Embrace the crisp fall days with exciting activities that’ll make your autumn glow. From checking out charming boutiques to savoring pumpkin spice treats at seasonal festivals, there is so much to see and enjoy. Venture into fall foliage trails and local landmarks to infuse a dash of adventure into your autumn plans. Don’t miss out on these activities scheduled for this weekend to fully savor the changing leaves!
Shoot Your Shot at a Turkey!
Time to win a turkey with that great free throw of yours! Glenview Park Center is hosting their Thanksgiving Turkey Shoot for your shot at being the hero of your Thanksgiving table this year. Each pair will attempt 10 free throws and the highest scorers will win a turkey from Harrison’s Poultry Farm.
Date: Runs through December 24
Time: 11:00AM – 8:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: Daley Plaza, 50 W Washington St
More info: christkindlmarket.com
Shop in Style at the WCE Holiday Bazaar
Indulge in the festive spirit at the Woman’s Club of Evanston’s Holiday Bazaar, a holiday showcase featuring an impressive array of 50 thoughtfully curated vendors. Discover a treasure trove of handcrafted and uniquely designed goods, perfect for fulfilling all your holiday shopping needs. From one-of-a-kind creations to meticulously crafted items, each vendor brings a distinctive touch to this small-shopping event.
Date: November 18-19
Time: Sat 10-4PM, Sun 10-4PM
Cost: Free
Location: The Women’s Club of Evanston, 1702 Chicago Ave, Evanston
More info: cityofevanston.org
Clothe the Community in Kindness in Highland Park
Embrace the spirit of generosity and warmth at the Share the Warmth: Winter Clothing Drive in Highland Park. This community-driven initiative invites residents to extend a helping hand to those in need during the colder months. Donations of gently used or new winter clothing, such as coats, scarves, hats, and gloves, are welcomed with open arms. The drive aims to ensure that everyone in the community, regardless of circumstance, has access to essential winter garments.
Date: November 17
Time: 8AM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: Highland Park Recreation Center, 1207 Park Ave W, Highland Park
More info: chicagonorthshoremoms.com
Celebrate Christkindlmarket
Daley Plaza is about to become a holiday wonderland with the return of Christkindlmarket. Grab your Glühwein in the special mug for 2023 and walk through this magical market. Buy a new glass blown ornament, bite into a brat from a food stand, or just enjoy the Christmas spirit in the air!
Date: Runs through December 24
Time: 11:00AM – 8:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: Daley Plaza, 50 W Washington St
More info: christkindlmarket.com
Holiday Market Magic
The Randolph Street Market Holiday Market is back this weekend! Check off your gift list for the holiday season this year by perusing the wares of over 125 vendors with a mix of vintage, modern, and handmade items to suit every giftee. Upgrade your ticket to include some yummy drinks and snacks while you shop!
Date: November 18-19
Time: 10:00AM – 5:00PM
Cost: starts at $10
Location: Fulton Market, 1341 W Randolph St
More info: randolphstreetmarket.com
Unleash Your Inner Viking in Andersonville
Embark on an unforgettable adventure at the Andersonville Viking Pub Crawl! Spend your afternoon with Nordic-themed revelry, including a commemorative glass, an appetizer, and a delectable donut from Downstate Donuts. Head out on the pub crawl to enjoy drink specials across all participating venues, all while dressed in your finest Viking attire to join in on the costume contest. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the spirit of the Vikings and create lasting memories at the heart of Andersonville’s vibrant community!
Date: November 18
Time: 2-6PM
Cost: $35
Location: Meeting House Tavern, 5025 N Clark St
More info: andersonville.org
Let There Be ‘Lights Festival’
The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is back and brighter than ever! Check out the Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Wrigley building on Friday night before checking out the Tree-Lighting Parade starting at 11AM on Saturday morning with Mickey, Minnie, and many other special guests. Come throughout the holiday season to see Downtown Chicago aglow in holiday spectacle!
Date: Opens November 18
Time: All Day
Cost: Free
Location: Magnificent Mile, 401 N Michigan Ave
More info: themagnificentmile.com
See the Tree Lighting in Millennium Park
Watch the famous Millennium Park Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony kick off the holiday season for the first time this weekend! Enjoy the twinkling lights as this larger-than-life attraction adds a dazzling touch to the festive season. Visitors can marvel at the resplendent tree located near Washington Street and Michigan Avenue until early January. Don’t miss the enchanting kickoff to the holiday season!
Date: Opens November 17
Time: 6PM
Cost: Free
Location: Millenium Park, 55 N Michigan Ave
More info: timeout.com
