celebrating the
holidays 2015 holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
This Week
In Chicago
Welcome
to
Chicago
You’re in for the Time of Your Life! Chicago is a very special place any day of the year, but all throughout the holiday season the Windy City becomes a truly magical destination. Whether you are visiting from Naperville or New York City, we are glad you’re here! This Holiday Activity Guide is our gift to you, think of it a festive Bucket List - overflowing with holiday activities, events and suggestions that will leave you and your loved ones with treasured memories guaranteed to last a lifetime.
Happy holidays, and stay warm!
2015 holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
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photo by Adam Alexander
Ice Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park
Caroling at Cloud Gate
A Visit with Santa
Holiday music is in the air! Celebrating 10 glorious years, Caroling at Cloud Gate has become a cherished holiday tradition for visitors and locals alike. From 6:00pm-7:00pm every Friday beginning November 27th local choral groups will sing (audience participation is encouraged!) holiday classics such as “Winter Wonderland” and “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” at the foot of Cloud Gate also known as The Bean, in Millennium Park. 201 E. Randolph, 312.742.1168. Make sure to come early or stay late to take in the majesty of the City of Chicago’s official Christmas Tree, a towering 63-foot Colorado Blue Spruce.
He’s making a list and checking it twice. He’s gonna find out who’s been naughty and nice. All throughout the holiday season visitors will find more bearded men than they can shake a peppermint stick at. See page 15.
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2015 holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
Holiday Lights Tour Dazzling lights and holiday sights are guaranteed with Chicago Trolley. This 2 ½ hour tour features: The Mag Mile, State Street, Macy’s windows as well as two of Chicago’s most festive traditions, ZooLights and the Christkindlmarket. Tickets $19/kids, $29/adults. Tour departs from 875 N. Michigan. For a complete list of tour dates and times visit chicagotrolley.com
Open Something Greater
day gifts for visitors this season. From the annual wreathing of the lions on Nov. 27 to the intricate miniature decorated Thorne Rooms the Art Institute is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Free/under 14, $25/ adults. 111 S. Michigan, 312.443.3600.
Great gifts come in packages of all sizes but the very best ones come with no wrappings at all. The Art Institute of Chicago has several fun and exciting holi-
Macy’s Holiday Windows Afternoon Tea Nobody does afternoon tea better than the Palm Court set within the legendary Drake Hotel. $22/kids, $45/adults. 140 E. Walton, 312.787.2200.
“Santa’s Journey to the Stars” is this year’s theme for Macy’s annual Holiday windows, a tradition that combines old school artistry with new visual elements and dates back to 1897. See pg. 30 for more Macy’s info. 111 N. State, 312.781.4483.
Winter WonderFest Holiday spirits soar at the 15th annual Winter WonderFest celebration at Navy Pier. Visitors will find thrills without the chills including more than 170,000 square feet of awesome rides, slides and attractions, plus an indoor ice-skating rink all set within a winter wonderland. New attractions for 2015 include an indoor ice peaks climbing wall, and Polar Extreme. Dec. 5 to Jan. 10. General Admission $10, Activity Admission $25. 600 E. Grand, 312.595.PIER.
Holiday Magic See the lights and feel the magic with the Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic winter display. Featuring over 1 million twinkling lights illuminating the walkways, an interactive light show, ice-carving demonstrations, singing to the animals Santa and much more. 4:00pm-9:00pm, weekends throughout Dec. $11.95/kids, $16.95/adults. 3300 Golf Rd. Brookfield, 708.688.8400.
Walnut Room It all started with Mrs. Hering’s pot-pie 125 years ago in the Tea Room. The Walnut Room and it’s towering Great Tree is de rigueur for everyone wanting a true Chicago holiday experience. Reservations are NOT accepted so arrive early. 7th floor at Macy’s. 111 N. State, 312.781.3125.
LUMA
Figure Eights
The story of Mary, Joseph and Jesus has special appeal throughout the season and Art and Faith of the Creche: The Collection of James and Emilia Govan, shows visitors how artists from around the world celebrate the Nativity. LUMA. 820 N. Michigan, 312.915.7600.
Work off some of that deep-dish on the ice! From the elegant IceRibbon at Maggie Daley Park, 337 E. Randolph, to the classic oval at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, 201 E. Randolph, Free. $12/rentals
Club Lucky Rated on Yahoo’s list of Chicago’s top-10 restaurants for “Best Holiday Decorations” patrons of this eternally hip spot will find hundreds of dazzling snowflakes dangling from the ceiling, garland and wreaths galore, thousands of lights as they sip on a holiday martini. 1824 W. Wabansia, 773.227.2300.
Illumination Declared a “must-see destination” by the Chicago Tribune, Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum, is an outdoor interactive multi sensory experience. The trees are not only bathed in dazzling LED lights but also respond to touch and sound. Dates, prices and hours vary, visit mortonarb.org for more info. 4100 Illinois Rt. 43 Lisle, 630.968.0074. 8
2015 holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
Selfie with an Elfie The Chicago Loop Alliance once again takes the holidays to a whole new level. Visitors are invited to explore Loop landmarks, restaurants and hotels to find colorful Elfie cut-outs and post their Selfie at #selfieswithelfies. Best selfie each week will win a prize.
ZooLights The City is all aglow, but nowhere is this truer than at The Lincoln Park Zoo, which is illuminated with over two million lights for the seasonal ZooLights celebration. Visit the polar bears, and penguins while enjoying warm drinks or craft beers alongside ice-carving, carousel and train rides and visits with Santa. 4:30pm-9:00pm, weekends Nov. 27-Jan 3. 2200 N. Cannon, 312.742.2000.
Pickle in the Pine A German tradition for generations, Pickle in the Pine is a holiday mainstay at The Berghoff. Children are invited to comb through the branches of the restaurant’s brightly lit tree to find the pickle ornament. Those under 12 lucky enough to find the pickle will receive a FREE root beer. 17 W. Adams, 312.427.3170
Joffrey Ballet The worldrenowned Joffrey Ballet transforms the Auditorium Theatre into a winter wonderland full of magical toys, sugar plums and waltzing snowflakes during the last presentation of Robert Joffrey’s The Nutcracker. The Chicago Philharmonic provides live accompaniment of the classic Tchaikovsky score. Dec. 4-27. Tickets $32-$136. Auditorium Theatre. 50 E. Congress, 800.982.2787.
Christkindlmarket Located in Daley Plaza, this German market offers an experience like no other. Vendors offer one-of-a-kind treasures including cuckoo clocks from the Black Forest, Bavarian Christmas ornaments and authentic German beer steins, While browsing the aisles sip on German beer or Glühwein (hot spiced wine) served in a souvenir “boot-mug” and splurge on treats like artisanal cheeses, baked apples and strudel. 11:00am-8pm (til 9:00pm Fri. & Sat.) through Dec. 24. 50 W. Washington, 312.494.2175.
Christmas Around The World It’s a cultural holiday experience at the Museum of Science and Industry’s annual Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light exhibit featuring 50 Christmas trees all beautifully decorated by volunteers from Chicago’s diverse ethnic communities that represent various cultures and holiday traditions. $11/kids, $18/adults. 5700 S. Lake Shore, 773.684.1414
A Christmas Carol Audiences continue to enjoy the Dickens’ classic tale of Scrooge, a miserly old man who despises Christmas. Join his journey of self-reflection with visits from the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future. Now playing through December 27. Tickets $25-$102. Goodman Theatre. 170 N. Dearborn, 312.443.3800. 10 2015 holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
Carriage Ride Is there a more charming way to see Chicago in all of its holiday glory than with an old-fashioned carriage ride? We think not. Explore the Windy City’s downtown, lakefront and neighborhoods in all of their seasonal splendor with Antique Coach and Carriage. Perfect for couples or the entire family. $40 for 20 minutes, $50 for 30 minutes or $100 for an hour. Rides depart from 820 N. Michigan, near the historic Water Tower, 773.735.9400.
Wonderland Express Some people think summer is the best time to visit The Chicago Botanic Garden, however each holiday season the Gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, garden-scale trains, exquisite horticulture displays and much more as part of it’s annual Wonderland Express exhibit. Open 10:00am-5:00pm Nov. 27-Dec.17 and til 7:00pm Dec. 18-Jan 3. $10/kids, $12/adults. 1000 Lake Cook Rd. Glencoe, 847.835.5440.
family fun Exciting family activities… Luxurious shopping options… Festive dining choices…
sweets and kings Have visions of sugar plums dancing in your head? Then head to The Sugar Factory and satiate your sweet tooth. If the Holiday’s have you stressed out, decompress with several strikes and spares as you sip on a few cocktails at Kings Bowl.
Rosemont has it ALL! If you are looking for a holiday destination that offers something for everybody, MB Financial Park (5501 Park Place) and Fashion Outlets of Chicago (located across the street) are it! Adrenaline junkies can head over to Polar Peak tubing and shoppers will be delighted with world-class stores such as Prada & Tory Burch. Hungry? Try the Fish and Chips at Five Roses Pub or Strudel at Hofbrauhaus. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities that await - The only difficult choice is where to begin!
we can all fly at
iFly
Holiday memories are truly the gift that keeps on giving so why not invite the whole family to share in a experience that will last a lifetime. Whether you are 3 or 103, iFLY’s powerful vertical wind tunnel helps you float on a cushion of air without the need to jump out a perfectly good airplane!
Santaland at Macy’s
Naughty or Nice He’s making a list and checking it twice! In terms of sheer numbers, the annual December Santa Claus roundup seems to favor suburban malls. But quantity and quality are two very different things. The success of Claus, after all, relies on authenticity and you can’t spell “authenticity” without “city” Here are a few of our favorite and unique Santa encounters. For a complete list of Santa Sightings download KEY’s Holiday Mobile app – search KEY CHICAGO in either iTunes or Google Play.
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Children of all ages can visit with Santa every day throughout the season at the 900 North Michigan Shops. If your kids can’t wait for Christmas morning to open their presents, don’t worry, as every child receives a free gift! 900 N. Michigan level 3, 312.915.3916.
Need a little more out of your Santa experience? Look no further than the Shedd Aquarium. Start your morning with a Santa brunch, photo’s and a “meet and greet.” Next on the agenda, The Polar Express 4-D Experience followed by hot chocolate and cookies. Families will end the morning with the Holiday One World aquatic show. 8:00am Dec. 12, 19 and 22. $39.95/kids, $49.95/adults. 1200 S. Lake Shore, 312.939.2438.
In every other part of the world Santa arrives by sleigh, but in the Windy City Santa takes the train (or the L to more specific) All throughout the holiday season, visitors will find Santa and his band of merry makers pulling into stops all over the city, handing out candy canes and helping spread holiday cheer. For specific routes and times visit transitchicago.com/holidaytrain. Beyond the snow-capped mountains and twinkling lights of Macy’s Santaland, Saint Nick himself is waiting to hear everyone’s holiday wishes. 111 N. State level 5, 312.781.4483.
Michigan Avenue’s Premiere Toy Store!
900 North Michigan Avenue, level 5 (312) 440-9550 www.galtbaby.com
the magnificent mile When it comes to shopping, North Michigan Avenue is so much more than just another city street – there’s a reason they call it the Magnificent Mile, after all. So it should come as no surprise that the biggest shopping season of the year is always just a little bit bigger in this part of town. Lined with horse-drawn carriages, skillfully decorated storefronts, holiday carolers, and delectable treats, visitors have a special place to relish and rejoice during the festive holiday season. From large Department stores like Macy’s, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus to luxury brands such as, Burberry, Rolex, Gucci and Louis Vuitton, Michigan Avenue is home to hundreds of leading continued on page 18...
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Win Me! It’s really very simple, just take a photo of somebody in your travel party “posing” with a copy of KEY This Week In Chicago (or our 2015 Holiday Activity Guide) and post the image to KEY This Week In Chicago’s facebook page or Twitter Account. All entries received by noon on December 16, 2015 will be included in a raffle and the winner notified via social media. The Mary Ellen Larkin doll will arrive Before Christmas just in-time to surprise your little one.
retailers at every price point. Make sure to check out the new store Uniqlo (830 N. Michigan) an import from Japan that offers simple design, a timeless appearance and excellent value.
This splendid shopping stretch also famously gave birth to the concept of the vertical shopping mall, paving the way with the illustrious Water Tower Place back in 1975. Located just behind the retail portion of the mall is the Broadway Playhouse where A Charlie Brown Christmas is currently playing and throughout December audiences will delight in the parody Potted Potter.
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Monday through Saturday: 11:00am ~ 6:00pm Sunday: 11:00am ~ 5:00pm
706 North Dearborn Chicago – 312-654-8100 www.marymarygis.com
Receive 15% OFF your purchase with this ad! Complimentary Gift Wrap Worldwide Shipping 20 2015 holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
mag-mile
brunch
Between Shopping on Michigan Avenue and getting a little ice-time at the “Ribbon� you are sure to work up a significant hunger. Luckily for you, a new brunch oasis has just opened in the middle of the Magnificent Mile. La Stanza Ristorante, the fine dining room of Labriola, is now serving Sunday Brunch. The menu features unique dishes such as Lobster Thermidor Benedict, shrimp polenta and octopus hash alongside more traditional fare including brick oven pizzas. Make sure to save room for dessert because guests are invited to dive into the DIY donut bar featuring legendary Stan’s donuts. Every Sunday 8:00am-4:00pm. 535 N. Michigan, 312.955.3100.
the lap of
luxury
If luxury is what keeps you warm, step into the sophistication of The 900 North Michigan Shops. Anchored by Bloomingdale’s department store and home to the Four Seasons Hotel, this lavish seven story mall features more than 70 retailers like Gucci, MaxMara and Michael Kors as well several independent stores such as Galt Toys, Crosell & Co. and The Goldsmith to name just a few. Art lovers will rejoice as The 900 North Michigan Shops is home to three of the city’s premier galleries. On the 6th floor, visitors will find original oils and limited edition prints by Picasso, Renoir and Chicago’s very own Michael Cheney inside Atlas Galleries. Steps away at Lotton Gallery connoisseurs of glass will be in-awe of the pieces from the entire Lotton family clan of glass blowing artisans. New to the scene is Artspace8, a 14,000 square foot gallery specializing contemporary paintings and prints from emerging artists from around the world.
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the wrap bar This holiday season The 900 North Michigan Shops welcomes back The Wrap Bar. Located on the second level, shoppers are invited to unzip their winter coats and relax in comfort and style. Offering complimentary coat-check and recharge stations for cell phones and laptops the bar is the perfect sanctuary for power shoppers who need a brief rest as they hunt for the perfect gift.
Luxurious Lingerie
900 N. Michigan Ave., 3rd floor Chicago, IL 60611 312.951.7290 enchantelingerie.com
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You have spent a considerable amount of time and energy (and maybe money) searching out the perfect gift, why not finalize the whole process by having your present expertly wrapped, courtesy of volunteers from the Make-A-WishŽ Foundation - donations greatly appreciated. While you wait for your packages to be wrapped, head upstairs to Frankie’s Scaloppine and enjoy one, or two, glasses of their famous Prosecco Sangria.
Y GOAT L L I B Tavern & Grill
a centennial
celebration
est. 1934
CHEEZBORGER. BUTT IN ANYTIME!
CHEEZBORGER. CHEEZBORGER. 700 E. Grand (312)670-8789
430 N. Michigan (lower level) (312)222-1525 | billygoattavern.com
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We cordially invite you to come back next year to join us as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Navy Pier. As part of the redevelopment, every aspect of the pier is being re-shaped to give visitors an even more exciting and memorable experience. See you soon!
in the
loop
Chicago’s Loop neighborhood is always buzzing with activity but all throughout the holiday season the Loop is THE place to be. We have created a special holiday itinerary for you that even Saint Nick would be proud of. Now get out and enjoy!
Block 37
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With so many fun and exciting things to do and see, we suggest you start early. Grab an early breakfast by heading to Loncheria inside Latinicity on the 3rd floor of Block 37 (108 N. State) for a bacon and egg torta. Local fashion house Akira is just downstairs and offers contemporary clothing and accessories for even the most discerning clientele. Continue the shopping pursuit at two of Chicago’s oldest retailers, tobacconist, Iwan Ries & Co. and numismatics specialist Harlan J. Berk.
Need a mid-morning snack? If you let your nose lead the way, you will certainly end up at Garrett Popcorn Shops. A Chicago institution for over 65 years with 5 locations throughout the Loop. Make sure to order the Garrett Mix – don’t say we didn’t warn you though.
Now it’s time for some fun. Head over to the Willis Tower and get out on The Ledge to see what it’s like to look 1353 feet straight down. Fear of heights? Not to worry, you can stay “grounded” aboard a narrated Big Bus city tour. The 2-hour hop-on, hop-off tour departs from the base of Willis Tower. Make sure to hop-off near Millennium Park where you can take a photo at The Bean, do some figure eights on the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, as well as see Chicago’s official Christmas Tree. continued on page 31...
a storied tradition Gazing at the windows… A visit with Santa… Lunch at the Walnut Room…
inside / out While the experience might start outside as you gaze at the joyous holiday windows or iconic green clock, the real excitement begins as you step inside. Nine gloriously decorated floors offer just about anything and everything you can imagine.
Although the name has changed, the customs continue to remain the same. Macy’s (111 N. State, 312.781.1000) FlagShip Store still features many of the special holiday customs that The Marshall Field and Co. Department Store began over 115 years ago. From the whimsically decorated holiday windows and Mrs. Hering’s Pot Pie under the towering Great Tree in the legendary Walnut Room, to a visit to the 5th floor’s Santaland, no trip to the Windy City is complete without “meeting under the clock”
the
walnut room
Ask any Chicagoan worth their salt what is at the top of their holiday bucket-list, the answer will always come back – lunch at the Walnut Room. This 7th floor institution is celebrating it’s 125th anniversary and is the oldest restaurant within a department store. Save room for the Frango Kahula Hot Chocolate
Lunchtime! Of course, the classic choice is Mrs. Hering’s Pot-Pie at the Walnut Room. But, you are trying to fit as much in as possible so the hour plus wait is not in the cards. Three great options are just around the corner. The Italian Village (71 W. Monroe, 312.332.7005) is actually three restaurants under one roof. The Village serves classic Northern Italian specialties and Vivere is it’s counterpart serving contemporary interpretations in a cutting edge atmosphere. La Cantina will be open for lunch on select dates throughout December so please call for reservations. Another fantastic lunch option is Catch 35 (35 W. Wacker, 312.346.3500).
Order the Chilean Sea Bass or Yellow Fin Tuna. You can’t leave the Windy City without trying our pizza and Pizano’s (61 E. Madison, 312.236.1777) serves a thin crust version that was voted #1 by the Oprah Winfrey Show. Need to “rest” a little after your meal, next on the agenda is the Gene Siskel Film Center (164 N. State, 312.846.2800) to catch an independent or art-house film. Continue on your cultural and artistic bend by seeing The Flamingo by Alexander Calder located at Kluczynski Plaza (230 S. Dearborn) and the famous Picasso sculpture at Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington). continued on page 33...
the
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boot is back!
While taking in the majesty of the Picasso sculpture it’s a little hard not to notice the open-air market all throughout Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington). Inspired by the Christkindlmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, which dates back to 1545, Chicago’s version is no less festive. Dozens of vendors offer unique products such as holiday ornaments, clocks, clothing and German nik-naks. You can’t say you’ve been to Christkindlmarket without having a few glasses of Glühwein (a spiced wine) and luckily for you, it will be served once again in the famous souvenir boot! Lastly, make sure to catch one of the Magical holiday shows like A Christmas Carol playing at the Goodman Theatre (170 N. Dearborn, 312.443.3811) or The Nutcracker, playing at the Auditorium Theatre (50 E. Congress, 800.982.2787) from December 4-27.
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner After Theatre • Food • Wine Spirits • Espresso • Desserts Open daily at 7:30am The Fine Arts Building 412 S. Michigan Avenue (312)939-7855 and now open at
1150 S. Wabash Avenue (312)583-9940 www.artists-cafe.com
schöne ferien There is old school… and then there’s The Berghoff
21st ammendment President Franklin D. Roosevelt ratified the 21st amendment repealing prohibition (thank goodness) and The Berghoff (17 W. Adams, 312.427.3170) was soon awarded Chicago’s liquor license #1. Make sure to order a house-made Bavarian pretzel alongside your Dortwunder lager or Winter Ale.
Arriving from Dortmund, Germany in 1870, Herman Joseph Berghoff began brewing his now famous beer, but it wasn’t until the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893 that the Berghoff legend took hold. Visitors to the Fair were so taken with the delicious lager that Herman decided to open the Berghoff Café. The bar sold a beer for 5 cents and included a sandwich for free. Fast-forward 100 plus years where you will find Herman’s great-granddaughter Carlyn, who is now in-charge of the family legacy.
tradition Tradition is certainly the only way to reasonably account for the ongoing practice known as the Pickle in the Tree (or Die Weihnachtsgurke). A distinct holiday custom for generations of Chicagoans, this odd but beloved German custom continues a long and storied run this year at The Berghoff.
It goes something like this: as families again gather to feast on classic German dishes such as weiner schnitzel and sauerbraten, or to take advantage of the Berghoff’s special holiday prix fixe menu, the kids (12 and under) take to the restaurant’s Christmas tree, combing through the thicket in search of the elusive gherkin. Those lucky enough to find a pickle ornament hidden in the pine (no real pickles are harmed in this quest) are rewarded with a free mug of signature Berghoff root beer and a holiday memory that’s unlikely to be replicated anywhere else in town. It’s a Merry Christmas – or Frohliche Weihnachten, to be more precise – German, by way of Chicago.
holidays
on stage
Christmas Schooner
Tis the season to celebrate everyone’s favorite Peanuts pals as they dig past the commercialized gimmicks of presents and decorations to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas. Through a pageant and a spindly tree, Charlie Brown and friends bring the holiday spirit back to life for families once again! Tickets $16-$32. A Charlie Brown Christmas performs every Saturday and Sunday at 10am. Broadway Playhouse (175 E. Chestnut, 800.775.2000).
one fateful
night
There are jam sessions and then there is Million Dollar Quartet! Playing at the Apollo Theater (2540 N. Lincoln, 773.935.6100), the show is based upon events from the actual recording session on December 4, 1956 at Sun Records studio in Memphis. The “Father of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Sam Phillips discovered each member of the quartet and played an important role in the impromptu (and ONLY) jam session between Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins. This high energy musical revue captures the essence of its four iconic performers through live renditions of classic hits like “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Hound Dog” and many more. In the process, it transports audiences back to the golden age of rock music like few other experiences can. Unfortunately all good things must come to an end at some point and the last block of tickets is now on on-sale as the show must close on January 17, 2016. Fortunately for you tickets are still available including seats for the 3000th performance that also celebrates the 59th anniversary of the historic night!
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photo by Suzanne Santos
Million Dollar Quartet
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: LIVE IN CHICAGO!
American Blues Theater 2257 N. Lincoln, 773.404.7336 American Blues Theater presents the cherished holiday tale It’s a Wonderful Life as a live and warm-hearted 1940s radio broadcast, complete with a cast of eight, original music, and live sound effects – plus milk and cookies after every show! Now at 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. Tickets ($19-$49) available online at AmericanBluesTheater.com
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SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE CASE OF THE CHRISTMAS GOOSE
Raven Theatre 6157 N. Clark, 773.338.2177 Sherlock Holmes and his trusty sidekick Dr. Watson are back on the case for the fifth year at the Raven Theatre. Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Goose follows Holmes and Watson as they hunt a jewel thief after finding a rare gem inside a Christmas Goose. Performances Dec. 9 through Jan. 3. Tickets ($19-$24) call 773.338.2177
CHRISTMAS SCHOONER
Mercury Theater 3745 N. Southport, 773.325.1700 The whole family will enjoy this heart-warming story of the first Christmas tree ship and the family who risked their lives to fill Chicago with the Christmas spirit. This critically acclaimed production features a powerful, moving story, an exquisite score of original music and traditional holiday favorites, and a company of 25 actors and musicians.
TWIST YOUR DICKENS
Goodman Theatre 170 N. Dearborn, 312.443.3800 The Second City and Goodman Theatre partnership Twist Your Dickens returns this holiday season to offer a unique and hilarious adaptation of A Christmas Carol. Scrooge, Tiny Tim and the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future run rampant in this parody featuring Second City cast members. Performances Dec. 4-27. Tickets ($15-$45) call 312.443.3800.
IT’S A WONDERFUL SANTA LAND MIRACLE NUTCRACKING CHRISTMAS STORY... JEWS WELCOME!
Stage 773 1225 W. Belmont, 773.327.5252 A show jam-packed full of Christmas nonsense! Back by popular demand, Stage 773 combines dozens of the world's most beloved holiday stories in one exciting and hilarious show. Take a seasonal adventure with singing, dancing, sketch-comedy, and non-holiday specific eggnog. This is the holiday show for comedy lovers!
CHRISTMAS BINGO
Royal George Theatre 1641 N. Halsted, 312.988.9000 Vicki Quade, co-creator of the smash hit Late Nite Catechism, invites you to get into the Christmas spirit with her hilarious holiday show Christmas Bingo: It's a Ho-Ho-Holy Night. Brush up on your Yuletide trivia, because with this uniquely interactive show, you'll be playing for actual prizes. 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 27 through Jan. 3. Tickets ($30) available online at Nuns4Fun.com
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chi-townrising.com
2015 holiday
gift guide Harley fans will love this genuine Heritage Nylon Bomber Jacket ($140-$150) available at Chicago Harley Davidson. 668 N Michigan, 312.335.8000.
Looking for that one-of-a-kind gift? At Bucketfeet each pair of shoes (prices vary) is designed by an individual artist, to tell a unique story! 108 N. State level 1, 312.631.3201.
Vintage in design and contemporary in styling, these durable, high-gloss cars (prices vary) make great gifts! Available at Galt Toys 900 N. Michigan level 5, 312.440.9550.
Give her the gift of luxury and comfort with this beautiful, soft MatelassĂŠ long robe ($388) from EnchantĂŠ. 900 N. Michigan level 3, 312.951.7290.
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Surprise her with this beautiful Mary Walter color-block a-symmetrical cashmere sweater ($250) and Amet & Ladoue scarf ($130) only at Mary Walter. 33 W. Superior, 312.266.1094.
Steal a smooch under this Mistletoe Kissing Crystal ($15) from Mary Mary. 706 N. Dearborn, 312.654.8100. 15% off with coupon on page 20 of the Holiday Activity Guide!
Capture her heart with this North Star Pendant crafted in 18k yellow gold with 14k rose and white gold, set with a .20 ct oval diamond ($1850) available at Goldsmith. 900 N. Michigan level 4, 312.751.1986.
Make the holiday season even merrier with these Milk Glass Snowmen ($95) at Lotton Gallery. 900 N. Michigan level 6, 312.664.6203.
If you’re looking for rare and unique, you be hard pressed to beat this Crucifixion Period Roman Iron Nail - 1st Century AD ($50) at Harlan Berk. 31 N. Clark, 312.609.0018.
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