holidays celebrating the
2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
keymagazinechicago.com
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Chicago welcome to
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2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
Welcome to Chicago, and Happy Holidays Chicago isn’t just a global destination during the warmer months. Quite the contrary, in fact. The holiday season provides a wealth of opportunities to make memories, and this Holiday Activity Guide will help you navigate your way through all the activities and events the city has to offer. Publisher Walter L. West III Account Manager Jean Lieber Editorial Director Trent Modglin Designer Brian Hertel Editorial Contributors Mark Loehrke Office Manager Nancy Vargas Chairman & CEO Wally West
222 W. Ontario Street Suite #420 Chicago, Illinois 60654 phone: 312.943.0838 fax: 312.664.6113 keymagazinechicago.com twitter.com/KEYMagazine @KEYChicago
ON THE COVER: From Dec. 1-Jan. 7, Navy Pier’s Winter WonderFest boasts 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. keymagazinechicago.com
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Museum of Science & Industry
happenings holiday
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. The MSI is located at 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr. The exhibit is open through Jan. 7, 2018. MSIChicago.org
of indoor holiday thrills (pictured on the cover). From Dec. 1, 2017-Jan. 7, 2018, 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 everpopular Chicago Blackhawks Ice Skating Rink to the Polar Extreme Obstacle Course, 40foot Cliff Hanger, Polar Ice Peaks Climbing Wall and Arctic Express Train. A new perk this year, included with every ticket purchase, is a ride on the 200-foot Centennial Wheel on Navy Pier. For more information on the Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest or to purchase tickets in advance, visit NavyPier.org
Navy Pier Winter WonderFest
Macy’s fun
For 17th straight year, Navy Pier transforms its Festival Hall to offer families plenty 6
2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
After taking in the 49th annual Macy’s windows (on display until Jan. 8), or the
Christkindlmarket
Walnut Room Holiday Traditions Tour, which highlights the
traditions of iconic State Street (available every Friday in Nov. and Dec. at 11:30 a.m.), stop by the 17,000-square-foot Walnut Room, a dining experience complete with Austrian chandeliers, Russian wood paneling and — most importantly during the holiday season — a 45-foot Christmas tree that sits directly in the center of the dining room. Don’t forget to try the pot pie, and thank us later. A fabulous holiday tradition since 1907, the Walnut Room is located on the seventh floor of Macy’s at 111 N. State. MacysRestaurants.com
Chicago Christmas Tree
A proud 104-year tradition, this 62-foot Norway spruce will remain illuminated over Millennium Park (Washington and Michigan Ave.) through January 6, 2018.
ZooLights
Christkindlmarket
This annual outdoor market offers traditional German food and drinks, and vendors in this illuminated village sell handmade German 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. Christkindlmarket Chicago runs Nov. 17-Dec. 24 at Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington), and a new second city location, the Christkindlmarket Park at Wrigley, runs Nov. 24-Dec. 31 next door to historic Wrigley Field. Open Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. and Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Visit Christkindlmarket.com for more information.
Lincoln Park ZooLights
This popular (and free) zoo located in beautiful Lincoln Park decorates its entire keymagazinechicago.com
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Maggie Daley Park Ice Ribbon property with super bright and colorful lights, adorning everything from the trees to the grass itself. The celebration also includes lights synchronized to holiday music, animalshaped yard decorations and activities like trains, a Ferris wheel and Undersea Adventure. ZooLights takes place Nov. 24–26, Dec. 1–3, 8–23, 26–31; Jan. 1–7, 2018 from 4:30-9 p.m. Lincoln Park Zoo is located at 2001 N. Clark St. Visit LPZoo.org for more information.
CTA Holiday Train and Bus
This is the 26th 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. Photos with Santa are available when exiting at your destination. You can track the whereabouts of Santa using CTA train tracker.
Caroling at Cloud Gate
Bundle up and belt out some holiday classics as local Chicago choral groups lead hundreds of celebrants in song at “the bean” on Fridays, Nov. 24-Dec. 15 from 6-7 p.m. Free admission. MillenniumPark.org 8
2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
Chicago Trolley Lights Tour
The Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Co. ushers in the holiday season with its annual Holiday Lights Tour beginning Nov. 24 and running through Dec. 23. The tour explores many of Chicago’s iconic seasonal landmarks, such as the Christkindmarket, Lincoln Park Zoo Lights and the Macy’s holiday windows. The tour begins at the John Hancock Plaza tree (875 N. Michigan Ave.) and then ventures to Sprinkles Cupcakes for a complimentary cupcake before heading down the Magnificent Mile to begin the tour and take in the thousands of glittering lights. The tour departs at 5:30 p.m., 6 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on the following dates: Nov. 24-26, Dec. 1-3 and Dec. 8-23. Tickets for the two-and-a-half hour narrated tour ($18-$49) are available at ChicagoTrolley.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. Warm up at concession tents and fire pits along the path. Illumination runs
Navy Pier keymagazinechicago.com
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Cloud Gate through Jan. 1, 2018 and is closed on Mondays (except for Jan. 1), Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Tickets are for both a specific date and time, starting at 4:30 p.m. each evening. MortonArb.org
Holiday Magic at the Brookfield Zoo Get into the holiday spirit with more than one million lights covering the trees, fences and animal structures of the Brookfield Zoo. 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, icecarving demonstrations, costumed characters, a model railroad display and a 41-foot LED talking tree. Brookfield Zoo is located at 8400 W. 31st St. in Brookfield, IL. Holiday Magic runs Dec. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, and Dec. 26-31. Open 10 a.m.-9 p.m. with festivities beginning at 4 p.m. czs.org/holidaymagic 10
2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
Navy Pier
Holiday Tea at The Drake
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 17 French teas and decadent pastries and sandwiches while listening to holiday carolers and a harpist. Reservations for holiday tea run through Jan. 3 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, with seatings every half hour. $49 for adults, $24 for children ages 3-12. The Drake is located at 140 E. Walton. (312) 932-4619. TheDrakeHotel.com
Public ice skating
It’s time to lace up your skates and chase your Olympic dreams one last time at one of several fun skating opportunities downtown. The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park runs Nov. 17-March 4. Open Mon.Thurs., noon–8 p.m.; Fri., noon-10 p.m.; Sat.,
CTA
Morton Arboretum 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free admission; skate rental is $12 Mon.-Thurs. and $14 Fri.-Sun. and holidays. MillenniumPark.org Sitting directly in front of Millennium Park and Chicago’s skyline, the newer Maggie Daley Park skating ribbon allows skaters to experience a unique kind of winding ice rink. Located at 337 E. Randolph, the rink is open until March. Open Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m.; Fri., noon-10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Free admission; skate rental is $12 Mon.-Thurs. and $14 Fri.-Sun. and holidays. MaggieDaleyPark.com The Chicago Blackhawks Ice Skating Rink is a big part of Navy Pier’s popular Winter WonderFest, which runs through Jan. 7. NavyPier.com An exciting new addition to all the renovations at Wrigley Field is The Rink at Winterland at the Park,
Chicago Trolley which is open from Nov. 24-Feb. 15. The historic ballpark is the perfect backdrop for a little skating, and the new Christkindlmarket is next door for a bite to eat, some spiced wine or a little authentic German shopping. Christkindlmarket.com
Visits with Santa
At Navy Pier’s Winter WonderFest, Santa Claus will be on hand at the Claus residence for festive family photo opportunities Dec. 1-24. Santa will also be available from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival (Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan) Nov. 18 before participating in the parade later that evening. The McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade will have Santa waving to everyone on Thanksgiving Day from 8-11 a.m., and free personalized photo ops are available at the Santa House in Millennium Park from Nov. 17-Dec. 17. Visit MillenniumPark.org for times and locations. keymagazinechicago.com
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Christkindlmarket
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2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
The Loop Chicago’s home base
The Loop, better known as the central business district in downtown Chicago, was named for the prominent elevated railway (built in 1897) that still encircles the area to this day. It is 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.
Macy’s
Along with Water Tower Place, 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
Macy’s
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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. Macy’s is located at 111 N. State, with a second location inside Water Tower Place on Michigan Avenue. Macys.com
to three restaurants, each with its own chef, unique atmosphere and menu specialties. Take some time to peruse the old-world décor and choose carefully from the award-winning wine cellar that houses some 35,000 bottles. 71 W. Monroe. ItalianVillage-Chicago.com
Christkindlmarket
The Dearborn
Considering its proximity to Chicago’s hopping theatre district, The Dearborn is an ideal spot for a pre-show dinner or a drink after the curtain closes. It’s also a great place to grab a bite if all the shopping at Block 37 has your stomach rumbling. 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. TheDearbornTavern.com
Italian Village
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
Cadillac Palace Theatre
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2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
Swing by this outdoor Latinicity market and village, inspired by the 16th Century Christkindlesmarkt in Germany, for some cherished European and German traditions and charm. Shop (handmade crafts, jewelry, steins, clocks, etc.), eat (sausage, spiced wine, beer, chocolate and more) and stroll from Nov. 17-Dec. 24 at 50 W. Washington in Daley Plaza. Christkindlmarket.com
Theatre District
Rivaling anything in the U.S. outside of New York, Chicago’s Theatre District (see our Holidays On Stage section on pages 20-27) is an impressive collection of dance (Joffrey Ballet), opera (Lyric Opera at the Civic Opera House) and stage (Goodman Theatre, Broadway in
Hamilton
Italian Village
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.
Block 37
Opened in 2009, Block 37 is a sprawling urban shopping, dining and entertainment destination that spans an entire city block. The three-building structure is centered around a five-story atrium and 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
Latinicity
The spirit and flavors of South America are alive and well in downtown Chicago, as renowned chef Richard Sandoval treats guests to his interpretation of Latin street food by way of a tapas restaurant, coffee café, full bar and lounge. Located at 108 N. State on the third floor of Block 37. Latinicity.com
randolph street
christkindlmarket
dearborn street
city hall
washington street
www.thedearborntavern.com
’tis the season
Escape the cold weather in the heart of the Loop with our decadent hot chocolate topped with housemade peppermint swirl marshmallows! Walk-ins are always welcome in our tavern or dining room.
Located on the SE corner of Randolph/Dearborn, just steps away from Christkindlmarket. Proprietors: Sisters, Amy & Clodagh Lawless Phone: 312.384.1242 Executive Chef: Aaron Cuschieri Connect: @thedearbornchi keymagazinechicago.com
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900 North Michigan Ave. Level 6, Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 664-6203 www.lottongallery.com
GINOSEAST.COM 16
2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
FREE #DEEPAF UPGRADE ON YOUR MEDIUM DEEP DISH PIZZA WHEN YOU PRESENT THIS COUPON.
Andersonville Spotlight on
This quaint, tree-lined neighborhood, located about seven miles north of the Loop combines Swedish roots, small-town charm, a diverse population and vibrant business district. Here are a few of our favorite stops to make.
Often considered the most popular bar in Andersonville, Hopleaf (5148 N. Clark) is known the city over for its massive selection of craft beer. Signature dishes include mussels and frites and creative sandwiches like the duck reuben. In the mood for a little culture? Check out the Andersonville Galleria (5247. N. Clark), made up of tiny booths where artists can rent out the space to display and sell their work.
Andersonville Brewing (5402 N. Clark) is a
The quirky yet delightful Hamburger Mary’s (5400 N. Clark) boasts a great selection of burgers and sandwiches, a fried Twinkie for dessert and daily drink specials. Head upstairs to Mary’s Attic for Boylesque shows and MaryOke.
Alleycats Comics (5304 N. Clark) is a hidden
lively sports bar that has been making craft beer since 2009. Try the Blonde Bombshell (golden ale) or one of their rotating IPAs.
gem whether you’re looking to add to a comic collection or start one. The friendly staff will go out of its way to find what you’re looking for, no matter how rare.
NOVEMBER 18 - DECEMBER 22
Full Calendar at: Andersonville.org | #AvilleHolidays
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Fogo de Chao
meats carved tableside for you in a warm, contemporary restaurant. Try the filet mignon, thin-cut top sirloin, bacon-wrapped chicken and a stop at the Market Table salad bar loaded with staples of Southern Brazilian cuisine. FogoDeChao.com
The Big Ten Experience
This interactive digital museum, located in the conference’s headquarters, opened in 2014 with an aim to bring the Big Ten’s storied academic and athletic history to life. The Big Ten Experience is free and features 13 exhibits, highlighting notable teams, players and events dating back to 1896. BigTen.org
Bub City
Rosemont It’s time to experience
The City of Rosemont’s MB Financial Park entertainment district is one of the hottest things going in Chicagoland. One visit — just five minutes from O’Hare and 15 miles from downtown — and you’ll see why. Whether you’re into ice skating, live concerts, shopping, comedy or the best in food and drink, Rosemont has you covered. Here are a few spots worth checking out.
Fashion Outlets
The Midwest’s only two-level indoor outlet experience features more than 130 designer outlets (Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom Rack, etc.) offering savings of up to 75% off world-class brands like Gucci, Prada, Banana Republic, Michael Kors, Nike and more every day. FashionOutletsOfChicago.com
Zanies Comedy Club
A longtime comedy staple in Chicago (and suburban St. Charles), this location in the heart of the MB Financial Park entertainment district opened to rave reviews in 2012, featuring national touring comedians and local professional performers on a nightly basis. Zanies.com
Fogo de Chao
Prepare for the full Brazilian churrasco experience, with dozens of fire-grilled 18
2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
A lively barbecue joint with live music up to four nights a week, there’s always a lot happening at Bub City (with a sister location in Chicago’s River North neighborhood). Southern fried chicken, beef brisket cooked 18 hours, fried pickles and Nashville hot wings are just a few of the specialties. Don’t forget a boozy milkshake to wash it all down. Bub-City.com
Sugar Factory
Sweet and savory cravings don’t stand a chance in this dazzling 9,000-square-foot retail store, ice cream shop and dining room. While the array of specialty candies can be overwhelming, don’t forget to stop at the Chocolate Lounge. Your sweet tooth later will thank you later. SugarFactory.com Sugar Factory
SKATING, SHOPPING AND SANTA! Just minutes from O’Hare and downtown, Rosemont is the ultimate destination to make your holiday season bright! ROSEMONT.COM
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on stage
holidays
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2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
The Nutcracker
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dancing, comedy and memorable songs sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. White Christmas is playing at the Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph) Nov. 21-Dec. 3. Visit BroadwayInChicago.com for schedule and ticket information.
A Christmas Carol at The Goodman Theatre
White Christmas
White Christmas at the Cadillac Palace Theatre
The extravagant new production of the timeless tale of joy and goodwill — one the New York Times suggests to “put on your wish list” — opens Nov. 21 via Broadway in Chicago. The stage adaptation of the famous Bing Crosby film is filled with romance,
This heartwarming tradition has been celebrated for 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” in Chicago, 1.5 million visitors have seen this production over four decades. If you’re interested in a VIP experience, the Goodman is offering an Ultimate Anniversary Package that guarantees premium seating and offers access to the Goodman lounge and a special holiday gift. The Goodman Theatre is located at 170 N. Dearborn. Call 312-443-3800 or visit GoodmanTheatre.org for schedule and ticket information.
“GETS AT THE
TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS”
SHARING JOY & HOLIDAY MAGIC FOR
NOVEMBER 18 – DECEMBER 31
–The Daily Southtown
312.443.3800 | GoodmanTheatre.org Groups of 15+ only: 312.443.3820
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2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
YEARS
It’s A Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago! at Stage 773
For 16 years, the American Blues Theatre 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 “first-class holiday fare” 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. 16-Jan. 6 at Stage 773 (1225 W. Belmont). Call 773-327-5252 or visit Stage773.com for schedule and ticket information.
The Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker
This critically acclaimed holiday masterpiece returns, boldly reimagined for a new generation by 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
It’s A Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago! Chicago Philharmonic. The Nutcracker runs Dec. 1-Dec. 30 at the Auditorium Theatre (50 E. Congress). Call 312-386-8905 or visit Joffrey. org for schedule and ticket information.
The Christmas Schooner at The Mercury Theater
Following a 12-year run at Chicago’s Bailwick Repertory Theatre, the Mercury Theatre revived this holiday institution in 2012 by incorporating a full orchestra and an all-star cast. Inspired
The Nutcracker
DECEMBER 1–30 | TICKETS START AT $35 JOFFREY.ORG/NUTCRACKER | 312.386.8905 2017–2018 SEASON SPONSORS
The Joffrey Ballet | Photo by: Cheryl Mann
PERFORMS AT:
50 East Congress Parkway, Chicago
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by a powerful, moving true story of the first Christmas tree ship and the family that risked their lives to fill the city with the Christmas spirit, the Chicago Tribune calls the production “a sacred part of a Chicago Christmas.” The Christmas Schooner plays Nov. 24-Dec. 31 at the Mercury Theatre (3745 N. Southport). Call 773-325-1700 or visit MercuryTheaterChicago. com for schedule and ticket information.
’Twas the Night Before Christmas at the Broadway Playhouse
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 Santa’s naughty-or-nice list before his sleigh departs the North Pole. Called “a fantastic, slapstick holiday affair,” this is a fun show for all ages. ’Twas the Night Before Christmas runs Nov. 12-Dec. 31 at the Broadway Playhouse (175 E. Chestnut) at Water Tower Place. Call 800-775-2000 or visit EmeraldCityTheatre.com for schedule and ticket information.
The Nutcracker at the Chopin Theatre
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 The Chopin Theatre (1543 W. Division) from Nov. 3-Dec. 30. Call 773-769-3822 or visit TheHouseTheatre.com for schedule and ticket information.
Second City’s Holidazed & Confused at Up Comedy Club
The world-renowned Second City dishes out the holiday love with their annual Holidazed & Confused revue. Called “a romping good way to poke fun at the holiday season” by The
ALL SEVEN HARRY POTTER BOOKS IN SEVENTY HILARIOUS MINUTES!
DECEMBER 13 to JANUARY 7 | LIMITED ENGAGEMENT
TICKETS 800-775-2000 |
TICKETS AVAILABLE AT ALL BROADWAY IN CHICAGO BOX OFFICES AND TICKETMASTER RETAIL LOCATIONS | Groups 10+ 312-977-1710
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2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
Q Brothers’ Christmas Carol at Chicago Shakespeare Theater
Q Brothers’ Christmas Carol Real Chicago, this 90-minute sketch show (with some improvisation) takes dead aim at the crazy, consistently insufferable parts of the holidays, especially when it comes to bringing the family together. “We’re creating a show where everything starts to feel familiar about the holidays and just doubling down on that idea,” says director Tyler Samples, “playing inside of that Hallmark nostalgia and warm and fuzzy Christmas special.” Holidazed and Confused runs Nov. 15-Dec. 30 at Second City’s UP Comedy Club (230 W. North Ave.). Call 312-662-4562 or visit UpComedyClub. com for schedule and ticket information.
The hip-hop holiday spectacular returns, as the Chicago Shakespeare Theater teams up with the Q Brothers, creators or Othello: The Remix and Funk it Up About Nothin’, to turn up the volume on the classic Charles Dickens’ tale. Expect a healthy mix of reggae, rock ballads, dubstep and dancehall in this uniquely engaging performance. DJ Super Nova spins for the talented Q Brothers as the ghosts of hip-hop past, present and future help guide old man Scrooge on his journey of rhythm, rhyme and redemption. Q Brothers’ Christmas Carol runs Nov. 21-Jan. 31 at The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare on Navy Pier. Call 312-595-5600 or visit ChicagoShakes.com for schedule and ticket information.
This Way Outta Santaland at Theater Wit One of Chicago’s favorite holiday performers, Mitchell J. Fain, returns to
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Theater Wit with his hilariously touching tell-all, This Way Outta Santaland (and other Xmas miracles). As the star of David Sedaris’ popular The Santaland Diaries for eight years, Fain returns for a second go-round as the creator and performer of his own holiday show that blends creative storytelling, improvisation, cabaret and cocktails. Altered from one night to the next and equal parts humor and heart, This Way Outta Santaland is a sentimental evening of hard truths — and a few surprises. Performances run Nov. 24-Dec. 30 at Theater Wit (1229 N. Belmont). Visit TheaterWit.org for schedule and ticket information.
Barney the Elf at Greenhouse Theater Center
Other Theatre’s pop-infused musical comedy returns for a third year. When Santa Claus makes an untimely exit, his troubled son assumes power, and things aren’t as jolly as they once were, forcing Barney the Elf to leave the North Pole and embark on a journey of self-discovery. The excursion
Barney The Elf lands him in — where else — a drag bar in Chicago, where he must decide if he can truly turn his back on Christmas in favor of life in the big city. Barney the Elf runs Nov. 17-Dec. 31 at the Greenhouse Theater Center (2257 N. Lincoln). Visit GreenhouseTheater.org for schedule and ticket information.
GET THAT VERY MERRY FEELING.
BLUEMAN.COM | 1.800.BLUEMAN
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2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
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gift guide 2017 holiday
Lambskin Gloves
$95 available at Overland Sheepskin Co. 500 N. Michigan Ave. 312-595-1707
Ladies Annual Calendar Patek Philippe Watch Price upon request available at Razny Jewelers 109 E. Oak St. 312-663-8500
Salon and Spa Gift Cards
Various denominations available at The Red Door by Elizabeth Arden 919 N. Michigan Ave. (Walton St. entrance) 312-988-9191 28
2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
Hand-Blown Glass Vase by Daniel Lotton
$2000, available at Lotton Gallery 900 N. Michigan Ave. 6th floor 312-664-6203
Ultimate Wave Pendant (chain included) $1499 available at Na Hoku 600 N. Michigan Ave. 312-475-1182
Ultimate Olive Oil Gift Basket $99.80 available at Eataly 43 E Ohio St. 312-521-8700
French Macaron Gift Box
$28 available at Sugar Bliss Patisserie 122 S. Wabash Ave. 312-977-5892
Hand-Painted Porcelain Earrings
$98 available at Iris Int’l Jewelry, Water Tower Place, 5th floor 835 N. Michigan Ave. 312-631-3510
Large Carryall
$1295 available at Shinola 1009 N. Rush St. 312-663-7300
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Dreamscope
$395-$675 available at Art and Artisans 321 N. Michigan Ave. 312-541-1951
Barchitecture Napkins
$5.95, available at the Chicago Architecture Foundation Retail Store 224 S. Michigan Ave. 312-322-1132
Trucker Baseball Hat
$30 available at Goorin Bros. 1533 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-384-4287
Chicago Skyline LEGO Set
$39.99 available at the Chicago Architecture Foundation Retail Store 224 S. Michigan Ave.312-322-1132
Bedrock Chrono
$900 available at Shinola 1009 N. Rush St. 312-663-7300
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2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE
EXPERIENCE A DAZZLING HOLIDAY TRADITION SPECIAL TICKETED EVENTS Open 4:30–9 p.m.
FREE NIGHTS
Holiday Market Thursday, November 28
November 24–26
Adults Night Out: Holidaze! Thursday, November 30
December 1–3, 8–23, 26–31
BrewLights Presented by Louis Glunz Beer, Inc. Thursday, December 7
January 1–7
SPONSORED BY
The Chris White Trio Tribute to A Charlie Brown Christmas Sunday, December 10 Learn more and buy tickets at lpzoo.org/zoolights
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2017 Holiday ACTIVITY GUIDE