Spend The Holidays In Chicago!
Kevin, November 20th, 2024It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Chicago!
With so many bright lights, shows, and activities, we're walking in a winter wonderland this Christmas in Chicago! Don't skip the markets or matineesget yourself out of the house and wrapped up warm because this year is truly a gift. Here are some highlights for Christmas 2024:
Festive Events
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
November 15, 2024 February 2, 2025
Glide across the ice with the Chicago skyline as your view, lit by the shimmering Christmas lights of Millennium Park! Whether you're wobbling your way around or showing off your best tricks, it's guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. It's the perfect date night or outing with friends, and it's completely freejust bring your skates or rent a pair on-site.
Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon
November 15, 2024 March 9, 2025
Ice skating with a twist! Winding its way through a beautifully landscaped park, this ribbon is wider and longer than most rinks, giving you plenty of room to glide at your own pace. It's also the perfect backdrop for those holiday Insta shots with all its twinkly lights. A unique way to celebrate the seasondare to be different this Christmas!
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
November 15, 2024 January 5, 2025
Over 2.5 million lights transform the zoo into a glowing winter paradise. This family-friendly event features illuminated animal displays, light tunnels, and holiday-themed activities like crafts, visits with Santa, and a carousel. It's not just about the lightsthere's seasonal food and drink like hot cocoa and mulled wine to keep you cozy. The event is free to enter, though some attractions like the train ride or photo ops may require a small fee.
Christkindlmarket Chicago
November 22, 2024 December 24, 2024
If you're craving old-world holiday charm, this open-air market is modeled after traditional German Christmas markets. Shop for unique, handmade gifts like ornaments, toys, and artisan crafts, or indulge in delicious European treats like bratwurst, pretzels, and, of course, steaming mugs of glhwein (hot spiced wine) served in adorable collectible mugs. Bring your appetite and your holiday shopping list!
Mariah Carey's Black Irish Holiday Bar Pop-Up
November 15, 2024 December 29, 2024
We're all Mariah fans during the holidays. Head to the Virgin Hotel in Chicago to experience Mariah Carey's Black Irish Holiday Bar, a festive pop-up celebrating her classic Christmas song. Decked out with over-the-top holiday decorations, themed cocktails, and a playlist that includes "All I Want for Christmas Is You," it's the perfect spot to kick back and soak in the seasonal cheer. The menu features holiday-inspired drinks crafted with Mariah's Black Irish cream liqueur. Don't forget to snap a selfie and tag the Queen of Christmas!
Shows & Concerts
Candlelight: The Best of Bridgeton
December 12, 2024 December 21, 2024
Dearest gentle reader, the ton is abuzz with exciting news! The hunt for the Queen's new diamond has been a rousing success, and our good friends at Fever are celebrating with a candlelit night of the finest music society has to offer. Join an esteemed string ensemble as they perform glorious melodies from Netflix and Shondaland's smash hit Bridgerton. Why settle for watching the show at home when you can experience it live? It's the perfect cozy vibe for Christmasand Bridgerton lovers!
Book Tickets
A Christmas Carol at Albert Goodman Theater
Showing until December 30, 2024
Once again, the Goodman Theatre magics up your annual holiday cheer with this beloved tradition. Between the spooky arrival of the ghosts, the jubilant musical numbers, and of course the ubiquitous "Bah Humbugs," you'll experience Scrooge's joyful late-life discovery of love and the true riches of family.
Book Tickets
Joffrey Ballet The Nutcracker at Civic Opera House
December 6, 2024 December 28, 2024
The Joffrey Ballet's annual holiday ballet returns with Christopher Wheeldon's critically acclaimed reinvention from 2016. This version of The Nutcracker has become a must-see Chicago tradition, dazzling audiences year after year.
Irving Berlin's White Christmas at Marriott Theatre
Showing until December 29, 2024
The uplifting story and beloved songs of Bing Crosby's White Christmas have charmed families for generations, and this year is no different! Two former servicemen and best friends travel the country with their two-man entertainment act when their old general calls for help. With two feisty sisters lending a hand, can these guys save a Christmas pageant from disaster?
Mariah Carey at Allstate Arena
November 27, 2024
It's that time of year! On November 1, 1994, Mariah Carey forever changed the holidays with "All I Want for Christmas Is You." The anthem shot to the top of charts worldwide and has become as essential to the season as twinkle lights and candy canes. Join the undisputed Queen of Christmas (sorry, Mrs. Claus) for her very special holiday tour, Mariah Carey's Christmas Time!
