Whether you’re finishing up your holiday shopping or want to entertain out-of-town guests (or kiddos on winter break), here are five can’t-miss events around Chicago and the North Shore this weekend.
Winter Carnival
Begins Dec. 22
Glenview
The Glenview Ice Center will host its 17th annual Winter Carnival through Jan. 7, 2018. Events include the Holiday Figure Skating Exhibition (Dec. 22), a Charity Hockey Game between Glenview Ice Center staff and coaches and the Glenview Police and Fire Departments (Dec. 28), and New Year’s Freeze (Dec. 31). Plus, visit for public skating sessions with your favorite superheroes (various dates), Skates from the Chicago Wolves (Dec. 27) and Tommy Hawk from the Chicago Blackhawks (Dec. 28). Find a complete schedule online.
Music and S’mores at Roosevelt Collection Shops
Dec. 23
Chicago
Find those last-minute gifts at Roosevelt Collection Shops as you enjoy an a cappella performance by Musicality and complimentary pre-packaged s’mores for roasting at the center’s fire pit.
“The Importance of Being Earnest”
Ends Dec. 23
Glencoe
Need a moment to simply relax and enjoy some good theater? This Oscar Wilde comedy at Writers Theatre has received rave reviews, so don’t miss out before the show closes on Dec. 23.
Holidays in the Loop
Ends Dec. 24
Chicago
This is your last chance to enjoy everything the holiday season has to offer throughout Chicago (and win prizes!) with the Chicago Loop Alliance. From Broadway in Chicago Theatre Tours to Christkindlmarket and Holiday in the Loop Adventures, you’ll find plenty of ways to celebrate the season.
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
Through Jan. 7
Chicago
This annual Museum of Science and Industry exhibit continues its 75th year with photos with Santa Dec. 22-23 (requires a timed-entry ticket) and three new trees for Assyria, Australia, and Nigeria, in addition to the more than 50 trees and displays throughout the exhibit. The museum will also have extended hours through Dec. 23.
More from Make It Better:
- Where to Party Like It’s 2018
- Chicagoans Share Their Favorite Holiday Traditions
- The Best Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve With Kids (and Still Get Grown-Up Time)
Anna Carlson writes the weekly 5 Things to Do column and monthly Recommended Events. A graduate of Glenbrook South High School and the University of Missouri, her work has been published in Chicago Parent, Inside Columbia Magazine and Central California Parent Magazine. She is a proud supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
