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!
Brighten Your Nights at Willow Hill Lights
Willow Hill Lights invites you to continue the magic of the season with a drive-thru holiday lights show. Explore a 2.5-mile route with over one million lights, featuring three enchanting drive-through tunnels and a 30-foot Christmas tree. See festive characters, including the abominable snowman, Rudolph, and his reindeer companions, along with holiday classics like the Twelve Days of Christmas and Frosty and friends.
Date: Runs through January 6
Time: 5PM
Cost: $40
Location: 1350 Willow Rd, Northbrook
More info: willowhilllights.com
Noon Year’s Eve!
Head to the Park Center in Glenview with the whole family to ring in the new year a little early. A DJ will be spinning fun tunes for a dance party, and little ones can bounce in some fun inflatables or play other games. Don’t miss the big balloon drop at noon for some big new year’s cheers!
Date: December 31
Time: 10:30AM
Cost: $25+
Location: Park Center, 2400 Chestnut, Glenview
More info: glenviewparks.org
Get Your Head in the Game at Northwestern
Catch the Northwestern men’s basketball team in action on December 29 as they go head-to-head against Jackson State. The matchup promises a fun display of skill and strategy and is a great way to kick off 2024. Don’t miss the excitement as Northwestern and Jackson State vie for victory in a game that promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer. Go Wildcats!
Date: December 29
Time: 7PM
Cost: $25+
Location: Welsh-Ryan Arena, 2705 Ashland Ave, Evanston
More info: nusports.com
Say Ciao to 2023 at Eataly
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style with an afternoon of exquisite Italian indulgence at Eataly’s New Years Eve Taste-Around. Join for a tasteful experience featuring culinary stations offering regional Italian wines, hand-crafted cocktails, and premium dishes. Elevate your celebration with sparkling wine and for those seeking a unique thrill, indulge in sabering lessons. Cheers to an elegant and flavorful New Year’s Eve!
Date: December 31
Time: 2-5PM
Cost: $75+
Location: Eataly, 43 E Ohio St
More info: eataly.com
Lights, Camera, Cruise!
Sail away on an unforgettable New Year’s Eve cruise along the Chicago River with fireworks. Revel in the celebration with an all-inclusive package featuring top-shelf drinks, desserts, champagne, and more. Enjoy breathtaking views of Chicago’s iconic skyline, perfect for Instagram-worthy moments while exploring two floors of fun, including a dance floor and the beats of one of Chicago’s hottest DJs.
Date: December 31
Time: 10:30PM
Cost: $119+
Location: DuSable Harbor, 200 N Breakwater Access
More info: eventbrite.com
Waltz into 2024 with the CSO
Step into Symphony Center for a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience at the Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert. This cherished holiday tradition is fun for all ages and showcases singers, a complete orchestra, and dancers from the Austrian Europaballet. Guided by the spirited and cheerful Master of Ceremonies, Michael Zehetner, the concert promises to transport you into 2024 through captivating stories and music.
Date: December 30
Time: 2:30PM
Cost: $35+
Location: Symphony Center, 220 S Michigan Ave
More info: cso.org
Chic Celebrations at the Congress Plaza Hotel
Celebrate the arrival of 2024 at the Congress Plaza Hotel’s New Year’s Eve Party! Nestled in the heart of downtown, this iconic venue transforms into a haven of festivities, featuring live music, top-notch entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere. Indulge in a gourmet dining experience and toast to the future with an array of premium beverages. With chic decor, a lively dance floor, and a festive spirit, the Congress Plaza Hotel sets the stage for a night of glamour and revelry!
Date: December 31
Time: 9PM
Cost: $89+
Location: Congress Plaza Hotel, 520 S Michigan Ave
More info: eventbrite.com
Merry & Mischievous at the Krampus Pop-Up
Krampus, the legendary figure instilling fear in mischievous children, makes a mischievously naughty return to Avondale’s DMen Tap for the Krampus Christmas Pop-up that leans more towards the dark side than festive cheer. Don your finest Krampus costume to indulge in the spirit of the season with mulled wine, Revolution Brewing’s Fist of Krampus holiday ale, gooey raclette sandwiches, and a lineup of Krampus-themed events that promise a wickedly entertaining holiday experience.
Date: Ends December 29
Time: Open during business hours
Cost: Free
Location: Dmen Tap, 2849 W Belmont Ave
More info: timeout.com
