Top 12 Things to Do for Christmas in Chicago

I can already picture it: Snow-covered streets and Michigan Avenue gleaming bright with Christmas lights. Chicago at Christmastime is magical. The cool in the air is refreshing. An endless array of activities makes it one of my favorite times of year in Chicago. Here are a few recommendations for things to do during Christmas in Chicago.

1.Christkindl Market

The famous Christmas Market, Christkindl Market, will open on November 17th in Chicago. The market is much like the winter markets in Germany, selling steins, brats, and pretzels. The best part of the Christkindl market is the mulled wine in a souvenir Christmas mug you can take home.

2.Zoolights at Lincoln Park Zoo

Nothing puts me in the Christmas mood quite like a light show. The Zoolights at Lincoln Park Zoo have some of the most magical lights in the city. Guests can enjoy over 3 million lights while walking through the Zoo.

3.Ice Skating at Millennium Park

Every year, the area in front of The Bean turns into an ice skating free open to the public. The ice skating rink is accessible to the public, and they have skates you can rent for a fee. The rink offers a great view of the city’s architecture and the Christmas-decorated streets.

4.Decorations along Michigan Avenue

Michigan Avenue, also known as the Magnificat Mile, is Chicago’s shopping epicenter. It has some of the largest department stores in the city. Additionally, it houses the largest Starbucks in the World. While doing Christmas shopping, you can see the streets decorated with garlands, trumpets, and lights.

5.Macy’s floor large Christmas tree

While on the Magnificat Mile in Chicago, stop by Macy’s. Miracle on 31st Street is set in New York City. But, the large Macy’s in Chicago still holds the magic of Christmas. On the floor of Macy’s, there is one of the most giant Christmas trees in the city. You can make reservations and dine in front of the giant Christmas tree. Or skip the reservations and do Christmas shopping at Macy’s while waiting for your table. Several floors are decorated head to toe with Christmas decorations.

6.See a Christmas show

Christmas is a great time to see a show in Chicago. The winters encourage Chicago entertainment to move indoors. Christmas is also a great time to do something special with friends and family. See a Chicago Broadway play like Hamilton or a classic Christmas special like the Nutcracker Ballet or A Christmas Carol.

7.Grab a seasonal drink

Chicago is home to some of the best food and beverage choices in the country. A few of Chicago’s restaurants go above and beyond to put their customers in the Christmas spirit. Just be sure to make a reservation ahead of time, because these bars book up quickly during the holiday season.

8.Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum

This is another great way to kick off the holiday season. Celebrate with 50 acres of lighting and decorations at the Morton Arboretum. For craft beer-lovers, Morton Arboretum hosts the IllumiBrew on Thursday, November 16th, and Friday, November 17th. You can sample up to 15 3oz beers while watching the tree lighting ceremony.

9.Ice Staking at Wrigley Field

While Milliumum Park is one of the most famous spots for ice skating, it’s certainly not the only spot. Ice skating at Wrigley Field offers a unique holiday experience. It is located at Gallagher Way in the shadow of one of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks. The festive outdoor rink is surrounded by holiday decorations and twinkling lights. It captures the lively energy of the Winterland at Gallagher Way. The Winterland features a holiday market, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Skate rentals are available. This makes it easy for everyone to join in on the fun. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned skater or stepping on the ice for the first time. After your skate, warm up with hot cocoa or explore the surrounding holiday festivities for a magical winter day.

10.Christmas tree at Union Station

One of the most beautiful Christmas trees in Chicago can be seen at Union Station. This towering tree is located in the historic Great Hall. It is beautifully adorned with twinkling lights and ornaments. The result is a festive atmosphere perfect for holiday photos. Whether you’re catching a train or enjoying the holiday spirit, you must see the Union Station Christmas tree. It offers a touch of classic Christmas charm.

11.Jack’s Frost Pop-Up Event

The staff at Jack’s spent weeks putting together all the lights for the pop-up event at the Fulton Market. The pop-up event is decorated with Christmas lights on every corner,with an ice-skating rink, axe throwing, and mulled wine.

12.Visit the Home Alone house

Home Alone has been a favorite Christmas since it first aired. The original Home Alone movie was filmed just outside of Chicago in the affuent neighborhood of Winnetka.. For fan-fanatics of the iconic Christmas movie you can visit the home the movie was shot in at the address: 671 Lincoln Ave, Winnetka, IL 60093 .

Chicago truly transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering something magical for everyone. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine at Christkindlmarket, skating under the city lights at Millennium Park, or marveling at the decorations along Michigan Avenue, there’s no shortage of festive cheer. These activities are just the tip of the iceberg—Chicago’s Christmas spirit runs deep, with countless traditions and events to explore. Bundle up, grab your loved ones, and make the most of this enchanting time of year in the Windy City.

Happy holidays!

Less or Morgan