Whether you’re looking for ways to entertain out-of-town guests or work off all that turkey (and stuffing, and mashed potatoes, and pie, and …), here are five things to do this Thanksgiving weekend.
Wonderland Express
Opens Nov. 25
Glencoe
This seasonal favorite is back with model trains, indoor snow, mini Chicago landmarks and more. Throughout the exhibit’s run (Wonderland Express closes Jan. 2, 2017), enjoy special events including Holiday Cheers! Seasonal Tasting at Wonderland Express (Dec. 7), Breakfast With Santa (Dec. 17-18) and the Hanukkah Concert (Dec. 29).
ZooLights
Opens Nov. 25
Chicago
ZooLights returns this weekend with extended hours, new events, and, for the first time ever, lights around the entire zoo. Take it all in with free crafts, 3D displays, carousel and train rides and more activites. Plus, stop by for special events like the new Holiday Market (Nov. 29), BrewLights (Dec. 1) and New Year’s Eve at ZooLights.
Frozemont
Opens Nov. 25
Rosemont
Rosemont will once again turn into Frozemont with the Light Up the Park ceremony Nov. 25. Then, stop MB Financial Park to skate for free through Feb. 26, attend the first Winter Food & Beverage Fest Dec. 10-11, and witness an ice carving competition Jan. 28, among other events.
#UnwrapTheLoop
Begins Nov. 25
Chicago
The Chicago Loop Alliance is giving away prizes to those who explore the Loop this holiday season. Through Dec. 24, snap a holiday-themed pic in the Loop (perhaps at Christkindlmarket or Joffrey’s “Nutcracker”?), and post it to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with #UnwrapTheLoop. You could win prizes like tickets to Lyric’s “The Magic Flute” or “Too Hot to Handel” at Auditorium Theatre.
Small Business Saturday
Nov. 26
Various
Small Business Saturday began in 2010 as a way to encourage shoppers to support their local businesses. This year, Andersonville, Evanston, Skokie and Wilmette are just a few of the local neighborhoods and towns offering deals and events on this day. Wherever you live, if you’re out shopping on Saturday, support a local business.
Looking Ahead
- Giving Tuesday, a global day of giving scheduled after Black Friday and Cyber Monday, is Nov. 29. Forefront’s state-wide initiative, #ILGive, will run for 24 hours in hopes of raising $9 million through individual donations to hundreds of Illinois nonprofits. Find out how you can get involved here.
More from Make It Better:
