Christmas in Chicago is full of lights, cultural markets and holiday cheer. When considering what to do during the holdiays in Chicago, plan on getting to the city several or a few days before Christmas to catch the shows and events--like the Lincoln Park Zoo lights show--that close for the holiday. Look forward to bountiful amounts of Christmas cheer, cold winds and heaps of snow as you pick your activities.
Lights on Michigan Avenue
Bundle up and start walking along Michigan Avenue. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival begins at the end of November. Enjoy the scenery and, most likely, the snow underfoot, and then duck into a shop or cafe to warm up.
Macy's on State Street
Take in the Macy's holiday display on State Street. If you have children--or you like toys and dolls--enjoy the animated window displays along State Street. At the end of State Street, step into the Walnut Room. A 45-foot Christmas tree--decorated with more than 1,200 ornaments and 25,000 twinkling lights--towers in the atrium.
Christkindlmarket Chicago
While the Annual Christkindlmarket Chicago is closed on Christmas day, it's open for business and browsing from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve. This market, based on holiday markets in Germany, is in the center of downtown Chicago amidst the skyscrapers. Tourists and locals gather to see the lights and decorations, nibble traditional German treats and listen to holiday choirs belt Christmas tunes in German and English. Vendors display hand-crafted toys, gifts and warm drinks. This event is free for all.
Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo. While the zoo is closed Christmas day, you can see the lights, animals, Santa, elves and holiday shows until Christmas Eve. The lights are stunning, and children love the costumed animal characters strolling through the zoo, ready to pose for pictures.
Treasured Traditions
Since 1942, the Museum of Science and Industry has hosted the Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light. Take a walk or a light jog through 50 trees decorated by members of Chicago's ethnic communities--each tree represents a culture. Also catch the daily performances, which include dancing and singing on the holiday stage.
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