Chicago is set to host a variety of holiday celebrations and events as the winter season approaches. Residents and tourists alike will find a host of seasonal attractions, including the Christkindlmarket, light shows, and more, that embody the festive spirit typical of the city.
Per NBC Chicago, ZooLights will return to Lincoln Park Zoo on November 17th featuring LED light displays and live music events, among other holiday festivities. Concurrently, the 110th annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will be hosted at Millennium Park, highlighted by local musical performances and a fireworks display following the tree lighting.
With Mickey and Minnie Mouse set to lead the parade at the Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival on November 18th, the festivities will comprise of 385 marching band members, 40 floats, 200 illuminated trees, and a stunning parade of lights. On November 17th, a day before, the Wrigleyville and Aurora Christkindlmarkets will open, according to NBC Chicago, offering traditional foods and décor for the season.
The fifth annual Chicago Botanic Garden’s Lightscape, starting on November 10th, will provide a chance for a stroll through the decorated landscapes of Evening Island, the Winter Cathedral, and holiday trails, as reported on NBC Chicago. The Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon will also offer a winter fairy tale experience, beginning November 17th and running until March 10th.
The Museum of Science and Industry hosts the annual Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Lights events, featuring 50 decorated trees that represent holiday traditions globally, as detailed in Choose Chicago. On November 24th, the Brookfield Zoo will resume Holiday Magic, offering a host of activities ranging from juggling elves to interactive displays.
Chicago's public transport embraces the holiday season, decorating the Chicago Transit Authority's holiday train and bus with festive scenes and lights, making each journey a cheerful adventure, according to Choose Chicago.
For those who seek to shop, Chicago's neighborhoods provide seasonal markets, as suggested in Choose Chicago. Shoppers can enjoy window displays at Macy's on State Street and dine at the historic Walnut Room. The Magnificent Mile offers several shops, setting up the area as a prime destination for gift shopping.
