The holiday season is here! There are a plethora of ways to get out and enjoy the festivities — here are our top 5 activities we can’t wait to check out.
Don’t forget: Limited capacities, timed entries, mask requirements, social distancing and other policies are still in effect at many venues and events, so please check the details before finalizing your plans!
Find the Perfect Holiday Gift
Still looking for just the right gift for a friend or family member? Head to the final weekend of the 19th Annual Winter Arts & Crafts Expo! Featuring handmade works of all kinds, you’re sure to find a unique gift for everyone on your list. .
Date: Fri, Dec 17 – Sun, Dec 19
Time: Fri, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm, Sat and Sun, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Cost: Free
Location: Evanston Art Center
More Info: evanstonartcenter.org
Hop on Board a Magic Trolley
It’s not too late to get some great Christmas photos this year! Visit Westfield Old Orchard this weekend for a photo op on Santa’s Magic Trolley. Board the trolley with a checklist of items to inspect to make sure that Santa can deliver presents smoothly, while getting some great photo ops.
Date: Fri, Dec 17 – Sun, Dec 19
Time: Fri, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Sat and Sun, 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Cost: Free
Location: Old Orchard Mall
More Info: eventbrite.com
Sing Along to Soulful Melodies
SPACE in Evanston plays host to Maggie Rose, singer-songwriter, whose 2018 album Change the Whole Thing was praised by Rolling Stone as one of the best albums of the year. See Rose’s unique blend of Rock, Soul, Rhythm and Blues, and Gospel for yourself in this unforgettable concert.
Date: Sat, Dec 18
Time: 8:00 pm
Cost: From $20
Location: SPACE, Evanston
More Info: evanstonspace.com
Shoot Hoops for a Cause
The Weber Leisure Center hosts the Holiday Ham Basketball Shot contest this weekend in Skokie, where contestants (kids 6-13 and their parents) are invited to compete in a shooting contest. The grand prize is a frozen ham for the holidays, which they can take home or donate to someone in need.
Date: Sat, Dec 18
Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Cost: Free
Location: Weber Leisure Center, Skokie
More Info: skokieparks.org
Get Your Baroque On
Attend a concert performed by Music of the Baroque, as conductor Andrew Megill leads the orchestra through the sounds of the holidays, including joyful carols, solemn chants, and jubilant works for brass.
Date: Fri, Dec 17 – Sun, Dec 19
Time: Fri at 8:00 pm, Sat and Sun at 2:00 pm
Cost: From $25
Location: St. Michael in Old Town Chicago
More Info: baroque.org