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Christmas in Chicago

This is my ultimate guide to Christmas in Chicago.

By Nick RoccoPublished 7 years ago 2 min read
 Wreathing of the Lions at the Art Institute of Chicago

There are so many things to do in the city during the holidays, it's almost impossible to keep up. For those of you holiday-holics that are planning to jam-pack the next few weeks of non-stop festive fun, I've got you covered!

Here's my ultimate guide to Christmas in Chicago:

Millennium Park Ice Skating | November 16, 2018 - March 10th, 2019

The iconic skating rink in Millennium Park is a must-stop for a spin on the ice—not to mention breathtaking view of the downtown city skyline. Admission to the rink is free, and skate rental is $12 weekdays; $14 weekends and holidays.

Christkindlmarket | November 16, 2018 - December 24, 2018

Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago becomes a bustling mini village filled with red and white huts covered in twinkling lights. Shop handcrafted holidays gifts while enjoying hot spiced wine, and potato pancakes.

ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo | November 23, 2018 - January 6, 2019

When the weather gets cold and most of the animals head indoors, Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with more than two million lights.

Jingle Bell Square at Lost Lake | November 23, 2018 - January 1, 2019

Lost Lake always manages to pull off one of the most epic holiday pop-up bars in all of Chicago. The tiki bar gets into the spirit with string lights, festive glassware and a menu full of themed cocktails.

Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co | The Magnificent Mile

Frosty's Christmas Bar | November 21, 2018 - December 31, 2018

There are three levels of festive fun, life-size toy soldiers and a themed soundtrack that keeps the crowd bumping until 4AM. Frosty's is a once-a-year holiday party perfect for celebrating with your friends and co-workers through December.

Christmas Around the World | November 15, 2018 - January 6, 2019

During the holidays, the Museum of Science & Industry's 45-foot-tall Grand Tree takes center stage, decked out in 30,000 lights. The occasional falling of "snow" adds to the fun. Surrounding it are more than 50 smaller trees decorated by volunteers from Chicago communities to represent their various cultures and holiday traditions.

Holiday Lights Experience | November 17, 2018 - December 31, 2018

There's no better way to see Chicago all dressed up for the holidays than from the warm and cozy comfort of a luxury helicopter. Flights take off from Chicago Helicopter Experience's private and conveniently located heliport just minutes from the Loop and travel up the shoreline, providing stunning views of iconic sites like the Willis Tower.

What are your favorite things to do in the city this time of year?

guide

About the Creator

Nick Rocco

Instagram @nickrocco_

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