Celebrating the
Holidays! Holiday Activity Guide
Christmas Around the World The Museum of Science and Industry’s timehonored celebration, Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light, returns for its 68th year. This holiday tradition has grown to include more than 50 trees and displays decorated by volunteers from Chicago’s ethnic communities to reflect holiday traditions from around the globe. Holidays of Light, a multicultural display of holiday traditions that celebrate light or enlightenment, such as Diwali and Hanukkah, also illuminates the Museum’s halls during this time. Please check the www.msichicago.org, for a complete listing of events and extended holiday hours. 57th and Lake Shore. Mon-Sat 9:30am-4pm, Sun 11am-4pm. Adults $13, seniors $12, children 3-11 $9. 773/684-1414.
Winter Wonderland Families looking for a budget-friendly way to enjoy the holiday season will not want to miss this year’s celebration 1,000 feet above the Mag Mile at the John Hancock Observatory. Their much-anticipated Winter Wonderland is back with a full schedule of jam-packed weekends including visits from Santa. This year, Kids Go FREE every day with adult admission, and families get a FREE photo with Santa every weekend. 875 N. Michigan. 9am-11pm. Adults (12+) $15, kids are FREE. 888/875-VIEW. Don’t forget to check out the complimentary Hancock Holiday Mountain Railroad display upon entering John Hancock Center.
Christkindlmarket The sights and smells of a traditional German Christmas market return to Chicago from November 26th through December 24th at the 14th Annual Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza. Browse authentic handmade gifts including ornaments, candles, beer steins, cukoo-clocks, European chocolates, toys, and more from more than 50 vendor booths. Enjoy a steaming cup of cider, hot chocolate or spiced wine alongside many other delicacies including bratwurst, pretzels and much more. Admire the city's towering Christmas tree, or even pay a visit to Santa. 50 W. Washington. Sun-Thu 11am-8pm, Fri-Sat 11am-9pm. FREE. 312/494-2175.
Ice Skate at Millennium Park Lace up your skates for a day of figure-eights at Millennium Park’s McCormick Tribune Ice Rink. In its ninth season, the ice rink is free and open to the public, and skate rental is available for $10. Mon-Thu noon-8pm, Fri noon-10pm, Sat 10am-10pm, Sun 10am-9pm. Michigan and Washington. 312/742-1168.
Winter Wonderfest
Visit Santa
Experience the wonder of winter in the Windy City at Navy Pier’s Winter WonderFest. The seasonal transformation features rides, huge inflatable slides, train rides, indoor ice-skating rink, climbing wall, and much, much more. Stop by for a visit with Santa at their Holiday Village. 600 E. Grand. Dec. 4-Dec. 19. Sun-Thu 10am-5pm, FriSat 10am-10pm. Dec. 20-Jan. 3. Sun-Thu 10am8pm, Fri-Sat 10am-10pm. Basic Activity wristbands are $16, Premium wristbands, including ice skating, are $19.Call for special holiday hours. 312/595-PIER.
Merrymakers visiting Chicago will find more rotund bearded men than they can shake a peppermint stick at. On the Magnificent Mile, find the big guy perched high above the city streets at the John Hancock Observatory (875 N. Michigan; 888/875-VIEW), and welcoming shoppers at The 900 Shops (900 N. Michigan; 312/915-3916). Meanwhile, the jolly old elf also covers the State Street shopping corridor with a post at Macy’s Santaland (111 N. State; 312/781-1000), along with a prime spot under the beautifully decorated 60-foot tree at Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington; 312/744-3315). You’ll also find old Kris Kringle greeting the kids outside of Winter Wonderfest on Navy Pier (600 E. Grand; 312/595-PIER) and bringing some joy to the animals during the ZooLights Festival at Lincoln Park Zoo (2200 N. Cannon; 312/742-2000).
A Christmas Carol Consistently voted one of the Midwest’s top-tier holiday events, Goodman Theatre’s annual production of Charles Dickens’ 1843 novella, A Christmas Carol, returns for its 32nd season. 170 N. Dearborn. Nov. 20-Dec. 31. $15-$74. For tickets and show times, call 312/443-3800.
Holiday Windows Do a lot more than holiday shopping this season at Macy’s on State Street. Enjoy tea in the Walnut Room while experiencing the wonder of the 45-foot Great Tree decked with nearly 10,000 lights and 1,200 ornaments; walk State Street to see the 42nd Annual Animated Christmas Windows; and visit Santa through December 24 on the fifth floor.111 N. State. 312/781-1000.
ZooLights Enter a winter wonderland illuminated by over two million lights at Lincoln Park Zoo’s seasonal ZooLights extravaganza presented by ComEd. Visit the polar bears and penguins while enjoying the laser light show, ice carvings, and a special visit from Santa. 2200 N. Cannon. Nov. 27-Dec. 13 open Fri-Sun only, Dec.18-Jan.3 open nightly. 5pm9pm. FREE. 312/742-2000.
Wonderland Express
Snow Much Fun
Wonderland Express chugs into the Chicago Botanic Garden and transforms the 385-acre oasis into a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, garden-scale trains, miniature Chicago landmarks, exquisite horticulture displays and indoor snowfall. New fun outdoor activities this year include iceskating and snowshoeing. 1000 Lake Cook Road in suburban Glencoe. Nov. 27-Jan. 3. 10am-7pm. Adults $10, children/seniors $8. 847/835-5440.
The Great Hall of the Chicago Children’s Museum turns into a winter wonderland with Snow Much Fun. Kids can make figure-eights in their socks with seasonal favorite Pretend You’re on Ice, build a fort out of “ice” blocks with Snow Fort and dress Frosty in the season’s latest trends with Snowman Fashionista. 700 E. Grand. Fri-Wed 10am-5pm, Thu 10am-8pm. Adults and children $10, seniors $9. 312/527-1000.
A Dilly of a Tradition
Art and Faith of the Créche
A distinct holiday custom for generations, the Pickle in the Pine has had a long and storied run at the venerable Berghoff Restaurant. Each year, children are invited to comb through the lighted branches of the decorated tree in the Century Room to find the pickle ornament. Children under 12 who are lucky enough to find the pickle will be treated to a FREE root beer float. 17 W. Adams. 312/427-3170.
Caroling at Cloud Gate Sing your heart out every Friday evening in Millennium Park with Caroling at Cloud Gate when Chicago’s top choral groups are joined by Chicagoans and visitors alike for a holiday singalong. Complimentary coffee and hot cocoa courtesy of Caribou Coffee. Michigan & Washington. Nov. 27-Dec. 18. 6pm. FREE. 312/742-1168.
The story of Mary, Joseph and Jesus has great appeal throughout the world. See how artists from across the globe have depicted the Nativity through a cultural lens that incorporates native clothing, art and architecture at Loyola University Museum of Art’s holiday exhibit Art and Faith of the Créche: The Collection of James and Emilia Govan. 820 N. Michigan. Tue 11am-8pm (free admission), Wed-Sun 11am-6pm. Adults $6, seniors $5. 312/915-7600.
A Carriage Ride See Chicago in all its holiday splendor aboard an old-fashioned handsome cab ride perfect for couples or the whole family. Antique Coach & Carriage departs from the SE corner of Michigan & Huron. $80 per hour, $40 per half hour. Make a reservation today, 773/735-9400.
Mag Mile Shopping The holidays on Michigan Avenue means one thing and that is mega shopping! Shop the magnificent one-mile, tree-lined street this holiday season for the latest and greatest offering carried at the corporate flagship stores and specialty shops lining the famous avenue.
Winter WonderLoop Experience holiday magic in the Loop with Winter WonderLoop. Throughout the holiday season the Loop will feature a delightful mix of new holiday events and traditional festivities. Visit www.WinterWonderLoop.com for a complete list of events, promotions and discounts.
Star of Wonder at Adler Planetarium Rediscover the story behind the “Star of Bethlehem” this holiday season with the Adler Planetarium’s Star of Wonder, the museum’s longest-running sky show and one of Chicago’s favorite holiday offerings. 1300 S. Lake Shore. Mon-Fri 11:30am, 1:30pm. Sat-Sun 10:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm. $15-$19 (includes admission, an audio tour and one sky show). 312/922-STAR.
American Girl’s Holiday Windows Celebrate the season with your little girl with a trip to the American Girl Place flagship store in Water Tower Place on Michigan Avenue. Their elaborate Holiday Window display is sure to get you into the holiday spirit. This year’s window theme is Twinkle Twinkle Inner Star – a play on the company’s mission to celebrate a girl’s inner star and encourage her to be her best. 835 N. Michigan. FREE. 877/247-5223.
Hot Cocoa at Hershey’s Chicago Warm up at Hershey’s Chicago with a mug of rich, freshly brewed hot chocolate. 822 N. Michigan. 312/337-7711.
Afternoon Tea Relax in the elegant surroundings of the Palm Court at the Drake Hotel. Their traditional Tea Lobby features live harp music performed 365 days a year and a large selection of Palm Court blended teas. Pamper your palate with delectable flavors like Tropical Green and White Jasmine served alongside an assortment of gourmet finger sandwiches, pastries and scones. 140 E. Walton. Adults $32, children 4-12 $17. Reservations are recommended, 312/787-2200.
CH I A R O S C U ! RO ART FOR MORE THAN JUST YOUR WALLS
CHIAROSCURO WATER TOWER PLACE – LEVEL 2 835 N MICHIGAN AVE 312 988 9253 • WWW.CHIAROART.COM
2009 Holiday Activity Guide
Present Perfect While it may be better to give than receive, finding that perfect present for everyone on your holiday shopping list can prove far more difficult. Take it easy this year with a trip to Water Tower Place (835 N. Michigan; 312/440-3166) located at the northern end of Chicago’s favorite one-mile, tree-lined retail retreat – the Magnificent Mile. This stunning eight-level atrium is a premiere one-stop-shopping destination for locals and visitors alike featuring more than 100 shopping favorites like American Girl Place, Banana Republic, Victoria’s Secret and Macy’s as well as distinctive specialty shops and boutiques– all in one convenient location. For high fashion at its brightest head to Custo Barcelona (Water Tower Place, 2nd Floor; 312/9813904). Inspired by California style by way of Spain, Custo Barcelona fea- This Dominik Black, long sleeve knit top will keep her warm and in the tures vibrant height of fashion this season. ($158) colors, interestAvailable at Custo Barcelona. For additional one-of-a-kind gift ing textures, ideas, visit our holiday gift guide. hand-stitched detailing, original patterns and innovative styles that will make anyone stand out in a crowd. Give the gift of fashion when you pick up something from this award-winning, internationally coveted designer brand this holiday season. Find one-of-a-kind luxury jewelry and accessories at TOUS (Water Tower Place; 312/640-8860). Located on the 5th floor, this Barcelona-based family-owned company, which had its inception back in 1920, features chic, sophisticated designs that make the perfect gift for that special someone. Shop a large selection of charms, chains, rings, earrings, watches and more inlaid with only the highest quality semi-precious stones. Accessories
include fragrances, scarves, handbags and more, all at affordable prices. For colorful gift items that are truly unique, take a look inside Chiarascuro (Water Tower Place; 312/988-9253). Located on the 2nd floor, this gallery features vibrant works of contemporary urban art from more than 200 artists and artisans, including Chicago gifts, kitchenware, jewelry, and decorative pieces, all with a big splash of color. The gallery also offers customized and personalized gifts as well as gift-wrapping for everything from handcrafted clocks and furniture to bar and tabletop designs. Continue the one-of-a-kind shopping theme with a trip to Angelique Art Gift Gallery (6 W. Maple; 312/787-3671), just steps off the mile. Featuring a fresh and frequently-updated collection of hand-crafted jewelry, pottery, artwork and more from artists spanning the globe, this Chicago gem is a gift givers dream come true. Angelique’s also boasts unique gifts from esteemed art organizations like New York’s MOMA and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Featuring products designed to stimulate and strengthen the brain...
Play your way to a healthier brain! www.marblesthebrainstore.com 55 E Grand Ave, Chicago | (312)494-7769 4745 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago | (773)784-7991 4999 Westfield Old Orchard Shopping Center, Skokie | (847)673-9000
2009 Holiday Activity Guide
Located on the southern end of the mile, Marbles: The Brain Store (55 E. Grand; 312/494-7769) is a must-stop-shop specializing in products that stimulate and strengthen the brain. Outsmart your age with games, books, puzzles and software programs designed to give you a mental workout. Marbles encourages shoppers to sit down and test their memory, coordination, critical thinking, visual and word skills right there at the store. Whether you’re looking for an extraordinary centerpiece, the perfect frame to complement a family photo, an unusual knickknack to display on a mantle or a present for the hostess who has everything, look no further than P.O.S.H. (613 N. State; 312/280-1602). Just a few blocks west of the mile on State Street, here, you’ll find store shelves brimming with international treasures found in old American china warehouses and antique markets including teapots and tea towels, candles and candelabras, books, coasters and postcards.
2009 Holiday Activity Guide
The Glass of Charles Lotton Lotton Gallery 900 N. Michigan Ave. Level 6 Chicago, IL (312)664-6203
Visit our studio 45 minutes south of Chicago 24760 Country Lane Crete, IL 60417 (800)661-0950 www.lottonglass.com • www.lottongallery.com
Holiday Gift Guide
one-of-a-kind gifts!
This classic heavy–weight B-3 Bomber WWII Sheepskin Bomber Jacket is a winner in both warmth and style. ($649) Available at The Boeing Store, 100 North Riverside Plaza, 312/544-3100.
Shaken, not stirred. Make killer drinks this holiday season with these cool chrome-plated and silver-plated Vintage 1950s Cocktail Shakers. (Starting at $75 each). Available at P.O.S.H., 613 N. State, 312/280-1602.
Magical memories come to life this holiday season with TOUS’ Silver Mini Bubble Bear. ($69) Available at TOUS in Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michigan, 312/640-8860.
Brighten up any decor with this beautifullycrafted ceramic teapot designed by pop culture icon Romero Britto. ($58) Available at Chiaroscuro in Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michigan, 2nd Floor. 312/988-9253.
Think it. Move it. Believe it. Navigate the levitating foam ball through a mind-bending obstacle course as quickly as you can with Mindflex. ($119.99) Available at Marbles: The Brain Store, 55 E. Grand, 312/494-7769.
Holiday Gift Guide Design meets history with these Authentic Gold Plated Transit Token Cufflinks. ($80) Available at www.ctagifts.com, 877/CTA-9877.
One of hundreds of German ornaments that can be purchased from “Lauschaer Glas Kugelhaus” at Christkindlmarket, the largest traditional German market outside of Germany. ($10) Available at Daley Plaza at 50 W. Washington, 312/4942175, www.christkindlmarket.com.
Add some whimsy to your holiday decorations with these Colorful Glass Critters (5”-7”). ($16 each) Available at Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon, 312/742-2000.
Pick up this uniquely slim Smooth Magenta Nikon Coolpix S220 digital camera for your shutterbug this holiday season. ($150) Available at Central Camera, 230 S. Wabash, 312/427-5580.
Join the fight against world hunger when you purchase an Imagine There’s No Hunger Charity Bracelet (minimum $1 donation) and Limited Edition Collectors Pin. ($12) Available at Hard Rock Cafe, 63 W. Ontario, 312/943-2252.
Giving has never felt or tasted better. When you purchase a Signed Edition of Ernie Banks – 512 – Chardonnay – Paso Robles 2007, a portion of the proceeds benefit the Live Above & Beyond Foundation. ($49) Available at Harry Caray’s, 33 W. Kinzie, 312/828-0966.
The perfect stocking stuffer. Based on Danilo Cuevas’ original oil paintings, each magnet is handmade. ($3) Available at Chicago “5” Souvenirs, 454 N. Columbus, NBC Tower, Lobby Level, 312/467-9537, www.printedcanvas.com.
Carlyn Berghoff shares a new collection of classic dishes from the café founded by her great-grand-father more than 110 years ago with The Berghoff Café Cookbook: Berghoff Family Recipes for Simple, Satisfying Food (Andrew McMeel Publishing, $24.99). Available in bookstores nationwide and at The Berghoff Restaurant, 17 W. Adams, 312/427-3170.
Find these expertly handcrafted Genuine Hawaiian Koa Sea Turtles Bracelets ($25), Warrior Dagger with Genuine Sharks Teeth ($26.50), Letter Opener ($24), and Surfboard Pendant ($16.80) at Angelique Art Gift Gallery, 6 W. Maple 312/787-3671.
Garrett Popcorn Shops, celebrating its 60th anniversary as a Chicago tradition, “Perfectly Wraps” the 2009 holiday season with red and green signature-striped and snowflake –adorned tins. ($24-$189 1, 2, 3 1/2 AND 6 1/2 gallon sizes) Available at 625 N. Michigan, 888/476-7267.
This Chrissa Doll is 18” tall with blue eyes and dark-brown hair with highlights. She arrives wearing a faux-wrap dress, a floral ribbon bracelet, sparkly purple shoes, and lavender underwear. Includes the Chrissa paperback book. ($95) Snow Outfit ($30) and Snow Gear ($32) are extra. Available at American Girl Place, in Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michiagn, 877/247-5223.
Holidays...
on stage! The Classics Throughout its 32-year production at the Goodman Theatre, the classic holiday treat, A Christmas Carol, has been hailed by the Chicago Sun-Times as “a joyous present for the entire family.” Serving as an analysis of the priceless gifts of family and friendship, this Dickens classic runs from Nov 20 through Dec 31 in the Albert Theatre. 170 N. Dearborn. $20-$70. For tickets and show times call 312/443-3800. Be enchanted by the elegance and grace of Robert Joffrey’s timeless production of The Nutcracker, playing at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt
2009 Holiday Activity Guide
University. A feast for the eyes and senses; this holiday classic features unforgettable characters as well as the live musical accompaniment of the beloved Tchaikovsky score. 50 E. Congress. Dec 12-30. $25-$125. Buy tickets online, by phone or at the University box office. 800/982-2787. When a white-bearded gentleman claims to be the real Santa Claus, he brings about a genuine Miracle on 34th Street, spreading a wave of love throughout New York City, convincing a divorced, cynical single mother, her somber daughter, and the entire state of New York that Santa Claus is no myth. Performing at Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont. Nov. 20-Jan. 3. Fri 8pm, Sat 2:30pm & 8pm, Sun 2:30pm. $40. 773/327-5252.
Adults Only – Shamefully Funny! Have you always wondered: Did Baby Jesus get to ride in the sleigh? Was Santa in the manger with the Holy Family? Did the elves guide the Three Wise Men? Holy Holidays! Your favorite nun will answer these questions and more in the new Christmas Holiday comedy, Mother Superior’s Ho-Ho-Holy Night. Playing at Royal George Theatre, 1641 N. Halsted. Nov. 28-Jan. 3. Sat at 8pm, Sun at 3pm. $30. 312/988-9000.
World War II is going poorly for Hitler and the Nazi party. So the Fueher decides the best way to turn the tide is to kidnap Santa Claus and take control of Christmas and all of Santa’s magical secrets. The only thing standing in the way of their evil plot is a misunderstood elf, a misfit toy and a couple of hit men reindeer. Will that be enough to save Christmas? Find out when the cast of The Hot Karl takes you through a twisted tale in their latest holiday musical production, Santa Claus Conquers The Nazis. Performing at ComedySportz Theatre. 929 W. Belmont. Nov. 21Dec. 19. Sat. at midnight. $10. 773/549-8080.
Kid-Friendly The Emerald City Theater Company is celebrating the season with a rockin’ holiday treat from Disney recording artist Ralph Covert (Ralph’s World) and Jeff Award winning playwright G. Riley Mills. A Nutty Nutcracker Christmas is a fun, fresh contemporary twist on the classic holiday tale and features unique holiday hits like, “The Wind-Up Toy Ballet” and “Let’s Ruin Christmas.” Kids 3 and up. Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln. Adults $15, children $12. 773/935-6100.
The Snow Queen, whose kisses are ice, takes her audience on a wild musical ride into the realm of myth and dream, where a talking reindeer, wooden soldiers, an enchantress and a robber girl help lovely Gerda find her frozen friend Kai. Victory Gardens Biograph Theatre, 2433 N. Lincoln. Nov. 28-Dec. 28. $37-$48. 773/871-3000.
Bah-Humbug! Hershey Felder performs a tour-de-force presentation with his Composer Sonata trilogy Beethoven, As I Knew Him at Drury Lane Water Tower Place. Thru Dec. 31. 175 E. Chestnut. $55-$60. For tickets and show times call 312/642-2000. Be the first to see Banana Shpeel – the brand new show from Cirque du Soleil! Propelled by crazy humor and intense choreography the show follows a succession of adventures led by Schmelky, the irritable and over-the-top theatre producer. The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State. $23-$98. 800/745-3000. Inspired by an actual event, Million Dollar Quartet captures the infectious spirit of a singular moment when four of the music industry’s most extraordinary talents, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley, came together for one of the most memorable nights in music history. Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln. $25-$70. 773/935-6100. Don’t miss the new musical The Addams Family as it makes its pre-Broadway world premiere at Chicago’s Ford Center for the Performing Arts, Oriental Theatre with two-time Tony Award winners Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth as Gomez and Morticia. 24 W. Randolph. $28-$105. 800/775-2000. 2009 Holiday Activity Guide
CHRISTMAS In THE LOOP IN Whether you’re coming from near or far, Chicago is the perfect destination for those in search of holiday cheer. Every year around this time, urban day-trippers and out-of-towners alike make special plans to jump in the car or hop a train and head out for a big day of holiday fun in the city. And in Chicago, it’s more or less understood that Christmas in “the city” means Christmas in the Loop – that iconic, El-encircled hub of downtown that still provides the classic holiday experiences that have spanned generations. Of course, there are plenty of new attractions as well. Indeed, the Loop is no longer just a place to go to pay a parking ticket or spend a day on jury duty. Now you can catch a memorable show, grab a delicious meal, and best of all enjoy a magical holiday in the city.
CHRISTMAS CLASSICS In spite of all of the changes in the Loop, both old-timers and new visitors will be pleased to find plenty of classic holiday treasures from Chicago’s storied past still going strong. Although the name has changed, the tradition remains the same. You’ll still find crowds gathering around the vicinity of the old Marshall Field’s flagship store at 111 North State Street. Although the anchor of “That Great Street” (State’s familiar nickname) now carries the banner of East Coast chain Macy’s (312/781-1000), many of the former store’s signature holiday traditions have survived the retail changeover. From the whimsically decorated State Street windows to the massive Great Tree rising through multiple stories of the building’s main atrium to the long lines of families waiting for a prime table at the base of the tree in the Walnut Room restaurant, the memories of holidays past are alive and well. 2009 Holiday Activity Guide
Should the queue at the Walnut Room prove too intimidating, however, there are a number of other nostalgic holiday dining options nearby. For authentic German favorites – not to mention a chance to find the pickle ornament in the Christmas tree (go ahead, ask them) – head over to the venerable Berghoff Restaurant (17 W. Adams; 312/427-3170). Serving Chicago for over 110 years, this landmark restaurant, which is now operated by fourth generation restaurateur, caterer and cookbook author, Carlyn Berghoff, offers guests “tradition with a twist.” The new Berghoff features the “Berghoff classics” including their famous creamed spinach, spaetzles and red cabbage, sauerbraten, corned beef sandwiches, and Berghoff Dortmunder-style Beer alongside a delicious selection of contemporary bistro fare. Meanwhile, at 71 W. Monroe Street, the Capitanini family has been welcoming holiday revelers to the Italian Village Restaurants (312/332-7005) since 1927. Guests can choose from three distinct eateries including seafood specialties in the cellar space of La Cantina, sleek, upscale creations at the main-floor Vivere, and rustic favorites at the charming upstairs Village. This holiday season, children will receive a free toy with each kids meal purchased in the Village while adults are sure to enjoy the selection of special Winter Warm Up Drinks.
2009 Holiday Activity Guide
Christkindlmarket Chicago 2009
Open Daily November 26 through December 24 Sun-Thur: 11am to 8pm • Fri-Sat: 11am to 9pm
Located in the heart of Chicago on Daley Plaza (between Washington, Clark and Dearborn Street)
ADMISSION IS FREE! (312)494-2175 • www.christkindlmarket.com
2009 Holiday Activity Guide
NEW CHRISTMAS PRESENTS A more recent holiday tradition for many Loop visitors has been a trip downtown to see a show in the Downtown Theater District. Among the popular choices, especially at this time of year, are two genuine Chicago holiday landmarks – A Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theatre (312/443-3811) and the Joffrey Ballet’s Nutcracker at the Auditorium Theatre (800/982-2787). But those who prefer a non-holiday offering will find plenty to choose from as well, with everything from the crooning Jersey Boys at the Bank of America Theatre (800/982-2787) to the pre-Broadway yuks of The Addams Family at the Cadillac Palace (800/982-2787) to the re-imagined vaudeville of Cirque du Soleil’s Banana Shpeel at the Chicago Theatre (800/982-2787). Before or after the show, many theatergoers will likely set out in search of a unique gift or a delicious snack at one of the city’s younger holiday traditions like the 14-year-old Christkindlmarket (50 W. Washington; 312/494-2175). This open-air German-style market features over 50 food and craft vendors selling everything from bratwurst to blownglass ornaments, and provides the perfect setting for Chicago’s magnificent holiday tree at Daley Plaza. Beneath that tree, a line of anxious children is a sure sign you’ve come upon one of the city’s most beloved holiday staples – Santa’s House (312/744-3315). Meanwhile, the manmade wonders of Millennium Park can capture a visitor’s attention at any time of year, but one area of the park that really sparkles when the mercury dips is the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, where aspiring Olympians, pint-sized shufflers, and hand-holding couples skate against the backdrop of Michigan Avenue’s imposing wall of skyscrapers. Now in its ninth season, it’s a postcard scene that simply cannot be replicated elsewhere in the city and one of the true joys of Chicago in winter. The ice rink is free and open to the public, and skate rental is available for $10. Mon-Thu noon-8pm, Fri
noon-10pm, Sat 10am-10pm, Sun 10am-9pm. Michigan and Washington. 312/742-1168. Whatever your preference – old or new – the Loop is the place to be for Chicago Christmas memories. Chicago Loop Alliance (CLA) invites guests to experience the magic in the Loop this holiday season through their newest marketing initiative – Winter WonderLoop. Your guide to all the holiday happenings in the Loop including new holiday events, traditional festivities, special discounts, promotions and packages.
Please visit WinterWonderLoop.com or look for their printed guide for daily specials and holiday offers!
2009 Holiday Activity Guide
A Taste of the
Holidays!
White Chocolate Mousse - The Berghoff
ON THE MENU
APPETIZER Samosa Crisp, deep-fried turnovers with seasoned potatoes and peas
Chef ’s Special Appetizer A tantalizing mixture of seikh kabab and chicken tikka with a seasoned tomato sauce and pan-fried
ENTRÉE Tandori Murg Spring chicken marinated in spiced yogurt and over a half-dozen seasonings then delicately roasted
Lamb Kadai Tender pieces of lamb cooked with ginger, tomato, onion, green chilies & curriander in an Indian wok
Sag Paneer Delicately flavored fresh spinach cooked with chunks of home-made cheese
Pyazi Paratha Unleavened bread stuffed with onions and cooked in a clay oven
2009 Holiday Activity Guide
GAYLORD 100 E. WALTON • (312) 664-1700 • WWW.GAYLORDIL.COM blend of traditional and innovative awaits you at Gaylord Fine Indian Cuisine. Whether you dine at their Downtown Chicago or Schaumburg locations, you will experience the finest food, which perfectly combines the ancient traditions and authentic flavors of India, fused exotically with a unique ethnic edge in a casually sophisticated ambiance. All served to you with a style of service rooted in the finest Eastern traditions. Lunch buffet: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun noon-3pm. Dinner: Sun-Thu 5pm9:30pm, Fri-Sat 5pm-10pm.
A
ON THE MENU
APPETIZER Seared Duck Pot Stickers With light cucumber slaw, China blue soy infused lingonberry, and chili oil reduction
Stuffed Mushrooms Oven roasted mushroom caps filled with Berghoff ’s famous creamed spinach, topped with Parmesan cheese
THE BERGHOFF 17 W. ADAMS • (312) 427-3170 • WWW.THEBERGHOFF.COM xperience great food and a piece of Chicago history this holiday season at The Berghoff. Serving Chicago for over 110 years, this landmark restaurant offers guests "tradition with a twist." Operated by fourth generation restaurateur, caterer and cookbook author, Carlyn Berghoff, guest will find traditional German dishes and Dortmunder-style beer that made the restaurant famous alongside new contemporary sensations in the heart of Chicago’s Loop. Restaurant: Mon-Fri 11am-9pm, Sat 11am-10pm, closed Sun. Lower Level Café: Mon-Fri 11am-2pm. Lunch Counter: Mon-Fri 10:45am-1:30pm.
E
ENTRÉE Herman Berghoff ’s Old Fashion Pot Roast In a rich brown gravy served with old fashion whipped potatoes and mixed veggies
Geschnetzeltes A veal ragout served with mashed potatoes. A Berghoff Traditional dish.
DESSERT White Chocolate Mousse
2009 Holiday Activity Guide
ZooLights - Lincoln Park Zoo
Happy Holidays!