Chicago offers a variety of winter activities such as lakefront trail walks, sledding at Dan Ryan Woods, cross-country skiing, ice skating in parks, downhill skiing near Galena, and visiting Lincoln Park Zoo.

The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame releases limited-edition university mascot bobbleheads in celebration of National Bobblehead Day, along with a special Jake Arrieta figure.

Illinois residents took part in the Polar Bear Plunge in Lake Michigan to support the SRSNLC, raising money for recreational activities for people with disabilities.

Chicago residents can participate in naming city snowplows through a contest that ends January 12, with public voting for finalists starting January 22. Park Ridge is also holding a similar contest for naming snowplows.

"The Hip Hop Nutcracker" transforms the classic ballet into a hip hop extravaganza, led by Jennifer Weber and featuring Kurtis Blow as MC, arriving at Chicago's Cadillac Palace Theatre.

An Illinois lottery player won $1 million from a "Merry Multiplier" scratch-off ticket sold at Happy's Super Service in Spring Valley. The store owners, Lisa and Fred West, will also receive $10,000.

Winter Realms tickets on sale Dec 6 for a magical frostfest at Geneva National Resort.

NASCAR Chicago Street Race tickets on sale youth attend free on Saturdays.

Experience Chicagos skyline from a hot tub boat.

YouTube blogger turns informant in FBG Duck murder trial.

Chicago outdoor rinks open with senior skate sessions and ticketed entry.

Chicagos winter comedy lineup Davidson, Mulaney, more stars to perform.

CTAs holiday train lights up Chicago commutes with Santa sightings.