As the last golden autumn leaves fall, November in Chicago is not just a transition into winter, but a celebratory kickoff to the holiday season. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your city or a traveler in search of authentic experiences, this list is your gateway to the 30 best things to do in Chicago and the suburbs this November.
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All Month
Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812 at Writers Theatre
This innovative musical took Broadway by storm with its “electropop opera” score, receiving two Tony Awards and 12 nominations. Katie Spelman and Matt Deitchman, the inspired creative team behind WT’s hit production of Once, reunite to bring this modern spin on a literary classic to Chicago for the first time — running through November 3. Check out the Writers Theatre online for more information.
DESTINOS: 7th Chicago International Latino Theater Festival
7th Chicago International Latino Theater Festival returns to Chicago again this year as the citywide festival showcasing local, national and international Latino theater artists and companies. The fest has an impressive run that lasts until November 17, so you’ve got plenty of time to join in the celebration this month. The festival lineup includes various productions that are new to the city and remains a “cultural high point of Chicago’s Latino Heritage Month.” Find more details on the Chicago International Latino Theater Festival site.
NoMI Gallery x The Curio: Chicago Fashion Week
NoMI Gallery is nestled right at the doorstep of NoMI Kitchen. A celebration of Chicago-based artists, this space embodies Park Hyatt Chicago’s passion for art through rotating artists. The current exhibit: “Chicago Fashion Through a Chicago Lens” In Partnership with The Curio and Chicago Fashion Week — open until November 15. Find out more at NoMI Gallery online.
Catch The Great Wave at the Art Institute
If not the most famous artwork in the world, it is certainly one of the most recognizable. The Great Wave, created by legendary Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai nearly 200 years ago, has inspired countless artists across decades. The work will be on view until January 6.
Chicago Humanities Fall Festival
Through a stellar lineup of artists, creatives, innovators and more, the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival “connects people to the ideas that shape and define us.” By bringing in a lineup of speakers who are “leading figures from across disciplines and professions” the fest takes audiences beyond the surface level. The festival runs from now through the end of November, which means all month long you can enjoy the curated acts they have in store. Tickets and details are available online at the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival.
Celebrate the Holidays at A Christmas Carol
Rediscover the magical Dickens classic that is the “perfect Chicago holiday tradition” (Chicago Parent), where Ebenezer Scrooge’s disdain for the holidays is transformed. Directed by Jessica Thebus and featuring a “first-rate cast and marvelous staging” (Chicago Sun-Times), this beloved tale remains “the best Christmas story ever told” (Time Out Chicago). Catch the show from November 16-December 30, tickets on the Goodman Theatre website.
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
The Museum of Science and Industry is getting into the holiday spirit with their annual exhibit, Christmas Around The World and Holidays of Light. Take a journey across the globe without having to leave Chicago! The holiday tradition — running November 16 through January 6, 2025 — will bring wonder and even a little education to guests as they wind through the exhibit, which represents all the holidays this time of year including Christmas, Kwanzaa, Diwali, Hanukkah, Chinese New Year and more! Tickets to this cheerful experience are available at the Museum of Science and Industry.
5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive
The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party
In this production from the Chicago Children’s Theatre, four Beatrix Potter favorites come to life — The Tale of Tom Kitten, The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin, The Tailor of Gloucester and The Tale of Peter Rabbit — in this interactive, musical trunk and puppet show. “Our charming storytellers interweave the classic narration and guide gentle interactive moments, recruiting young watchers to join the adventure.” Stick around after the show for the chance to play with the puppets and take pictures, too. This event is recommended for ages 2-6 and runs from November 23 until the end of December, but be sure to visit The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party for more information and tickets.
100 S. Racine
Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Gardens
Of all the decorations and light shows across the North Shore, it’s hard to find one more unique than Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Gardens. From November 15 – January 5, venture over to the gardens in Glencoe for “an after dark, illuminated trail” that takes you across the grounds to witness dazzling displays. Fit for the whole family or just for friends! Information on admission and logistics can be found on the Chicago Botanic Gardens website.
1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe
Christkindlmarket
If you’ve faced a Chicago winter then you likely know of the Christkindlemarket, open this year November 22 – December 24. This Loop-based market — with an additional location in Wrigleyville — is the destination for all holiday season enjoyers. Snack on aromatic roasted nuts, fresh pretzels and hot wine while you soak up the authentic German-style market experience. Shop from unique vendors whose products come from all around the world. This outdoor market is one sure way to squeeze the most from your holiday season! More information on this beloved tradition can be found at Christkindlmarket website.
Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
Around Chicagoland, they sure know how to combine the thrill of the holiday season with the great outdoors — and Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum is a prime example of that. Explore the 50-acres of grounds decked out in colorful lights, each as awe-inspiring as the next. This is a perfect trip for families or friends looking for a peaceful night out during the busy holiday season. Ticket pricing and event information can be found on the The Morton Arboretum website.
4100 IL-53, Lisle
November 1-3: Uncorking for a Cause with Vin Chicago
Vin Chicago is hosting “Uncorking for a Cause,” a fundraiser for Chicago-area not-for-profit organizations, Nov. 1 to 3. Have your favorite not-for-profit sign up today to earn 10% of sales when shopping at Vin’s Chicago, Highland Park, and Barrington locations, and online. More information can be found at Vin Chicago online.
November 1-10: First Nations Film and Video Festival
This month, witness and enjoy the films presented at the First Nations Film and Video Festival, which is held annually to “advocate for and celebrate the works of Native American filmmakers and new works and films that break racial stereotypes and promotes awareness of Native American issues.” The mission of First Nations Film and Video Festival Inc. is to support Indigenous/Native American filmmakers of all skill levels and work to provide them a venue for their works and voice. To read more or for details about the film fest, visit First Nations Film and Video Festival online.
November 3: Calm Waters
Calm Waters is an exclusive event for guests with disabilities and Veterans to explore Shedd Aquarium” in a comfortable and accepting environment.” Modifications include limited capacity and streamlined entry with advance registration, a sensory friendly app, a low-sensory animal spotlight with American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation, an animal encounter opportunity and more. Family members and companions are welcome! Visit Calm Waters online for more details and registration.
November 3: Hot Chocolate Run
Enjoy running in Chicago? Enjoy hot chocolate? Want to merge the two of them together? Then join the hundreds of other runners, walkers and supporters who will come out for the annual Hot Chocolate Run — a 5K, 10K, 15K or 2-mile course. After the race downtown, join the after party that is full of chocolatey goodness and other sweet treats, not to mention the company of other chocolate lovers like yourself! So grab some friends or the family and make this one of your autumn-must-do activities. Registration and race details can be found on the Hot Chocolate Run website.
Grant Park, 301 S. Columbus Dr.
November 8-10: Antiques + Modernism Show Returns to Winnetka’s Community House
Celebrating its 52nd year, the Antiques + Modernism Show (November 8-10) is the ultimate destination for interior designers, treasure hunters and collectors alike! Ranging in styles from classic to modern, the Show features exquisite home furnishings and accessories, artwork, clothing, jewelry and more! $15 in advance/$20 at the door.
November 9: Second Saturdays at the Goodman
Saturdays at the Goodman are family-focused intergenerational workshops centered on joy, creativity, and sharing space. Join us to participate in workshops facilitated by Goodman Teaching Artists as we celebrate creativity and the art of storytelling. Second Saturdays are ideal for littles (ages 4-10), and their families. Find more detail at Goodman Theatre online.
November 12-13: Discover the Power of Spirituality in Recovery
Join the Ignatian Spirituality Project for the 2024 Spirituality and Recovery Conference. This free, virtual event features inspiring speakers who will explore the powerful connection between spirituality and recovery. Be part of the conversation as we share insights, inspire hope, and build welcoming spaces for those on the recovery journey.
November 14-17: Holiday Market at The Grove
Shop for holiday gifts, decorations, personalized ornaments and gourmet foods. Stop by the heated pavilion at the Market on Saturday,11/16 and Sunday, 11/17, 10 am-4 pm each day and take photos with Santa! Admission is $5. More information can be found on the Holiday Market site.
November 16-17: Randolph Street Holiday Market
Self-dubbed “America’s Largest and Liveliest Urban Antiques Market” returns for its 21st year with all the vintage and niche items of your dreams. Browse the goods of over 100 vendors all while enjoying live entertainment and local eats. The event promises a weekend of non-stop “treasure hunting” at Plumber’s Hall. Curious buyers can find more information on the event and admission prices on the Randolph Street Holiday Market webpage.
1341 W. Randolph St.
November 17: Viking Pub Crawl
Returning for a triumphant 8th year, the Viking Pub Crawl in Andersonville channels the intensity of the vikings through an entire afternoon of drinking and merriment. With your ticket purchase, all guests are given a variety of goodies plus access to drink specials at all participating crawl locations. If you’re attending, you better be in costume because the vikings with the best looks will win prizes at the costume contest — not to mention the other fun they have in store for you. Check out the Viking Pub Crawl online for all details.
November 21: BalletX
Recognized internationally as a home for creation, innovation, and inclusion, Philadelphia’s premier contemporary ballet company, BalletX, inspires human connection through extraordinary dance experiences. The trailblazing company makes its Harris Theater debut with a groundbreaking program that expands the vocabulary of ballet.
November 22: Chicago Tree Lighting Ceremony
Nothing gets Chicagoans in the holiday spirit like the adornment of lights, displays and decorations across town. But the best showing of our collective spirit is at Millennium Park, where this year, we celebrate the 111th lighting of the city’s annual Christmas tree. The lighting takes place at 6pm, but passersby can enjoy the illuminated tree until January 8. If you like all things holly and jolly, take some time to head over to The Loop this winter, you’ll be glad you did! Additional information available on the City of Chicago website.
Millennium Park, Near Michigan Ave. and Washington St.
November 22-23: The Festival of Wood Barrel-Aged Beer
The Festival of Wood Barrel-Aged Beer is back again to defend its legacy as North America’s “largest and most prestigious barrel-aged festival, competition and fundraiser.” Held this year UIC Credit Union 1 Arena, the fest gives attendees the opportunity to sample hundreds of barrel-aged beers, ciders, meads and perries across 12 style categories, every single one hand-crafted and then aged with wood or wood barrels in breweries across the country. Sounds pretty tasty if you ask us. Check out the FOBAB website for more.
525 S. Racine Ave.
November 23: The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
For 33 incredible, dazzling years the city of Chicago has kicked off its holiday season with one grand Lights Festival. Catch the spectacle as illuminated floats go down Michigan Avenue while hundreds of spectators watch in awe. Giant balloons, celebrities, marching bands — you name it, they’ve got it in store. Visit the The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival online for all the details to get you excited for this year’s show.
November 24: Bach’s Christmas Oratorio
Dame Jane Glover brings together an impressive cast of soloists, including the return of Gwilym Bowen as the Evangelist, with the Music of the Baroque Chorus and Orchestra in the full version of Bach’s powerful and passionate Christmas Oratorio. Visit Bach’s Christmas Oratorio online for more details.
November 28: Chicago Thanksgiving Parade
The balloons, the music, the floats, the cheering, all of that and more is back once again as we celebrate the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade — “Where grateful hearts gather,” as their slogan says. Witness the splendor of a parade that has captivated Chicagoans for generations, located on State St. from Ida B. Wells to Randolph, 8-11am. This family- and community-friendly event is for everyone to take part in. To find more information on the parade or how to get involved, visit the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade website.
November 28: Thanksgiving Feast at NoMI Kitchen
Join us for Thanksgiving with a modern twist on traditional flavors. Executive Chef Terence Zubieta presents a 4-course prix-fixe menu featuring truffle-sage turkey with herb brown butter cornbread stuffing, and citrus-spiced cranberry sauce. Indulge in NoMI’s dessert buffet, while enjoying stunning views of the Magnificent Mile from our floor-to-ceiling windows.
November 30: Kaki King’s BUGS
Guitarist and composer Kaki King brings a fun-filled story of bugs, beetles, critters, and all things sugar to the Harris Theater with BUGS, created specifically for young audiences to bring together music, design, and technology in a live performance that is accessible for children of all ages.
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Margaret Smith is a Chicago-based writer and editor with a passion for socio-political storytelling about their community. They are a graduate of Columbia College Chicago.
