KEY This Week in Chicago, 2018 Holiday Activity Guide

CELEBRATING THE

Holidays 2018 HOLIDAY ACTIVITY GUIDE

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WINTER WONDERFEST Navy Pier’s annual holiday celebration is perfect for the whole family We’d like to welcome you to Chicago during this holiday season, and our annual Holiday Activity Guide is designed to showcase the seasonal best of what the city has to offer.

Sure, the weather may require an extra layer of clothing than most would prefer, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t an impressive list of exhibits, activities, stores, restaurants and performances to entertain you.

It’s just that kind of town, so let KEY This Week in Chicago’s Holiday Activity Guide assist you in making the most of your stay.

One of the must-see events this holiday season is the Fifth Third Bank Winter Wonderland at Navy Pier. As if Navy Pier wasn’t impressive This Week in Chicago, Inc. 222 W. Ontario Street Suite #420, Chicago, Illinois 60654 phone 312-943-0838 fax: 312-664-6113 keymagazinechicago.com twitter.com/KEYmagazine @KEYChicago

enough on its own — which it is, given the Chicago Children’s Museum, Shakespeare Theatre, dozens of restaurants and activities and events available year-round — millions of families have made Winter Wonderland part of their annual holiday tradition.

This beloved event lasts five weeks and is made up of an incredible 170,000 square feet of Christmas-themed activities, carnival rides, skating rinks, slides and more. It is, without question, Chicago’s biggest winter playground.

Winter Wonderland runs Nov. 30-Jan. 6.

Additional information and tickets available at NavyPier.org

Publisher Walter L. West III

Editorial Contributors Mark Loehrke

Account Manager Jean Lieber

Office Manager Nancy Vargas

Editorial Director Trent Modglin

Chairman & CEO Wally West

2018 Holiday Activity Guide

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Holiday Happenings

Chicago Trolley Lights Tour Christmas Around the World exhibit at the Museum of Science & Industry

This popular exhibit began back in 1942 with a single tree. Today, the annual celebration features a four-story Grand Tree that is surrounded by a forest of more than 50 other smaller trees and vibrant displays to represent holiday traditions from around the globe. Live holiday dance and choral performances, more than 30,000 lights and fake snowfalls add to the spirit of the season for visitors. Insider’s tip: Soak up as much of this incredible museum as possible, especially the WWII U-Boat exhibit.

Christmas Around the World is open through Jan. 6.

5700 S. Lake Shore Dr. MSIChicago.org

CTA Holiday Train and Bus

CARRIAGE RIDES

This is the 27th year of the CTA Holiday Train — a holiday tradition unique to Chicago. Both the train and bus are in-service vehicles that operate as part of regular service, so space is limited. You can track the whereabouts of Santa using CTA train tracker. Insider’s tip: Photos with Santa are available when exiting at your destination.

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Want to take in the lights of Michigan Avenue, get a personal tour or perhaps a ride from dinner to the theatre in a uniquely stylish way? Traditional horse-drawn carriage rides and a variety of horsedrawn narrated tours are available at Water Tower Park (806 N. Michigan Ave.) from Chicago Horse & Carriage (ChicagoCarriage.com), Great Lakes Horse & Carriage (GreatLakesHorseAndCarriage. com) and Antique Coach and Carriage (AntiqueCoach-Carriage.com).

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The Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Co. ushers in the holiday season with its annual Holiday Lights Tour beginning Nov. 23 and running through Dec. 23. The tour begins at the John Hancock Plaza tree (875 N. Michigan Ave.), showing off the thousands of glittering lights throughout the Magnificent Mile and makes two stops where you can hop off to explore the Christkindmarket downtown and ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo. Insider’s tip: Complimentary with each ticket is a pair of ZooLights 3D glasses and a bag of hot cocoa caramel crisp from Garrett Popcorn.

Advanced registration is highly recommended for this narrated two-and-a-half tour. Runs Nov. 23-25 and 30, Dec. 1-2 and Dec. 7-23. Adults: $32, kids: $20.

ChicagoTrolley.com

ZooLights and Winter WonderFest

Wonderland Express Head north to the beautiful Chicago Botanic Garden for their annual holiday exhibit featuring model trains, magical indoor snow and meticulously created miniature Chicago landmarks.

Carolers and ice carvings only add to the fun. Nov. 23-Jan. 6. 1000 Lake Cook Road in suburban Glencoe.

ChicagoBotanic.org

Lincoln Park Zoo, the popular (and free) zoo located in beautiful Lincoln Park, decorates its entire property with a mind-boggling 2.5 million colorful lights for ZooLights, adorning everything from the trees to the grass itself. The celebration also includes lights synchronized to holiday music, animal-shaped yard decorations and activities like trains, a light maze, Ferris wheel and Sea Explorer 5D. ZooLights takes place Nov. 23-25, Nov. 30Dec. 2, Dec. 7–23, Dec. 26-Jan. 6 from 4:30-9 p.m.

Insider’s tip: For a family-friendly spot to grab a bite near the zoo, check out R.J. Grunts (2056 N. Lincoln Park West). 2200 N. Cannon. LPZoo.org For 18th straight year, Navy Pier transforms its Festival Hall to offer families plenty of indoor holiday thrills during Winter WonderFest. From Nov. 30Jan. 6, guests can experience festive décor and a glittering forest of 500 trees and 25,000 ornaments, as well as 170,000 square feet of entertainment for all ages — from the ever-popular Chicago Blackhawks ice skating rink to the polar extreme obstacle course, climbing wall and Arctic express train. Insider’s tip: Warm up with a stroll through Navy Pier’s Crystal Gardens or stop for a cocktail at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville. NavyPier.org 2018 Holiday Activity Guide

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Lace up those skates

The uber-popular McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park runs Nov. 16-March 10. Free admission; skate rental is $13 Mon.-Thurs. and $15 Fri.-Sun. and holidays. MillenniumPark.org Sitting directly in front of Millennium Park and Chicago’s skyline, the Maggie Daley Park skating ribbon allows skaters to experience a unique kind of winding ice rink. Free admission; skate rental is $13 Mon.-Thurs. and $15 Fri.-Sun. and holidays. 337 E. Randolph. MaggieDaleyPark.com The Chicago Blackhawks Ice Skating Rink is a big part of Navy Pier’s popular Winter WonderFest, which runs through Jan. 6. NavyPier.com Baseball may be dormant at Wrigley Field, but The Rink at Winterland at the Park is back and open from Nov. 23-Jan. 27, and the historic ballpark is the perfect backdrop for a little skating.

GRAY LINE HOLIDAY LIGHTS TOUR Leap into the holiday spirit with Gray Line’s Chicago Holiday Lights Tour, which includes quick stops for Lincoln Park ZooLights and Christkindlmarket, as well as great views of the Mag Mile, Macy’s iconic holiday windows and Chicago’s Christmas tree in Millennium Park. Tickets start at just $28, and boarding happens outside of the Palmer House Hilton at 17 E. Monroe. 312-251-3100. GrayLineChicago.com

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A proud 105-year tradition, the Chicago Christmas tree 60-foot Norway spruce will remain illuminated over Millennium Park (Washington and Michigan Ave.) through January 6, 2019. Insider’s tip: For a great view of the tree and park, head to Cindy’s atop the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel.

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Bundle up and belt out some holiday classics during Caroling at Cloud Gate, as local Chicago choral groups lead hundreds of celebrants in song at “the bean” in Millennium Park every Friday from Nov. 23-Dec. 14 as well as Wednesday, Dec. 12 from 6-7 p.m. Free admission.

MillenniumPark.org

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After taking in the 50th annual Macy’s holiday windows (on display until Jan. 5) or the Macy’s Holiday Traditions Tour, which highlights the traditions of iconic State Street, stop by the 17,000-square-foot Walnut Room, a dining experience complete with Austrian chandeliers, Russian wood paneling and a 45-foot Christmas tree with 15,000 lights. Insider’s tip: The Walnut Room’s flaky pot pie is one the best in the city. 111 N. State. VisitMacysChicago.com

Morton Arboretum Illumination

Illumination is an award-winning, outdoor walking tour that covers approximately one mile and winds through 50 acres of the Arboretum’s renowned tree collections brought to life with more than one million lights set to music. Insider’s tip: Take your time, enjoy the walk and warm up when you need to at concession tents and fire pits spaced out along the path.

Illumination runs through Jan. 1 and is closed on Mondays (except for Dec. 31), Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Tickets are for both a specific date and time, starting at 4:30 p.m. each evening. 4100 Illinois Route 53 in suburban Lisle. MortonArb.org

HOLIDAY TEA Steeped in history, the Palm Court at The Drake Hotel has been serving afternoon tea for close to a century — even the Queen and Princess Diana made royal visits. Enjoy an assortment of French teas and decadent pastries and sandwiches while listening to holiday carolers and a harpist.

Insider’s tip: It’s never too early to make reservations, especially during prime holiday shopping season.

Seating available every half hour between 1-4:30 p.m. Nov. 1-9, 12-16 and 19-22 and every half hour between 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Nov. 10-11, 17-18 and Nov. 23-Jan. 13. $52 for adults, $25 for children ages 3-12.

140 E. Walton. (312) 9324619. TheDrakeHotel.com

SKATING RIBBON SSES A P T S FA A B LE AVAI L Learn more at MaggieDaleyPark.com 337 E. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 312.552.3000

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German tradition: Christkindlmarket This annual outdoor market in Daley Plaza offers traditional German food, drinks, vendors and performances in this quaint, illuminated village that sells handmade ornaments, nutcrackers and cuckoo clocks. The market has been a Chicago tradition since 1996 and is influenced by the Christkindlmarket in Nuremberg, Germany. Admission is free. Insider’s tip: Don’t leave without trying the hot spiced wine (Glühwein) served in a collectible mug. Christkindlmarket Chicago runs Nov. 16-Dec. 24 Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. and Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 50 W. Washington.

Christkindlmarket.com Head out to the burbs to experience Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo and get into the spirit with more than one million lights covering the trees, fences and animal structures. In addition to many indoor exhibits open for viewing favorite animals, guests are encouraged to sing to the animals and participate in “zoo chats.” Also included: carolers, storytellers, magic shows, a laser-light experience, ice-carving demonstrations, costumed characters, a model railroad display and a 41-foot LED talking tree. Now in its 37th year, Holiday Magic runs Dec. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23 and 26-31. Open 10 a.m.-9 p.m. with festivities beginning at 4 p.m. 8400 W. 31st St. in suburban Brookfield. CZS.org/holidaymagic

INSTAGRAM-WORTHY HOLIDAY PICS Try ice skating in Millennium Park and pause long enough to frame up the skyline in the background.

You can never go wrong with a well-timed shot aiming down the illuminated Magnificent Mile.

A quirky Chicago tradition involves the wreathing of the lion statues outside the Art Institute.

Especially if it’s snowing, the old Water Tower on Michigan Avenue with the horse-drawn carriages makes for a spendid black-and-white photo.

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November 16–January 1 Advance purchase recommended mortonarb.org/illumination

See trees in a different light.

Make memories as you stroll a one-mile paved path amid interactive lighting effects that highlight the beauty of trees in winter. Enjoy seasonal music and warm up by a crackling fire with a cozy drink or roast marshmallows for s’mores.

NEW THIS YEAR!

Discover fresh twists on favorite experiences and surprising new sights, including a display of unique treelike sculptures that radiate intricate designs of light.

Generously supported by

CONNECT WITH US

#IlluminationTMA #MortonArboretum

4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL 60532 • mortonarb.org • 630-968-0074 2018 Holiday Activity Guide

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The Loop: Center of it all The Loop is the central business district in downtown Chicago, named for the prominent elevated railway that was built back in 1897 and still encircles the area to this day. It’s the city’s epicenter and home to much of the very best Chicago has to offer. Here are a few Loop favorites worth checking out this holiday season.

Along with Water Tower Place and the 900 Shops, Macy’s is considered the crown jewel of the Chicago shopping experience. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, this is a true American original housing the best in fashion, cuisine and unique experiences (like the famous window displays during the holidays). Women’s and men’s apparel, accessories, shoes, jewelry, makeup, furniture and household goods — you’ll find it all inside this 12-floor building that has served generations of Chicagoans and visitors alike. 111 N. State, with a second location inside Water Tower Place. Macys.com

MORE SHOPPING Opened in 2009, Block 37 is a sprawling urban shopping, dining and entertainment destination that spans an entire city block. The threebuilding structure is home to a vast supply of fashion and beauty brands, as well as boutiques, eateries, cafés and a movie theater. 108 N. State. BlockThirtySeven.com Additional shopping opportunities abound along State Street, as trend-setters can find what they’re looking for at stores like American Apparel, Urban Outfitters, H&M, Nordstrom Rack, House of Hoops by Foot Locker, and Akira. A block east of State you’ll find Wabash Avenue, home to the historic Jewelers Row district.

Presented by:

Welcome to the Loop, where Chicago’s holiday traditions are made. Witness the transformation of the city’s official downtown into a winter wonderland.

DISCOVER HOLIDAY EVENTS, ITINERARIES MORE!

LOOPCHICAGO.COM/HOLIDAYS

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Lots to like in the Loop

LOOP EATS Roanoke Roanoke offers an open-display kitchen, rotisserie and brick ovens, an inviting bar area and a more intimate dining experience near the fireplace. Insider’s tip: Check out their affordable prix-fixe dinner menu. 135 W. Madison. 312-9403760. TheRoanokeRestaurant.com

The Dearborn The Dearborn is an ideal spot for a pre-show dinner, as executive chef Aaron Cuschieri, a former Top Chef contestant from the 2013 season, will take your palate on an exciting journey with his upscale pub fare.

145 N. Dearborn. 312-384-1242.

TheDearbornTavern.com

The Gage Chicago’s Theatre District

EUROPEAN CHARM

Rivaling anything in the U.S. outside of Broadway in New York City, Chicago’s Theatre District is an impressive collection of dance (Joffrey Ballet), opera (Lyric Opera at the Civic Opera House) and stage (Chicago Theatre, Goodman Theatre, Broadway in Chicago productions at the Cadillac Palace Theatre and Oriental Theatre), all on or near a stretch of Randolph before leaking south on Wacker Dr. (Lyric). Expect big productions and big names to grace the marquees. In Chicago, we wouldn’t have it any other way.

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This lively, upscale gastropub is inspired by classic Irish pubs. Expect a new-age American menu with some Irish influence, as specialties range from hearty burgers and creative salads to, of course, battered fish and chips. Worth admiring is the quality selection of whiskey, bourbon, scotch and cognac. 24 S. Michigan. 312-3724243. TheGageChicago.com

The Christkindlmarket is a popular Chicago staple each winter that shouldn’t be missed. Swing by this outdoor market and village inspired by the 16th Century Christkindlesmarkt in Germany for some cherished European traditions and charm. Shop (handmade crafts, jewelry, steins, clocks), eat and drink (sausage, spiced wine, beer, chocolate, schnitzel) and stroll through the beautifully lit tents from Nov. 16-Dec. 24 at 50 W. Washington in Daley Plaza. Christkindlmarket.com

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urban american tavern

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Decorative dining and drinking Club Lucky — To say this classy throwback Italian supper club and cocktail lounge goes all out for the holidays would be an understatement. A major one. Traditionally decked out in wreaths, lights, hanging snowflakes and other festive decorations, this is must-stop every December in the Bucktown neighborhood. They like to say their food is as comfortable as their atmosphere, and that’s a pretty accurate description. 1824 W. Wabansia. 773-227-2300.

ClubLuckyChicago.com Butch McGuire’s — For more than five decades, this BUTCH McGUIRE’S popular family-run Irish pub has been known to take its decorative spirit to another level during the Christmas season. Double-decker toy trains circle the establishment, which is adorned with a stunning array of lights and garland. McGuire’s has a menu full of tempting specialties, but you can’t go wrong with their fish and chips.

20 W. Division. 312-787-4318. ButchMcGuires.com Lawry’s — Not only does Lawry’s (known for its prime rib) sparkle with holiday décor during the holiday season, but Victorian-era costumed carolers stroll about the dining room serenading guests during dinner hours.

100 E. Ontario. 312-787-5000. LawrysOnline.com Lost Lake — Lost Lake, a Logan Square tiki bar that won Best American Cocktail Bar at the 12th Annual Spirited Awards, has a staff that “cares deeply about the craft and creativity of our beverage program.” They also care deeply about decorating for Christmas with a bevy of themed cocktails, string lights, tinsel and more. 3154 W. Diversey. LostLakeTiki.com The Berghoff, a name synonymous with quality German food and family in Chicago since 1898, has been offering a unique holiday tradition for generations called Pickle in the Pine. Children are invited to comb through the illuminated branches of the beautifully decorated Christmas tree in the restaurant’s Century Room in search of a hidden pickle ornament. A free hand-crafted root beer belongs to any child that finds it. 17 W. Adams. 312-427-3170. The Berghoff.com

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HOLIDAYS

On Stage

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It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago! from American Blues Theater For 17 years, the American Blues Theater ensemble has delighted Chicago audiences to a live 1940s radio broadcast based on the classic Frank Capra film. The entire town of Bedford Falls is recreated by this talented cast, complete with sound effects, holiday carols and the original score. Called “perfect Christmas theater” by critics, this is as unique and intimate a theatre experience as you will find anywhere. To top it all off, the cast serves the audience milk and cookies after each performance.

It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago! runs Nov. 15-Jan. 5 at Stage 773. 1225 W Belmont Ave. (773) 654-3103. AmericanBluesTheater.com

SECOND CITY’S THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE UGLY SWEATER The world-renowned Second City dishes out the holiday love with The Good, The Bad & The Ugly Sweater, “celebrating the most wonderful time of the year-ish.” The best and brightest from this famous sketch and improv comedy club roast the chestnuts out of all the things we lovingly loathe about the holiday season. Runs Tuesday-Sunday Nov. 13-Dec. 30 at Second City’s UP Comedy Club.

230 W. North Ave. 312-662-4562. SecondCity.com

“truly, the stuff of magic” — Chicago Sun-Times

“4 STARS!” — Chicago Tribune

THE NUTCRACKER

PURCHASE TODAY! | TICKETS START AT $35 DECEMBER 1–30 | JOFFREY.ORG | 312.386.8905 The Joffrey Ballet.

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Photo by Cheryl Mann.

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On-Stage

How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Dr. Seuss’ beloved holiday tale has become a perennial musical classic since originally premiering on Broadway in 2006, featuring the hit songs “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas” from the original animated TV special. Follow along how the Grinch plans to steal Christmas away from The Whos before he learns to embrace the true meaning of the holiday. A magical production for the whole family under the direction of two-time Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien, How the Grinch Stole Christmas plays the iconic Chicago Theatre Nov. 16125. 175 N. State. 800-745-3000. MSG.com/family

A Christmas Carol at The Goodman Theatre

PURE EXCITEMENT

This heartwarming tradition has been celebrated by 1.5 million theatergoers for more than 40 years in Chicago, dazzling audiences with splendid musical numbers, holiday magic and the story of Scrooge on a voyage of self-reflection with the help of the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future. Called “the crown jewel of the holiday season” by critics, check out the Goodman’s VIP experience that guarantees premium seating, access to the Goodman lounge and a special holiday ornament.

Runs Nov. 17-Dec. 31. 170 N. Dearborn. 312-443-3800.

GoodmanTheatre.org

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Cirque Dreams Holidaze is the iconic holiday stage spectacular you won’t want to miss! Witness amazing theatrical productions, 300 elaborately costumed characters, illusions and gravity-defying feats that will leave you on the edge of your seat the entire show. Playing at the Chicago Theatre Dec. 12-16. 175 N. State. 312-4626300. Get tickets at Ticketmaster.com

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The House Theatre of Chicago’s The Nutcracker With something for everyone in this “wholly original, ballet-free” show, it’s easy to see why it’s become an annual tradition put on

by The House Theatre Company.

This modern production of the holiday classic is beautifully choreographed, fast-paced and perfect for the family with astonishing puppetry, original song and mesmerizing display. Labeled by critics as “imaginative and inventive,” follow this fantastical story of hope as Clara, along with the help of a magical nutcracker, sets out to save her family. The Nutcracker plays at 1543 W Division St from Nov. 8 - Dec. 30.

TheHouseTheatre.com

FOR THE –Chicago Parent

ADAPTED BY TOM

CREAMER WISHCAMPER

DIRECTED BY HENRY

NOVEMBER 17 – DECEMBER 30 312.443.3800 | GoodmanTheatre.org Groups of 15+ only: 312.443.3820

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Pre-theatre dinner spots 1 As the oldest Italian restaurant in the city, Italian Village has been serving up some of the best traditional, authentic northern Italian dishes since 1927. Actually, it’s home to three restaurants, each with its own chef, unique atmosphere and menu specialties.

Take some time to peruse the oldworld décor and choose carefully from the award-winning wine cellar that houses some 35,000 bottles. 71 W. Monroe. 312-3327005. ItalianVillage-Chicago.com

3 2 In business since 1935, Miller’s Pub has been a Loop favorite for generations, as much for its lively, family-friendly, oldschool ambiance as its scrumptious food. Take time to stroll around and check out the assortment of celebrity photographs around the room. On the menu, the BBQ ribs and chicken combo, fried catfish and prime rib come recommended. 134 S. Wabash. 312-263-4988. MillersPub.com

FRENCH FAVE Looking for some authentic French cuisine with a mild American twist? Look no further than the Hyatt Centric Hotel, where you’ll find Cochon Volant, which feels every bit like a romantic Parisian bistro. Share a seafood tower with friends or go for the dry-aged beef selection or the roasted Amish chicken. 100 W. Monroe. 312-754-6560. CochonVolantChicago.com

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The Dearborn, an urban American tavern offering an eclectic twist on sophisticated classics as well as essential Chicago dishes, has quickly become a mainstay for theatergoers. Grab a spacious booth or a spot at the bar and try the day boat scallops, potato-crusted walleye and Manilla clams in a chardonnay sauce or the braised veal cheeks with housemade lobster ravioli. 145 N. Dearborn. 312-384-1242.

TheDearbornTavern.com

On-stage

The Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker This critically acclaimed holiday masterpiece returns, boldly reimagined for a new generation by choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and the world-class ballet

company. Join in on this grand production of a Christmas Eve dream of whirlwind romance and adventure, with the celebrated score played live by the Chicago Philharmonic.

The Nutcracker runs Dec. 1-Dec. 30 at the Auditorium Theatre. 50 E. Congress. 312-3868905. Joffrey.org

THE STEADFAST TIN SOLDIER AT LOOKINGGLASS THEATRE Unlock this jeweladorned music box for the whole family! Inspired

by Hans Christian Andersen’s The Steadfast Tin Soldier, Mary Zimmerman fashions an enchanting spectacle. The unlikely adventure of a tin soldier, brimming with love and bravery, is infused with a dazzling blend of storytelling through image and movement, accompanied by live musicians. 821 N. Michigan Ave. 312337-0665. Now Playing! Tickets from $35. Use code KEYMAG and save 20% at lookingglasstheatre.org

’Twas the Night Before Christmas

Back by popular demand, the kid-friendly Emerald City Theatre provides your family with a comic take on the classic children’s poem, as a pair of dancing mice, a spunky girl and an Elf-B-I agent must track down Santas’s naughtyor-nice list before his sleigh departs the North Pole. Called “a fantastic, slapstick holiday affair,” this is a cheery show for all ages. Ken Ludwig’s ’Twas the Night Before Christmas runs Nov. 3-Dec. 30 at the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place. 175 E. Chestnut. 312-977-1700.

EmeraldCityTheatre.com 2018 Holiday Activity Guide

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PARODY PERFORMANCES

SUBURBAN HITS

Pride Films and Plays is producing the fourth annual production of Barney the Elf, the LGBTQ-focused holiday musical satire. Inspired by Elf, the movie, the story focuses on an elf who must leave the North Pole after Santa Claus settles into retirement and makes his way to a Chicago nightclub, learning to embrace his “inner elf” along the way.

Barney the Elf plays Dec. 14-Jan. 6 in the Broadway Theatre. 4139 N. Broadway. 866-811-4111.

Pridefilmsandplays.com Returning to the stage with a vengeance, Yippee Ki-Yay, Merry Christmas! A Die Hard Musical Parody is a hilarious take on the classic 1980s action film.

It centers on NYPD cop Bruce McClane and his quest to win back his estranged wife, Holly Generic, at her Christmas Eve office party at LA’s Nakatomi Plaza. Playing at The Den Theatre in Wicker Park Dec. 1-Jan. 12. 1331 N. Milwaukee.

773-697-3830.

TheDenTheatre.com

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On-stage

Q Brothers Christmas Carol

The hip-hop holiday treat set to a bangin’ beat is back at Chicago Shakespeare Theater! Chicago hiphop sensations, the Q Brothers Collective, turn up the volume on Charles Dickens’ beloved tale, mixing everything from reggae, dancehall, and dubstep to epic rock ballads in this “downright irresistible” production. A live DJ spins on stage as the ghosts of Hip-hop past, present, and future lead Scrooge on a journey of rhythm, rhyme, and redemption. Q Brothers Christmas Carol runs Nov.

20-Dec. 30 in The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare on Navy Pier. 312-595-5600.

ChicagoShakes.com

The Santaland Diaries

A longstanding tradition in Chicago, David Sedaris’ “vivid, hilarious portrait of family Christmas,” shifts to the Goodman Theatre this year. This fun, edgy solo performance is the story of a struggling actor who is forced to take the job of an elf at Macy’s during the holidays. Running Nov. 30-Dec. 30. 170 N. Dearborn. 312-443-3800.

GoodmanTheatre.org

The Drury Lane Theatre continues the holiday tradition of a heartwarming production of A Christmas Carol, the Charles Dickens’ classic about miserly old Ebenezer Scrooge. Running Nov. 23-Dec. 22. 100 Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace.

630-530-0111. DruryLaneTheatre.com Direct from Broadway, Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn is based on the classic film and features thrilling dance numbers, laughs and a parade of hit songs including “Blue Skies,” “Steppin’ Out With My Baby ” and “White Christmas.” Playing Nov. 7-Jan. 6. Ten Marriott Drive in Lincolnshire, IL. 847-634-0200. MarriottTheatre.com

keymagazinechicago.com

HOLIDAY TREATS The are many things synonymous with the holidays, and chocolate is one of them. Check out the city’s two Ghirardelli stores for baking ingredients, gift ideas and all kinds of tasty chocolate treats. 830 N. Michigan and 400 N. Michigan.

Ghiradelli.com

Tracking Santa Looking for an opportunity to have your little ones visit with Santa before the holidays? Chicago has plenty of options.

Free personalized photo ops are available at the Santa House in Millennium Park from Nov. 16-Dec. 16. Hours are as follows: Nov. 16 noon-6 p.m., Nov. 17-18 noon-6 p.m., Nov. 22 noon-3 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays from Nov. 24-Dec. 16 noon-6 p.m. 201 E. Randolph in the northeast corner of the Chase Promenade. MillenniumPark.org At Navy Pier’s splendid (and massive) Winter WonderFest, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand at the Claus residence at the foot of the giant tree from Dec. 1-24 for festive family photo opportunities.

Continued on page 30

Another Chicago icon, Garrett Popcorn Shops, took their already addictive popcorn to another level, adding a new, seasonal hot cocoa caramel crisp mix. Sounds like a delightfully decadent holiday snack, wouldn’t you say? Tins make for a great gift too. 11 Chicago locations.

GarrettPopcorn.com

TEAM STORE 6 6 8 N M I C H I G A N AV E N U E P : 3 12 2 8 0 5 4 69 BR IN G A D F O R 10% OFF ENTIRE PURCHA SE

900 North Michigan Ave. Level 6, Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 664-6203 www.lottongallery.com 2018 Holiday Activity Guide

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Gift Guide 2018 HOLIDAY

Holly, Meghan and Marilyn Rings from the Forever by Razny Bridal Collection Available at Razny Jewelers 109 E. Oak St. 312-663-8500

Dakota Hooded Toscana Sheepskin Coat

$2,495 available at Overland Sheepskin 500 N. Michigan, suite 102 312-595-1707 Overland.com

Gift Set: Holiday Lips Goodie Bag

$39.50 available at MAC Pro Michigan Avenue Stop by the store for a 10day sample of foundation 540 N. Michigan Ave. 312-595-0952

French Blue Robin Porcelain Earrings

$80 available at Iris International Jewelers 835 N. Michigan Ave. in Water Tower Place, level 5 Iristrends.com

Chicago Cubs Home Player Jerseys

$149 (including tax), multiple players available.

Available at The Cubs Team Store 668 N. Michigan Ave. 312-280-5469

Hand-blown vase

by David Lotton

$1,300 available at Lotton Gallery 900 N. Michigan Ave., level 6 312-664-6203 LottonGallery.com

The Red Door Salon and Spa Gift Cards

Get a gift this holiday with your gift card purchase Spend $350/Get $100 Spend $250/Get $50 Spend $150/Get $25 The Red Door Salon and Spa 919 N. Michigan Ave. 4th Floor 312-988-9191

Baobab Collection luxury scented candles

$120-$680 available at Crosell & Co. 25 E. Huron St. 312-266-4500 CrosellandCo.com 2018 Holiday Activity Guide

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’S INSIDER YOUR GUIDE TO CHICAGO

Holidays

TRACKING SANTA Continued from page 27

Heated rides all season long.

PLAN YOUR VISIT AT

NAVYPIER.ORG

Hours for Santa are Mondays-Thursdays 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m.-6 p.m. NavyPier.org Ol’ St. Nick will also be available during the Lincoln Park ZooLights celebration up through Dec. 23. Admission to the zoo is always free, but portions of ZooLights activities do require purchased tickets. Look for Santa in the Kovler Lion House. Santa’s hours at the zoo: Nov. 23-25 4:30-9 p.m., Nov. 30-Dec. 2 4:30-9 p.m., Dec. 7-23 4:309 p.m. 2200 N. Cannon Dr. LPZoo.org There are lots of fun holiday festivities to dive into at the iconic Macy’s store on State Street, where children will get a chance to meet Santa on the fifth floor right up through Christmas Eve. Insider’s tip: On select dates, you can even break bread with Santa and Mrs. Claus with breakfast, lunch and dinner reservations in the beautiful Narcissus Room on the seventh floor. Reservations required. 111 N. State.

VisitMacysChicago.com Santa can also be found in his home on the third level of the 900 Shops on Michigan Avenue every day from Nov. 17-Dec. 24, Monday-Saturday noon-6 p.m. and Sundays noon-5 p.m. Take time to appreciate the beautiful 40-foot Christmas tree. Insider’s tip: New this year will be a virtual queue line to meet and pose with Santa. You must be present to register. 900 N. Michigan Ave. Shop900.com Across the street is the shopping mecca Water Tower Place, where visits with Santa are available on the second floor from Nov. 16-Dec. 24 before he needs to head back to the North Pole. If you purchase a premium photo package, you’ll receive a free personalized video from the man himself. Insider’s tip: Check out the schedule in advance to take part in different themed events. Also new this year, jump on Santa’s sleigh for a fun virtual reality experience. 835 N. Michigan Ave. ShopWaterTower.com

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Activities: • Incredible 3D displays • Warm spiced wine, frosty beers and festive snacks • Holiday gift shopping • Live ice carving (select dates) • Strolling carolers (select dates) • Light Maze (ticketed) • Musical light shows Detailed schedule: lpzoo.org/zoolights