Celebrate the magic of the season in Chicago with a packed lineup of can’t-miss holiday events. From the Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker and Goodman Theatre’s A Christmas Carol to festive markets, dazzling light displays, and unique pop-ups, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re indulging in traditions like Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum’s or checking out fresh experiences like Navy Pier’s Light Up the Lake, the city and suburbs offer countless ways to create unforgettable memories this December.
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All Month
The Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker
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The Joffrey Ballet’s critically acclaimed reimagined classic, The Nutcracker by Tony Award-winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, returns to the Lyric Opera House in 25 performances, December 6-28, 2024. Set in Chicago’s World’s Fair in 1893, Wheeldon’s The Nutcracker highlights the rich cultural heritage of Chicago and the wonder of the season.
20 N. Wacker Dr.
Macy’s Holiday Celebrations
The Macy’s Holiday Window Display — running until New Year’s Day — always brings crowds from near and far. They also welcomes parents and kids to pop in for Macy’s 2024 Santaland, where kids can visit and take a photo with Santa. Reservations are required and should be made at least five days in advance, but not to worry, Santa and his elves will be around until December 24 — leaving plenty of time to still book. Visit the Macy’s Holiday Celebration website for registration and more information.
111 N. State St.
A Christmas Carol
Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale, A Christmas Carol, is alive on the stage again this winter at the Goodman Theatre. The show will run at the Loop-based theater throughout the month of December. Audiences can grab their tickets now by visiting the Goodman Theatre website.
170 N. Dearborn St.
Christkindlmarket
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If you’ve faced a Chicago winter then you likely know of the Christkindlemarket, open this year until December 24. This market, located in the Loop, 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.
Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St.
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 now through 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
Illumination: Tree Lights at 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. In its 12th season of the series — running until January 4 — 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
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
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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 — which kicked off its 82nd anniversary in November and will be open until January 6 — 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
Jack Frost Christmas Pop-Up
The latest interactive holiday pop-up experience has opened in Fulton Market. Visit the Jack Frost grounds for this outdoor, multi-sensory Christmas extravaganza. From a stunning nighttime lights show to a Christmas-themed party with dozens of winter-themed displays, plus a full-sized ice rink — you and your friends or family are sure to find the holiday magic you’re looking for! Details and tickets can be found on the Jack Frost Christmas Pop-Up website.
Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella
No explanation needed for this age-old tale loved by many, but let us entice you to see it live on the big stage at Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook Terrace. The classic tale and beloved music crafted by the renowned duo Rodgers and Hammerstein is alive once again and welcomes all, especially families, to join in the enchantment. Don’t miss your chance to see this production, on production now through January 7, so grab your tickets at Drury Lane Theatre now.
100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace
Paula Modersohn-Becker: I Am Me
During her short life, Paula Modersohn-Becker radically charted her own path, exploring the singular aspects of the feminine experience in a bold style. This exhibition marks her first full-scale museum presentation in the United States. On view until January 12, 2025.
Shark Feeding Tour
Be transported 8,000 miles away to the Indo-Pacific reef as the Shedd Aquarium gives guests from ages six and up an in-depth look at sharks and their lifestyle. This 75-minute behind-the-scenes experience allows visitors to witness meal time, learn how to prepare a meal fit for a shark, all while picking up facts from Shedd experts. Don’t miss this opportunity — available weekends only, now through the end of January 2024. Event specifics can be found on the Shedd Aquarium website.
1200 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr.
Light Up The Lake
Experience the magic of the season at Navy Pier’s Light Up the Lake now through Jan. 5. Enjoy dazzling outdoor lights, a thrilling new ice slide, axe throwing, Pier Park rides including the Centennial Wheel, and cozy firepits. Stroll holiday artisan markets, meet Santa, or marvel at Saturday fireworks and festive drone shows. Visit Navy Pier for tickets.
Chicago Fair Trade Holiday Pop-Up Shop
For 11 years, this market has encouraged economic and environmental justice through their equitable practices. More than 30 vendors will show their variety of wares. Catch it on the Mag Mile through December 24. Details about the show can be found online at Chicago Fair Trade Holiday Pop-Up Shop.
CTA Holiday Train and Bus
The annual, festive CTA Holiday Train and Bus have come to town. These vehicles are filled with lights, decorations, a smiling Santa and so much more! Catch the train until December 23 and the bus until December 21. Visit the CTA website for all the details on this magical ride.
City of Chicago Christmas Tree
Chicago’s annual Christmas tree went up in November, but it will continue glow with holiday cheer through January 8. More details can be found on the City of Chicago Christmas Tree website.
December 5-8: One of a Kind Show + Sale
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The One of a Kind Show + Sale is bringing together 500 artists and makers of different mediums for one big holiday sale. Hosted at The Mart, thousands of annual shoppers secure “unique and meaningful” gifts that range from niche to must-haves. From accessories to home goods; pet products to bath and beauty, this showcase has it all. Check out more details on the One of a Kind website.
222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza
December 6: Southport Holiday Stroll & Cocktail Crawl
Crawl along Southport for an evening of cocktails, carolers, photos with Santa and much more. Strollers can also take advantage of special deals at participating local businesses from cafes to corner stores. View the full list of businesses and what other holiday surprises await you at the Lakeview Roscoe Village website.
Down Southport, from Belmont to Irving Park
December 7: Santa Hustle
Head over to Navy Pier this weekend for a 5K race devoted to ole’ St. Nick. This fan-favorite race — and Kids Dash — brings together the fun of a Chicago-based 5K and the hilarity of dressing up like Mr. Clause himself. Deck out head to toe in the iconic, Santa-red clothes and kick-off this holiday season on the right foot. More information and registration can be found on the Santa Hustle website.
800 E. Gran Ave.
December 7-24: The 41st Annual Music Box Christmas Sing-A-Long & Double Feature
The Music Box Theatre has been keeping all kinds of cinematic traditions alive for years. This December, help them celebrate the 41st anniversary of their annual Christmas Double Feature and Sing-a-Long by stopping in to see “White Christmas” and “It’s a Wonderful Life” on the big screen — and don’t forget to bring your lovely singing voice. There’s a lot of merriment in store for you, so snag your tickets at Music Box Theatre now!
3733 N. Southport Ave.
December 7-8: Chicago Master Singers Christmas
Share the joy of the season with beloved carols including Silent Night, Hark The Herald Angels Sing, O Come All Ye Faithful, The Holly and the Ivy, Carol of the Bells, and more.
December 8: Clark Street Cookie Crawl
Visit businesses along Clark Street to collect a variety of delicious holiday cookies, and while there enjoy holiday-appropriate surprises including carolers, hot chocolate and the chance to snap photos with Santa. Visit the Clark Street Cookie Crawl website now to save your spot and see the list of participating vendors.
December 8: Christmas Pageant with Live Animals
Celebrate the season at Kenilworth Union Church’s 79th annual Christmas Pageant, Sunday, December 8, 4pm. The service will feature traditional Christmas songs, the nativity story, angels and shepherds, and live animals. After the pageant stay for refreshments in the Culbertson Room and a petting zoo on the front lawn.
December 8: Cookie Decorating with Santa Claus
Join us for a delightful holiday cookie decorating event with Santa Claus. This intimate experience at The Guesthouse Hotel invites the whole family to interact with Santa while decorating scrumptious cookies. Find more details about tickets at Cookie Decorating with Santa Claus online.
December 11-15: Goodman Theatre’s New Stages Festival
Goodman Theatre’s New Stages Festival is in its 20th year! This annual celebration of innovative, risky new plays showcases works in progress by some of the country’s most ambitious writers. Since its inception, over 120 plays have been produced. The full line up and tickets are available on the Goodman Theatre website.
December 13: Joyce DiDonato + Kings Return: KINGS ReJOYCE!
Experience the magic of the Grammy Award-winning mezzo-soprano Joyce as she joins forces with the dynamic four-piece a cappella group Kings Return and the brilliant pianist Craig Terry in KINGS ReJOYCE! for a special festive program promising a delightful blend of sacred and popular repertoire.
December 13-14: Sauced Night Market Before Xmas
Sauced Night Market is at the Chicago Athletic Association for a holiday version of their usual fun, featuring art, food and vendors. Grab a cocktail and shop brands and vendors like Midwest Nice and more. Find more information online at Sauced Night Market Before Xmas.
December 15: Sing along with Kenilworth Union’s Lessons and Carols Worship Service
The Kenilworth Union Church Lessons and Carols tradition will resume on December 15 at both 8:30 and 10 a.m. worship. Worship will include instrumentalists as well as anthems and carols with congregation and choirs. Between songs, our ministers will be offering scripture that unfolds the story of Jesus’ birth.
December 17: Quiet Christmas Worship at Kenilworth Union Church
Quiet Christmas is worship of quiet carols and reflections, set in the evening darkness on one of the longest nights of the year. You will hear scripture and meditations with gentleness and peace. Bring your whole heart and the inner urging of a quiet place to meet God.
December 19-22: Music of the Baroque Holiday Brass & Choral Concerts
The Music of the Baroque Chorus and Brass Ensemble traverse through time from the medieval age to the present with ethereal chant, majestic works for brass, and some of the best choral music ever written. Andrew Megill conducts music by Gabrieli, Praetorius, and more.
December 22: Hanukkah Candle Lighting & Drag Queen Storytime
The Andersonville Chamber of Commerce will host the first-annual Hanukkah Candle Lighting & Drag Queen Storytime at Rogers Park Montessori School. The family-friendly, free event will feature musical Hanukkah performances and Hanukkah book readings by famed Drag Bubbie Merriam Levkowitz.
1800 W Balmoral
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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.
