Chicago Christmas Things To Do

The city of Chicago is a vibrant, lively and exciting place to visit, especially at Christmas time. From festive markets, to holiday parades and ice skating rinks, there are plenty of unique attractions and activities to enjoy. If you’re planning a winter getaway to the Windy City, here’s a guide of all the top Christmas things to do in Chicago.

A Brief History of Chicago

Chicago is the third most populous city in the United States, with an estimated population of 2.7 million people. The city is located on Lake Michigan in the state of Illinois and has a unique history that dates back to the 1780s. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, such as the Miami, Fox, and Potawatomi, before being settled by French fur traders. In 1837, the city was incorporated and quickly grew into a major hub for trade, transportation, industry, and finance. During the late 19th century, Chicago experienced rapid growth and was transformed into one of the world’s most important cities.

One of the most famous events in Chicago’s history is the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The three-day blaze destroyed much of the city and killed up to 300 people. In the aftermath of the fire, the city was rebuilt with a stronger focus on architecture and infrastructure. This is evident today in the many iconic skyscrapers and bridges that line the city’s skyline.

The Holiday Season in Chicago

The holiday season is a special time of year in Chicago and there’s no better way to celebrate than by exploring all that the city has to offer. From iconic holiday light shows to festive outdoor markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the top Christmas things to do in Chicago:

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is an annual event that takes place along Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago. The festival features live musical performances, family-friendly activities, and an illuminated parade featuring Santa Claus and his reindeer. The highlight of the festival is the lighting of more than one million lights along North Michigan Avenue, creating a dazzling display of festive cheer. The festival is free and open to the public and is one of Chicago’s most beloved holiday traditions.

Christkindlmarket

The Christkindlmarket is an authentic German-style Christmas market located in Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago. The market features over 50 vendors selling handmade gifts, unique decorations, traditional German food and beverages, and much more. Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment and an array of holiday activities throughout the month-long event. Christkindlmarket is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and experience a touch of old-world Europe in the heart of Chicago.

Ice Skating at Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s most iconic attractions and during the holiday season it transforms into a winter wonderland. The park features an outdoor ice skating rink that’s open from mid-November to mid-March and is free for all ages. Skating at Millennium Park is a great way to enjoy some festive fun and take in the spectacular views of downtown Chicago.

Holiday Shopping

Chicago is a great place for holiday shopping and there are plenty of options for those looking for unique gifts or decorations. The historic Water Tower Place is home to more than 100 stores and restaurants, while State Street is known for its iconic department stores and charming boutiques. There are also several outdoor markets throughout the city that offer unique items such as jewelry, clothes, art, and more.

The Nutcracker Ballet

The Nutcracker Ballet is one of the most beloved holiday traditions in Chicago. The show takes place at the Auditorium Theatre every year and features some of the world’s best dancers performing this classic ballet. The show is perfect for all ages and is sure to get you into the holiday spirit.

Popular Tours

In addition to all these great activities, there are several popular tours that will take you to some of Chicago’s most beloved attractions during the Christmas season. Here are two popular tours you can book for an unforgettable experience:

Christmas Lights Tour

One of the best ways to experience Chicago during the holidays is to take a Christmas lights tour. On this tour, you’ll get to explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks while taking in its magnificent twinkling displays. Begin your tour in Millennium Park where you’ll marvel at its breathtaking ice rink before heading over to Magnificent Mile Lights Festival where you’ll get to see over one million sparkling lights adorning Michigan Avenue. Your tour will also take you past some of Chicago’s most iconic buildings and sculptures, such as the Bean, Buckingham Fountain, and Wrigley Building. You can book a Christmas Lights Tour here.

Chicago Holiday Markets Tour

For those who enjoy shopping and experiencing new cultures, a Holiday Markets Tour is a great way to experience some of Chicago’s unique holiday attractions. On this tour, you’ll get to explore some of the city’s most popular holiday markets such as Christkindlmarket and Randolph Street Market while taking in its festive atmosphere. You’ll also get to try some traditional German food, browse unique items from local vendors, and explore some of Chicago’s best art galleries. You can book a Holiday Markets Tour here.

Conclusion

Chicago is a fantastic city to visit during the holidays and there are so many things you can do to get into the festive mood. From iconic light shows to outdoor markets, ice skating rinks to charming boutiques, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during their trip to Chicago this Christmas season. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly excursion or a romantic getaway for two, make sure to include these top Christmas things to do in your plans for an unforgettable holiday experience!