Chicago’s Best Outdoor Holiday Celebrations in Winter 2017
Chicago celebrates the holidays like no other! As temperatures continue to drop and our beloved city transforms into a magical, winter wonderland, seasonal cheer is in the air. It’s one of the reasons we love to call Chicago our home. The city is absolutely electric with anticipation and ready to roll out all of its traditional, seasonal events, and we can’t wait! Here are a few of the best outdoor holiday celebrations in and around Chicago that we’re looking forward to:
Can’t-Miss Chicago Holiday Events
When: November 24th – January 7th
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo, Lincoln Park
A favorite way to celebrate the holiday season with the whole family, the lights at Lincoln Park Zoo are an annual tradition you just can’t miss! Come see the lights and animals while enjoying a warm, seasonal beverage. And, don’t miss the nightly ice carving demonstrations. The first 1,000 guests each night will also receive special glasses to view the lights with.
When: Thursday December 7th
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo, Lincoln Park
For a more adult night at the Lincoln Park Zoo, come out for BrewLights night. Enjoy dozens of seasonal beers while walking under the festive, bright lights on display. Sip, snap photos with Santa, and take a ride on the Endangered Species Carousel. All event proceeds will help keep the zoo open to the public year-round.
When: November 18th – December 24th
Where: Daley Plaza , Loop
The Christkindlmarket is a holiday favorite among locals and tourists alike and is Chicago’s largest open-air market. Inspired by a Nuremberg, Germany market founded in 1545, this Christkindlmarket features iconic German items, like nutcrackers, cuckoo clocks, beer steins and so much more! Market-goers will also find authentic German sweets, drinks and foods, including sausages, sauerkraut, potato pancakes and waffles.
Morton Arboretum Holiday Lights
When: November 17th – January 1st
Where: Morton Arboretum, Suburbs
Watch as 50 acres of vibrant LED lights are hung on the Morton Arboretum’s vast treescape. It’s truly a sight to see, as the lights create a kaleidoscopic winter wonderland. Walk through the mile-long path of colorful illumination that’s magically paired with video, sound media and other interactive elements.
Winter WonderFest
When: December 1st – January 7th
Where: Navy Pier, Streeterville
Who says you can’t bring the outdoors in? This annual indoor winter carnival at Navy Pier returns with activities that include a toboggan tunnel, winter mini golf and a 15-foot “snow tubing” hill! Other attractions include the Blackhawks ice-skating rink and carnival rides.
When: December 1st – December 15th
Where: Millennium Park Plaza, Loop
What better way to celebrate the holiday season than in the company of hundreds of carolers! Enjoy the beautiful voices of hundreds of singers from choral groups all across the city. Then, once you’re caroled out, lace up your skates, and hit the ice at the Millennium Park McCormick Tribune Ice Rink.
When: November 16th – January 7th
Where: Museum of Science and Industry, Hyde Park
With more than 50 trees on display, a mix of holiday music and “snow” falling, guests will be filled with holiday cheer as they explore the ‘Christmas Around the World’ exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry. Trees are decorated to represent all different ethnic communities, diverse cultures and holiday customs.
These are just a few of the holiday celebrations we’re looking forward to in and around Chicago, but there are many, many more festive events happening all season long. Whether you choose one of our suggestions or something from your own bucket list, be sure to get outside and enjoy winter in Chicago. It’s truly one of a kind!
