Chicago is a bustling and festive city to visit during the holiday season. The lights, shops and cold weather are sure to put even the biggest Scrooge in a jovial mood. As long as the outdoor enthusiast in you is prepared for the elements--sweaters, scarves, comfortable waterproof boots, gloves and a cozy hat--you will be all set to enjoy the sights and sparkle of Chicago.
Finding the Perfect Gift
If you visit Chicago during the holiday season, shopping has to be included in your itinerary. Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes because you will get a workout while walking around all of the shops and markets. Burning calories while shopping is a hidden bonus. The Christkindlmarket, an annual German-American festival and marketplace located in Daley Plaza and open daily from Thanksgiving to Christmas. Vendors from all over the world sell handmade crafts and food. See the link in resources for details. After tackling the market, head over to Chicago's Magnificent Mile to see all the lights and beautifully decorated storefront windows.
The Lights are Fantastic
The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival kicks off the holiday season with free activities, concerts, fireworks and the illumination of more than 1 million lights along Michigan Avenue. The Navy Pier twinkles with lights during its annual Winter WonderFest, and an evening spin on the Ferris wheel provides a great view of the sparkling city. Another fabulous and free event is ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo, where colorful trees and animal shapes light your way around the park. The indoor animal exhibits are open late, and there are also ice-carving demonstrations and free entertainment.
Ice Skating
A holiday trip to the city is not complete until you partake in a little outdoor ice skating, plus it is a great way to get a little exercise while reveling in the glow of festive lights. The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park is open from mid-November through March. Skating is free and skates are available to rent for a fee. The same rules apply for Grant Park and all Chicago Park Districts with ice rinks. The Navy Pier has an indoor ice skating rink if you prefer to stay out of the elements.
Holiday Cheer
The City Hall Concert Series presents children's choirs from around Chicago. Performances are free and take place in city hall during the lunch hour weekdays during the first few weeks of December. You can also look for carolers next to Cloud Gate (the big silver sculpture in Millennium Park that looks like a bean) on Friday evenings throughout the holiday season. The Art Institute of Chicago kicks off the holiday season with the Wreathing of the Lions that includes performances by the Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago. All events are free. If laughter is what you need, The Second City has a rousing holiday show that is sure to shake any holiday blues. The humor can be crude, so it's for adults only.
Skydeck After Dark
For a thrilling view of the city's lights, go to the Skydeck at Willis Tower (formerly called Sears Tower) after dark. Skydeck is open every day of the year. Hours are 10 a.m to 8 p.m. from October through March. The crowds wane after 5 p.m., which makes a nighttime visit perfectly romantic.
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