The SportsWise Team debates the college football rankings and the NFL's VIP.
Cover Story: Gift ideas from local artists
StreetWise vendors are entrepreneurs, so our annual guide to items made by local artisans and businesses is our gift to Chicago.
Cover Story: Local Holiday Markets
In the tradition of our most comprehensive Summer and Fall Festival Guides, we've compiled an extensive guide to neighborhood markets where you can shop, connect with friends and make memories.
The Playground
THIS PAGE: StreetWise Vendor Kianna wears the GiveAShi*t logo shirt (Daily Planet, Ltd. photo). DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the authors and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or positions of StreetWise.
Dave Hamilton, Creative Director/Publisher dhamilton@streetwise.org
Amanda Jones, Director of programs ajones@streetwise.org
Julie Youngquist, Executive director jyoungquist@streetwise.org
Ph: 773-334-6600
Office: 2009 S. State St., Chicago, IL, 60616
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Compiled by Daria Hamelin
All Aboard!
CTA Holiday Train & Busses
Hop on the lit-up CTA Holiday train as it travels over the housetops to deliver cheer as well as baskets with all the fixings for holiday meals to charitable agencies across the city. Photos with Santa will also be available on a limited basis, taken by CTA employees using your device. Santa and his sleigh will ride a flatbed railcar on the Orange and Brown Lines Dec. 4, 5, 6, with Santa photo ops Dec. 7; on the Pink Line Dec. 10 & 11; the Blue Line Dec. 12 & 13 and the Blue and Pink with photos Dec. 14; the Red Line Dec. 17 & 19, the Purple Line Dec. 18 & 20, with photos on both lines Dec. 21; and basic runs on the Yellow Line Dec. 23. Holiday train (and bus) schedules at www.transitchicago.com/holidayfleet/
Shop 'til You Drop!
2nd Annual Frosty Affair Holiday Makers Market
Get into the holiday spirit at Oak Park’s 2nd Annual Frosty Affair Holiday Makers Market on December 5 from 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.! This festive marketplace at the Nineteenth Century Charitable Association (178 Forest Ave.) offers a curated selection of local, handcrafted goods perfect for unique holiday shopping. With an inviting atmosphere, seasonal treats, and exclusive vendor offerings, Frosty Affair brings together community and creativity for an evening of cheer and gift inspiration. For more information, visit www.oprfchamber.org. FREE.
For an expansive listing of holiday markets, visit page 12!
Raunchy & Heartfelt!
‘How to F*ck Like a Girl: Essays’ by Vera Blossom
Join Vera Blossom at Women & Children First Bookstore (5233 N. Clart St.) on December 4 from 7 - 8:30 p.m. for an in-person reading and discussion of her latest collection, “How to F*ck Like a Girl: Essays.” Known for her bold exploration of themes like pleasure, gender, desire, and survival, Blossom’s work is both raunchy and heartfelt, blending memoir, manifesto and wit. This thought-provoking collection tackles topics ranging from trans identity and personal empowerment to witchcraft and subverting capitalism, offering readers a fresh and daring voice in contemporary literature. For more information and to register, visit www.womenandchildrenfirst.com. FREE.
A Broadway Superstar!
Brian D’Arcy James at Steppenwolf Steppenwolf Theatre (1650 N. Halsted St.) presents a special evening with acclaimed Broadway star Brian D’Arcy James on December 7 at 3 and 7 p.m. Known for his powerful stage presence and impressive range, the five-time Tony nominee will perform an intimate mix of Broadway hits, classic American standards, and personal favorites, accompanied by his music director Dan Lipton. This event will feature songs from some of his most celebrated roles, including numbers from “Hamilton,” “Shrek the Musical,” and “Days of Wine and Roses.” Tickets start at $75. For more information visit www.steppenwolf.org
The Cat's Meow!
JazzFest
Celebrate Chicago’s jazz legacy at JazzFest 2024 on December 7 at the renowned Jazz Showcase in the South Loop (806 S. Plymouth Court). From 12 - 3 p.m., experience an afternoon of dynamic performances, featuring both rising stars and seasoned jazz artists in a lineup that promises captivating rhythms and rich, soulful improvisations. Tickets are pay-what-you-can, up to $55, making it accessible for a wide audience of jazz lovers. For more information, visit www.jazzshowcase.com
Feliz Navidad!
Chicago Cuatro Orchestra — 'Concierto Jíbaro Navideño 2024'
The Chicago Cuatro Orchestra presents the "Concierto Jíbaro Navideño 2024" at Northside College Prep Theatre (5501 N. Kedzie Ave.) on December 7 at 6 p.m. This annual holiday event celebrates Puerto Rican music and culture, featuring renowned cuatro master Prodigio Claudio, marking his 45th year as a musician, along with poet/trovador Pepe Rios and other special guests. Ticket prices range from $30 - $100, including reserved seating options and VIP packages. For more details, visit www.theccoproject.org.
All That Jazz!
Greg Ward Quartet
Experience an evening of jazz mastery with the Greg Ward Quartet at the Jazz Showcase (806 S. Plymouth Court) on December 5 at 8:30 p.m. Saxophonist Greg Ward, known for his innovative sound and collaboration with leading jazz artists, brings his talent to Chicago’s iconic jazz venue for a night of soulful, engaging performances. Ward’s quartet will captivate audiences with a dynamic blend of traditional and modern jazz, making this event a must for jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Tickets for this event range from $30 - $80. For more information visit www.jazzshowcase.com
Four Centuries
‘400 Years’
“400 Years” is a powerful audio-visual performance event taking place on December 5 at 7 p.m., at the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center (740 E. 56th Place). This multidisciplinary experience features a 14-piece ensemble and explores 400 years of Black history, including themes of sociomusicology, ethnomusicology, and epigenetics. The performance is a tribute to the Black diaspora and the transformative cultural effects of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, blending music, choreography, and visual media to honor ancestral wisdom while pushing toward future innovations. Tickets for this event range from $25 - $135. More information visit www.dusablemuseum.org
A Holiday Cabaret!
‘Open Cabaret: Holiday Spectacular!’
On December 10 at 7 p.m., enjoy “Open Cabaret: Holiday Spectacular for New Works” at The Newport Theatre (956 W. Newport Ave.). This event showcases the city’s up-and-coming talent in burlesque, drag, and variety acts, offering a unique opportunity to experience the freshest performances in a vibrant, supportive atmosphere. Tickets are priced between $23 - $40. For more details, visit https://linktr.ee/open.cabaret
Son of a Nutcracker!
Film Screening: ‘Elf’ (2003)
The Chicago Public Library is hosting a screening of “Elf” (2003) at the Woodson Regional Library branch (9525 S. Halsted St.) on December 4 from 1:30 - 4 p.m. This beloved holiday comedy follows Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, who embarks on a mission to find his real family in New York City. For more information, visit www.chipublib.org. FREE.
two football questions
John: There are two great debates going on: the college football playoffs are in their first year and, “Who is the National Football League’s Most Valuable Player?” It’s a very hot race between Derrick Henry, Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen. Which intrigues you the most?
Russell: The college football playoffs. They got 12 teams and the top 25 will be posted soon. The MVP, it’s too early. We’re in Week 10; we get to Week 17, I will let you know how I feel.
Allen: I am going with Russell. College football playoffs are more exciting. The Most Valuable Player is sort of like the election. I didn’t let the election worry me. I woke up and Trump was giving his victory speech. That’s like the MVP. You can sleep on it and Google it. Not too exciting. College football you get to see a lot of action. So, I will go with college football.
William: I think I will too. [But] I don’t like the way they redid the conferences. I can see fixing it to have the same number of teams in each con-
ference. But having a team in Honolulu and some team in the Philippines in the same conference scattered that far apart? It’s like the New York Mets can be in the NL East and the New York Yankees in the NL West. This way they can be in the same league and can play each other. We’ll put the Milwaukee Brewers in some tavern somewhere. That will decide where their division is. If it’s in Milwaukee, it will be in NL Central. If it’s in Phoenix, it will be in NL West. If we want to get that goofy with sports teams, let’s just go all the way and make it a Bozo Show.
John: I am more intrigued by an inaugural college playoffs season, because you have 12 teams. The number 11 team in the country could actually win the title in January, when it would have been all over for them in late September before.
I still find the MVP intriguing because you have two play-
ers on the same team: Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry both play for the Baltimore Ravens and might win, or be co-MVPs. I also don’t find Josh Allen that exciting a player. I wish Patrick Mahomes were having a better year.
Russell: Thursday night, November 7, we saw a good game between Cincinnati and Baltimore. There’s your MVPs right there. The Bengals’ Joe Burrow, they were down by 7 points, bam! Tied again. Lamar Jackson had 4 touchdowns, Burrow had 4 touchdowns. They kept scoring. But anyway, I am still sticking to my college football playoffs. Like John said, anybody’s got a chance now.
Allen: I like you mentioned Lamar Jackson. He deserves MVP. He’s one of my favorite quarterbacks.
William: To make the odds more even, they should have put 16 teams in each confer-
ence. Each conference would have its own Sweet Sixteen, Elite Eight, Final Four. Then all the winners of each conference could play each other and finally when we get down to the final two conference champions, they would play each other. It would make it last longer. We might still have football in March. It helps me to get through the cold weather season to have something exciting to enjoy.
John: College football playoffs would have been even better if they had kept the original conferences. UCLA playing Rutgers makes no sense, or Texas playing in its third conference in 25 years.
Russell: There’s no home team advantage. Everybody’s got a chance now.
Any comments, suggestions or topic ideas for the SportsWise team? Email StreetWise Editor Suzanne Hanney at suzannestreetwise@yahoo.com
Vendors (clockwise) A. Allen, John Hagan, William Plowman and Russell Adams chat about the world of sports.
Local Gifts sure to impress
Joycoast creates eco-friendly wooden accessories – watches, sunglasses, rings – and it plants 10 trees for every product sold. Traditional watches were too uncomfortable for founder Reese O’Toole, until he realized that wood could be combined with modern technology to create a unique, lightweight and comfortable artwork for the wrist and a sustainable alternative to traditional steel watches. Men’s and women’s collections come in sandalwood, walnut, zebrawood, olive wood, bamboo and more. Espresso Walnut Chronograph is sustainably harvested, powered by a reliable quartz movement, and water resistant (at left). $250. joycoast.com
APPAREL Household
Join the Movement: Giveashirt, Give a Shi*t
Make a difference in Chicago with Giveashirt, a bold initiative supporting StreetWise and its hardworking vendors. We've teamed up with over 40 talented local artists and musicians to create limited-edition, hand-screened designer T-shirts that turn style into impact. Every T-shirt sold fuels the StreetWise mission, with 100% of profits going directly to Streetwise and its vendors, empowering them to thrive. Over the last 9 years, thanks to passionate supporters like you, we’ve raised more than $600,000 to build brighter futures. When you purchase, you empower lives. Order with your StreetWise Vendor's number and they receive 20% commission. Wear your values. Make a statement. Give a Shi*t. The 2025 collection is now available! Shop www.giveashirt.net or find us at one of our live sales events:
Schubas Holiday Jamboree, December 8 at 10 a.m. Willis Tower Catalog Market, December 10-12, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Labyrinth Made Goods empowers women who have experienced incarceration by providing professional development training, apprenticeships, and permanent employment as a part of YWCA McLean County. Each Labyrinth candle is hand-filled in Illinois with 100% soy wax and bespoke fragrances that include blends of essential oils, extracts, and aromatic ingredients. All proceeds from this nonprofit social enterprise are reinvested to create more empowering opportunities. Labyrinth stands for the opportunity to start over again.
Shop the Resilience Collection – Gratitude, Solidarity, Serenity, Liberation and Brilliance – or Seasons. Select from Winter No. 65 (Icy Air, Pine Needles and Balsam Fir Forest), Autumn No. 85 (Heirloom Apple, Leather and Fireplace Embers), Spring No. 57 (Morning Dew, Pink Peony and Green Grass) Summer No. 23 (Garden Herbs, Farmers Market Flowers & Sweet Hay) 35-hour burn, $16.50, 70-hour, $30 at yshop.org/ products/handmade-soy-candles and labyrinthmadegoods.com
Up to six players compete in the board game, “Chicago 1893: The City Beautiful,” to help rebuild Chicago in order to impress visitors to the 1893 World’s Fair and to install their Alderman in the most influential Ward in the City. Whoever can build the most impressive modern amenities and conveniences will bask in the glory of establishing Chicago as the model for "The City Beautiful." Suitable for ages 14+, game includes 36 painted worker pawns, six painted alderman pawns, 91 chipboard tiles and more. Designed by Transit Tees. $28 at www.transittees. com; 1371 N. Milwaukee Ave. and 5226 N. Clark St.
Newly moved to Chicago in 2022, Matthew Hoffman had a moment of insecurity that led him to create “You Are Beautiful,” (YAB) a positive message he has spread all over the world via 9 million stickers, public art installations and the Oprah Network. Now, Hoffman creates motivational quotes like “anything is possible” and “you got this” too. These short, kind messages can help you keep a positive mindset as you go through life. Find them on plaques, wall mountings, stickers and apparel at the YAB Store & Gallery, 3368 N. Elston Ave., and at you-are-beautiful. com
No Wrong Answers cards put an end to awkward small talk. Each deck has 70+ prompts written by Chicago comedians Paula Skaggs and Josh Linden. The weather? Work?
Your deepest fears? What a snoozefest! Why not ask something more fun, like "Which cereal mascot would be the best kisser?" Paula and Josh developed the cards during the pandemic, when they tired of Zoom. They also host the “Being Earnest” podcast. She contributes to The Onion and has been part of the NBC Late Night Writer’s Workshop. Josh has performed at iO Theater, The Second City, CIC Theater and The Chicago Improv Den. No Wrong Answers $24.99; Adults Only and Junior versions also $24.99; Digital Pride Pack from 1 cent. nowronganswersgame.com
Nonku’s Corner is a Chicago-based, family-owned brand for kids age 3+ that offers picture books, coloring and activity books, floor puzzles that explore inclu sivity, diversity and more; multiclick animal writing pens; and accessories like plushies and water bottles. Nonku is a mom, wife, healthcare professional, traveler, runner, scheduler and weekend adventurer whose goal is to help every child feel confident and embrace the beauty of diversity. “I Celebrate My Voice” book (also available in Spanish) and “I Celebrate My Skin,” each $16.95 and 24-piece floor puzzles that say, “I am kind and loving,” and “I am enough,” $20.95 at nonkuscorner.com
Household kids
Learning to sew was huge for shy Rachel’s sixth grade self-confidence: she could turn fabric pieces into something she could actually use.
This source of pride enabled her to go after bigger challenges – like starting a business during the pandemic with three young kiddos at home! Earlier, she received a BA in fashion design from Columbia College Chicago, interned with Cynthia Rowley for NY Spring Fashion Week and worked on HGTV’s “Design on a Dime.”
Butterscotch Sewing kits come with all the supplies to complete the project and access to tutorials that walk you through each step. Sew them by hand or machine. The Activist Sewing Kit creates one 12-inch doll in choice of three skin tones and four different hair colors. $48 at www.butterscotchsewing.com/shop/p/the-activist-sewing-kit
Joy & Magic is the creation of a Chicago attorney whose love for tea started during childhood teatime with her great-grandmother.
Being more than a substitute for coffee, Joy & Magic was born to fit every mood, delight all taste buds, and boost wellness. The name Joy & Magic comes from the trendy, but true social catalysts "Black Boy Joy" and "Black Girl Magic.”
Joy & Magic creator Victoria R. Watkins specializes in business, legislative, and creative industry law. She is Chief of Staff to Chairman and Co-CEO, John Rogers at Ariel Investments. Earlier, she worked in the office of Mayor Rahm Emanuel.
Relentless Joy 3-oz. canister, with Sencha Green Tea, lemon flavoring, lavender flowers and rose petals; or 3-oz. Dark Magic, Sencha Green Tea, raspberry and lemon mixed with rose petals, each $33 at joyandmagictea.com
Cute as A Cupcake
This delicious gift business specializing in all things cup cakes was established in 2015. Over 30 flavors of cupcakes are all handcrafted and made from scratch. (Some are vegan and also gluten-free). A few of the favorites, according to owner Michelle A. Wainwright, are M & M, Banana, Red Velvet, Salted Caramel, Peanut Butter and Double Chocolate. They also sell cupcakes in a jar and cake pops too. You can order online at: cuteasacupcake3.com or even hire Cutie the Cupcake Truck for your next event or party. Cutie Cares, their nonprofit division, focuses on food insecurities and community wellness-feeding the love in everything they do.
fine foods
Bitoy’s Sweet Treats are luxurious high-end gifts that create unforgettable memories and promote sustainability and togetherness: Food, Family and Fun.
Layla Bitoy Dillon is the daughter of a restaurant/nightclub entrepreneur; a magna cum laude graduate of Clark Atlanta University; a mentor with the Chicago Blackhawks Support West program and participant in BeyGOOD’s Black Parade. She began her brick-and-mortar business on Chicago Avenue near Austin in 2015 and received support from her husband’s Dillon Management Systems.
Bitoy’s Plain or Pecan Walnut Brownie 4-pack was a customer pick on HSNtv because they are crispy on the outside, balanced on the inside for fudginess and cakey-ness. 3-pack Plain Fudge, Turtle Pecan, Walnut or Brookie Brownies, $15. Also find cookies, cupcake brownies and 1.5-gallon popcorn packs at 5957 W. Chicago Ave., O’Hare and Midway Airports and www.bitoysbrands.com
LoveCorkScrew is a Black-owned, womanowned wine brand with a fresh take on what wine for this generation should be – fun, inclusive, simple and delicious. Its unique se lection of award-winning premi um red, white and rose varietals is more than wine; it is a whole mood. After a flood destroyed the owner’s wine bar, Chrishon Lampley started a wine blog, where she shared lifestyle tips, wine picks and restaurant recommendations. Along the way, she noticed a disconnect between people’s enthusiasm for wine and their concern for stiff rules about how to drink it – all barriers she could break down. She began her business in December 2013 with six varietals. Now, she has sold over two million bottles with such great names as Touch the Sky, Head Over Heels, Hard Knock Life, We’re Movin’ on Up and The Morning After. Order online at: www.lovecorkscrew.com and find them on Facebook.
La Kaiser is a line of jewelry comprised of simple pieces with a touch of contemporary style and a pop of color. Opals, rainbow moonstones, diamonds, rose quartz and turquoise are used throughout its collections. Cindy Kaiser is a Swiss native, raised in Zimbabwe and now living the “American dream” in Chicago. She got her BA degree in Visual Arts, specializing in Creative Jewelry and Metal design in South Africa, moved to Los Angeles, where she designed costumes for A-list celebrities and then started La Kaiser, located at 5 S. Wabash Ave. in Jewelers Row. Order online: www.lakaiser.com or find her on Instagram.
LinVonne Jewelry is owned by Linda Drake, a former principal who was enjoying retirement but was looking for a new journey that would stimulate her mind and be purposeful. She took the plunge with metalworking classes in Chicago and Miami and now designs and sells one-of-a-kind necklaces, bracelets and earrings, incorporating patterns, color, movement and geometric designs. One satisfied client commented: “The creativity and craftsmanship of this jewelry is displayed by its intricately detailed execution of each item. LinVonne Jewelry is designed with attention to detail and quality along with style, which purposely adds an elegant sophistication to any attire." Order from her website: linvonnejewelry. com
Kono & Co. started with modern friend ship bracelets inspired by the mom of owner Christina Chrom while she was pregnant, but it has evolved with a new inspiration by her side: Kono – her beautiful daughter. Being a mother totally has changed how she likes to wear jewelry. Today’s collection was created with three words in mind. Simple. Meaningful. Effortless. Kono & Co. utilizes all gold-filled components to ensure your piece will sustain your daily adventures. Cigar band rings, crystal birthstone bracelets, sparkle band rings and even birthstone anklets can be seen online at: www. konoandco.com and in person at The One-of-a-Kind Show December 5-8 at The Merchandise Mart, Chicago.
Jewelry
Designs by Uchita Uchita's story is one of ambition and determination. From Mumbai to Chicago, she pursued her design dreams. After working with Hollywood's renowned fashion designers, Uchita took the plunge and established her own brand, Designs by Uchita, in August 2021. Her bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings are a quirky mix of funky crystals and abstract designs, discovering the essence of life's vibrant moments. Uchita can be found online: www. designsbyuchita.com and in person close to home: Chicago Artisan Co-Op, 1659 W. Chicago Ave.; Raw Edge Mag Mile, 520 N. Michigan Ave., 2nd Floor; 4757 N. Lincoln Ave. in Lin coln Square; 1943 W. Division St. in Wicker Park and 2018 S. Michigan Ave.
Beadedseeds by Ronea Ronea, founder and maker, is thrilled to share her shop with you. She creates boho earrings out of polymer clay with a spice of brass charms. She is also a wife and new mom who got started on this journey in 2020 during quarantine when she found herself with tons of time, less to do and lots of anxiety. Finishing her last year of her master’s degree, she suddenly found herself on a new creative journey, making unique bracelets, dangles, studs and hoops. Her website slogan, "Be Confident. Be Fierce!” says it all. Find her online at: beadedseedbyronea.com as well as Facebook, Instagram and Etsy.
Jewelry Beauty
Tori Prince Beauty’s motto is “Elevate your skincare experience and loving luxury.”
The goal of Tori, the owner of this Chicago-based business, is to provide intimate skincare, corrective treatments, flawless makeup, and holistic wellness solutions that cater to all skin types, all shades of melanin, and all lifestyles. Growing up as the daughter of a model and even modeling herself (but being tall, skinny and wearing glasses, which caused her to be teased and have some low self-esteem issues), she went on a mission to ensure that even when we’re on the go, we can incorporate luxurious self-care into our daily routines. Her products include Rose Glow Cleansing Gel, Facial oil and Moisturizer, and other skincare products as well as makeup for women of color that include rich pigments, natural ingredients and skin-loving formulas to complement every shade and texture. Order online at: toriprincebeauty.com and find it on Facebook too.
Delali Cosmetics, started in 2016, is a lifestyle and beauty brand that celebrates the beauty of women of color. It is a melanin-focused cosmetics line that offers a wide range of beauty products for your face, lips, and eyes to complement the complexity of melanin skin. The cosmetics are paraben-free, cruelty-free and vegan-friendly. Adodo Delali Robinson is an internationally-certified beauty professional and licensed cosmetologist. With more than 20 years of experience in the beauty industry, she infuses art, style and education to conceptualize unmatched beauty stories that evoke confidence, radiance and joy. Find them and order online at: delalicosmetics.com and on Facebook.
When Loreal Mallett wanted to make gifts for her church friends in 2018, she recalled her girlhood making salves from petroleum jelly, olive oil and Vitamin E with her diabetic grandmother. The gifts led to Loreal (now known professionally as Loré Enjoli) founding allbutter’d up skin care: whipped body butter made from all-natural shea butter; coconut, almond, jojoba, olive and castor oil as well as essential oils. "I’m bougie ‘bout my butters,” which absorb in 90 seconds, don’t leave a greasy residue and keep hands moist through two washings, Lore’ says. “Skin care is self care.”
Along with the butters ($25 2-oz., $40 8-oz.) find Body Oils (2-oz. $25, 9-oz. $35) and Shower Gels (8-oz. $20). Fragrances include Come Get Me, a sultry tangerine/floral; Pillow Talk (cashmere/jasmine); Day Party (strawberry, jasmine & vanilla) www.allbutterdup.com
Inspired by the 16th century market in Nuremberg, Germany, this outdoor event has been a Chicago tradition since 1996, one of USA Today Readers’ Ten Best. Find crafted goods from all over the world, Glühwein, German and other foods. Also at Aurora’s RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway. www.christkindlmarket.com
Weekends to Jan. 5, 2025
Light Up the Lake
Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave.
Artisian Marketplace (12-6 pm) powered by the Navy Pier/ BMO Small Business Accelerator on December 7, 14 & 21. Chill on the ice slide and cozy up by the firepit. Stay late on Saturdays for fireworks. Some activities ticketed. navypier.org/light-up-the-lake
600+ talented artists and makers offer original fine art, furniture, apparel, jewelry, home goods, ceramics and more. Tickets $15 at oneofakindshowchicago.com
December 6
Southport Holiday Stroll & Cocktail
Route A (Addison-Irving Park Road):
Crawl
Check in at Chamber office, 1409 W. Addison; Route B (Belmont-Addison): Check in at Sheil Park, 3505 N. Southport Ave. 5-9 pm
Choose your route and taste 10+ different holidaythemed cocktails while you enjoy the festivities (carolers, photos with Santa) and shop special deals. Tickets $25$40 at www.lakeviewroscoevillage.org/southporth-scc
December 6
Winter Walk on Wilson
Wilson/Broadway corridor
5-8:30 pm
Uptown Chamber of Commerce offers warm drinks, sweet treats, menu samples, live music, pop-up holiday market and photos with Panda Claus. RSVP at partners. exploreuptown.org/events/details/winter-walk-on-wilson-3767 for chance at prizes.
December 6 & 20
Late Night Andersonville andersonville.org/holidays/late-night
December 6-8
Julmarknad
Swedish American Museum, 5211 N. Clark St., Fri 4-8 pm, Sat 10-5, Sun 10-4
Shop for Scandinavian and modern handicrafts; sample Swedish holiday treats like glögg (mulled wine), saffron buns, and gingerbread cookies. Jultomten (Santa Claus) stops by for photo opps. swedishamericanmuseum.org
December 6-7
Holiday House Walk & Market
28 Madison St., Oak Park Fri 3-7 pm, Sat 10 am-4 pm
20 local vendors offer holiday decorations, hostess gifts, jewelry and more to benefit the Oak Park River Forest Infant Welfare Society children’s clinic. Also check out the six homes – from 1927 Mediterranean-style to 1936 French, decorated for the holidays. Market is free; housewalk tickets start at $70. oprfiws.org/buy-tickets
December 6-8
Africa International House Pre-Kwanzaa
Two events celebrate the seventh principle of Kwanza, “imani” -- faith.
Harris Park, 6200 S. Drexel Ave. 10 am-7 pm Fri/Sat
One-of-a-kind food, products and entertainment at Woodlawn marketplace. FREE.
Dancing at the Grand, 6351 S. Cottage Grove Ave. 8 pm-1 am Fri/Sat, Noon- 4 pm Sun Food, vendors, prizes, silent auction. Dec. 7, 12-2 pm; Dec. 8, 12-4 pm line dancing w/Graham & Co., DJ Chico; 8-midnight steppin’ with Ramonski Luv, Ken Bedford & DJ Myron. Line dancing tickets $10 in advance/$15 at door; steppin tickets $20 in advance, $25 at the door. www.aihusa.org
December 7
Hyde Park Holly Days
Various Locations 10 am-5 pm
Ice skating, ice carving, ice sculpture gallery, dance performances, live reindeer, book giveaway, costumed characters, holiday crafts, free screening of "Moana 2," all sponsored by the University of Chicago. FREE but RSVP at hphollyday.com
December 7
Shop Jarvis Square
Artisan Market
Greenview & CTA Red Line Station @ Jarvis 10 am-5 pm
40 makers offer handmade gifts. Businesses purvey food, beverages and gifts. Storytellers and Santa stop by. Use your receipts to get cash back from Rogers Park Business Alliance. business.rpba.org/events/details/shop-jarvissquare-artisan-market-12075
Retailers offer sips, bites and special deals to kick off promotion that continues to December 24. Spend $25 at any participating business for a chance to win. www.westtownchamber.org/its-awonderful-west-town
December 7
Underground Art Market
Revolution Brewing & Taproom, 3340 N. Kedzie Ave. Noon-5 p.m.
Artisans offer recycled and functional art around themes of wellness, for charitable causes/social initiatives. www.undergroundartmarket.com
December 7
Ravenswood Neighbors Association’s Light Up Nights
Festival & Holiday Market
On Wilson, Ravenswood to Hermitage 4-8 p.m.
Live music, holiday market, food and drink vendors, restaurant specials, kids’ scavenger hunt, photo stations, street/ tree lighting ceremony, caroling and raffle. FREE myravenswoodneighbors.org
December 7
Northwest Side
Holiday Trolley
Gale Street Inn, 4914 N Milwaukee Ave. Eris Brewery & Cider House, 4240 W. Irving Park
Pope Francis Global Academy Mistletoe Market, 6143 W. Irving Park AponteART Gallery, 5504 W. Lawrence
For the first time, 4 trolleys will start from 4 locations and make 10 planned stops of up to 20 minutes each. Pick up the trolley anywhere to enjoy amazing deals, giveaways, carolers and more. FREE. sixcorners.com/ holidaytrolley
December 7
Wicker Park Bucktown
Winter Wonderland
5-8 p.m.
Immediately following Wicker Park tree lighting at 1425 N. Da men Ave., grab a Wonder land map and search for holiday gnomes to be entered in a prize drawing. Holiday rickshaws navigate the 'nabe amid carolers and live music on their way to Whoville and s’mores with Santa. wickerpark.org/winter-wonderland/
December 7-8
December 14
Chicago Handmade Market
Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave.
Noon-4 pm
Every second Saturday, November to April, you can make personal connections with artisans and see exactly where your money goes, mimosa in hand! handmadechicago.com
The Driehaus Museum is a stunning example of Gilded Age architecture and design. New market features artisanal wares from local vendors inside the newly reopened Murphy Auditorium next door. FREE. driehausmuseum.org
December 10-12
Catalog Holiday Marketplace
Willis Tower, 233 S. Wacker Drive 11:30 am-2:30 pm
“Catalog” is an homage to Sears, the building’s former namesake tenant. Enjoy Tunes at noon and see the Grinch. Find special offerings in this 300,000-square-foot space. loopchicago.com
December 13-14
Sauced Night Market Before Xmas
Chicago Athletic Association, 12 S. Michigan Ave. 5-10 pm
Emerging chefs, artists and artisans, live DJ, food and all-local goods. FREE, but RSVP at www.saucedmarket.com
The Promontory, 5311 S. Lake Park Ave. W 9 am-2 pm
South East Chicago Commission and Special Service Area #61 in partnership with the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) host local makers of freshbaked goods, original art, jewelry, wellness products, holiday stationery, and custom gift baskets. downtownhydeparkchicago.com
December 14
Weihnachsmarkt
DANK Haus German American Cultural Center, 4740 N. Western Ave. 11 am-5 pm
Make holiday memories amid Germaninspired decor and music. Glühwein and food for sale, photos with Santa. $5 admission to support cultural and educational programming. dankhaus.com/Weihnachtsmarkt
December 14
Chicago Art Girls
Holiday Pop-up
Bell Elementary, 3730 N. Oakley 11 am-5 pm 40 artists with jewelry, ceramics, apparel, miniatures, and more. chicagoartgirls.com
December 14-15
Randolph Street Market
1340 W. Washington 10 am-5 pm
125+ vintage and antique dealers, fashion designers, and makers under one roof. Tickets $5 seniors/$12+ general; kids under 12 FREE. Free parking. randolphstreetmarket.com
December 14-15
Holly Jolly Holiday Market
4100 N. Damen Ave.
Noon-6 pm
North Center Neighbors Association brings 20 vendors with unique gifts for pets, children, beauty as well as entertainment. $5 donation to support neighborhood events. www.ncnaneighbors.org/HJHM
December 15
Chicago Artisan Market
Morgan Manufacturing, 401 N. Morgan St. 11 am-5 pm
Indoor market offers handcrafted jewelry, custom-made clothing and accessories, artisanal candles and bath products, handcrafted toys, and connections to artisans who made them. Tickets $8 in advance; kids under 12 FREE. chicagoartisanmarket.com
Through December 22
Evanston Made Holiday Market
924 Davis St., Evanston
Thurs-Fri 12-8 pm, Sat-Sun 10 am-6 pm
Curated market of members’ goods, demonstrations, workshops and more. evanstonmade.org
Through December 30
Chicago Fair Trade Holiday Pop-up
663 N. Michigan Ave.
Mon-Sat 11 am-7 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm
Shop the world on the Magnificent Mile with 30+ vendors of sustainably made goods. chicagofairtrade.org/holiday-pop-up-shop
Ongoing
Buddy Chicago Store
Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St. 1-South 11 am-5 pm
Chicago artists and small manufacturers showcase and sell their clothing, artwork, music, stationery and more. It’s a project of Public Media, Inc. and City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. hi-buddy.org
Crossword
StreetWise exists to elevate marginalized voices and provide opportunities for individuals to earn an income and gain employment. Anyone who wants to work has the opportunity to move themselves out of crisis.
StreetWise provides “a hand up, not a handout.”
vendors go through an orientation focusing on their rights and responsibilities as a
How StreetWise Works
and sell it for $3 plus tips. The vendor keeps all of their earnings.
