christmas things to do in chicago
1. Christmas Activities in Chicago
Looking for something fun to do during the holiday season in Chicago? Look no further than this list of Christmas activities in the Windy City! From ice skating to holiday light displays, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
1. Ice Skating in Millennium Park: One of Chicago’s most popular winter activities is ice skating in Millennium Park. Located in the heart of downtown, the park features a large outdoor skating rink that is perfect for an afternoon of fun. Be sure to stop by the iconic Bean sculpture for a photo op!
2. Holiday Lights at Navy Pier: Navy Pier is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holidays, with over two million lights on display. Visitors can also enjoy holiday-themed entertainment, rides, and dining at the pier.
3. Christkindlmarket: This annual German-style Christmas market is held in Daley Plaza and features handmade gifts, traditional foods, and live entertainment.
4. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival: This festival kicks off the holiday season in Chicago with a parade of decorated floats, live music, and of course, the lighting of over one million lights on Michigan Avenue.
5. Santa’s Workshop at the Art Institute of Chicago: Kids will love this holiday-themed workshop, where they can make their own arts and crafts, listen to stories, and meet Santa himself!
2. Chicago Christmas Activities
When it comes to getting into the holiday spirit, there’s no better place to be than Chicago. The Windy City knows how to do Christmas right, with plenty of festive activities to keep you busy throughout the season. Here are just a few of the best things to do in Chicago during Christmas.
1. See the Lights at the Zoo
Every year, the Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with over two million lights on display. The best part? Admission is free. Stroll through the zoo and take in the festive sights and sounds. Don’t miss the chance to see the live reindeer, too!
2. Go Ice Skating at Millennium Park
Ice skating in Millennium Park is a must-do Chicago activity, especially during Christmas. The park’s ice rink is open from early November through early March, and it’s completely free to skate. If you don’t have your own skates, you can rent them on-site for a small fee.
After you’ve worked up an appetite skating, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate from one of the nearby vendors. Then, take a stroll through the park to see the famous Chicago Christmas tree.
3. Take a Holiday Lights Tour
See the city in all its holiday glory with a festive lights tour. There are several different tour companies that offer holiday light tours, so you can choose the one that’s best for you. Hop aboard a double-decker bus or a trolley and enjoy the view as you travel to some of Chicago’s most popular Christmas light displays.
4. Visit Santa at the Art Institute
For a truly unique Santa experience, head to the Art Institute of Chicago. Every year, Santa sets up shop in the museum’s Modern Wing. Kids can tell Santa what they want for Christmas while adults can take in the incredible art collection.
5. Shop at a Christmas Market
Chicago is home to several different Christmas markets, where you can find unique gifts and holiday-themed items. Daley Plaza is home to the city’s largest Christmas market
3. Christmas in Chicago
Christmas in Chicago is a special time. The city comes alive with holiday lights, decorations, and events. If you’re looking for things to do in Chicago during the holidays, here are some ideas.
1. Visit the Christkindlmarket.
The Christkindlmarket is a German-style Christmas market located in Daley Plaza. It features vendors selling holiday gifts, food, and drinks. You can also find live entertainment here. The market is open from the end of November through Christmas Eve.
2. See the holiday lights.
Chicago is known for its amazing holiday light displays. Some of the best places to see them are along Michigan Avenue, in Millennium Park, and in the Loop.
3. Go ice skating.
Ice skating is a great activity for the whole family. You can skate at Millennium Park, Navy Pier, or one of the many other ice rinks around the city.
4. Take a holiday tour.
There are many different holiday tours you can take in Chicago. You can see the lights on a Segway or double-decker bus, take a river cruise, or even go on a horse-drawn carriage ride.
5. Attend a holiday concert.
There are many holiday concerts to choose from in Chicago. You can see the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Chicago Children’s Choir, or one of the many other musical groups performing during the holidays.
6. See a holiday play.
The Goodman Theatre and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater both have holiday-themed plays. The Goodman Theatre also has a special holiday program for kids.
7. Go to a holiday party.
There are many holiday parties and events happening in Chicago. You can find a list of them on the city’s website.
8. Shop for gifts.
Chicago is a great place to do your holiday shopping. There are many different stores and markets to choose from. You can find everything from unique gifts to traditional holiday items.
9. Make a donation.
There are many ways to give back during the holidays. You can donate food, clothes, or toys to local charities. You can also volunteer your time to help those in
4. Holiday Activities Chicago
When it comes to the holidays, there’s no city quite like Chicago. From the stunning displays in Millennium Park to the world-famous Christkindlmarket, the Windy City knows how to get into the holiday spirit. Here are four holiday activities that are sure to get you into the festive mood.
1. Millennium Park Winter Wonderfest
This annual event is a can’t-miss for anyone visiting Chicago during the holidays. Winter Wonderfest transforms Navy Pier into a winter wonderland, complete with an ice rink, carnival rides, and a variety of holiday-themed attractions. You can also find plenty of holiday shopping opportunities, as well as festive food and drink options.
2. Christkindlmarket
Christkindlmarket is a German-style holiday market that has been a Chicago tradition for over 20 years. Located in Daley Plaza, the market features a variety of vendors selling German holiday goods, as well as traditional food and drink options. Christkindlmarket is the perfect place to find unique holiday gifts, or simply to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
3. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is an annual event that celebrates the start of the holiday season in Chicago. The festival features a tree-lighting ceremony, a parade down Michigan Avenue, and a fireworks show. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a great way to kick off your holiday season in Chicago.
4. Holiday Train Show at the Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry’s Holiday Train Show is a must-see for anyone visiting Chicago during the holidays. The show features a variety of model trains and buildings, all decked out in holiday decorations. The Holiday Train Show is a great way to get into the holiday spirit, and it’s also a great opportunity to learn about the history of Chicago’s railways.
5. Chicago Christmas
Looking for things to do in Chicago during the Christmas season? Here are five festive activities that are sure to get you into the holiday spirit!
1. Ice skating at Millennium Park
2. Checking out the holiday lights on the Magnificent Mile
3. Visiting the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza
4. Going to see a holiday show at the Chicago Theatre
5. Taking a festive holiday cruise on Lake Michigan
6. Chicago Christmas Traditions
When it comes to celebrating the holidays, Chicago knows how to do it up right! The Windy City offers plenty of festive fun for all ages, from traditional holiday markets and ice skating to unique attractions like the Christkindlmarket and the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. Here are six of our favorite Chicago Christmas traditions that you won’t want to miss!
1. Christkindlmarket
Christkindlmarket is a beloved annual tradition in Chicago. This German-style Christmas market features more than 60 vendors selling everything from handcrafted gifts and holiday decorations to delicious food and drinks. Christkindlmarket is held in Daley Plaza from November 15 – December 24, 2019.
2. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is one of the largest and most popular holiday events in Chicago. This annual festival features a festive parade down Michigan Avenue, complete with giant balloons, marching bands, and Santa Claus himself! After the parade, enjoy a spectacular fireworks show over the Chicago River. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival takes place on Saturday, November 23, 2019.
3. Ice Skating at Millennium Park
One of the best things about winter in Chicago is ice skating at Millennium Park! This popular activity is free and open to the public from early November through early March. Skate rentals are available for $12 per person.
4. Holiday Train Show at the Chicago Botanic Garden
The Chicago Botanic Garden’s Holiday Train Show is a must-see for all ages! This beloved annual tradition features more than 25 G-scale model trains zipping through a stunning display of plants, trees, and buildings decked out in their holiday best. The Holiday Train Show runs from November 16, 2019 – January 5, 2020.
5. Holiday Shopping on the Magnificent Mile
The Magnificent Mile is the perfect place to do your holiday shopping! This world-famous shopping district is home to more than 460 stores, including iconic department stores like Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Nordstrom. You’ll also find plenty of unique boutiques and shops selling everything from clothing and accessories to home dé
7. Top 10 Things to Do in Chicago during Christmas
When it comes to celebrating Christmas, Chicago does it up right! From festive holiday markets to ice skating in Millennium Park, there are plenty of fun things to do in the Windy City during the holiday season. Here are our top 10 picks for Christmas activities in Chicago.
1. Shop at a Chicago Christmas Market
If you love doing your holiday shopping at open-air markets, you’ll be thrilled with the Christmas markets in Chicago. From the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza to the Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier, there are plenty of markets to explore. You’ll find unique gifts, festive decorations, and delicious food and drink at these markets, making them the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit.
2. See the Lights at the Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the best things to do in Chicago in December, thanks to their popular ZooLights event. This annual event features millions of sparkling lights, as well as holiday-themed activities and entertainment. It’s the perfect place to take the family for a festive evening out.
3. Go Ice Skating in Millennium Park
One of the most popular things to do in Millennium Park during the holidays is to go ice skating at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink. Skating is free, and you can rent skates for a small fee. It’s the perfect activity for a cold winter’s day in Chicago.
4. Attend a Holiday Concert
There are plenty of holiday concerts to enjoy in Chicago during the Christmas season. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra performs a series of holiday concerts, and you can also find smaller concerts at venues like the Chicago Theatre and the Auditorium Theatre. Whatever type of music you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find a concert that you’ll enjoy.
5. See a Holiday Show
In addition to holiday concerts, there are also plenty of holiday-themed shows to enjoy in Chicago. The Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker is always a popular choice, and you can also find shows like A Charlie Brown Christmas and The Polar Express at the Chicago Children’s Theatre. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
6.
8. Christmas Traditions Chicago
When it comes to celebrating the holidays, Chicago knows how to do it right! From festive light displays to ice skating rinks and Christmas markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Windy City. Here are 8 Christmas traditions you can’t miss out on when visiting Chicago during the holidays.
1. See the Lights at Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a must-visit during the holidays! The iconic pier is transformed into a winter wonderland with an impressive light display, an outdoor ice skating rink, and a Ferris wheel adorned with Christmas lights. You can also take a ride on the Navy Pier Christmas Carousel or enjoy some holiday shopping at the Christmas Market.
2. Ice Skate at Millennium Park
Ice skating is a classic winter activity and there’s no better place to do it than at Millennium Park. The park’s ice rink is one of the largest in the world and offers stunning views of downtown Chicago. Skating is free if you bring your own skates, or you can rent a pair for $13. The rink is open daily from November through March.
3. Shop at a Christmas Market
Chicago’s Christmas markets are the perfect place to find unique gifts for your loved ones. Shop for handmade jewelry, pottery, and other artisan goods at the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza. Or, head to the Wicker Park neighborhood for the Wicker Park Holiday Market, which features local vendors selling everything from clothes to food.
4. See a Holiday Show
There’s no shortage of holiday-themed shows and events happening in Chicago during the Christmas season. Catch a performance of The Nutcracker at the Chicago Ballet, or see the Christmas classic A Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theatre. Families will also enjoy the Polar Express Adventure at the Chicago Children’s Museum.
5. Attend a Holiday Festival
Chicago is home to a number of holiday festivals throughout December. The Christkindlmarket festival features live entertainment, German food and drink, and more. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is another can’t-miss event, featuring a tree
9. Chicago Christmas Weekend
Looking for something fun to do this Christmas weekend in Chicago? Look no further! Here are 9 great ideas to get you started:
1. Visit the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza – This German-style Christmas market features traditional holiday foods, drinks, and gifts. It’s the perfect place to find a unique Christmas present for someone special.
2. See the Nutcracker at the Chicago Theater – Tchaikovsky’s classic holiday ballet comes to life on the stage of the historic Chicago Theater. This is a must-see for any ballet lover!
3. Go ice skating at Millennium Park – One of the best things about winter in Chicago is the opportunity to go ice skating in Millennium Park. It’s the perfect activity for a cold winter day.
4. Take a holiday lights tour – See the best of Chicago’s holiday lights on a guided tour. This is a great way to see the city and get into the holiday spirit at the same time.
5. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry’s Christmas Around the World exhibit – This annual exhibit features trees and displays from different cultures and traditions. It’s a great way to learn about different holiday customs from around the world.
6. Go shopping at the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza – In addition to the market itself, there are also a number of shops selling holiday gifts and decorations. This is the perfect place to find that perfect Christmas gift.
7. See a show at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater – The holidays are the perfect time to see a show at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. They offer a variety of holiday-themed shows, so there’s sure to be something for everyone.
8. Take a ride on the Polar Express at the Chicago Children’s Museum – This special exhibit lets kids experience the magic of the Polar Express. They can even take a ride on a real train!
9. Attend a holiday concert at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra – The CSO offers a variety of holiday concerts throughout the season. This is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
No matter what
10. Christmas Traditions in Chicago
Christmas is a special time of year, and Chicago knows how to celebrate! Here are 10 Christmas traditions that you can enjoy in the Windy City:
1. ice skating in Millennium Park
2. taking a spin on the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier
3. shopping at the Christkindlmarket
4. attending a performance of the Nutcracker
5. visiting Santa at the Museum of Science and Industry
6. seeing the lights at the ZooLights display
7. riding on the Elf on a Shelf Train
8. sipping hot cocoa at the Christkindlmarket
9. roasting marshmallows at the Christkindlmarket
10. enjoying a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Chicago
11. Christmas Event in Chicago
Looking for things to do in Chicago during the holidays? Here are 11 great events to check out!
1. Christkindlmarket
If you’re looking for a traditional German Christmas market, look no further than Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza. This annual event features vendors selling everything from German Christmas ornaments to toys to traditional foods and drinks. There’s also live entertainment throughout the market.
2. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a Chicago tradition that takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The day starts with a parade down Michigan Avenue featuring giant helium-filled character balloons, marching bands, and more. After the parade, Santa Claus arrives to turn on the lights on all of the buildings along the Magnificent Mile. The event ends with a fireworks show.
3. Winter Wonderfest
Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier is a winter carnival for the whole family. The event features an indoor ice rink, carnival rides, Santa’s workshop, a holiday market, and more. There’s also live entertainment throughout the event.
4. Holiday Train Show
The Holiday Train Show at the Chicago Botanic Garden is a must-see for train enthusiasts of all ages. The show features more than 25 model trains that wind their way through a display of holiday-themed plants and trees. The show runs from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day.
5. ice skating at Millennium Park
One of the best things to do in Chicago in the winter is to go ice skating at Millennium Park. The park’s ice rink is open from mid-November through early March. Skate rentals are available, or you can bring your own skates.
6. ZooLights
ZooLights is an annual holiday event at the Lincoln Park Zoo. The event features millions of lights, holiday-themed animal exhibits, Santa meet-and-greets, ice carving demonstrations, and more. ZooLights is free to the public and runs from early December through early January.
7. The Polar Express Train Ride
The Polar Express Train Ride is a holiday-themed train ride that departs from
12. Chicago at Christmas
The holidays are a magical time in Chicago. The city sparkles with festive lights, there’s a sense of excitement in the air, and there are so many fun things to do! If you’re looking for things to do in Chicago at Christmas, you’ve come to the right place.
Here are 12 of the best things to do in Chicago at Christmas:
1. See the Lights at Millennium Park
One of the most popular things to do in Chicago at Christmas is to see the lights at Millennium Park. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland, with over two million lights sparkling throughout. It’s a truly breathtaking sight!
2. Go Ice Skating at Millennium Park
If you’re looking for things to do in Chicago at Christmas with the whole family, go ice skating at Millennium Park! The iconic Bean sculpture is transformed into a gigantic Christmas tree, making it the perfect place to take a festive photo. And of course, there’s also the skating rink where you can glide around under the stars.
3. Shop at the Christkindlmarket
One of the best things to do in Chicago at Christmas is to shop at the Christkindlmarket. This festive market is inspired by the traditional German markets, and you’ll find everything from handmade gifts to delicious food. It’s the perfect place to do your Christmas shopping!
4. See a Holiday Show
There are plenty of holiday-themed shows playing in Chicago at Christmas time. From The Nutcracker to A Christmas Carol, there’s something for everyone. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit!
5. Visit Santa at Macy’s
Macy’s on State Street is a Chicago institution, and during the holidays it’s even more magical. The store is decked out in festive decorations, and you can visit Santa to tell him what you want for Christmas. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting Chicago at Christmas time!
6. Ride the ‘L’
One of the best things about
13. Chicago Christmas Events
1. Christkindlmarket: This traditional German Christmas market is the perfect place to find unique gifts and try delicious holiday foods and drinks. Located in Daley Plaza, it runs from November 15th-December 24th.
2. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival: This festival is one of the most popular in Chicago. On the Saturday before Thanksgiving, a grand tree-lighting ceremony kicks off the holiday season. The festival features a parade, live music, and a fireworks show.
3. The Chicago Illuminating Company Holiday Display: This free display features over two million lights, holiday music, and a visit from Santa. It runs from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve.
4. ice skating at Millennium Park: One of the most popular attractions in Millennium Park, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is open from November through March. Skating is free, and skate rentals are available for a small fee.
5. Holiday Train Show at the Chicago Botanic Garden: This annual event features model trains winding their way through a display of over 50 Chicago landmarks made from natural materials. It runs from November 24th through January 6th.
6. ZooLights at the Lincoln Park Zoo: This annual event features millions of lights, holiday-themed activities, and visits from Santa. It runs from December 1st through January 5th.
7. The Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker: This classic holiday ballet is performed by the world-renowned Joffrey Ballet. It runs from December 7th-30th.
8. Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier: This annual event features an indoor amusement park, rides, games, and holiday-themed activities. It runs from December 26th-January 6th.
9. A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage: This live stage adaptation of the classic television special features all of your favorite characters. It runs from December 27th-29th.
10. New Year’s Eve on the Chicago River: Celebrate the new year with a front row seat to the fireworks show and a view of the iconic Chicago skyline. The event runs from December 31st-January 1st.
14. Things to Do in Chicago at Christmas
Looking for things to do in Chicago at Christmas? Look no further! Here are 14 great ideas to get you started:
1. Ice skating at Millennium Park
2. Checking out the Christkindlmarket
3. Taking a holiday lights tour
4. Seeing a holiday show at the Goodman Theatre
5. Going to the Museum of Science and Industry’s Christmas Around the World
6. attending a holiday concert at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
7. Visiting the Lincoln Park Zoo’s Lights Festival
8. Seeing the holiday windows at Macy’s on State Street
9. Checking out the holiday decorations at the Drake Hotel
10. Going ice skating at Wrigley Field
11. Taking a horse-drawn carriage ride
12. Seeing Santa at the Macy’s on State Street
13. Going to a holiday-themed museum exhibit
14. Taking a holiday-themed tour of the city
15. Things to Do in Chicago for Christmas
The holidays are a special time in Chicago. From the city’s famed architecture to the festive Christmas lights and displays, there’s plenty to see and do. If you’re looking for things to do in Chicago for Christmas, we’ve got you covered.
1. See the Lights at the Zoo
One of the best things to do in Chicago for Christmas is to see the lights at Lincoln Park Zoo. This popular zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland with over two million lights. There’s also an ice skating rink, carousel, and Santa visits.
2. Go Ice Skating at Millennium Park
If you’re looking for things to do in Chicago for Christmas, ice skating at Millennium Park is a must. This outdoor rink is located in the heart of downtown and offers stunning views of the city skyline.
3. See the Nutcracker
A trip to Chicago for Christmas isn’t complete without seeing the Nutcracker. This holiday ballet is performed by the world-renowned Joffrey Ballet and set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score.
4. Shop at the Christkindlmarket
Christkindlmarket is Chicago’s popular Christmas market. Located in Daley Plaza, the market features vendors selling holiday decorations, gifts, and traditional German foods.
5. Take a Holiday Lights Tour
One of the best ways to see Chicago’s holiday lights is by taking a guided tour. These tours take you to some of the city’s best light displays, including those in Millennium Park and along the Magnificent Mile.
6. See the Show at the Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry is a must-see for anyone visiting Chicago. During the holidays, the museum puts on its popular holiday show, which features lights, music, and a visit from Santa.
7. View the Lights from Above
For a bird’s eye view of Chicago’s holiday lights, take a ride on the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier. This 200-foot tall Ferris wheel offers
If you are visiting Chicago in the upcoming holiday season, there are plenty of things you can do. Some of these events are live nativity scenes, the Magnificent Mile, the Christkindlmarket, Macy’s Holiday Windows and the Illumination at the Morton Arboretum.
Macy’s Holiday Windows
Macy’s holiday window displays are a tradition that has been around for more than half a century. Each year, the windows in Macy’s State Street store feature a different theme.
The Walnut Room inside Macy’s is home to the Great Tree and other popular holiday displays. This year’s theme is the Nutcracker Ballet. Featuring hand-carved figurines and spectacular costumes, these scenes recreate the magical Christmas story.
The 45-foot tree, which will be decorated with 15,000 ornaments, will be lit on Saturday at 11:15 a.m. Visitors can take photos under the tree, but reservations are required.
The Nutcracker Ballet’s window displays will be featured through January 6. These scenes are filled with magical childhood images of Christmas. They also display familiar Chicago landmarks.
Guests can also visit the Macy’s Great Tree, which is a 45-foot tree that will be decorated with 15,000 ornaments. It is set against a backdrop of a whimsical toy shop.
Visitors can also tour the Macy’s store’s Santaland, an iconic workshop where visitors can meet Santa and have their picture taken. You can reserve a session online five days before your visit. However, you will need to wait for at least 20 minutes.
Another holiday tradition to check out is the Chicago Christkindlmarket. There are locations in Wrigleyville and Daley Plaza. The market features a range of traditional German crafts and treats, including glass ornaments, wooden cuckoo clocks, and hot mulled wine.
Magnificent Mile
When it comes to holiday events, Chicago is a top destination for family-friendly fun. From the soaring Christmas trees to twinkling lights, this city is sure to put you in a festive mood.
One of the most popular Chicago Christmas events is the Magnificient Mile Lights Festival. The event is free and includes a parade, music, lights, and floats. During the 31-year-old celebration, more than one million lights illuminate The Magnificent Mile for the holiday season.
In addition to the festivities, the Magnificient Mile Lights Festival also features three weekends of music. Guests will enjoy a parade of colorful floats led by Minnie Mouse. Afterwards, guests can enjoy fireworks over the Chicago River.
Aside from the tree-lighting parade, the Magnificient Mile Lights Festival is the country’s largest nighttime parade. There will be a parade of celebrities and performers, as well as musical performances. Plus, there will be more than 200 glistening trees illuminating the street along the Magnificent Mile.
Located in downtown Chicago, Millennium Park is home to an outdoor skating rink. During the winter, guests can ride the 200-foot-tall Centennial Wheel for a 360-degree view of the city.
Another festive event to check out during the Christmas season is the Amaze Light Festival at Impact Field. This festival features seven theme-based illuminated worlds. They include a tubing hill and a timed light show. It runs from November 19, 2021 to January 2, 2022.
Live nativity
If you live in the Chicago area and are looking for a way to have some holiday fun, consider checking out one of the many live nativity displays that are now in the city. Live nativity scenes are fun for the whole family and feature real people and animals. In fact, there are several nativity displays that you can attend for free.
One of the most popular outdoor nativity displays is the one in Daley Plaza. It has been on display each Christmas since the late 1970s. Until 1985, the nativity scene was housed in City Hall. However, after some complaints, the Public Building Commission dismantled the display.
The Daley Plaza Nativity Scene is arguably the most impressive, thanks to the dedication of a handful of volunteers. The nativity is on display during the weekends following Thanksgiving and through the weekend following Christmas.
As part of the Christmas season, the Porter County Christmas Festival also boasts a live nativity display on the Courthouse Square in Portage. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the festival’s attractions. This includes the Santa Claus statue at the Porter County Museum and a live nativity display on Courthouse Square.
During the holiday season, a few churches offer live nativity productions. Many offer free tours of the scene and nativity productions. For the more adventurous, you can also build your own nativity.
On Tuesday and Monday night, more than 200 people drove through the Church of Joy parking lot in Waukegan to view the nativity. Although it’s been many years since the drive-through nativity was first introduced, its novelty is still alive and well.
Christkindlmarket
There are many things to do in Chicago during the Christmas season. From ice skating to Christmas shows, you can have a festive time while enjoying the city’s beauty.
The holiday season is also the time to enjoy a wide variety of festive foods and drinks. In addition to the popular Christmas tree at Macy’s department store, you can find mulled wine and spiced cider at the Christkindlmarket in Wrigleyville.
The German Christmas Market is an outdoor market with hundreds of items to choose from. You can buy handmade ornaments, wooden figurines, and other gifts made in Germany. Several vendors have large wooden signs.
This German-themed market is a safe and fun way to experience the magic of the holiday season in Chicago. You can buy German gingerbread hearts and soft pretzels, as well as roasted chestnuts.
In addition to food and drink, the Christkindlmarket is full of festive events. These include musical performances, carolers, and dancers. Children can also participate in a lantern parade.
Other Christmas activities in Chicago include a visit to Santa. And if you’re lucky, you might even see the legendary Christkind, a magical figure that appears during the winter holidays. He wears a gold crown, white dress, and blonde hair, and is the perfect mascot to bring your family to the market.
If you want to shop from the comfort of your home, you can buy your favorite holiday treats online. Just be sure to leave a few extra bucks for ATM fees, as you’ll be leaving with a few bills to pay your vendor.
Illumination at the Morton Arboretum
Illumination is a one-mile walk through a light-and-sound show. It features interactive displays, tree-inspired sculptures, and music and lights that are sure to take your breath away.
Morton Arboretum is an internationally recognized botanical garden in the Chicago suburbs. The arboretum has over 1,700 acres of specialty tree collections and nine miles of hiking trails. Throughout the year, there are educational programs to enjoy.
This year, the Arboretum is highlighting the importance of trees to our ecosystem. To celebrate the centennial, the Arboretum is showcasing new displays, including six never-before-seen spectacles.
These include the new Enchanted Gateway, a glowing entry portal. The new Grand Garden will also feature the first-ever Illumination display. A special finale will be held in the garden, where visitors will experience the beauty of the light-and-sound show.
In addition to a number of new displays, Illumination will also include some returning favorites. Visitors can expect to see the crown of light, HYBYCOZO tree-like sculptures, and a field of ornaments.
Several late night events will be offered, as well. There will be plenty of snacks and warm concession tents available. You can even roast marshmallows.
During the day, the Illumination show will feature a walking trail that will take visitors through the 50-acre arboretum. Along the way, guests can stop at warming stations for hot beverages and s’mores.
The show is a favorite among holiday fans in the Chicagoland area, as well as the surrounding suburbs. In the first three seasons, the display attracted over 350,000 visitors.
Lightscape
If you’re looking for Christmas things to do in Chicago, then you have to check out the Lightscape event at the Chicago Botanic Garden. This event is ideal for a date night, family outing or just a fun way to get into the spirit of the season.
The Lightscape event features a lighted trail and fire-filled sculptures. There are a number of renowned artists who help bring this one-of-a-kind experience to life.
A few of the highlights of this event include the Winter Cathedral, a fire garden, singing trees, and multi-sensory light installations. The Lightscape runs from November to January. In addition to the display, the garden also hosts live music.
Another highlight of this event is the drive-through light show. This event includes a 1.6-mile route, three drive-through tunnels, and more than a million lights. It’s also free.
Another event that’s worth checking out this holiday season is the Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum. This spectacular outdoor experience features s’mores and concessions. Also, guests can take a train ride around the arboretum.
Another popular destination for holiday lights is the Lincoln Park Zoo. Visitors can enjoy 2.5 million lights, strolling carolers, and more. Tickets are $5 on weekdays and free on Mondays.
Other places that you can visit are the Pilsen Drive-In Theater, which screens classic holiday movies like Die Hard. The Joffrey Ballet’s Nutcracker, a tradition in Chicago, is another must-see.
