Chicago Holiday Guide

Don't let the cold stop you from celebrating

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.

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.

KWANZAA

DuSable Museum of African American History HANUKKAH

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. 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