The holiday season is here! Discover festive events to celebrate all across the area, from charming holiday markets to dazzling winter light displays. With so many ways to soak up the magic of this special time of year, here are a few of our top picks for this weekend.
Go to Hometown Holiday Family Fun Day
Celebrate the season at the City Centre fountain plaza, transformed into a magical holiday display. Kids can meet Santa, Anna and Elsa from Frozen, and the City Centre Penguin. Enjoy a variety of fun activities, from festive crafts to games, and warm up with free hot chocolate, coffee, and treats!
Date: December 14
Time: 11M-4PM
Cost: Free
Location: City Centre Plaza, 109 W 1st St, Elmhurst
More Info: elmhurstcitycentre.com
Have a Sweet Time at Candy Cane Cordial
Come to the Candy Cane Cordial for a festive family event. Meet Santa, enjoy some holiday treats, and get creative with holiday crafts. There will also be a reading of The Polar Express, and don’t forget to leave a letter for Santa. Registration to this event is required so be sure to sign up and secure your spot!
Date: December 14
Time: 10:30AM-12PM
Cost: $24+
Location: Western Springs Recreation Center Gym, 1500 Walker St, Western Springs
More Info: wsprings.com
Shop at the Holiday Makers Market
Discover unique and handcrafted gifts at the Holiday Makers Market showcasing local artisans including Fairfield Décor, Grandma Dan’s Cookies, and Jenna Guarderas Designs. Whether you’re looking for beautiful home decor, delicious baked goods, or one-of-a-kind jewelry, this market has something for everyone.
Date: December 15
Time: 12PM-4PM
Cost: Free
Location: Alter Brewing Company, 2300 Wisconsin Ave, Unit 213, Downers Grove
More Info: patch.com
Explore SAUCED Night Market Before Xmas
Get ready for a festive shopping spree at the SAUCED Night Market Before Xmas. With over 30 local vendors, you’ll find unique gifts like small-batch skincare, hand-bound notebooks, cozy sweaters, and one-of-a-kind art. While you shop, try delicious treats from Pinatta, Pies of London, and Onigiri Kororin, and enjoy festive sips from Baileys and Casamigos.
Date: December 13-14
Time: 5PM-10PM
Cost: Free with RSVP
Location: Chicago Athletic Association, 12 S Michigan Ave
More Info: ticketleap.events
Sip and Shop at Randolph Street’s Holiday Market
Featuring 125 sellers, this holiday market is a one-stop shop for all of your holiday shopping. Find a stylishly curated mix of vintage and modern items from vendors like Edge Art, Royal Oils, and Wini & I. Sip on craft cocktails, sample foods, and enjoy informal modeling while you browse. Kids can get creative with crafts too while dancing along to live music.
Date: December 14-15
Time: 10AM-5PM
Cost: $12+; Free for Kids Under 12
Location: 1340 W Washington
More Info: randolphstreetmarket.com
Celebrate Christmas on 55th Street
Celebrate the season at Christmas on 55th Street. Enjoy live music, try delicious food from local vendors, and participate in fun activities for all ages. And of course, don’t miss the chance to meet Santa Claus-get into the holiday spirit with family and friends!
Date: December 14
Time: 4PM-6PM
Cost: Free
Location: The Arts Lawn, 337 E Garfield Blvd
More Info: eventbrite.com
Be Bad at the 12th Annual Krampus Fest
Join the fun at the 12th Annual Krampus Fest-because sometimes it’s hard to be good! Visit the holiday artisan market, showcasing local artists, makers, and bakers. Feast on German-style street food featuring sausages from Paulina Meat Market, potato pancakes, and Gluhwein. Stomp along Lincoln Ave with the Krampuses, and don’t miss the Krampus Pageant and Costume Contest.
Date: December 14
Time: 12PM-1AM
Cost: Free
Location: Martyrs’, 3855 N Lincoln
More Info: martyrslive.com
Enjoy Tasty Treats at Kids Hot Coco with Claus
Treat the kids to a magical holiday experience at Kids Hot Cocoa with Claus. Enjoy specialty hot chocolates from JoJo’s Shakebar, complete with a customizable toppings bar, and capture memories with printable keepsake photos with Santa Claus.
Date: December 15
Time: 11AM-1PM
Cost: $35
Location: Time Out Market Chicago, 916 W Fulton Market
More Info: eventbrite.com
