Embrace the chilly winter days with activities that will make your season sparkle. From exploring winter markets to indulging in delicious food & drinks while warming up inside, there is so much to experience and enjoy. Embark on snowy trails and visit local landmarks to add a touch of adventure to your winter plans. Don’t miss out on the exciting events scheduled for this weekend to fully appreciate the beauty of the season!
Finish Your Shopping at Skokie Giftorium
The Village of Skokie has partnered with The Village Makery to gather a group of local artisans in Downtown Skokie to make your holiday gift shopping a little easier! The Skokie Holiday Giftorium can help you finish your last-minute stocking stuffers and presents with a variety of vendors in one place. From local candy to screenprints, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Giftorium.
Date: December 23
Time: 10AM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: The Village Makery, 4853 Oakton St, Skokie
More info: skokie.org
Skate with Santa
Celebrate the season with a delightful holiday-themed skate that promises fun for the whole family! Join Santa to ice skate and enjoy hot cocoa and sweet candy canes. As joy is spread on the ice, the community will come together to spread kindness with a non-perishable food donation drive to support the Wilmette Food Pantry and make a positive impact during this season of giving.
Date: December 24
Time: 11AM-12:30PM
Cost: $5
Location: Centennial Ice Rinks, 2300 Old Glenview Rd
More info: wilmettepark.org
Game of Gnomes Scavenger Hunt!
Join a holiday scavenger hunt across Wilmette to support local businesses and win prizes! Search storefronts to find the gnomes scattered around town and write them on your free gamecard. Once you find them all, turn in your card for a chance to win a Shop Wilmette gift card. Play this weekend for your chance to win big!
Date: Ends December 24
Time: All Day!
Cost: Free
Location: Downtown Wilmette, various locations
More info: visitchicagonorthshore.com
Merry, Merry Chicago!
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Symphony Chorus are joining together this holiday season for a joyful night of music at Merry, Merry Chicago. You’ll hear traditional carols and modern classics at this local holiday tradition. Make it a date night or family adventure!
Date: December 22 + 23
Time: Fri 7:30PM; Sat 1:30PM
Cost: $45+
Location: CSO, 220 S Michigan Ave
More info:cso.org
A Holiday Feast at NoMi
Start your Christmas festivities at NoMI with a picturesque Christmas Eve dinner overlooking Lake Michigan and the Magnificent Mile. Indulge in a 4-course prix-fixe menu with optional wine pairings to celebrate the holiday season. Conclude your meal with a festive dessert. Spend your Christmas Eve in style with this elevated culinary experience!
Date: December 24
Time: By reservation
Cost: $165
Location: NoMi Lounge, 800 N Michigan Ave
More info: exploretock.com
Dinos and Hot Cocoa at the Field Museum
Join us in celebrating the holidays at the Field Museum with the Snow Globe Pop-up. You can capture your perfect winter moment at the SUE snow globe while staying cozy indoors. Warm up with a hot chocolate bar in the Bistro and explore a unique collection of holiday ornaments and novelty items. Don’t miss this opportunity to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones this holiday season!
Date: Runs through January 8
Time: Open during museum hours
Cost: Free with admission
Location: The Field Museum, 1400 S Lake Shore Dr
More info: choosechicago.com
It’s A Wonderful Radio Play
For more than two decades, American Blues Theater has delighted audiences with a live rendition of the Frank Capra classic in the tradition of a 1940s radio broadcast, making It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago the second longest-running holiday play in the city. George Bailey, the Everyman from small town Bedford Falls, finds himself longing for a miracle to rescue him from despair and learns what life would be like without him. Infused with original music and classic holiday carols, this heartwarming holiday favorite is a don’t miss.
Date: Runs through December 31
Time: 2PM & 7:30PM
Cost: $55+
Location: American Blues Theater, 5627 N Lincoln Ave
More info: tickettailor.com
Celebrate the Season at Jack Frost’s
Experience the joy of the holidays at the Jack Frost Christmas Pop-Up, an all-ages event spreading cheer in the heart of Fulton Market! This winter wonderland on Green Street spans two acres and is dedicated to celebrating the Holiday Season. Families can enjoy daytime activities like ice skating and winter bumper cars. As the sun sets, you can embrace the festive atmosphere with boozy hot cocoa, explore the Christmas tree walk, and peruse bustling Christmas Pop-Up Shops.
Date: Runs through December 31
Time: By reservation
Cost: $15+
Location: Jack Frost Christmas Pop Up at Fulton Market, 170 N Green St
More info: bucketlisters.com
