s film industry. The films are Zhang Hong-Jie’s “When the Dawn Comes,” Blue Lan’s “After School,” Zero Chou’s “Wrath of Desire” and Erich Rettstadt’s “Tank Fairy.” From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at CineCity Studios, 2429 W. 14 th St. Tickets: $10-$50. Go to taiwanpridefilmfestival.com .
• Navy Pier presents Water Flicks, an outdoor film series. This summer’s theme is science. Among the films are “Oppenheimer,” “Back to the Future,” “Honey I Shrunk the Kids,” “Interstellar” and “Weird Science.” At 6:30 p.m. Mondays July 1-Aug. 26 at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. Admission: free. Go to navypier.org .

Pedal Power Playground.

Courtesy of Cabinet of Curiosity

• Cabinet of Curiosity presents Pedal Powered Picnic, an outdoor benefit supporting free summer programs. Enjoy food, Pedal Powered Playground’s interactive sculptures, bikes that power whimsical devices, an engineering workshop, a puppet show and a free coloring book. From noon to 7 p.m. Saturday at 3636 Iron St. Tickets: $50. And Pedal Powered Playground’s free performances are Sundays on State, 175 N. State St. (July 13); Marquette Park, 6743 S. Kedzie Ave. (Aug. 3) and Boler Park, 3601 W. Arthington St. (Aug. 10). Go to cocechicago.com .

When is the DNC in Chicago and why it could be a focal point following Biden-Trump debate

With many left questioning following the highly anticipated debate between president joe biden and former president donald trump, all eyes will be on the upcoming conventions for both parties, though the dnc could hold even more significance following thursday's performance, by nbc staff and associated press • published june 28, 2024 • updated on june 28, 2024 at 3:54 pm.

After an eyebrow-raising presidential debate this week , many are wondering what's next in the 2024 election and among the upcoming big political tentpoles is the Democratic National Convention in Chicago .

With many left questioning following the highly anticipated debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, all eyes will be on the upcoming conventions for both parties, though the DNC could hold even more significance following Thursday's performance.

Watch NBC Chicago local news and weather without login

As Chicago prepares to be at the center of the political world come August, here's a look at what to expect and why the event could mean something more:

When is the Democratic National Convention?

The DNC will take place from Aug. 19-22.

Where is the DNC?

The two main locations for the convention will be the United Center and McCormick Place, a spokesperson for the DNC told NBC Chicago.

DNC in Chicago

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The United Center will host official proceedings, primetime programming and speeches, while the McCormick Place will host the official daytime party business, meetings and briefings, a spokesperson said.

Outside of the convention itself, there will be many local businesses that will host DNC-affiliated events.

Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly Chicago Catch-Up newsletter here.

There is a vendor directory and venue map which show attendees where events can be found during the convention outside of the United Center and McCormick Place.

Extensive security measures and nearby road closures are expected for the convention.

What is the DNC?

The DNC is a convention that occurs every four years to elect the Democratic Party’s presidential and vice presidential nominees.

The only people who can vote on the nominees at the convention are the party’s delegates.

This year, however, could be a bit different.

The Democratic National Convention is being held in Chicago, but the party has announced that it will hold a  virtual roll call  to formally nominate Biden before in-person proceedings begin. The exact date for the roll call has not yet been set.

The change in the nomination timing aims to  sidestep any potential concerns about ballot  access in Ohio, where a technical quirk has complicated things.

Democrats decided to plan a virtual nomination for Biden after Ohio Republicans balked at passing pro-forma legislation that would allow Biden to be on the ballot, even though the convention falls after a state deadline. But while Republicans passed a law to shift the deadline, Democrats decided to move forward with a virtual nomination nonetheless.

What is a delegate?

Delegates are people who represent voters in the Democratic Party. Delegates cast votes to select the presidential nominee on behalf of the area they represent and also help determine the party’s governing rules.

Registered voters in Illinois can become delegates by completing varying requirements based on what type of delegate they want to be. There are three levels of delegates in Illinois: district-level, pledged PLEO and at-large.

District-level delegates were selected on March 19. District-level delegates are the first group of delegates that are elected during the primary election. They need to submit a petition and a statement of candidacy to be considered. There are 96 district-level delegates.

PLEO delegates are Party Leaders and Elected Officials. To be considered for election, they must have submitted a statement of candidacy and a pledge of support by April 12. They are elected only through a quorum of district-level delegates. There are 19 PLEO delegates selected on April 29.

At-large delegates are the last group to be elected. To be considered for election, they must have filed a statement of candidacy and a pledge by April 12.

Candidates for the at-large delegate role are elected by a quorum of state district-level delegates. There are 32 at-large delegates selected and 12 alternates chosen in case some of the selected delegates cannot attend. These delegates are selected on April 29.

What did the Biden-Trump debate mean for the DNC?

Biden's performance in the first debate Thursday sparked a new round of criticism from Democrats, as well as public and private musing about whether he should remain at the top of the ticket.

Publicly, Democratic officials continue to largely rally around Biden, and argue a lackluster performance doesn’t change the fundamental stakes of the election.

But the private whispers whipped up after Thursday’s debate performance, during which Biden had a raspy voice, spoke softly and a times seemed to lose his train of thought, leading his aides to try to deflect mid-way through the debate by saying he had a cold.

The only plausible scenario for Democrats to get a new nominee would be for Biden to decide to withdraw, something he's sworn off repeatedly during other bumpy stretches of his campaign.  

It would be nearly impossible for Democrats to replace him otherwise.

That's because every state has already held its presidential primary. Democratic rules mandate that  the delegates Biden won  remain obligated to support him at the party's upcoming national convention unless he tells them he’s leaving the race.

Biden indicated that he had no plans to do that, telling supporters in Atlanta shortly after he left the debate stage, “Let's keep going.”

Biden campaign spokesperson Lauren Hitt was even clearer, saying Friday: “Of course he's not dropping out.”

The conventions and their rules are controlled by the political parties. The Democratic National Committee could convene before the convention  opens on Aug. 19  and change how things will work, but that isn't likely as long as Biden wants to continue seeking reelection.

The current rules read: “Delegates elected to the national convention pledged to a presidential candidate shall in all good conscience reflect the sentiments of those who elected them.”

If Biden were to drop out between now and when he's scheduled to be formally nominated in August, it would create a free-for-all among Democrats since there is no mechanism for him or anyone else to anoint a chosen successor.

It takes a majority of the roughly 4,000 pledged delegates to win the party’s nomination. Biden’s won 3,900 of them. Under recent reforms, the party’s more than 700 superdelegates — Democratic lawmakers and dignitaries — are allowed to vote only if no one wins a majority of pledged delegates on the first ballot, so their votes could be crucial in a contested convention. 

Since Biden's opponents all won effectively no delegates throughout the Democratic nominating process, there'd be a virtual clean slate heading into the convention, and the decision would likely come down to the convention delegates who were initially pledged to Biden.

Biden would have some influence over his pledged delegates, but ultimately, they can vote as they please so candidates would likely campaign aggressively to win over each individual delegate.

If large swaths of the Democratic Party lost faith in Biden, delegates to the national convention could theoretically defect en masse. Of course, they were chosen to be delegates because of their loyalty to Biden and have pledged to support him at the convention.

But, unlike many Republican delegates, Democratic delegates are not technically bound to their candidate. DNC rules allow delegates to “in all good conscience reflect the sentiments of those who elected them,” providing some wiggle room.

The party’s charter does contain provisions to replace the nominee in the event of a vacancy. The measure is intended to be used in case of death, resignation or incapacitation, not to replace someone who has no desire to step down.

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Summer solstice 2024: Chicago's longest day of the year takes place Thursday

Editor's Note: The video in the player above is from a previous report.

The start of summer is just about here.

The summer solstice, or the first day of astronomical summer, in Chicago takes place at approximately 3:50 p.m. CST on June 20, according to timeanddate.com .

At that time, the Chicago area will see its longest day of the year, with approximately 15 hours, 13 minutes and 41 seconds of daylight -- the most we'll see on a single day this year, according to  timeanddate.com.

What is the summer solstice?

The summer solstice is the time when the sun reaches its highest and northernmost points in the sky, according to the Farmer's Almanac.

It is also known as the day with the longest period of sunlight, or the longest day of the year - for those in the Northern Hemisphere.

While the solstice does not take place at the same time each year, it typically falls anytime between June 20-22.

"Our solstices are caused by the slight tilt in Earth’s axis in relation to the plane of its orbit," a blog from the Adler Planetarium said . "This tilt is about 23.5 degrees off-vertical. As a result, when Earth circles the Sun each year, a different half of the globe is leaning slightly towards or away from the Sun."

As the summer solstice approaches, the amount of daylight increases each day while the nights get shorter. After the summer solstice, the amount of daylight gradually diminishes each day, until the winter solstice—which falls on December 21 this year.

"The summer solstice occurs in the northern hemisphere when the northern half of the globe has its closest tilt towards the Sun of the year," the Adler said. "Conversely, it’s also when the southern hemisphere experiences the winter solstice, as the southern half of the globe is at its furthest tilt away from the Sun."

Why is it called a solstice?

According to Adler, the word solstice "means that the arc of the Sun—or Sol—stops in the sky."

The word has a Latin origin, coming from solstitium - sol, which means sun, and stitium, which means "still or stopped," the Almanac reports.

Sunrise and sunsets during the summer solstice

While the solstice marks the day with the most sunlight, it does not mark the date of the earliest sunrise or latest sunset.

According to timeanddate.com , the latest sunsets of the year will occur in mid-to-late June, with the sun going down at approximately 8:30 p.m. The city will see over 15 hours of daylight through most of the month, though that number will start to decrease after the summer solstice on June 20.

Fortunately the area will continue to see sunsets after 8 p.m. through Aug. 8, according to the website.

Best place to catch the summer solstice sunrise

For those thinking about seeing the sunrise that day but aren't sure where exactly to go, we have some good news: you don't have to travel far at all.

Mixbook, a photobook company based in California, conducted a survey of 3,000 respondents to identify the 150 best places in the U.S. to witness the sunrise on June 20. One popular spot in Chicago made the top 50.

Landing at No. 33 on the list is one of the city's most popular beaches, the famed North Avenue Beach along DuSable Lake Shore Drive in Lincoln Park.

According to its entry on the rankings page, North Avenue Beach "offers a picturesque view of the sunrise over Lake Michigan" and "the juxtaposition of the natural beauty and the urban skyline is striking."

For anyone wondering about the best locations to see the sunrise nationwide, the top 10 are below:

• Lake Tahoe, Nevada
• Arches National Park, Utah
• Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
• Stone Mountain Park, Georgia
• Key West, Florida
• Everglades National Park, Florida
• Adirondack Mountains, New York
• Sedona, Arizona
• Maroon Bells, Colorado
• Cannon Beach, Oregon

President Joe Biden visiting Chicago Wednesday for presidential address, campaign reception

CHICAGO (WLS) -- President Joe Biden will be in Chicago on Wednesday for a reception and address.

RELATED: DNC Chicago: Officials outline plans for 2024 Democratic National Convention

In the afternoon, Biden will deliver an address on his economic plan which he has dubbed "Bidenomics." The strategy involves growing the economy from the middle out and bottom up, instead of top-down.

The White House said Bidenomics will focus on "growing the middle class and empowering workers, investing in America and lowering costs."

The Biden administration oversaw major job growth since the president took office, with over 13 million jobs created since the start of his term.

The president will also have a campaign reception in Chicago. Biden is seeking a second term in office and is one of three Democrats who have formally announced their intention to run in 2024, including attorney Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and writer Marianne Williamson.

SEE MORE: Who is running for president in 2024

Republicans have 14 candidates entered into the 2024 presidential race. High-profile Republican challengers in the 2024 presidential race include former President Donald Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, and former Vice President Mike Pence.

Check back on ABC7 Chicago for updates.

Related Topics

• PRESIDENTIAL RACE
• 2024 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

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