In this new year, let the possibilities of the city bring you out of your comfort zone and into something new! From exhibits to festivals, Chicago is brimming with opportunities to turn 2024 into a year of experiences. Don’t know where to start? Check out our list below of the best things to do in and around Chicago this January.
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All Month
Disney100: The Exhibition
Celebrate a century of Disney magic as The Walt Disney Archives brings its vault to life at the Exhibition Hub Art Center in Chicago — now through the end of February. With tickets available through the end of the month, Disney 100: The Exhibition invites guests to experience Disney’s storied journey, from classics like “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” (1937) to the recent “Encanto” (2021). This expansive 20,000+ square-foot exhibit, previously showcased in cities like Philadelphia and London, celebrates 100 years of Disney history through 14 interactive installations and more than 250 artifacts, props, costumes and memorabilia representing Disney, Star Wars, Pixar, and Marvel franchises.
Exhibition Hub Art Center, 2367 W Logan Blvd, Chicago
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 7, 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
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.
The Immersive Nutcracker: A Winter Miracle
While anyone is welcome to the Immersive Nutcracker, this 30-minute immersive experience is designed with families in mind. Full of whimsy and holiday delight, the experience features animated characters, footage of professional ballet dancers, captivating storytelling, all set to the sweeping music of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Premiering for the first time in 2022, the exhibit returns by popular demand, which means curious audiences should grab their tickets now while they can — running through January 7. Check out The Immersive Nutcracker: A Winter Miracle online for all details and purchasing.
Lighthouse ArtSpace, 108 W Germania Pl.
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 11th season of the series — running until January 6 — 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
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 81st anniversary in November and will be open until January 7 — 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 Dr.
Winterland at Gallagher Way
Luckily for us, the holiday events across the city aren’t just reserved for December. This January, continue the holiday spirit with a visit to Winterland at Gallagher Way, located inside Wrigley Field. While there, partake in the Gallagher Ice Rink, Santa’s Workshop and the Wrigleyville location of Christkindlmarket — full of holiday merchandise and tasty treats. The pop-up event is season-specific so you’ll want to visit it before it melts, or before it ends in January. Tickets and more information can be found on the Gallagher Way website.
3635 N. Clark St.
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 run now through January 7, so grab your tickets at Drury Lane Theatre now.
100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace
Radical Clay: Contemporary Women Artists from Japan
Radical Clay celebrates 36 contemporary ceramic artists — all women — through 40 stunning pieces. This exhibition focuses on the explosion of innovative and technically ambitious compositions by such artists since 1970 — a body of work which they developed in parallel with, but often separately from, traditional, male-dominated Japanese practice and its countermovements. Runs until June 3, check out the Art Institute for more details.
111 S. Michigan Ave.
Downton Abbey: The Exhibition
For a limited time only, experience “The History, The Fashion and The House” of Downton Abbey. Located at the Westfield Old Orchard Shopping Center, the experience will give guests the opportunity to be fully immersed in the fascinating social history, the culture and memorable moments that made the show the smash-hit that it is. The exhibit runs from now until the end of March, but tickets are on sale now, and going quickly. Grab yours at the Downton Abbey: The Exhibition.
4905 Old Orchard Center, Skokie
Young Playwrights Festival
From January 4 until January 27, join the Young Playwrights Festival in celebrating their 36th year of giving a voice to teeneagers across Chicago as they pursue the art of writing for the stage. This year’s competition will showcase four new plays from four new voices, as well as the opportunity to meet and mingle with like minded individuals from the playwright scene in Chicago. For tickets and more information, visit the Young Playwrights Festival online.
Pegasus Theatre Chicago, 1105 W. Chicago Ave.
Once Upon a Symphony: The Three Little Pigs
The classic tale of the Three Little Pigs is set to be explored on the big stage at the Symphony Center with the help of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. This story discovers, through music, “how the combination of courage, hard work and individual talent leads to success.” Once Upon a Symphony® is designed to introduce children ages 3 to 5 to the world of classical music and the musicians of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. To join in the fun — from now until February 10 — purchase your tickets at Once Upon a Symphony: The Three Little Pigs.
220 S. Michigan Ave.
Winter Wellness
Health and wellness goals in the new year often center on weight loss and dietary restriction — but they don’t have to. Join the Lakeview/Roscoe Village community as participating businesses offer exclusive health and wellness services throughout the month of January. Find discounted or special-rate classes and programs — with over 20 opportunities, from chiropractors and yoga to dance, and a whole lot more! Start this year off on the right foot and visit the Lakeview/Roscoe Village website for more information on availability.
January 1-7: Garfield Park Conservatory’s Winter Flower Show ‘SILVER: Celebrating 25’
This year’s Winter Flower Show ‘Silver: Celebrating 25’ highlights Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance’s 25th anniversary. Formed by Garfield Park community members in 1998, the Alliance is a non-profit organization that connects people to nature through a range of public programming, school partnerships, fundraising initiatives and more! SILVER closes January 7, so secure your reservation now on the Garfield Park Conservatory website.
300 N. Central Park Ave.
January 10-14: Chicago Boat Show
If you think of boat shows and think of nothing but displays, you’ll be pleasantly surprised that the Chicago Boat Show, held at McCormick Place, is far more than that. From sand pits to wave simulators, from tiki bars to the newest water toys — this show is for lovers of all things sun, surf and boating. Check out the full lineup of activities and businesses on the Chicago Boat Show website.
2301 S. Lake Shore Dr.
January 12-14: Cubs Convention
Get ready Cubs fans, because your chance to meet up with some of your favorite Cubbies is coming this month. Head over to the Sheraton Grand Chicago where select players, coaches and alumni will be making appearances, offering autograph opportunities, giving panel discussions and more. Want to sweeten the weekend? The Sheraton is offering special rate packages including access to the convention and a weekend stay at the hotel, prices vary. Curious fans can find all the information they need on the Cubs MLB website.
301 E. North Water St.
January 12-24: The 27th Annual Fillet of Solo Festival
For two weeks, Lifeline Theatre will be presenting numerous showcases from a range of genres as a part of their Fillet of Solo Festival. The fest “presents a vibrant celebration featuring a diverse array of performers, including a dozen storytelling collectives and numerous solo artists.” Ticket prices vary, but no matter the cost, you’re guaranteed a good time at this festival that’s been around for nearly three decades. Secure your tickets now at Fillet of Solo Festival online.
6912 N. Glenwood Ave.
January 13: NA Day — Non-Alcoholic Tasting Event
Participating in Dry January? Or maybe just looking for some alcohol-free fun? Come check out NA Day a Loft on Lake, hosted by Chicago AF, where people can sample NA spirits from over 20 different beverage brands. Join in with other like-minded folks for an afternoon of tastings and sober fun. Registrations can be made on the NA Day webpage, where more information can also be found.
1366 West Lake St.
January 13: Handmade Market
This unique event connects local makers of beautiful things to an audience of people who appreciate handmade items. And since the demand is so high in Chicago, this event takes place on the second Saturday of every month at the Empty Bottle. Vendors include funky jewelry, glass pendants, knitted items, handbags, clothing, paper crafts and more. Find all the details you need on the Handmade Market online.
1035 N. Western Ave.
January 13-14: Chicago Travel & Adventure Show
Planning your next trip can be stressful, especially if finding the best deal is imperative. Take some of the weight off your shoulders by letting the professionals help you at the Chicago Travel and Adventure Show. Navigate through destination ideas, vacation activities, family-fun opportunities, how to get the best bang for your buck and so much more all at one convenient convention. Want to know what to expect? The Travel and Adventure Show website can give all the details you need. Happy traveling!
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Rd., Rosemont
January 14: Vinyl & Vittles
If you love vinyls and wish there was one market place with all the best selections, then look no further than Vinyl & Vittles located in Bridgeport. This market brings together multiple vinyl sellers in Chicago, as well as vendors who will be slinging beverages, food and live music, too. Check out the Vinyl & Vittles website where all the details are.
January 15: Gallery Conversation: Letter from Birmingham Jail
Join the Art Institute in the galleries to recognize Martin Luther King, Jr. Day by revisiting his monumental “Letter from Birmingham Jail.” Using Dr. King’s words as a guide to interpret artworks in the collection, all involved will explore the many meanings of justice, resistance and faith. Find details at Gallery Conversation: Letter from Birmingham Jail online.
111 S. Michigan Ave.
January 15: Martin Luther King Jr. Day at Chicago History Museum
Head over to the Chicago History Museum for a family-friendly opportunity to witness the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This celebration will include musical performances, interactive activities, community organizations and more! Bring the family down for an afternoon of impactful, educational and exciting activities. Illinois residents get free admission, but check out the Chicago History Museum for more details.
January 17-21: Tomorrow Never Knows Festival
Since 2005, Tomorrow Never Knows has proved that no amount of poor weather could stop Chicago music fans from enjoying a good show. With that motto in mind, TNK Fest has brought together a lineup of local and national acts that will play across a five-day fest at local venues like Lincoln Hall, Schubas, Sleeping Village and more. Visit Tomorrow Never Knows Fest for all the details.
January 18-28: Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival
The wonder and craftsmanship of puppeteering is on grand display in Chicago this month. Ten days of performances and screenings will be available to audiences from all around Chicagoland — from the whimsical to the woesome, the CIPTF has a range of fantastic programming ahead. Visit The Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival website for images and information on the spectacle to come.
410 S Michigan Ave.
January 18: An Evening with John Cusack & Screening of “High Fidelity”
Join John Cusack at the Auditorium Theatre for a screening of one of his most popular films “High Fidelity.” And stick around after the show for a live conversation about his career and about the making of this film, plus a Q&A to follow. Fans of his work are sure to get a kick out of this event! Check out Auditorium Theatre online for tickets and more info.
50 E. Ida B. Wells Dr.
January 19: Chicago Restaurant Week
Once again, it is a foodies’ favorite time of year: Chicago Restaurant Week — a 17-day celebration of the city’s best culinary feats and finds. In its 17th year, and running until February 4, CRW welcomes diners to enjoy delicacies from over 300 local restaurants — each a part of Chicago’s rich, award-winning culinary scene. Join other Chicagoans as you sample some of the unique and rare treats featured from a range of participating restaurants — prices and entry vary. Want to nosh during Chicago’s tastiest time of year? Find more details on the Chicago Restaurant Week website.
January 20: Polar Adventure Days
Who says Chicago’s outdoors can’t be enjoyed in the winter? Because the Chicago Park District has certainly found a way around that, with a Polar Adventure Days this month, located at Northerly Island. The all-outdoor activities include: touring the Northerly Island Natural Area during winter; encountering birds of prey; building a shelter in the Nature Play space; and much more. This event is perfect for kids looking to burn off a little winter steam or families looking to spend more time outdoors. An additional date is listed for February, for those unable to attend. More information on how to register and what to expect can be found on the Chicago Park District website.
January 23: JCC Chicago Film Festival: Resistance – They Fought Back
Back with another weekend of programming — and celebrating 11 years of doing so — JCC Chicago Jewish Film Festival has carved out space to commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day, which we observe on January 27. This year, they will screen Resistance – They Fought Back. The film shows that, “For decades, the world believed Jews went to their deaths like sheep to the slaughter during the Holocaust. Resistance — They Fought Back tells a different story.” For more information on the screening and the good work the organization does, visit the JCC Chicago website.
January 27: Chicago Polar Bear Club Polar Plunge
We’ve all heard of it before, the icy-cold plunge into winter waters followed by the quick shuffle to warmth. But why do people come out in droves for such an event? To support the earnest efforts of the Chicago Polar Bear Club — which has always strived to raise money and support for local Chicago families in need, and this year is no different. This utterly unique experience is something fun to check off your bucket list, all while raising money for our neighbors in need. Registration can be completed on the Chicago Polar Bear Club website.
January 28: ILLINOISE
The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare is home to a new kind of musical based on Grammy and Oscar-nominated Sufjan Stevens’ acclaimed concept album. Story by Justin Peck and Jackie Sibblies Drury, and Directed & Choreographed by Justin Peck. Running until February 18, 2024. Grab your tickets now while you can at Chicago Shakespeare online.
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- The 2023 Guide to Giving in Chicago and Beyond
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.
