Christmas Things To Do In Chicago

Chicago is a city with a rich history and culture. It is the third-largest city in the United States and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It is well known for its impressive architecture, its lively arts and music scene, its diverse and vibrant neighborhoods, and its many world-class museums, sports teams, and attractions. It is especially popular during the holidays, when its festive decorations and holiday events make it a great destination for tourists visiting for the first time.

One of the best things about visiting Chicago during the holidays is the endless array of Christmas things to do. From ice skating rinks to holiday light displays to Christmas markets, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for festive activities for the whole family or romantic nights out for two, Chicago has it all.

Unique Christmas Experiences

If you’re looking for unique Christmas experiences, look no further than Chicago. One of the most popular holiday experiences in the city is the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, a spectacular display of lights that turns Michigan Avenue into a twinkling wonderland. The festival includes a magical parade along with live music, horse-drawn carriages, fireworks, and other festive activities. The parade is free to attend, and it’s a great way to start off your holiday season.

Another unique experience is the Christkindlmarket, held in Daley Plaza in the downtown area. This annual event recreates a traditional German Christmas market with vendors selling handicrafts, holiday decorations, toys, and festive treats like glühwein (mulled wine) and roasted almonds. There are also live music performances and festive activities like ornament-making workshops. The Christkindlmarket is free to attend, though some of the activities may require an additional fee.

Ice Skating Rinks

One of the most popular winter activities in Chicago is ice skating. The city has several outdoor rinks to choose from, including the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park and the ice rink at Maggie Daley Park. Both of these rinks are open all winter long, with discounted admission for those who bring their own skates. The ice rink at Maggie Daley Park also has an adjacent playground for younger kids to enjoy, making this a great option for families.

If you’re looking for something even more special, consider taking a spin around the rink at the Wrigley Field Winter Classic. This annual event features a giant outdoor ice rink set up on Wrigley Field, complete with festive decorations and holiday music playing throughout. It’s a great way to celebrate the holiday season while also getting to experience one of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks.

Holiday Light Displays

Chicago is also home to some stunning holiday light displays. The Navy Pier’s Christmas festival features an impressive Light Maze with colorful projections and interactive games, as well as a giant light tree that towers above the lakefront. The Lincoln Park Zoo also has an incredible display of holiday lights that illuminates the zoo after dark. Finally, ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo is a must-see for visitors of all ages. This yearly event features millions of LED lights in a variety of shapes and colors, as well as festive activities like ice carving demonstrations, carolers, and even reindeer appearances.

Christmas Markets

Chicago is home to several Christmas markets throughout the city. The Randolph Street Market Holiday Market is one of the most popular events, featuring over 150 vendors selling handmade gifts, vintage items, crafts, and more. There’s also a Winter Wonderland Market at Daley Plaza, which features vendors selling unique gifts and festive treats like hot chocolate and gingerbread cookies. The Christkindlmarket is another great option, with vendors selling handmade crafts, decorations, and more. If you’re looking for something more family-friendly, consider heading to Millennium Park for their annual Winter Wonderland Festival. This event features carnival rides, ice skating shows, carolers, and other festive activities that are sure to get you into the holiday spirit.

Book an Ice Skating Tour in Millennium Park

One of the best ways to experience Chicago’s winter beauty is by taking an ice skating tour in Millennium Park. The tour begins with a tour guide leading you out onto the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink while discussing Chicago’s history and culture. You’ll then have plenty of time to skate around on your own while learning more about the city from your tour guide. Afterward, you can enjoy some hot cocoa or head over to Maggie Daley Park to explore its winter wonderland of lights and ice skating activities. This tour is perfect for families or couples looking for a unique way to spend their time in Chicago during the winter months. Book an ice skating tour in Millennium Park here.

Book a Holiday Lights Tour in Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and it’s even more spectacular when it’s lit up with holiday lights during the winter months. A holiday lights tour at the zoo is a great way to explore this beautiful area while learning about its history and culture from your tour guide. You’ll start off by strolling around the zoo while marveling at the millions of vibrant lights adorning its buildings and pathways, then enjoy some hot cocoa while hearing stories about some of its inhabitants. This tour is perfect for families or couples looking for an unforgettable way to spend their time in Chicago during the holidays. Book a holiday lights tour in Lincoln Park Zoo here.

Book a Christmas Market Tour in Daley Plaza

The Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza is one of Chicago’s most popular holiday attractions and it offers endless opportunities for visitors to experience a traditional German Christmas market. On this tour, you’ll explore this magical setting while learning about its history from your knowledgeable tour guide. You’ll then have plenty of time to browse through its vendors selling handmade crafts and decorations while enjoying festive treats like glühwein (mulled wine) and roasted almonds. The tour will end with a visit to one of Chicago’s oldest taverns for some warm drinks and snacks before returning home with a bag full of holiday memories. Book a Christmas Market Tour in Daley Plaza here.

Conclusion

Chicago offers plenty of Christmas things to do for both locals and visitors alike during the holidays. From unique experiences like the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival and Christkindlmarket to more traditional activities like ice skating rinks, holiday light displays, and Christmas markets, there’s something for everyone in Chicago during this festive season. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or romantic nights out for two, Chicago has it all.