2011 Thanksgiving Go Guide

Is your house home base for the family get together this weekend? We’ve got the goods on where to go—for everyone in your family:

Arts & Music

For kids of all ages: Try Dr. Suess & The Art of Invention at the Museum of Science and Industry. Adults will enjoy the trip back in time and the insight into Suess’ creativity, while younger kids will be in awe of their favorite characters up close!

Get bluesy: Great for teens and adults, catch blues guitarist Michael Burks in action at SPACE in Evanston.

For the family: They’re not laughing AT you, they’re laughing WITH you—take in an early dose of holiday madness with “Seasons Greetings” at Northlight Theatre in Skokie.

Tweens, teens and up: A theatre experience like no other this weekend, the Piccolo Theatre’s presentation of “Space Wars: The Panto!” is guaranteed to offer a sci-fi good time.

Sports & Outdoors

Tree Lightings: There’s something about kicking off the holiday season in the comfort of your own community, with friends and neighbors:

Evanston, November 22

Chicago-Daley Plaza, November 23

Arlington Heights, November 25

Vernon Hills, November 26

Glenview Holiday Parade, November 26

Strap on the skates: There are several great opportunities to burn a few calories this weekend and put an end to the stir-crazies. Take a magical spin around Millennium Park’s ice rink this weekend.

Football fans:
Northwestern University Wildcats take on Michigan State University on November 26 in Evanston.

Holiday magic:
A surefire way to embrace the holidays, the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Wonderland Express opens this weekend. This is a fantastic venture for older guests as well as kids, who’ll love the holiday-themed miniature train display.

Just for Fun

For adults only: Take a break from the kiddos and head to Arlington Heights for a special holiday-themed set from Second City.

Breakfast with the Fishes:
If you need a special experience to impress the out-of-towners, you may want to set them up with a special breakfast at Shedd Aquarium The visit includes Polar Express 4-D, a visit with Santa, “A Holiday Fantasea” and more.

A shopper’s delight:
Gear up for Black Friday! If that’s still not enough, try the Bucktown Bazaar, an Etsy-like experience complete with kids’ entertainment.

Everyone likes a parade: The 78th McDonalds Thanksgiving Parade kicks off at 8 a.m. Thanksgiving Day.

Need more ideas? Visit our events calendar.

Photo credits: Dr. Suess, Museum of Science and Industry; Chicago Botanic Garden; Robin Carlson; Millennium Park, City of Chicago.

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