Concierge Preferred Magazine Dec 2022 - Jan 2023

“WELCOME TO CHICAGO”

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And we are here to help you enjoy this holiday season to the fullest.

This issue comes with an abundance of ways to celebrate Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, New Year’s Eve, and Lunar New Year in dozens of different neighborhoods around the city.

There are, of course, the classic parades, tree lightings, and so on, but the holidays also call for festive food and drink. Together with the awesome Chicago concierge community, we made a selection of the most festive foods, wine bars, and holiday pop-ups. Don’t worry: we also added some tips for the day after including the best hangover cures and most luxurious spas.

For those who love to spend some time outside, we have listed our favorite skating rinks around the city. For many–including me–shopping can be considered an outdoor activity as well, so please have a look at our shopping pages. There you will find both luxury boutiques and family-friendly shopping destinations.

Don’t let the cold stop you from celebrating like a true Chicagoan!

Happy holidays and a healthy, happy, and prosperous 2023 from the entire ConciergePreferred team!

Leentje De Leeuw Editor in Chief leentje@ateema.com

Chicago Holiday Guide

By Maddie Belland and Mariah Sturdivant

CHRISTMAS CLASSICS

Christkindlmarket

Among the many Christmassy things to do in Chicago, one of the favorites is Christkindlmarket, a quaint village in Daley Plaza filled with German shops and eateries. Shop for exquisite glass ornaments and authentic handmade items. And don’t forget potato pancakes and glühwein (“glow wine”)!

Zoo Lights

Chicago is fortunate to have two excellent zoos that put on dazzling holiday light displays. Lincoln Park, one of the only free zoos left in the country, hosts an incredible, colorful experience. Brookfield Zoo’s tradition of Holiday Magic continues with a two-million-twinkling-light extravaganza.

Ice Skating

Lace-up your skates and get out on the ice on two different but equally fun downtown rinks. Skate under The Bean at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park. Next door is Maggie Daley Park with its one-of-a-kind skating ribbon, which winds around the spectacular park. Which rink will be your favorite?

Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum

Bundle up and visit the Morton Arboretum for their 10th Anniversary Illumination Tree Lights. The mile-long spectacle of LED lights and music will immerse you in 50 acres of trees. New for 2022: enjoy the Electric Illumination series, complete with a DJ, synchronized music, and a new exhibit in the Grand Garden. With events for adults and kids alike, you won’t want to miss it!

City of Chicago Christmas Tree

Head to Millennium Park for a historic, larger-than-life Christmas tree. This year marks the 109th Chicago Christmas tree! Near the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Washington Street, this 55-foot Colorado Blue Spruce will light up Millennium Park and get you in the holiday spirit. You can admire the tree, ice skate, and enjoy holiday treats all in one trip.

The Nutcracker

From December 3rd through the 27th, join the Joffrey Ballet at the Chicago Civic Opera House for this iconic holiday performance. The Nutcracker celebrates the magic of Christmas and the rich cultural heritage of Chicago, complete with professional ballerinas and world-renowed choreography. With marvelous sights, sounds, and enchantment, you will feel as if you’ve transcended reality, just like the characters in the ballet.

Christmas Around the World

Get the family together, escape the cold, and head to the Museum of Science and Industry to explore holiday traditions from around the world. Rooted in the history of WWII, this tradition features more than 50 trees symbolizing 50 countries, each lovingly decorated by volunteers in honor of a united world, all surrounding the dazzling Grand Tree.

Don't let the cold stop you from celebrating

KWANZAA

DuSable Museum of African American History

Celebrate African American culture at the DuSable Museum’s annual Kwanzaa Celebration, which will provide inspiration to remember the past and look to the future.

Malcolm X College Kwanzaa observance

Every year Malcolm X College hosts its Kwanzaa observance, which is entirely free for all to come and learn about this historic holiday.

Bronzeville's Children's Museum

This Bronzeville Kwanzaa celebration is specifically for children to have fun and learn the meaning of Kwanzaa.

LUNAR NEW YEAR

Chinese New Year Parade

Chinese New Year Parade Chinatown will celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with a colorful parade at 1 p.m on January 22nd, 2023. If you want to see authentic and traditional performances, this event is the perfect place for it.

Chinese New Year at Navy Pier

Celebrate the Lunar New Year on February 5th at Navy Pier’s Aon Ballroom as it is transformed into a Chinese marketplace with thrilling performances by dancers, musicians, and martial artists.

HANUKKAH

Hanukkah Menorah Lighting

Each evening of Hanukkah at 5 pm, join the Flossmoor community south of Chicago as the menorah will be lit at Flossmoor Park.

Dreidels and Donuts

Highland Park hosts Dreidels and Donuts on December 12 in the West Ridge Center with crafts and the traditional (jelly donut) suganiyot.

A Complete Guide to the Chicago Holidays is Available on our Website

Holidays in the Neighborhoods

Enjoy these global

By Leentje De Leeuw

CHRISTMAS in Andersonville

Welcome to a little bit of Sweden! Between its historic architecture, dynamic bar scene, and bustling main street (Clark), Andersonville is a thriving example of a charming urban neighborhood. No time like the holidays to enjoy some of its magic! We’ve selected some of the holiday events and happenings in Andersonville.

Andersonville Winter Market

December2-4

This annual holiday classic hosts local artists, vintage vendors, and Swedish vendors. Simon’s Tavern will be serving Glogg and, in addition to all of that, the Holiday Trolley will be running all three days.

holiday traditions

St Lucia Festival of Lights

December13

One of Andersonville’s many traditional Swedish events. In past years, St. Lucia begins with a torch-lit procession down the sidewalks of Clark Street, kicking off at the Swedish American Museum, 5211 North Clark St. The procession highlight is the appearance of the specially chosen “Lucia Girls,” who will lead the crowd, wearing long white robes and beautiful crowns of candles, and singing “The Lucia Song.” Children and adults also join in the procession. Afterwards all participants attend a Lucia celebration at the Swedish American Museum. The Lucia celebration features a telling of the Lucia legend, family entertainment, and Swedish holiday treats including traditional “pepparkakor” ginger snaps.

Julmarknad at the Swedish American Museum

December3-4

Julmarknad is the Museum’s annual Christmas Bazaar, where traditional Scandinavian and modern handicrafts will be available for purchase from outside vendors. You can find gifts, ornaments, food, and more. This is an event for the whole family with crafts, performances, and a special visit from Santa.

Other special holiday events in Andersonville include Late Night Shopping (December 2 & 16), a Holiday Mixer at KOVAL Distillery (December 15), and the Andersonville Holiday Concert at Philadelphia Church (December 16).

KWANZAA

December26throughJanuary1st

Kwanzaa is an African-American celebration of life introduced to the United States by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966 as a ritual to welcome the first harvests to the home. There are several Kwanzaa celebrations on Chicago’s South Side.

Visit the DuSable Museum of African American History in Washington Park, the nation’s oldest independent AfricanAmerican Museum, to celebrate and explore ways to incorporate year-long activation of Kwanzaa principles into your daily life. On December 28th, there will be an activation in the building for each of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Visitors will move through the Museum to experience them all.

The South Side Community Art Center in Bronzeville will also have a dedicated Kwanzaa program. Founded in 1940, SSCAC is the oldest African-American art center in the United States and is a Chicago Historic Landmark. While taking pride in its rich past, the SSCAC builds on its legacy and innovatively serves as an artist- and community-centered resource with programs, exhibitions, and events that inspire.

LUNAR NEW YEAR

January22,2023

Chinatown

& Asia on Argyle (Uptown)

Welcome to the Year of the Rabbit! Chicago has two major Lunar New Year Parades: one in Chinatown and the other in Uptown (Asia on Argyle).

Chinatown Sunday,January22,2023

The parade will begin at 1:00 p.m. at the intersection of 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue and travel north on Wentworth toward the viewing stand at Cermak and Wentworth.

Foodtip:Ifyouareinthemoodfor someauthenticandspicyChinese food,checkoutLaoSzeChuanfor classicSzechuancuisine

Asia On Argyle in Uptown

Saturday,January28

The parade will kick-off at 1:00pm headed east from Argyle & Winthrop, south on Sheridan, west on Ainslie, and north on Broadway back to Argyle.

Foodtip:celebratewithareunion dinneratSunWahBBQ,aJamesBeard FoundationAward-winningHongKong styleBBQrestaurantinArgyle.

Chicago's Festive Must-Try Delights

Joyous times call for festive foods

By Paulina Czupryna & Leentje De Leeuw

SEAFOOD

Catch 35

Set in one of Chicago’s most iconic buildings with views of the river, this Chicago staple has some of the best seafood around. Added bonus: live jazz music by the legendary Eric Hochberg Trio every Tuesday through Saturday. And what rhymes better with lobster than some good ol’ jazz?

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab Originating in Miami Beach, Joe’s has been in business for over 100 years. With locations in Chicago, Las Vegas, and Washington D.C., the restaurant continues to serve some of the best crab legs, shrimp, and steak in the world.

Shaw’s Crab House

A premier seafood restaurant that offers quality and daily-sourced dishes. Their broiled twin South African lobster tails are a must-try dish off their spectacular menu.

CAVIAR Heritage

Heritage is a staple in the community, paying homage to all of the immigrants who built this city. They bring fine dining to the kitchen table with their attention to Chicago’s past, present, and future. Heritage has an extensive caviar selection and a grand caviar tasting menu.

STEAK STK

STK takes their steaks very seriously. Each piece of their USDA beef comes primarily from farms in nearby Iowa and Nebraska. The Linz Heritage black Angus cattle are certified, allowing for consistency and the highest quality marbled beef.

Gibson’s

Gibson is a superior steakhouse with spectacular views, an extensive menu, and locations in Chicago, Rosemont, and Oak Brook. After trying Gibson’s grass-fed Australian ribeye paired with any one of their delicious sides, you’re sure to become a regular.

Roka Akor

A contemporary Japanese Robata cuisine specializing in rare wagyu steak. Wagyu is among the most desired and luxurious meats with a tenderness that is unparalleled. Roka Akor offers a thoughtful dining experience and dishes meant to be shared.

Honored in FX’s Hit Show “The Bear”

Chicago’s Famous Italian Beef

By Maddie Belland

Al’s #1 Italian Beef

Located in every corner of Chicago, Al’s #1 Italian Beef has a long history with the savory Italian Beef sandwich. Their list of awards is extensive, including “Most Iconic Dish in America” and “Top Food to Eat in Chicago Before You Die.” With customizable options, Al’s takes classic flavors to new heights.

Johnnie’s Beef

If you’re looking for the classic Italian Beef in the western burbs, Johnnie’s Beef in Elmwood Park is the perfect spot, but get there early because their line grows quickly. Johnnie’s mother-in-law created their topsecret spice and gravy mix, which highlights the process and care Johnnie’s puts into their food. The hot peppers are made in-house every day, and the French bread is perfect, whether you drench your sandwich in juice or prefer it dry.

Portillo’s Chicagoans are blessed to have Portillo’s in their hometown; we wouldn’t be Chicago without it! Since 1963, Portillo’s has been at the heart of Chicago’s food scene, from their time-honored Italian Beef to their modern Chocolate Cake Shake. They’ve also diversified their menu over the years to please every taste. It’s no surprise that celebrities near and far love Portillo’s, including Mindy Kaling and Guy Fieri. Portillo’s will warm your heart and your taste buds, so don’t wait to try their Italian Beef!

Buona

Launched over 40 years ago, Buona Beef puts family at the heart of their Italian Beef Sandwich and recipes. The Buona Brothers have built the largest family-owned Italian Beef restaurant group and Italian Beef Producer group in the country. Their beef and gravy are completely additive-free, and they offer many options for both kids and large catering parties. They’ve kept their signature Italian Beef classic and stellar, but they also offer a full menu of pasta, pizza, salads, and burgers.

Luke’s Italian Beef

Luke’s Italian Beef is so popular that they have customers ready to put their name behind Luke’s product. Located in the Loop, Luke’s has been serving fresh Italian Beef with premium ingredients for decades. They have you covered when it comes to catering for your large events, too. Pair your personal Italian Beef with extra side orders of marinara, meat sauce, and peppers.

THE BEAR Mr. Beef on Orleans

If you’re a fan of FX’s “The Bear,” you will enjoy the Italian Beef restaurant that inspired the show. Not only can you experience “The Bear,” but Mr. Beef on Orleans at Huron in River North has some really low prices to satisfy your wallet, as well. Praise for “The Bear” has injected life into Mr. Beef at Orleans and Chicagoans are thankful for it. Watch “The Bear” and head over to Mr. Beef on Orleans for some classic food and prices you just can’t beat.

Tony’s Italian Beef

With Tony’s extensive hours–open breakfast until 10PM–there’s plenty of time to get in on all the action. With different Italian Beef styles on the menu from lunch through dinner, you won’t want to miss out on this Chicago staple. You can even call ahead to place your order, and Tony’s cooks will have your food hot and ready when you get there.

Carm’s Little Italy

If you’re feeling adventurous, head down to UIC’s campus for one of the best Italian Beef sandwiches in town. Carm’s will make you feel at home. You can even take that welcoming feeling home with you with Beef by the Pound (with the juice of course)! Explore Little Italy with Carm’s Italian Beef in hand and we promise you’ll be back for more.

How to Survive a Chicago Hangover

CONCIERGES WEIGH IN ON THE BEST PICKER-UPPERS AFTER A BIG NIGHT OUT

By Paulina Czupryna

Phodega

Casey

Frankel, Concierge, The Peninsula

“I’ve taken a page out of the late, great Anthony Bourdain’s book and whenever I’ve had a big night out, I crave noodle soups the next day. The pho bo at Phodega in Wicker Park always helps get me going again. Or the spicy oiimen ramen at Oiistar in Wicker Park is a hangover cure as well.”

Logan Bar & Kitchen

Flor Sigaran, Senior Experience

Concierge, 110 North Wacker “My recovery comfort food spot is Logan 11 Bar & Kitchen (2230 N California Ave) Delicious Buffalo Style Calamari or the Spicy Black Bean Sandwich are a must try. The Pretty in Pink Cocktail is a citrus-y treat.”

Lou Mitchell’s

Love coffee? Definitely try out iconic Lou Mitchell’s family-owned restaurant for some of the world’s finest coffee and a variety of breakfast specials. With over 98 years in business, this classic diner on the old Route 66 continues to fill the stomachs of Chicagoans and visitors alike …and is guaranteed to ease your hangover.

Steak’n Egger

Is your hangover giving you the munchies? The solution: Steak’n Egger. Located in Pilsen, this 24-hour diner boasts an incredible breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. With a classic small diner vibe, Steak’n Egger provides some of the best recovery eats. From biscuits to BLTs, you’ll be feeling better in no time.

Sunda

Sunda is the place to be for the most insane Bloody Mary, dubbed the Sumo Mary. It consists of a 32 oz jar of Sunda bloody mary mix topped with tocino grilled cheese, longanisa, pork belly bao bun, baked snow crab handroll, karaage fried chicken, lumpia egg rolls, Sunda potatoes, and cucumber. Make sure to check out Sunda's Bloody Mary bar during brunch/lunch service too!

Chinatown Boba

Hungover but not necessarily hungry? No problem. Boba, or bubble tea, is considered a perfect morning after “meal.” After a night of imbibing, what better way to start your day than with a fun, tasty drink? Chicago’s Chinatown has many options: Te’Amo Boba Bar, Bingo Tea, and Kung Fu Tea offer some of the best milk tea, smoothies, and tapioca.

Bathing in Luxury

Relaxing at Chicago’s best spas

By Maddie Belland

The Peninsula Spa

The Peninsula Spa is perfect for anyone wanting to try both holistic Eastern medicine and modern massages. Allow yourself to indulge in luxury while trying new ways to help yourself beat the cold. Located on top of the Peninsula Hotel, the Peninsula Spa offers one-of-a-kind views of the city. At the same time, you relax in their luxurious and calming rooms, complete with an Olympic-sized pool and a Hot Stones Massage.

The Chuan Spa at The Langham Chicago

‘Chuan’ in Chinese means ‘flowing water,’ and Chuan Spa bases its philosophy on this definition, promoting holistic well-being for everyone. Let Chuan Spa’s waters rejuvenate your soul with their Chuan Bathing Ritual, Aromatherapy shower, Eucalyptus Steam Room, and acupuncture. This traditional Chinese spa brings Eastern medicinal healing to Chicago for a perfect winter getaway.

The Cowshed Spa at Soho House Chicago

Cowshed Spa is known for its pedicures, but everyone stays for their full-body relaxation experience. Their rustic and homey atmosphere will make you feel relaxed, renewed, and right at home. Get off your feet with their elaborate pedicure, complete with a shoulder and scalp massage. After you’re done, get their Primrose Body Wrap, completing your spa experience with facials, body scrubs, and massages.

The Waldorf Astoria Spa

If you’re looking for a state-of-the-art spa with an entire day’s worth of relaxation, The Waldorf Astoria Spa is the place for you! Throughout their five-hour spa treatment, let their specialists pamper you with facials, massages, pools, and lunch. The Waldorf offers various customizable treatment options, including access to their health club or their Signature Waldorf Massage. Their treatments work best if you take advantage of many at once!

Spa at the Four Seasons Hotel

The Four Seasons has a rich history of providing its guests with divine, high-class experiences, and its spa is no different. Their spa is focused on providing wellness for the whole person, including packages that span many hours or memberships you can use all year long. Book their Magnificent Mile Massage or the Diamond Brilliance Facial to rejuvenate your body after a long day of exploring Chicago.

The NOW

There’s a good reason why Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and other celebrities flock to this spa. The NOW is bringing its healing massages to the South Loop! Centered on a minimalist experience, The NOW is perfect for anyone wanting to escape the daily pressure of life. Talented professionals offer their Signature NOW Treatment, helping to reduce anxiety and relax your entire body. Plus, they have great add-ons to your treatment, including Scalp Renewal and Prenatal Glow.

Kohler Waters Spa

Located in Lincoln Park, Kohler Waters Spa invites you to visit 20,000 square feet of tranquility. Their philosophy is centered on water’s healing properties, connecting all their guests to the element that gives us life. With 21 treatment rooms, there is a welcoming spot for your every need, including hydrotherapy and various massage options. Whether you prefer warm or cool options, their customizable Steam Room and Cool Plunge Pool will rejuvenate everyone!

Spa Space

Spa Space is the perfect getaway after a long day. The owners believe that the perfect spa experience is entirely created by the guest, which is why their spa menu includes diverse options to meet your needs. Spa Space matches every guest with a licensed expert to design your treatment. Once you meet with your expert, book the services that come with enhancements to put you at the center of your treatment. From Custom Acupuncture to Infrared Saunas, Spa Space will maximize your relaxation and mental clarity.

Joffrey Company Artist Christine Rocas in Anna Karenina, photo by Cheryl Mann. Joffrey Company Artist Yumi Kanazawa in The Nutcracker, photo by Todd Rosenberg.

Ice Skating Have Fun At These Chicago Rinks

By Mariah Sturdivant

McCormick Tribune Ice Rink

Located in the heart of downtown, this rink is a must in wintertime. While skating you will have a good view of both the iconic Chicago skyline and The Bean. Admission is free and the rink is open daily starting in November.

Navy Pier

Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier is a winter wonderland and the indoor rink is a highlight. The event runs November through January. Tickets start at $13.50.

Winterland at Gallagher Way

Wrigleyville transforms into a festive Winterland! The ice rink at Gallagher Way opens in November and is designed for all skating skill sets. Ice skating lessons—as well as curling lessons—will be offered.

Sky Rink

The only hotel skating rink in the city, the Peninsula Hotel’s terrace rink is four stories above Michigan Avenue. Festive music and snowflake lighting surrounds the rink and seasonal treats are served to warm you up. Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for children, which includes skates. The proceeds go towards children's charities.

Midway Plaisance

Site of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair’s “Midway,” the historic one-mile long Midway Plaisance Park features a skating rink that is free and fun for all. The rink is fully accessible and opens in November.

Franklin Park Ice Arena

Maggie Daley Park

Right next to Millennium Park, the curving quarter-mile skating ribbon is what makes the Maggie Daley rink so unique. It opens in November for the winter season.

This public ice skating rink is accessible and affordable: with a season pass, you can skate all season long. Skate rentals are only $3, which makes this a perfect rink for group outings. All skating skills are encouraged to join the fun!

Party Started! Get the

Get ready to sing and dance the night away. Howl At the Moon in the Near North is the best place for anything from memorable celebrations, such as holiday parties and bachelor/bachelorette parties, to just a fun night out with friends.

Their energetic live music show features the best songs from the 80s, 90s, and today. Thirsty? Howl At The Moon offers a wide variety of specialty drinks and cocktails. Hungry? Chow down on some delicious burgers, pizza, tacos, and more. At Howl At The Moon the party never stops.

DRINK

Cheers to 2023

CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR IN STYLE AT THESE WINE BARS

By Leentje De Leeuw

OUTSIDE VOICES

Flor Sigaran (Senior Experience

Concierge, 110 N Wacker):

“Outside Voices is a funky little wine bar with interesting woodwork and artwork on the walls. They have a great hidden outdoor patio. Try the Fossil and Fawn Willamette Valley Pinot Gris.”

CHICAGO WINERY

After having launched successful locations in New York and DC, Chicago Winery opened its brand new hot spot in Chicago’s River North neighborhood this fall. Chicago Winery is proud to differentiate itself by focusing on chef-driven cuisine, the onsite winemaking process, and serving neighbors with genuine Midwest hospitality.

CITY WINERY

This venue has it all: live music, comedy, good food, and a great wine list. Complete your visit to the trendy West Loop with a wine tasting dinner or enjoy a late night sip after a Bulls or Hawks game at the United Center.

ESQUIRE BY COOPER'S HAWK

Esquire by Cooper’s Hawk’s 50-foot glassenclosed wine tower is home to one of the best wine collections in Chicago and its Tasting Room offers some of the city’s most exquisite wine tastings. Take a cellar tour with the sommeliers and peek behind the curtains!

POMPETTE

First meeting in the kitchens at acclaimed Chicago restaurants Wood and Salero, an impressive team of three industry dynamos introduced Pompette this fall. The community-forward gathering spot focuses on a curated Old World wine list, low ABV sippers, and an easygoing menu of winefriendly food and shareable plates.

SOIF

Hidden below Roman-style eatery Testaccio in Logan Square, Soif Wine Lounge is a French speakeasy-inspired wine bar. At Soif (French for ‘thirst’) you will find an extensive French wine list with a broad selection of rare and hard-to-find classic varietals, natural wine offerings, pétillant naturals, orange wines, and grower Champagnes.

WEBSTER’S WINE BAR

Open since 1994, Webster’s must be the OG of Chicago’s wine bar scene. Focus is on small, family-owned producers who make great wines and care for the environment. Bonus: the kitchen is open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Santa Claus is Comiing

CHEER UP WITH THESE HOLIDAY POP-UPS

By Paulina Czupryna

Santa Baby Bar

This over-the-top bar is an environment like no other with over 1,000 ornaments and vivid lights that transport you to the North Pole. Santa Baby’s menu has been modified to fit their extra-vibrant aesthetic: from the JackFrostcocktail to Reindeer Wings, red and green Christmas sliders to 12 Shots for Christmas!

Rudolph’s Bar

Known as “Chicago’s Favorite Pop-Up,” the creators of Santa Baby Bar have created Rudolph’s Bar. Also located in Wrigleyville, Rudolph’s has all-new holiday decorations for 2022. Similar to Santa Baby, Rudolph’s Bar is where all the reindeer go to destress after a long day of sleighing. Try The Grinch cocktail but keep an eye out for Santa!

JoJo’s Shake Bar

Festive year-round, JoJo’s Shake Bar becomes Winter Wonderland Pop-Up. JoJo’s heated outside patio is bedecked with animated decorations and Christmas lights. Jojo’s is known for their nostalgic diner food and creative beverage options, many of which are boozed-up drinks...perfect for cozying up to the Christmas tree.

Christmas Club

Wrigleyville bars have gone out of their way to morph into festive spectacles. Like Santa Baby, Wrigleyville’s huge Christmas Club is a holiday-themed venue with three bars and three party rooms. Guaranteed to elevate your Chicago winter experience!

Frosty’s Bar

Located on Goose Island, Frosty’s is a 21+ holiday-themed pop-up extravaganza. With three decorated halls and four bars, guests are surrounded by the Christmas spirit. Experience a night with singing Santa and his dancing elves amidst the lavish decorations, lights, and costumes. Frosty’s specialty holiday drink menu is irresistible!

Jack’s Winter Walk and Christmas Tree Farm

Jack’s Winter Walk is located on Goose Island on over two acres of land. The tree farm will have the perfect fresh tree for your home and there are a variety of activities to try, including axe throwing, bumper cars, a fortune teller, and unlimited photo ops. Seasonal drinks complete the experience.

8 Crazy Nights

The only Hanukkah-themed pop up bar in Chicago, the popular annual 8 Crazy Nights at The Graystone Tavern in Wrigleyville is a one-of-a-kind experience. Instead of red and green, 8 Crazy Nights is awash in blue lights and ball lanterns, dreidels, and menorahs. Food and drink are just as special: matzo ball soup, grilled cheese on challah, and latkes go well with the Masel Tov cocktail, Mensch Mule, and Hanukkah Harry’s Hot Chocolate. Don’t forget the vodka-infused jelly donuts! Board and card games plus dreidel spinning competition promise an unforgettable time.

Elf’d Up

Stretch Bar & Grill in Wrigleyville becomes the Elf’d Up pop-up bar, a whimsical tribute to Buddy and the movie, Elf . You’ll be surrounded by 1,000 elves, cut-outs of Buddy the Elf and Miles Finch, Christmas trees, snowflakes, and colored lights. Holiday themed cocktails share the menu with such delights as Buddy’s Breakfast Pasta (spaghetti, maple syrup, chocolate fudge, and marshmallows)! No cover charge and every night at 10 PM guests receive on-the-house elf-shaped cookies.

luxury boutiques

By Maddie Belland

Burdi Clothing

ikram

Ikram Goldman started her namesake boutique to highlight unique fashion from around the world. Featured on CNN, in Vogue, and in Chicago Magazine, ikram’s take on luxury fashion is something you can’t miss. Located right off of Michigan Avenue, the boutique displays a hand-picked collection of women’s accessories and gift items. Check out their stunning collection – complete with an art gallery for your viewing pleasure.

Burdi Clothing is the place for you if you’re looking for a luxury boutique specializing in elegant menswear. They offer best-in-class, Italian-style pieces that are perfect for your next extravagant event. From stunning cufflinks to versatile shoes, Burdi Clothing is sure to upgrade your wardrobe and impress. Burdi also hosts private events, creates custom designs, and ensures that your wedding attire fits and feels out of this world. Venture a little outside the city for this amazing boutique!

Take a look at some of our favorite boutiques and you may just find the perfect holiday gifts for your family and friends!

Intermix

With locations across the country, Intermix has graced Chicago with a store right downtown. Their personal stylists are ready to assist you with a wardrobe revamp, from exclusive pieces to designer apparel. Plus, their stylists can teach you how to buy for the future. Intermix is committed to providing a one-of-a-kind experience for all women. Anyone is welcome to stop in and peruse their lookbooks to see other styles and get inspired!

VMR

Located in the Gold Coast, VMR – for “vintage, modern, resale” – is an appointment-only showroom, featuring elegant fashion for any style. They offer a variety of vintage designs for women as well as clothing from around the world. VMR strives to make its merchandise approachable, not overwhelming. Their designers stay up-to-date with each season, so you know you’re getting a dynamic buying experience.

Penelope’s

A husband and wife duo founded Penelope’s in 2002 and it’s been a Wicker Park staple ever since. Penelope’s specializes in upgraded, everyday fashion for women, men, and children. They’ve taken a comfortable style and elevated it. Penelope’s stocks a wide variety of items, from the newest winter apparel to the trendiest accessories. If you’re looking to add color to your style and home, Penelope’s is the place for you. You can even order online and have it delivered to the store before you purchase.

PhotocreditbyBurdi

Find The Perfect Gift

OUR GUIDE TO FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOLIDAY SHOPPING

By Mariah Sturdivant

Garrett’s Popcorn Shop

Disney Store

Disney is already a family-friendly franchise and its stores make shopping magical. There are many locations in Chicago, including the Loop. So enjoy the delightful Disney songs while choosing the best presents!

Macy's On State Street

Any Macy’s would be good for holiday shopping, but Macy's on State Street is extra special. Inhabiting the old Marshall Field’s flagship, Macy’s continues the beloved traditions of the decorated windows, the Great Tree, and Frango Mints. Be sure to make reservations to eat in the Walnut Room!

If you want a break from shopping, just follow your nose to Garrett’s Popcorn shop! One of Chicago’s most popular (and addictive) snacks, Garrett’s is an essential stop. Try the Garrett Mix: the contrast between the salty cheese corn with the sweet caramel corn will have your taste buds in full swing. With many locations, Garrett’s is a perfect pit stop during your holiday shopping.

The Shops At North Bridge

With Nordstrom as its anchor store, this mall is a holiday shopping heaven, featuring an array of 50 stores and 20 restaurants. The Shops At North Bridge is on the Magnificent Mile and expands to over six city blocks in the heart of the downtown holiday excitement.

Fashion Outlets of Chicago

Water Tower Place

Famous Water Tower Place has many stores and eateries that will bring joy to the holiday. Located on the Magnificent Mile near the historic Water Tower, after shopping the family can enjoy the festive downtown atmosphere.

The only two-level indoor luxury shopping outlet in the region and a mere five minutes from O’Hare Airport, Fashion Outlets promises to make your shopping experience extra special. 130 designer shops are accompanied by a tempting selection of food and drink (including adult beverages) as well as an exciting, constantly changing art collection throughout. Especially for the holidays: photos with Santa, dazzling decorations, and extended hours make finding that perfect gift a joy.