Still not sure what to do on New Year’s Eve? Ring in 2016 with these events around Chicago. Plus, find ways to keep the fun going all weekend long.
1. Chi-Town Rising
This weekend’s biggest event is also one of the biggest of the entire year. Spend New Year’s Eve downtown with headlining bands Chicago and American Authors and celeb host Mario Lopez. Don’t forget to also stop by the Corona Beach House and Family Countdown Celebration. It’s going to be big, so buy your tickets right now!
2. First Night Evanston
End the year with musical acts, poetry readings, dance performances and more throughout Evanston. Scheduled performers include The Second City Improv All-Stars, Mad Science!, Corky Siegel’s Chamber Blues and more.
3. New Year’s Eve Bash
This party at Kohl Children’s Museum is for kiddos who can’t quite make it to midnight. Kids will love making their own party hats, getting their hair styled, and posing for a free family photo later placed in a frame they create. There will even be a confetti drop! The morning session (8:30 – 11 a.m.) will feature a concert with Joel Frankel and the afternoon session (12:30 – 3 p.m.) has a DJ and dance party.
4. New Year’s Eve Fun Skate
Skate in the new year at Winnetka Ice Arena with free admission and $3.50 skate rentals (limited quantities). After, warm up with hot chocolate and cookies.
5. 31st Annual New Year’s Day 5K Run/Walk
It’s not too late to sign up for this run/walk and start your year on the right foot. Event day registration includes the 5K Chip-Timed Run, 5K Fun Run or the 5K Walk.
Bonus
- Find out what special New Year’s Eve events Chicago-area restaurants have planned in our latest Deep Dish Food News column.
- The start of a new year means it’s time to say goodbye to some annual holiday favorites. If you haven’t been yet, both Chicago Botanic Garden’s Wonderland Express and the Museum of Science and Industry’s Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light close Sunday, Jan. 3.
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